One of Virginia’s largest tourist attractions has re-opened, offering a very different experience than what visitors had three months ago. Monticello will admit no more than 500 people a day, down from as many as 2,000 before the pandemic.
Monticello is known for its engaging tours.
“Jefferson is going to have you show up, once you’re ten, here at sunrise. He’s going to bring out something called nailrod. He’s going to weigh out a certain amount for you. At the end of the day he’s going to come back here and weigh out how many nails you made.”
Before COVID-19 came to the mountain, you could hear talks on Mulberry Row where enslaved people produced everything from nails and fabric to food and drink. The gardens were a big draw and, of course, Mr. Jefferson's house. Now, however, visitors learn about the place on their own according to Monticello vice president Gary Sandling.
“They’ll see signs at each space that contain QR codes, if they want to use their smart phone to find out about the spaces they’re in as well as objects and stories associated with the people of Monticello,” he explains.
Tour groups of 12 meet out front for a brief introduction. Then two or three guests are allowed in at a time. Staff members are on hand to answer questions and keep folks moving toward the exit. Once outside, visitors find lots more to do.
“We have a station where guests can meet Bill Barker, who portrays Thomas Jefferson, and we also have an outdoor station for children where there are demonstrations and storytelling,” Sandling says.
The café is also open with grab-and-go selections made from produce grown on the grounds. So far, Sandling says feedback on the new visitor experience has been good.
“A guest noted to me on Sunday – she said, ‘In some ways it’s kind of nice.’ The pace may feel a little less hectic.”
Guests are asked to wear masks when they’re closer than six feet from others, and Monticello offers free hand sanitizer. While the pandemic may keep some people at home this summer, Sandling hopes more Virginians will visit or return and reminds those living in the ten counties around Jefferson’s historic home that they qualify for discounts.
