In March of 2023, I had the pleasure of leading our 8th graders on a School Tours of America trip to Monticello, one of my favorite places to bring students, especially since we spend so much time studying Thomas Jefferson and his impact on our country. Little did we know we’d be greeted by a beautiful blanket of snow that made the mountaintop look absolutely magical.

We arrived right when they opened. While my chaperones guided the students to the restrooms, I headed to the ticket booth to pick up our group’s passes. Once we regrouped, we made our way into the auditorium to watch Monticello’s 15-minute introductory film. It was the perfect way to set the stage, giving students the historical background they needed before seeing Jefferson’s plantation firsthand.

After the film, we boarded the shuttle that carried us up the hill toward the iconic house. When we arrived, we lined up outside, taking in the peaceful, snowy landscape while our guide prepared to welcome us. Soon, the doors opened, and we stepped inside Jefferson’s remarkable home.

Walking through Monticello is like stepping into a time capsule. Every room is filled with unique architecture, fascinating artifacts, and stories that help bring history to life. The students were especially drawn to the inventive details Jefferson incorporated into his home, proof of his creativity and curiosity.

At the end of the house tour, we gathered on the back lawn to snap a group photo with  the beautiful home behind us. Then we made our way down to the dependencies beneath the house, where we explored the kitchen, cellar, and slave quarters, spaces that help tell a fuller, more complex story of life at Monticello.

Our group continued down the path past portions of the gardens and took in the sweeping scenery before arriving at the Jefferson family cemetery. We paused to pay our respects, then followed the quiet, peaceful trail back toward the entrance area. In our remaining 30 minutes, some students visited the museum exhibits while others browsed the wonderful gift shop for souvenirs.

Before long, it was time to continue our journey. We boarded the bus and headed to Mitchie Tavern for lunch, always a popular stop. The students (and adults!) enjoyed a hearty buffet of Southern classics: fried chicken, mashed potatoes, black-eyed peas, cobblers, and warm bread, all washed down with sweet tea. With two gift shops and a quick restroom break, it was the perfect midday stop before our trip to Washington, D.C.

Monticello remains one of my favorite places to bring students. Between its beauty, its history, and its ability to spark meaningful conversations, it never fails to leave an impression. Even on a cold, snowy day, or maybe especially on one, it was simply breathtaking.

Why Every Educator Should Take Students to Monticello

Trips like this remind me why experiential learning matters. When students can walk through history, they connect with it on a whole new level.

If you’re an educator looking for a meaningful, memorable destination, Monticello should be at the top of your list. Your students will never forget it.