Once the private home of James Monroe, the country's fifth president, James Monroe's Highland is now a working farm, museum, and a performing arts venue open to the public year-round. Monroe and his family purchased the property in 1793 and lived in the modest house until personal debt forced them to sell the entire estate in 1825. To see just how this American president lived away from the public eye, join a short tour of the house, which contains a collection of original Monroe family furnishings. You can also visit Thomas Jefferson's famous "Monticello" plantation--visible from the Monroe house porch--by purchasing a discounted combination ticket for both historic sites. Check online for opening hours and tour rates. Make James Monroe's Highland a centerpiece of your Charlottesville vacation itinerary, and find what else is worth visiting using our Charlottesville trip builder tool.
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James Monroe's Highland reviews
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It's cool when history is unearthed. The last time I had visited in the late 90's, the yellow house was considered where Jame Monroe lived.....BUT...they have recently found evidence that he didn't... more »
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This is the estate of our Fifth President and Jefferson's protege, James Monroe. He also served as Minister to France and Great Britian, as well as Secretary of State under another neighbor, James... more »
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Small but well done. As others have posted, it is NOT his home (which burned down around 1830). However, it does show the foundations of the original home and a guest house he had built. Lots of original furnishings paintings, dishes, etc. Not as majestic as Mount Vernon, Montpelier or Monticello but a nice stop for a walk and a tour. Staff and guide were extremely friendly and knowledgeable. An enjoyable few hours.
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I will echo with a lot of other reviewer‘s have said; it’s definitely an enjoyable visit, but probably not that exciting if you’ve just come from Monticello. It’s also important to note that James Monroe‘s home is no longer standing, and this is just a tour of the grounds and a guest house that he built. For those who love history, it’s still definitely worth a visit. The staff is also very friendly and helpful. But if you want to be wowed you may not feel like it was worth the stop.
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