The Best Hotels and Places to Stay Near Thomas Jefferson's Monticello

Hey there! I'm your local Charlottesville area guide, and I’ve lived in this beautiful part of Virginia for over 20 years. I’ve spent countless sunny Saturdays hiking Carter Mountain, sipping wine along Route 151, and, of course, bringing friends and family to Monticello. If you’re planning a visit to Thomas Jefferson’s iconic mountaintop home, you’ll want a great place to stay that adds to the experience. Whether you love historic inns, modern hotels, or scenic farmhouse getaways, I’ve got you covered.

Here are my favorite hotels and places to stay near Monticello—from spots just a few minutes away to dreamy inns tucked into the surrounding hills of wine country. And yes, I’ve stayed at or visited every one of them. Let’s dive in!

The Clifton

Address: 1296 Clifton Inn Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22911
Website: the-clifton.com
Distance to Monticello: 5 miles
Price: From $299 per night

This place feels like a secret garden where history and luxury come together. The Clifton sits on over 100 acres and was originally part of a land grant from Jefferson himself. I once came here for a friend’s wedding and ended up booking a weekend stay the next month just to relive the magic.

The rooms are spread across a beautifully restored manor house, cozy cottages, and a few modern suites. I stayed in the Livery Stable once—tall ceilings, a big soaking tub, and a view of the lake that made me want to write poetry.

The on-site restaurant, 1799, is a dream. I still remember the beet salad I had there, made with greens picked right from the garden out back. And don’t miss a walk through the woods on the private trails. They’re especially beautiful in the fall.

Driving to Monticello from Here: It's a quick and scenic 10-minute drive. I recommend taking Milton Rd—it winds past farms and open countryside and drops you right at the Monticello entrance.

What Makes The Clifton Special

• Surrounded by 100+ acres of gardens, lake, and wooded trails

• Once part of a Jefferson-era land grant

• Romantic rooms in a restored 18th-century manor and modern suites

• Elevated farm-to-table dining at The 1799 Restaurant

Why Stay Here

If you’re looking for elegance, romance, and a historic setting that feels like its own destination, The Clifton is your spot. It’s perfect for couples, special occasions, or anyone wanting to soak up the charm of Virginia’s countryside.

Kimpton The Forum Hotel

Address: 540 Massie Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903
Website: forumhotelcharlottesville.com
Distance to Monticello: 9 miles
Price: From $209 per night

If you like a city vibe with your history, this new hotel on the University of Virginia (UVA) Darden School grounds might be your perfect fit. It’s super stylish and walkable to the UVA Lawn and Rotunda, which Jefferson also designed.

I stayed here the night before a big football game, and the energy was incredible. The lobby is always buzzing with activity, but the rooms are calm and quiet—a great place to rest after exploring Monticello all day.

Bonus: it’s pet-friendly! I brought my dog and we enjoyed a morning walk around the beautifully landscaped gardens before grabbing coffee at the on-site café.

Driving to Monticello from Here: Plan on about 15 minutes by car. Take US-250 East to Meade Ave to Route 20 and you’ll be there in no time.

What makes Kimpton The Forum Special

• Trendy and modern design in a historic university setting

• Pet-friendly with landscaped walking paths

• Great food and drinks on-site and nearby

• Close to UVA’s most iconic Jefferson-designed buildings

Why Stay Here

It’s ideal for travelers who want style, walkability, and easy access to both Monticello and downtown Charlottesville. Great for couples, solo travelers, or pet parents.

The Omni Charlottesville Hotel

Address: 212 Ridge McIntire Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903
Website: omnihotels.com/hotels/charlottesville
Distance to Monticello: 5 miles
Price: From $239 per night

The Omni sits right on the edge of the Downtown Mall, which makes it perfect if you want to mix your Monticello trip with great food, local shops, and live music. I’ve stayed here more than once for events and always loved how walkable everything is.

One of my favorite memories was having brunch at the hotel, then heading out for a morning stroll through the pedestrian mall. Later that evening, I caught a show at the Paramount Theater—just steps away from the lobby.

