Monticello and Thomas Jefferson Country Day Trip from Washington DC

Travel from Washington DC to Charlottesville, Virginia, to explore Monticello, the home of President Thomas Jefferson. On this full-day tour, learn all about Jefferson’s professional accomplishments and personal life as you tour Monticello, including Mulberry Row — where some of the slaves who worked on the plantation lived. Also, drive by the University of Virginia, which was founded and designed by Jefferson. This highly informative tour provides a detailed look at the impact of America’s third president.

At Washington DC’s Union Station, board your comfortable, air-conditioned coach for the 117-mile (188-km) drive to Charlottesville, Virginia. Along the way, listen to your driver talk about the life of Thomas Jefferson, and watch a video on this founding father and American president.

Stop at Michie Tavern for a tour of this rustic, 18th-century landmark and a hearty lunch of southern favorites (own expense) served family style; you may also choose to wait and eat at the cafe at Monticello if you prefer. After leaving Michie Tavern, take a gorgeous drive up an 850-foot (260-meter) mountain to Monticello, Jefferson’s lavish plantation home, and spend 3 to 4 hours exploring it on your own. Join a guided tour of the magnificent neoclassical-style mansion, and see the extensive slave quarters on Mulberry Row. Walk around the lush vegetable and flower gardens and pay a visit to Jefferson’s grave.

Your day trip also includes a drive through the lovely grounds of the University of Virginia, which was founded and designed by Jefferson. Relax on the drive back to Washington DC, and conclude your 11.5-hour day trip at Union Station.