Virginia's rich history was an essential element of the settling of Colonial America, the split from Great Britain and the American Revolution, the founding of our country, and other major national historic events, such as the Civil War. Throughout the state, there are historic sites, museums, visitor centers, exhibits and more that pay homage to Virginia's past. Visitors not only learn about the state's history, but experience it, as many locations offer restored and replica infrastructure, in addition to often having tour guides dress and play the part of their earlier counterparts. 1. Head toward Charlottesville for a tour to more than a few homes of presidents past. Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, outside of Charlottesville, features house and grounds tours, Saturdays in the garden, an activity center for children and seasonal wine tours. Ash Lawn-Highland, also nearby, is the former home of James Monroe and houses a museum, working farm and performing arts center. In Orange, 30 minutes outside of Charlottesville, find Montpelier, James Madison's home and estate. Don't miss Michie Tavern, right near Monticello, for a midday meal of Southern classics served by waiters dressed in authentic Colonial garb. 2. Verify out the Richmond National Battlefield Park, part of the National Park Service system of parks, and encompassing an 80-mile area of 13 Civil War historic sites and four visitor centers. 3. Stop by the first enduring English colony in America at Virginia's Jamestown, near Williamsburg, settled in 1607 by a group of English settlers from the Virginia Company. Tour living history replicas of three ships that traveled across the Atlantic, a fort and a Powhatan Indian village, all with costumed actors on hand to provide walking tours and historical narrative. 4. Experience the national tourist destination, Colonial Williamsburg, the capital of Virginia during the Colonial period, and the birthplace of many of the ideas that fueled the American Revolution and the birthplace of the United States.