The hotel has a sleek, modern feel with a touch of Southern hospitality. There’s a big indoor pool and a sun-filled atrium that makes the whole place feel light and airy.

Driving to Monticello from Here: It’s about a 10-minute drive. Head down Avon Street or take Route 20 straight to the Monticello entrance.

What Makes The Omni Special

• Steps from the historic Downtown Mall and Paramount Theater

• Spacious rooms and a bright indoor atrium

• Indoor pool and fitness center

• Great brunch and lobby bar for relaxing between adventures

Why Stay Here

If you want to be close to both Monticello and downtown’s best food and nightlife, this is a top pick. Ideal for families, couples, and first-time visitors who want easy access to everything.

Boar’s Head Resort

Address: 200 Ednam Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22903
Website: boarsheadresort.com
Distance to Monticello: 9 miles
Price:From $249 per night

This resort has it all: golf, tennis, pools, spa, and walking trails. It’s owned by UVA and has this relaxed, Southern charm that makes you want to sip sweet tea on the veranda. I’ve done a few spa days here, and once stayed over for a romantic anniversary weekend. It was just the escape we needed.

The grounds are gorgeous any time of year. In the fall, the foliage around the lake is spectacular. In the spring, flowers bloom along the trails and the patio outside the Mill Room comes alive. It feels like a mini-vacation even if you're local.

Driving to Monticello from Here: Expect a 15 to 20-minute drive, depending on traffic. Although it’s faster to ake Route 29 south to Interstate 64, I recommend instead driving through the heart of Charlottesville. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.

What Makes Boar’s Head Resort Special

• Full-service luxury with walking trails and lake views

• One of the best spas in Virginia

• Top-rated tennis and pickleball complex

• Birdwood Golf Course is one of the finest in the region

Why Stay Here

Because sometimes you want the full resort experience—without giving up charm and character. Boar’s Head is ideal if you want a little luxury while being close to both Charlottesville and the mountains. It’s the kind of place where you can spend the morning on the golf course, the afternoon exploring wineries, and the evening soaking in a spa tub or sipping bourbon by the fire. It feels like a world of its own, yet everything is just minutes away. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, a wedding, or a wellness retreat, Boar’s Head delivers classic Virginia elegance—plus the kind of hospitality that keeps you coming back.

Afton Mountain Inn

Address: 10221 Rockfish Valley Hwy, Afton, VA 22920
Website: aftoninn.com
Distance to Monticello: 25 miles
Price: From $179 per night

A boutique historic 1848 inn with a resort-style pool and romantic mountain views, Afton Mountain Inn is a hidden gem nestled into the breathtaking wine country just 25 minutes west of Charlottesville. The property features six luxurious suites and a premium two-bedroom villa, perfect for couples or wedding guests heading to local wineries. I brought my in-laws here for a long weekend and they were blown away by the charm and comfort. We spent our mornings sipping coffee on the porch swings and our evenings around the fire pits under the stars.

Stroll the 10-acre grounds and you’ll find a pool with luxury cabanas, two hot tubs, three fire pits, a badminton court, and a dreamy private nature trail by a crystal-clear creek. It feels worlds away from everything, yet it’s only a few minutes to some of the best wineries and breweries alongthe Route 151 Wine and Beer Trail, including Veritas Vineyards, Bold Rock Cidery, and Blue Mountain Brewery.

If you're planning to visit Monticello but want to soak up the beauty of the surrounding mountains and wine country, this is the kind of place you’ll fall in love with. It’s a serene and elegant escape with a local twist.

Driving to Monticello from Here: It takes about 30 minutes, but the scenic drive along Route 151 along the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains makes it feel shorter. I love driving the Blue Ridge Parkway around sunset for the views.

What Makes Afton Mountain Inn Special

• Resort-style pool, hot tubs, and fire pits

• Surrounded by 10 peaceful acres with a private nature trail

• Minutes from breweries and wineries on the Route 151 Wine and Brewery Trail

Why Stay Here

This is a perfect spot if you want scenic beauty and a peaceful, romantic vibe. You're close to dozens of great vineyards and breweries, and the property itself feels like a small private resort. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, and wedding guests looking for a unique place to unwind. The tranquility here is unmatched. After a day of sightseeing, there’s nothing better than a sunset soak in the hot tub or a quiet stroll through the forested path along the creek. Plus, it’s a rare blend of comfort and nature—exactly what you need after a day exploring Monticello.

