Make room for
a little wonder.

Opening times

All times are local to Charlottesville.

Weekdays

10:00–16:30 · Monday to FridayHours vary by season and date

Weekends

08:30–17:00 · Saturday and SundayLast house tour 50 minutes before closing

Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.

Finding Monticello

Monticello stands on a summit in the Southwest Mountains near Charlottesville. Every visit starts at the David M. Rubenstein Visitor Center, where you park.

• By car: parking at the visitor centre is free; you cannot drive up to the house.
• To the mountaintop: take the free shuttle bus, or walk the trail of about half a mile with your ticket.
• Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.

Useful stops along the way

Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:

• Free parking at the David M. Rubenstein Visitor Center.
• A free shuttle bus up to the mountaintop.
• A walking trail of about half a mile up to the house, for ticket holders.
• The Monticello Café and museum shop.

Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather: much of the visit is outdoors on the mountaintop. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.

A visit that works for you

Visitors cannot drive up to the house: a free shuttle bus runs from the visitor centre to the mountaintop, and back down via Jefferson’s graveyard. Monticello publishes accessibility information for visitors.

• Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
• If you are bringing a stroller, confirm the current arrangements before arrival.
• Ask Monticello staff for assistance or directions during your visit.

Enjoy Monticello thoughtfully

• Keep to the visitor paths, walk rather than run, and supervise children.
• Leave furnishings, gardens and historic surfaces untouched, and treat Mulberry Row and the graveyard as places of remembrance.
• Expect security screening when you arrive at the visitor centre.
• Stay with your guide during the house tour.
• Follow the signs and staff guidance, including any restrictions in the exhibition spaces.

A little care helps protect Monticello and its atmosphere for everyone.

Make time for a pause

The Monticello Café serves visitors before or after the tour; check its hours on the day.

• Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
• Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
• Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.

Bring water with you, especially on warm days.

A few details worth planning

• Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
• Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
• Start in the right place: arrive at the visitor centre at least 30 minutes before your tour time.
• Dress for exploring: comfortable shoes, sun protection and a charged phone make the day easier.
• Leave space to linger: allow extra time for Mulberry Row, the gardens and the views from the mountaintop.