One of the most prominent figures in American history, Thomas Jefferson designed and built Poplar Forest as his private retreat home. Now, your visit can make it your own.
The 4,819-acres of Poplar Forest provided Jefferson with the perfect setting to pursue his passions of reading, writing, studying and gardening. Today, Poplar Forest is a National Historic Landmark—nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and an award-winning historic restoration in progress.
Hailed as a masterpiece of landscape and architecture, your visit to Poplar Forest will shed new light on Jefferson’s daily life, along with that of the enslaved community, with artifacts from the people who lived and worked at Poplar Forest. The place that rekindled Jefferson’s creative spirit can do the same for you—and we invite you to make Jefferson’s retreat your own.
Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest is open daily for docent-guided and self-guided tours.
Learn MoreVisit Poplar Forest In the Heart of Virginia
The location of Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest represents an ideal setting for a day trip of excursion and exploration, to experience the beauty and rich culture that Bedford County and Lynchburg have to offer.
Lynchburg, Virginia
Lynchburg is full of both history and breathtaking views. When you’re here, take in quiet vistas, pop into a coffee shop or two, and discover the real beauty of our city. You’ll quickly realize why so many people have chosen to call Lynchburg “home” and why so many people have such a hard time leaving.
Bedford, Virginia
Located where the Piedmont Plateau meets the Blue Ridge Mountains and between the cities of Lynchburg and Roanoke, Bedford retains its authentic rural beauty and charm. It’s also home to amazing experiences, from visiting the National D-Day Memorial to relaxing at Smith Mountain Lake. There’s more outdoor adventure than you can imagine, all in Bedford, Virginia.
Blue Ridge Parkway
No matter where they originate, visitors to Poplar Forest will be able to take in the stunning, natural landscape of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Whether on the drive in or the drive home, visitors can “take the scenic route,” by driving part of the 469 mile route, hiking the trials or camping along the way.
Historic Centertown Bedford
Bedford’s historic district is full of many hidden gems, indicative of the distinct charm of a small town in America. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Poplar Forest visitors are sure to find this elegant place well worth visiting, full of cultural and historic landmarks, restaurants and unique shopping experiences.
Lynchburg Downtown Walking Architectural Tour
Fueled by fortunes built on trade, tobacco, and manufacturing, Lynchburg was once one of the nation’s wealthiest communities per capita. The Downtown Walking Architectural Tour features extraordinary buildings in a diverse array of architectural styles including Art Deco, Art Nouveau, modernist and Neoclassical.
Anne Spencer Museum
Anne Spencer devoted her life to improving the lives of African Americans in the Lynchburg community. Her house and garden were designated a Virginia Historic Landmark in 1976, as well as a Historic Landmark by the Association for the Study for Afro-American Life and History.
Make Jefferson's retreat your retreat—plan you visit to Poplar Forest!
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