Afton Farmhouse

Address: 161 Avon Rd, Afton, VA
Website: aftonfarmhouse.com
Distance to Monticello: 24 miles
Price: From $299 per night (sleeps up to 11 people)

Ideal for big families or groups of friends, Afton Farmhouse sleeps up to 11 and has a bunk room, foosball, outdoor fire pit, and a full kitchen. My friends with kids always rave about the soccer goals and play structure—it gives the adults time to relax with a glass of wine on the patio. The dining area is huge, and we’ve hosted group dinners here with wine from Veritas and takeout BBQ from Blue Ridge Pig. It’s a fun, festive home base.

Want to visit Monticello but stay somewhere with sweeping views, peaceful fields, and a backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains? This is that place. It’s a warm, welcoming retreat in the heart of Virginia’s wine country.

Driving to Monticello from Here: Allow about 30 minutes along scenic Route 250 and I-64.

What Makes Afton Farmhouse Special

• Spacious home with large gathering areas

• Outdoor fun for kids: play structure, yard games, and more

• Located in the heart of wine and craft beer country

• Cozy farmhouse style with all the modern comforts

• Great value for your money when visiting with a large group

Why Stay Here

It’s ideal for families or groups who want space to spread out and relax. Being close to Route 151 means you’ve got incredible food and drink options nearby. The farmhouse strikes that perfect balance between rustic charm and homey convenience. You’ll make great memories here—there’s something special about laughing around the fire pit or watching the kids run through the fields while you unwind with a chilled rosé. It’s the kind of place that feels like home, but better—with Monticello just a scenic drive away.

Afton Clubhouse

Address: 161 Avon Rd, Afton, VA
Website: aftonclubhouse.com
Distance to Monticello: 24 miles
Price: From $279 per night (sleeps up to 6 people)

A former art gallery turned stylish retreat, Afton Clubhouse has three bedrooms, a full kitchen, and tons of entertainment—shuffleboard, indoor basketball, a hot tub, and fire pit. I love recommending this one to girls’ getaway groups and couples traveling together. It’s right off Route 151 and close to everything. One of my favorite weekends here was during fall foliage season—we hiked Crabtree Falls in the morning and hit up three wineries along route 151 that afternoon.

If you're visiting Monticello but want to stay somewhere that blends countryside charm with a fun and funky vibe, this is it. Tucked into wine country with rolling hills all around, it offers a playful twist on the classic Virginia retreat.

Driving to Monticello from Here: Plan for about 30 minutes. Take Route 151 to Route 250 to I-64 for a scenic, easy drive.

What Makes Afton Clubhouse Special

• Tons of games and fun indoor activities

• Stylish decor with open-concept living spaces

• Outdoor deck, hot tub, and fire pit for relaxing

• Right in the middle of Route 151’s wine and beer trail

Why Stay Here

It’s a playful, relaxing place to gather with friends or family. You’ll love the thoughtful layout and all the things to do, both indoors and out. Plus, being in the heart of wine country means every day can end with a new tasting or brewery stop. A great home base for fun and connection. It feels like your own private clubhouse where everyone can unwind, laugh, and make memories that last long after the trip is over. It’s the best of both worlds—local flavor and easy access to one of America’s most important landmarks.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Monticello is a chance to walk through American history—and staying somewhere special can make the whole experience even richer. Whether you choose a luxurious resort like Boar’s Head, a boutique inn in Charlottesville, or a cozy farmhouse in Virginia’s wine country, the right place can add just the right touch of charm, comfort, and connection to your trip.

I always tell visitors: take your time here. Wander the gardens at Monticello. Sip a glass of Virginia wine with a view. Wake up to mountain mist or the sound of birds in the woods. This area has a magic to it—history, beauty, and warm hospitality all rolled into one. I hope this guide helps you find your perfect home base. Enjoy every moment!