Summer at Monticello

Discover history, take in beautiful views, and spend time with your family at Thomas Jefferson's Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Things to Do This Summer

July 4 Join us as we mark the 248th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with our 2024 Independence Day Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony.

Women at Monticello Tour This new tour focuses on the experiences of the women who lived and labored at Monticello.

Plantation Archaeology Walking Tour Explore how we use archaeology to better understand the plantation and the lives of those enslaved at Monticello.

Daily Tours

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Highlights Tour This guided tour provides an overview of Monticello’s architecture, landscape, and people through an inside/outside exploration of the mountaintop.

Behind the Scenes Tour Tour the first floor of Monticello and then go behind the scenes to explore the family and guest rooms upstairs, as well as the iconic Dome Room.

From Slavery to Freedom Tour This 2.5 hour, guided, small-group, interactive tour explores Monticello through the perspectives of enslaved people who labored on the plantation.

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Dine and Shop with Us

Café Enjoy seasonal menus including soups, salads, and sandwiches made with ingredients that are grown at Monticello.

The Shops at Monticello From toys and games to signature products with ingredients grown in our gardens, the Shop at Monticello has you covered.

Jefferson Vineyards Enjoy award-winning wine, beautiful views, weekly live music, and seasonal dining options. Located just minutes from the mountaintop.

Explore Beyond the House

Meet Thomas Jefferson Guests can meet Thomas Jefferson in person (as portrayed by veteran historical actor-interpreter Bill Barker) most Tuesdays - Saturdays.

Guided Gardens Tour Explore Jefferson's lifelong interest in gardening, botany, and agriculture while enjoying the beauty and variety of Monticello's gardens. April - October, included in the price of admission.

Hear Stories and Make Discoveries

Declaration of Independence Exhibit Our new exhibit at the David M. Rubenstein Visitor Center explores how the Declaration of Independence went from the tip of Thomas Jefferson's quill to an icon of democracy throughout the world.

Slavery at Monticello Tour These guided outdoor walking tours focus on the experiences of the enslaved people who lived and labored on the Monticello plantation. Included in the price of admission.