Have you ever thought about taking a stroll through the pages of America’s past right in the heart of Virginia? Sure, we all know Washington, D.C., is where the sitting President kicks back, but did you know that eight former commanders-in-chief kicked it in the Commonwealth?
The state got the scoop on presidential living, and guess what? You can still visit some of the famous Presidential Homes in Virginia today!
If you’re up for a bit of time travel and want to see where the big shots of yesteryear hung their hats, Virginia’s the place to be. So, let’s dive into the stories of these historic residences and get a feel for how the leaders of the U.S. lived their best lives!
A Glimpse Into Monticello
Photo by Richard Hedrick on Unsplash
Famously known as Thomas Jefferson’s architectural plantation masterpiece, Monticello is a long-standing symbol of innovative design and intellectual prowess. Perched gracefully on a Virginia hill in Charlottesville, Monticello unveils the extraordinary mind of America’s founding father, Thomas Jefferson.
Monticello sits on an elevation of 867 feet (264 meters), and its name, meaning “little mountain” in Italian, reflects its location. This three-story brick residence is crowned by a distinctive eight-sided dome, making it the inaugural structure of its kind in the United States.
It is a neoclassical estate that seamlessly blends classical elements with Jefferson’s personal ingenuity, showcasing his deep appreciation for art, science, and agriculture.
Monticello not only served as one of the famous Presidential Homes in Virginia but also reflects his visionary ideals, incorporating features like the octagonal dome, expansive gardens, and the iconic Palladian-style portico. This iconic structure demonstrates the elegance of its time and is a symbol of the enduring legacy of one of America’s Founding Fathers.
This architectural marvel, frequently referred to as Jefferson’s own “playground of design,” offers us an intriguing glimpse into the world of an intellectual genius whose influence played a pivotal role in shaping the very essence of the United States.
Monticello isn’t just a tourist spot; it’s a legacy. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark, it draws history buffs from every corner. In a nutshell, Monticello is a journey through time, a living testament to Thomas Jefferson’s brilliance.
Plan Your Visit
Hours of Operation
Monticello’s operating hours vary seasonally, and for specific dates, please refer to the calendar provided on their website. Please consult the calendar for accurate and up-to-date information on Monticello’s hours of operation.
Tickets and Passes
To explore the full range of tickets and passes available at Monticello, please visit their official website. The website will provide detailed information on the different options, pricing, and any special offers or packages that may be available.
What’s Included in Your Ticket
Your ticket to Monticello includes a comprehensive array of offerings, including the following:
Programs and Exhibitions
- Guided Gardens & Grounds Tour (seasonal)
- Guided Slavery at Monticello Tour
- Meet Thomas Jefferson (most Tuesdays-Saturdays)
- Mountaintop Activity Center (seasonal)
- Exhibits at the Visitor Center
- Griffin Discovery Room
- Thomas Jefferson’s World Introductory Film
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Visit
- Bring a well-charged smartphone with a QR Code Reader to access additional content and activities while exploring the house and grounds.
- Check out their Visiting FAQs and Tips for Visiting pages for additional information as you plan your visit.
The Historic Mount Vernon
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Nestled in Fairfax County, Virginia, just 15 miles south of the bustling capital, Washington, D.C., Mount Vernon is another cherished Presidential Homes in Virginia and is the final resting place of one of the esteemed founding fathers of America, George Washington.
This 18th-century gem overlooks the majestic Potomac River and is an architectural testament to the grandeur of its time. The centerpiece of Mount Vernon is a two-story Georgian mansion constructed with a keen eye for detail.
Although crafted from wood, the exterior is adorned with broad, thick boards meticulously paneled to emulate the sophistication of cut and dressed stonework. The result is a visually striking residence that captures the essence of Washington’s era.
Stepping inside feels like a journey through time, with each room meticulously restored to its former glory from the days when Washington himself inhabited the space.
Take a stroll through the corridors, and you’ll encounter authentic original furniture on the first floor, including every piece in Washington’s personal chamber. These tangible remnants from the past offer a direct link to the everyday life of the Washington family, providing a genuine connection to history.
To enhance the visitor’s journey, Mount Vernon features an extra treasure trove of Washington relics in a dedicated museum building. This unique space carefully preserves and displays artifacts that provide insight into the life and era of one of America’s most influential figures.
The meticulous preservation of the mansion and its contents invites reflection on the enduring impact of George Washington’s contributions to the United States. It is a place where history comes alive, offering an immersive experience that transcends the pages of textbooks.
5 Interesting Facts About Mount Vernon
- In 1734, George Washington’s father, Augustine Washington, constructed the foundation of what would later evolve into Washington’s Mansion when the future president was just two years old.
- The mansion is ten times larger than the typical home in Virginia.
- The cupola is crowned with a weathervane fashioned in the shape of a dove, symbolizing peace.
- The mansion’s exterior is designed to mimic the appearance of rustic stone, but it is, in fact, constructed using yellow pine siding.
- George Washington’s architectural legacy in colonial Virginia includes the introduction of the piazza as a notable feature in his home.
Plan Your Visit
Hours of Operation
Mount Vernon is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM (subject to change). For accurate operating hours, you may visit their website at https://www.mountvernon.org/plan-your-visit/.
General Admission
- Adults (12+) – $28
- Youth (6 to 11) – $15
- Children (0-5) – FREE
- Buy Your Tickets Online
The general admission covers entry to the Mount Vernon estate for one day, along with an audio tour. Although it is suggested to allocate a minimum of three hours for your visit, shorter visits are acceptable as well.
