By the time of Jefferson’s retirement from the presidency in 1809, the kitchen at Monticello was a state-of-the-art facility for its time, where enslaved chefs Edith Hern Fossett and Frances Gillette Hern prepared meals that rivaled those served in Europe. One visitor described the meals as “served in half Virginian, half French style, in good taste and abundance." Join us for a livestream with culinary historian, Leni Sorensen. Dr. Sorensen will talk about cooking in the Monticello kitchen and discuss the enslaved people who grew and prepared the food for Jefferson and his family.

This 45-minute guided experience includes first floor spaces in Thomas Jefferson’s home, the West Lawn, and the South Wing. You’ll learn about Jefferson and his vision for America, the realities of slavery on the Monticello plantation, and the mountaintop’s iconic architecture. This popular pass includes access to our gardens, grounds, walking tours, family-friendly activities, and exhibits.

Have you always wanted to go upstairs at Monticello? This exclusive pass takes you behind the scenes: through the first floor of Monticello and up the narrow staircase to explore the private quarters on the second and third floors, including the iconic Dome Room.

Visit our newest exhibition and learn more about the document that started it all. See a rare engraving of the Declaration of Independence, test your knowledge about America's history, and learn more about the impact of the Declaration around the world.