James Monroe’s Highland estate seems like the unwanted stepchild of the three presidential estates in the Charlottesville area (after Monticello and Montpelier); however, it’s definitely worth visiting! It is literally one estate over from Monticello, making Monroe and Jefferson next-door neighbors, but since both are rather large plantation farms, they’re more like a short drive apart. Highland is right around the corner from Jefferson Vineyards. Part of the reason it seems like Highland is not as popular is that the original house that President Monroe lived in has not survived, and the house that does stand is not even on the exact foundation of the original. However, the estate does contain much original or period pieces and has great exhibits related to Monroe and his instrumental foreign policy. While Highland does not offer regular tours like Monticello and Montpelier, knowledgeable docents are regularly present, roving around the house, to answer questions and tell stories about Monroe, such as his close relationship with Jefferson (Jefferson – a mentor to Monroe – repeatedly begged Monroe to move to the area so they could regularly hang out), his foreign policy, and about his time fighting in the Revolution. We recommend a visit! (Theoretically, visiting all 3 presidential estates in C’ville in one day is logistically possible, but is not recommended, as you will be constantly rushed and will only have time to eat in your vehicle while on the move.)

This place if definitely worth a visit. Enjoyed it more than Monticello and UVA. Beautiful grounds and interesting history revealed. Did you know James Monroe is standing besides George Washington in the famous Crossing the Delaware painting?

James Monroes Highland is nice but overwhelmed by nearby Jeffersons Monticello. They were friends and neighbors. This is not original as Highlands was burnt down in a fire.The artifacts are original time period but . mostly not originals. We spent 2 hours and the guide was very informative and nice

I was pleasantly surprised by how nice this place is! It’s much smaller in-person than I expected, and I was able to take a self-guided tour of the home, which allowed me to browse through the many different artifacts, while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding area to the fullest. Highland sometimes gets overshadowed by Monticello, located a few miles away, but I was very impressed with how they were able to highlight the many accomplishments of President James Monroe in the museum here. If you’re in the area, don’t forget to stop by and visit Highland! You’ll be glad you did.

Wonderful tour! The gift shop manager was so welcoming and promptly got us on a tour that just began. My husband and I had the honor to have Roy as our guide. Roy is a gifted speaker and guide; he made history come to life. Please include this hidden gem on your historical tours around Charlottesville!

In our quest to visit as many presidential homes, James Monroe’s highland was a surprising delight. The original home did burn down, so what you are seeing is the original guest house + a rebuilt main home. We took a private guided tour, and the experience was great! Our guide was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating to our elementary-aged children. The house is filled with original artwork, household items, and furniture which was brought from Oak Hill. We loved the laid back atmosphere that gave us a lot of time to study and learn about the items. We also enjoyed learning about the archeological endeavors at the site, and the property is beautiful. We drove to Carters mountain after our visit and spotted the house in the valley below. Overall, I highly recommend a visit here. If you love history and artifacts, you will surely enjoy it.

Such a lovely property! Enjoyed learning more about President Monroe and appreciate his legacy! The tour guides were so friendly and knowledgeable! The setting is peaceful and beautiful! It was easy to imagine the daily life of a more simple time.