Virginia's Southern Journey Through Hallowed Ground Historic Byway

From Orange to Gordonsville, you’ll start your exploration of presidential estates and history. One famous home is James Madison’s Montpelier. Madison, who was the fourth president of the United States, lived in the circa 1760 home with his family. Learn more about his life and times on a tour or during one of the events held throughout the year.

From Gordonsville to Charlottesville, you will find two presidential estates: Thomas Jefferson's Monticello and James Monroe’s Highlands. For a break, stop at Michie Tavern, circa 1784. If you’re not in the mood for a tour from a costumed interpreter, be sure to dine in the rustic tavern or buy a souvenir at one of the on-site shops.

Before you leave Charlottesville, consider staying at a historic bed-and-breakfast, where rooms are named after presidents. It'll provide you a central location in which to travel to historical sites as well as restaurants and shops.