Michie Tavern, a Virginia Historic Landmark, is one of the oldest existing homesteads in Virginia. Scotsman William Michie established the tavern in 1784, and it quickly served as the social center of its community, accommodating travelers with food, drink, and lodging. In 1927, the Tavern was moved 17 miles to its present location on a beautiful mountain in Charlottesville, close to Monticello, serving as a prime example of the Colonial Revival period.

The museum offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Taverns were not only establishments for eating, drinking, and lodging, but they but also served as the center of the community. For example, the costumed guides will lead you through Michie Tavern's assembly room, which served as a ballroom, school room, place of worship, and space for extra sleeping accommodations. Amongst the other restored tavern rooms you visit on the tour, you are shown the Ladies' Parlor, which is very elegantly decorated and also served as a multi-purpose room. Another highlight of the tour--children can dress in apparel from the period and play 18th-century games.

The Original Tavern is open year-round and tours begin on the hour and half-hour. Tours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The last tour each day begins promptly at 4:30 p.m.

The Ordinary still serves hot meals to travelers--mostly those in the area to see Thomas Jefferson's Monticello--although Michie Tavern is now a destination of its own. The food is served in five fun, rustic rooms with décor inspired by the period. The menu includes favorites such as:

• Colonial Fried Chicken
• Murphy's Biscuits
• Michie Tavern Corn Bread
• Black-eyed Peas
• Green Bean Salad
• Southern Beats
• Stewed Tomatoes
• Cole Slaw
• Potato Salad
• Apple Crisp

Michie Tavern offers a wide variety of beverages including hot and cold cider, Virginia wines, and traditional lagers.

The Ordinary closes only on Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Hours from April to October: 11:15 am - 3:30 pm; from November to March: 11:30 am - 3:00 pm. Reservations are accepted for groups of 15 or more.

While growing up in Richmond, my dad wanted me to develop a respect for the history and beauty of Virginia. Even though I didn't appreciate it enough at the time, I learned a lot from the day and weekend trips that my father planned for us around the commonwealth. One of the stops I did always look forward to was Michie Tavern, where I loved eating the fried chicken. Now, I enjoy taking my son to this Virginia landmark.