Adult Groups
Highland offers adult group tours for visitors looking for enriching historical encounters. Group tours are led by an experienced interpreter and begin with a 30-minute outdoor history walk that includes the site of the recently discovered 1799 Main House. Visitors will learn about how the people and events of Highland are connected to larger threads of American history, and how recent archaeology has transformed the understanding of the plantation and its free and enslaved occupants. Following the history walk, guides accompany visitors through the self-paced experience of the 1818 Guesthouse and interior spaces. Groups should allow time for exploration of outdoor exhibit spaces, grounds, and the museum shop.
Time: Allow for 90 minutes
Price: $16.00 per person (15 person minimum)
Youth Groups
Highland is pleased to offer youth group tour experiences for younger learners (through high school age). Youth group visits are led by an experienced interpreter and follow a similar core itinerary to adult groups. With advance notice, tour directors can work with Highland Education Programs Manager Lara Musser (education@highland.org) to modify core content to supplement group learning objectives or school curricula.
After hours experiences available using teaching spaces reserved for your group. Ask us how we can tailor your visit!
Time: Allow for 90 minutes
Price: $14.00 per person (15 person minimum)
Specialist Speakers
Group visits with specialist speakers are arranged by request.
Time: Variable
Price: between $18 and $32 per person (minimums apply)
Meet President James Monroe
For a truly unique experience, consider having James Monroe re-enactor Beau Robbins perform for your group!
Virtual Programming
Highland is pleased to offer virtual programming on a variety of topics. Programming will be offered via Zoom with a Highland educator.
Time: 45 minute presentation, 15 minutes for questions and discussion
Price: $100.00 per session
Here’s Highland
Highland was home to the Monroe family and dozens of enslaved men, women, and children for over twenty-five years. During that time the United States fought the War of 1812 and expanded westward, the spread of slavery into Missouri threatened the union of the states, and Monroe’s declaration of foreign policy proclaimed the western hemisphere closed to European colonization. Participants will learn an overview of Highland’s story within the framework of these historic events, and see how continued research is shaping site interpretation.
Founding Friendships
James Monroe personally knew and corresponded with all the founding presidents: George Washington, John Adams and his son John Quincy Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison. Using excerpts from their letters, this program dives into the relations that influenced the politics of the founding era, and how those relationships changed over time.
Slavery at Highland
Highland was part of the national economic shift where demand for cotton in the Deep South outpaced demand from grain plantations in the Mid-Atlantic. Hear individual stories of the enslaved at Highland and their varied experiences. Learn how Highland is connecting with their descendants today.
Group Tour Lunch Options
Highland offers many convenient options for groups tours to enjoy lunch on grounds. Box lunches can be ordered in advance for tour groups.