Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Harrisonburg, VA

DOWNTOWN. Historic Court Square, which actually predates much of the Main Street area, was once the hub of all...

DOWNTOWN. Historic Court Square, which actually predates much of the Main Street area, was once the hub of all political, social, and economic activity in the town of Charlottesville. In its heyday, Court Square was home to everything from a tavern to mercantile shops to residences. Although much of the town's activity has moved to the Downtown Mall, Court Square is worth visiting for its historical charm, stately courthouse, and red brick law offices. Saturday morning walking tours offered by the Albemarle Historical Society (April-October) The tours begin at 10:00 am and last for approximately one hour. A suggested $5.00 donation is appreciated. Call the Historical Society at (434) 296-1492 for more information.

CHARLOTTESVILLE. The historic Michie Tavern, a general store and restaurant dating from 1784, is housed within the old...

CHARLOTTESVILLE. The historic Michie Tavern, a general store and restaurant dating from 1784, is housed within the old Meadow Run Grist Mill, just a short piece from Jefferson's Monticello. History and family fun merge at this mountainside eatery, where the staff don period attire and guests learn about the life of founder William Michie, Colonial Virginia dance steps, and what it was like to dine in a real tavern. Be sure to stop by the store to pick up a few Colonial-themed souvenirs for the folks back home. This is an experience the whole family will not soon forget.

Hours: Interactive Tour (Apr-Oct) Daily 9am-4:20pm
Self-Guided Tour (Nov-Mar) Daily 9am-4:20pm
Dining Room (Apr-Oct) Daily 11:15am-3:30pm
Dining Room (Nov-Mar) Daily 11:30am-3pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express , Diner's Club

CHARLOTTESVILLE. Mr. Jefferson, as the university populace refers to him, began designing Monticello on a mountain peak...

CHARLOTTESVILLE. Mr. Jefferson, as the university populace refers to him, began designing Monticello on a mountain peak outside of Charlottesville in 1768, when he was only 26 years old. A testament to Jefferson's style and genius, Monticello is the only home in the United States to earn a slot on the United Nation's elite World Heritage List and was designed with Classical Roman and Greek styles in mind. For example, Jefferson drew inspiration for the impressive front parlor from the Roman architect, Palladio. In time, Jefferson designed the University of Virginia's original buildings (including the Rotunda), all of which he could see from his mansion on the mount. Tours of the home and grounds are available daily.

Hours: Mar - Oct Daily 9am-6pm Nov - Feb Daily 10am-4pm Contact for Specific Dates and Times

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

MONTPELIER STATION. James Madison, fourth President and contemporary of James Monroe and Thomas Jefferson, lived on this...

MONTPELIER STATION. James Madison, fourth President and contemporary of James Monroe and Thomas Jefferson, lived on this 2000-plus-acre estate in Orange County, "just a squirrel's jump" (as he used to note) from Charlottesville. This exquisite home, parts of which date from around 1760, was purchased by the DuPont family in 1901 and was given a series of massive renovations that nearly doubled its size. Today, Montpelier sits almost imperially, its front facade guarded by a Revival-style colonnade, while beautifully sculpted gardens surround the home. The estate offers vistas of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains.

Hours: Apr - Oct Daily 9am-5pm Nov - Mar Daily 9am-4pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club