Enjoy a $2 savings on admission when you buy your tickets three days in advance! Special discounts are offered to military members, first responders, and medical professionals. Additionally, EBT card holders can avail of discounts when purchasing tickets in person.
For visitors aged 15 and under, it is mandatory to be accompanied by an adult.
VIP Tours
- Up to 5 Guests – $750
- Up to 10 Guests – $500
- Schedule Your Private Tour Online
Available seasonally from July to February on weekdays, starting at 9 AM, guests have the exclusive opportunity to delve into the hidden aspects of Mount Vernon during a two-hour guided tour.
Key features of this experience include:
- Exclusive access to the mansion, including the cellar
- Leisurely strolls through the picturesque grounds and gardens
- A personalized and in-depth exploration led by a private guide
- Conclusion with delightful refreshments and snacks
- A special commemorative gift as a lasting reminder of your visit
Virtual VIP Tours (No Group Size Limit)
This exclusive online experience allows you to explore the mansion, tomb, and various areas of the estate guided by a private tour expert for only $500 per group! The tour duration is up to 2 hours.
Tailored to your interests, the tour offers a range of customizable options. Some of the possibilities (not all covered in a single session) include:
- A private exploration of all three floors of the mansion, encompassing the cellar
- Engaging in conversation with a character from George Washington’s historical era
- A virtual visit to the distillery where George Washington produced his whiskey
- An immersive music program featuring our resident fifer
- A specialized private tour, such as the intriguing “National Treasure” theme
- Immerse yourself in a personalized and informative virtual journey through Mount Vernon’s rich history and landmarks.
The Serenity of Ash Lawn-Highland
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Nestled within scenic Albemarle County is a residence that bears witness to the remarkable life of James Monroe, the fifth president of the United States. His distinguished home, known as the Highland, is intertwined with the fabric of American history.
Enter the pages of American history through the lens of James Monroe, a man whose journey spanned half a century, from soldier to governor to president.
The principal portion of the home consisted of a single-story structure with a completed attic space overhead, along with a wing that served as a kitchen. In 1818, an independent guesthouse with two rooms was constructed to provide lodging for visitors.
In 1826, Monroe parted with the central acreage of Highland, selling it to Edward Goodwin, while the Bank of the United States sold the remaining land in the following two years.
After Goodwin’s ownership, Highland underwent several changes in ownership. It was during this period that it started being called “Ash Lawn.” In 1974, Highland was left to William & Mary in Johns’ will.
It kept the name Ash Lawn for a while, then became Ash Lawn-Highland. But in 2016, William & Mary reverted to Monroe’s original name, calling it Highland once again.
Plan Your Visit
Hours of Operation
Highland welcomes visitors every day from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, offering private guided tours at 9:00 AM on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Starting December 1, 2023, Highland will transition to its winter schedule, operating from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Private guided tours will be available at 10:30 AM on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during this period.
General Admission
General admission to Highland grants access to the new interior exhibits in the 1818 Guesthouse as well as the opportunity to explore outdoor spaces.
The admission fee is $18 per adult, with a discounted online price of $17. Youth aged 7-12 can enter for $13, while children six and under enjoy free admission. You can also book your visit online.
Private Guided Tours
Explore Highland in an exclusive guided visit tailored for small groups, where guests can immerse themselves in the historic ambiance accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.
This unique opportunity includes a private viewing of the 1818 Guesthouse, recently re-curated in 2021 under the guidance of Highland’s Council of Descendant Advisors.
Private tours are exclusively available by reservation. You may check out their online reservation, or if you wish to book a date or time not found in their registration system, kindly reach out to education@highland.org.
Admission is $150 per group, without any discounts or special offers. Each tour time is designed for one group, accommodating up to six guests.
Local Pass
The Locals Pass is a convenient 5-visit punch card offering general admission for the cardholder and one guest per visit to Highland (one punch per person).
If you plan on bringing more than one guest, additional guests can purchase a reduced-rate general admission ticket for $17 on the day of your visit.
Locals Pass holders are entitled to a 10% discount on Highland Museum Shop merchandise (excluding consignment art and donation items). Simply present your valid Locals Pass card to enjoy the Museum Shop discount.
Please note that the Locals Pass punch card is non-transferable and has no expiration date. You can conveniently purchase your Locals Pass online or acquire it in person at the Highland Museum Shop for $50.
Final Thoughts
A visit to these presidential homes in Virginia gives you the opportunity to experience a journey through time that continues to shape the nation today!
We’d like to hear from you! Connect with us through the following channels and share your thoughts, questions, and experiences!
Contact Details:
- Call us at: (434) 960-0161
- Send us a message via: Pam@PamDent.com
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Photo by Scott Pruett on Unsplash
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there guided tours available?
Yes! Almost all presidential homes in Virginia offer guided tours, providing visitors with in-depth insights into the history and significance of each residence.
2. Are these homes suitable for family visits?
Presidential houses in Virginia are often family-friendly destinations, offering educational and engaging experiences for visitors of all ages. Some sites may have interactive exhibits, educational programs, or outdoor spaces suitable for family enjoyment.
3. Can I purchase souvenirs at these Presidential Homes?
Most presidential homes have gift shops where visitors can purchase souvenirs such as books, replicas, and memorabilia related to the presidents and the historical significance of the houses.
4. Can I visit all these Presidential Homes in one day?
While it may be possible to visit multiple presidential homes in one day, it largely depends on their proximity to each other and the time allocated for each visit.
Planning ahead and checking the operating hours of each site is essential to ensure a manageable and enjoyable experience.
5. Is photography allowed inside the homes?
Policies regarding photography inside the homes vary from site to site. It’s advisable to check with each individual site regarding their specific photography policies before your visit.
