Monticello

Overview

Monticello is the historic home of Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. This iconic estate offers a glimpse into the life of one of America's Founding Fathers and his architectural genius.

Monticello is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark, recognized for its architectural significance and historical importance as the home of Thomas Jefferson.

Historical Site Architectural Landmark

Location

Address

931 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville, Virginia

Neighborhood: Albemarle County

Coordinates

38.033300, -78.466700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (house tours until 4:00 PM)

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (house tours until 4:00 PM)

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (house tours until 4:00 PM)

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (house tours until 4:00 PM)

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (house tours until 4:00 PM)

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (house tours until 4:00 PM)

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (house tours until 4:00 PM)

Admission

Adults

$28

Children

$12 (ages 6-11), free for children under 6

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-May, October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day including tours and gardens

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• gardens in bloom
• spring tours

summer

hot and humid

• extended evening tours
• outdoor performances

autumn

cool and pleasant

• fall foliage
• harvest-themed tours

winter

cold, possibly snowy

• holiday decorations
• indoor exhibits

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Arrive early
Check weather and dress appropriately

What to Bring

essential

Ticket confirmation Comfortable shoes Water bottle

seasonal

Jacket (spring/fall) Umbrella (spring) Sunglasses (summer)

not allowed

Food Large bags Pets (except service animals) Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate (some walking and stairs)

• Hydrate and wear sunscreen in summer
• Watch for tripping hazards on uneven paths

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex)

Currency

US Dollars (USD)

Typical Costs

entry $28 (adult)

parking $10

tours $5-$20 additional

food $10-$15

souvenirs $10-$50

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing weather, Closed-toe shoes recommended for walking tours, Inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• At least 1-2 weeks in advance for popular dates
• Official Monticello website
• 48 hours in advance for full refund
• Available for online ticket holders

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Monticello App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Self-guided audio tour, Map of the grounds and house, Ticket information and booking, Event calendar, Historical information and exhibits

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor Center, Monticello Cafe, Outdoor seating areas

Charging Stations: Visitor Center, Monticello Cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Charlottesville Albemarle Airport (CHO)

Distance: 15 km

Travel Time: 20 minutes

taxi

$30-$40 20 min

rideshare

$20-$25 20 min

public_transport

$2 40 min

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

bus

$2 25 min

taxi/rideshare

$15-$20 10 min

bicycle

30 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Monticello is a source of local pride, representing Charlottesville's rich history and connection to Thomas Jefferson

Historical Significance: Monticello was the primary plantation of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, and a symbol of his architectural and philosophical ideals

Insider Tips

Arrive early to enjoy the site with fewer crowds
The best food and local crafts can be found at the nearby Michie Tavern
Some of the most beautiful views can be found along the walking paths in the gardens

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby Michie Tavern for a historic dining experience
• Stop by the local farmers' market for fresh produce and crafts
• Take a stroll through the University of Virginia's beautiful grounds

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

West lawn with Monticello in the background

Best Time: Golden hour (late afternoon)

Tips: Wide-angle shot to capture the full view

Result: Iconic photo of Monticello with the sun setting behind it

#Monticello #TravelVirginia #HistoricHomes

Monticello's entrance hall

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Low-angle shot to highlight the architecture

Result: Stunning interior shot of the grand entrance

#MonticelloInterior #ArchitectureLover #HistoricSite

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, gardens, and public spaces

prohibited areas Private spaces, staff-only areas, and some indoor exhibits

flash photography Not allowed in some indoor areas

commercial photography Permit required for commercial use

drone policy Prohibited without special permission

tripod policy Allowed in outdoor areas, but not in indoor exhibits or crowded spaces

selfie sticks Allowed, but use discretion to avoid disturbing others

Nearby Attractions

Michie Tavern

Distance: 3 km

Walking: 45 min

Type: Historic Restaurant and Museum

University of Virginia

Distance: 5 km

Walking: 60 min

Type: University and Historic Site

Ash Lawn-Highland

Distance: 8 km

Walking: 100 min

Type: Historic Home of James Monroe

Reviews

4.7

Based on 12,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Arrive early to beat the crowds"
"Book a guided tour for a more in-depth experience"
"Don't miss the gardens and views from the mountaintop"

Contact Information

+1 434-984-9800

info@monticello.org

www.monticello.org

Social Media

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