Monticello

Activity Overview

Monticello is a famous plantation that belonged to Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, which is located approximately an hour away from Richmond, Virginia. This popular presidential landmark known for its exquisite house and gardens is also a National Historic Landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors to this fascinating historic site can explore the house and the plantation, participate in informative tours, view educational films and exhibits, go on a family nature hike, and do many other family-friendly activities.

Things to Do

• Explore the historic house that was once home to Thomas Jefferson and view the beautiful gardens, which were used for both food and plant research.
• Visit the Griffin Discovery Room and the Mountaintop Hands-on Activity Center, two special areas of Monticello that feature hands-on activities for families with children of all ages.
• Go on one of the slavery tours, which help visitors to imagine what life was like for the slaves that lived and worked on the plantation.
• Take the family-friendly tour of Monticello for families with children between 5 and 11, which includes hands-on activities and exhibitions.

Monticello Insider Tips

• Print out the Exploring Monticello guide for children in order to introduce them to the site and its history.
• Check out this handy guide to visiting Monticello with kids, which includes helpful tips related to tours, restroom locations, picnic areas, and more.
• Consider trying out this detailed itinerary for a fun-filled day out with the kids, which includes hiking, tours of the house and gardens, and lots of fun activities for children.