Family Friendly Activities

There's a lot things for kids to do and see at Monticello

From clocks that go into the floor to 11,000-year-old mastodon bones, our tours and hands-on activities offer experiences  we’re certain our youngest guests will find to be a blast. And who knows, maybe their favorite grown-ups might have some fun too.

Activities for kids at Monticello

Family Friendly Tours

Offered seasonally, these special guided tours are uniquely designed for families with children ages 5 to 11.

Griffin Discovery Room

The Griffin Discovery Room is a hands-on space for children and families to learn about the past and discover their own place in history. Located in the Woodland Pavilion at the visitor center.

Meet Thomas Jefferson

Meet Thomas Jefferson (as portrayed by veteran historical actor-interpreter Bill Barker) in person and ask questions of the man who wrote "all men are created equal" and who helped found the United States of America.

Mountaintop Activity Center

Enjoy fun, hands-on activities for kids and their families at the Mountaintop Activity Center. Write with a quill pen, crack a code with a wheel cipher, and explore mystery objects. (Included with admission.)

The Shops at Monticello

Two Shops offer a wide selection of books, clothing, games, toys, and souvenirs that make a lasting impression of any visit.

While visiting the house and grounds:

  • Encourage your child to ask questions when prompted by your guide.
  • Look for themes in the house, such as "gadgets," clocks, or portraits (notice the different types of portraits). Look for the natural history specimens, the Native American artifacts, the art, or other objects.
  • See if you can find the portraits, paintings, views of the house that appear on the U.S. Nickel and the $2 bill.
  • In the gardens look for plants with unusual shapes, lovely scents, and even surprising behavior (hint)

Before your visit:

ADDRESS:
931 Thomas Jefferson Parkway
Charlottesville, VA 22902
GENERAL INFORMATION:
(434) 984-9800