My oldest son is studying American History in school right now.  How cool is it that he’s been to the homes of some of the people he’s learning about?

Last summer, for example, my parents took all three of my boys to visit Monticello, the Virginia home of Thomas Jefferson.  It’s a great place to visit with kids, because in addition the the house tour (which some kids will love and others will find a snore), there are lots of grounds to explore–a plus for almost every kid.

Some highlights:

• Guided Tours:  You can take a regular House Tour, or, if your kids are ages 6-11, you might want to check out the Family Friendly Tours, which provide more hands-on experiences for kids of all ages.
• The Mountaintop Hands-on Activity Center.  With games and activities, like writing with a quill pen, this area is also geared for kids in that mid-age range (maybe 6-11+).  No reservations are required and it’s a nice diversion after the house or garden tour.
• Garden Tour: This tour is seasonal and worth the time if it’s available when you visit.  The kids get some fresh air and, if the house didn’t amaze you enough, the gardens ought to do it.
• Spend some time in the Visitor Center and Smith Education Center and watch the film Thomas Jefferson’s World.
• My kids also thought the cemetery where Jefferson was buried was a cool thing to visit.

Be sure to buy tickets online to save yourself the hassle of getting them when you arrive.  Prices vary depending on age and what you choose to do.  Check here for more info.

If you’re family is especially outdoorsy, you might want to hike the Thomas Jefferson Parkway, which is beautiful in itself but also beautiful because the kids can burn off some of that energy (and be less tempted to touch the “no touch” items in the house).

photo credit:  Tony the Misfit