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1548 Bateman Bridge Rd
Forest, Virginia, 24551
(434)-525-1806
http://www.poplarforest.org
events@poplarforest.org
Open April through November, 10 to 4 Wednesday through Monday except Thanksgiving Day. Closed on Tuesdays. See website for limits to handicap accessibility.
Cost: House Tours (includes guided house tour and self-guided grounds tour). Adults $8, Seniors (60+) $6, Youths 6-16 $1, Under 6 free.

Wrenched from near ruin in 1984, Poplar Forest was the country retreat that Thomas Jefferson used to escape the constant guests and hospitality of Monticello. Begun in 1806, Jefferson’s writings reveal his pleasure in the quality of the design of his octagonal retreat, “When finished, it will be the best dwelling house in the state, except that of Monticello; perhaps preferable to that, as more proportioned to the faculties of a private citizen.” It was a place where Jefferson got to play with his grandchildren, read in his study and relax in the mountain air without the trappings of a statesman. As the house deteriorated, passing through multiple ownerships, the 4,800 acres that Jefferson amassed gave way to local subdivisions. Today, with the restorations nearly complete, you can see how Jefferson lived at Poplar Forest and explore the artifacts that have been uncovered right around the house.

Directions:
From Lynchburg intersection of US routes 501 and 221, take US 221 west towards Bedford for 3.3 miles. Turn left at Bateman Bridge Rd and go 1 mile. Look for Poplar Forest entrance on right.

General Location

Specific Location

© 2007 Southern Virginia Tourism Region