In just over an hour west is the city of Charlottesville, home of Jefferson's Academic Village of the University of Virginia. His home Monticello lies on a little mountain just east of Charlottesville and is considered one of America's architectural wonders. Close by are the homes of two other American presidents - just over the next hill from Monticello is Ash Lawn, home of James Monroe. A few miles north of Charlottesville is Montpelier, home of James and Dolley Payne Madison.

Ash Lawn - Highland - Within sight of Monticello, James Monroe built his modest plantation house on an adjoining slope from his friend Thomas Jefferson. It was later expanded into a larger home, however tours focus on the house and grounds as President Monroe would have known them. / Exit121 off I-64 / Charlottesville / 804-293-9539 / $

Monticello - Jefferson's architectural masterpiece sits upon a "Little Mountain" just to the east of Charlottesville. A work that was still in progress at his death on July 4, 1824, Monticello was always being reworked and redesigned to suit Jefferson, the man who lived there. Invention and unique design elements are hallmarks of this beautiful retreat, long considered one of America's most cherished architectural treasures. / Exit121 off I-64 / Charlottesville / 804-977-1783 / $

Montpelier - Home of the main architect of the U. S. Constitution and 4th President, James Madison and his wife Dolley, Montpelier is in a much grander state than it appeared during their lifetime. Later owned by members of the DuPont family, the house has been expanded into mansion status showcasing several periods of American tastes. / Exit 118 at Charlottesville to Rte. 29 North / Orange / 540-672-2728 / $

University of Virginia - One of Mr. Jefferson's proudest accomplishments was the establishment and design of the academic village for the University of Virginia. Much of Jefferson's original grounds layout and buildings remains intact surrounding "The Lawn" in front of the restored Rotunda building. Considered one of the best public universities in the nation, it draws the academic elite of Virginia's high schools as well as students from around the world. / Exit 118 off I-64 / Charlottesville / 804-924-7969 / Rotunda & Lawn Tour are Free

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