What to do in Virginia - Monticello

Since the boyfriend has been training in Virginia for the past few months, we've really enjoyed exploring the rich history and gorgeous scenery here. We've done Richmond, Lexington, Virginia Beach, and this weekend, we headed to Charlottesville to visit Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's plantation home.

Thomas Jefferson has always been one of my favorite presidents. I admire his curiousity, thirst for education, and never-ending improvement of everything from farming to political systems. His estate was his masterpiece, carefully thought out with delightful details like a dumbwaiter for delivering bottles of wine inconspicuously to a panel within the mantel, and the best practices of homebuilding and interior decor he brought back with him from France.

On the way and worth a stop is historic Michie Tavern, founded in 1784 and still serving weary travelers like ourselves delicious Southern fare in an authentic(ish) historic setting.

We make the mistakes so you don't have to :) Here's what we wish we would have done:

-Start at Michie Tavern. Fill up on the delicious buffet there (it is quite expensive at almost $20/person, but they offer a LOT of discounts, you certainly qualify for one).

-Start walking that fried chicken off on the Saunders-Monticello trail (you'll see it behind the tavern). It's 2 miles one way to the Monticello Visitor's Center and a beautiful trail with a boardwalk.

-Get your tickets at the visitor's center. If you are active duty military, use your discount. It isn't advertised anywhere, but you get free entrance. You can also get the Monticello Neighborhood Pass to get a bundled price on Monticello, Michie's Tavern, and James Monroe's house, Ash Lawn Highland

-Tours. With your ticket to Monticello, a basic tour is included. If you want to go upstairs to see more of family living quarters, take the Behind the Scenes tour for $20 more. The tour of the gardens and the Slavery at Monticello tour are both free, but you've got to catch it on the right day.