The University of Virginia’s historic grounds embody Thomas Jefferson’s vision of an ideal educational environment. Founded in 1819, the University reflects the complex development and early expansion of this democratic nation. The original campus design, including the Rotunda, pavilions, hotels, ranges, student rooms, central lawn, gardens, alleys, and serpentine walls, offers both a sense of history and a distinctive character. It is a National Historic Landmark and a World Heritage Site. In the mid-20th century, the Garden Club of Virginia (GCV) hired renowned landscape architect Alden Hopkins to restore the Pavilion gardens in the Colonial Revival style. Work began in 1947 and continued through 1965. Today, the GCV continues to support work in the gardens, which feature shade trees, herbaceous beds, lawns, and benches, all surrounded by serpentine walls.

The University of Virginia’s grounds are open to visitors year-round at no cost. UVA typically offers 60-minute tours.

Maps, directions, and more information are available at virginia.edu/maps