Charlottesville Unveiled: Unique Things To Do and Explore
Welcome to the charming city of Charlottesville, Virginia, nestled in the heart of Albemarle County. Rich in history and natural beauty, this alluring destination offers a variety of activities for visitors to relish, from historical landmarks like Monticello to scenic hikes in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Foodies can indulge their taste buds at local eateries while craft beer and wine aficionados will feel right at home exploring nearby vineyards and breweries.
Whether you’re seeking family-friendly adventures or a romantic getaway steeped in culture and art, Charlottesville has it all.
Key Takeaways
- Charlottesville offers a diverse range of activities for visitors, including historical landmarks such as Monticello and James Monroe’s Highland, scenic hiking trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and renowned local eateries.
- Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the natural beauty of Shenandoah National Park through hiking, camping, and driving along Skyline Drive while also taking in stunning panoramic views of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Visitors can immerse themselves in American history through tours of historic plantations like Monticello and educational exhibits at museums. Michie Tavern is also a popular attraction offering an authentic colonial experience with servers dressed in period attire serving up Southern-style cuisine.
- Walnut Creek Park provides recreational options like picnicking by the lake while observing deer or turtles as well as learning opportunities about the area’s flora and fauna at its nature center.
Historical Attractions
Visit the historic Monticello, James Monroe’s Highland, University of Virginia, and Michie Tavern for a glimpse into Charlottesville’s rich history.
Monticello
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Charlottesville, Virginia, Monticello stands as an iconic symbol of American history. As a designated National Historic Landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site, this architectural masterpiece was once home to Thomas Jefferson, one of the United States’ Founding Fathers and its third president.
A visit to Monticello promises an immersive educational experience for travelers by offering various intriguing tours. One such tour delves into exploring the lives of around 400 enslaved people who inhabited this plantation during Jefferson’s time — providing unique insight into America’s complex past.
A notable digital exhibit within the house is “The Life of Sally Hemings,” which shares stories about one woman’s life at Monticello.
James Monroe’s Highland
Discover a piece of American history at James Monroe’s Highland, the well-preserved plantation home of America’s 5th President and Founding Father. Located adjacent to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia, this historical attraction offers guided tours through the house and grounds, including restored slave quarters and a museum dedicated to Monroe’s life and legacy.
As you explore the beautiful architecture representative of early Virginia, be prepared for an educational experience that provides insight into not only Monroe’s achievements but also the harsh reality faced by over 250 people enslaved on his property throughout his lifetime.
University Of Virginia
A visit to Charlottesville would be incomplete without exploring the prestigious University of Virginia (UVA), founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819.
While strolling around this picturesque campus, make sure to visit attractions such as Fralin Museum of Art that houses over 14,000 objects including paintings and photography collections.
UVA also proudly hosts Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection – a must-see for art enthusiasts. Don’t forget to join one of their free guided tours during class hours, where you get a chance to uncover fascinating stories about the historic connection between Thomas Jefferson and James Madison.
Michie Tavern
One of the most popular historical attractions to visit in Charlottesville is Michie Tavern, a charming and authentic 18th-century inn and dining establishment.
The tavern offers visitors an immersive experience into colonial times with servers dressed in period attire serving up a buffet-style Southern meal that includes fried chicken, pulled pork, mashed potatoes, and more.
With eight historic buildings on its property, including a general store and blacksmith shop, Michie Tavern has been listed as both a Virginia Historic Landmark and National Register of Historic Places site.
Throughout the year, the tavern hosts several events such as holiday celebrations and live music performances.
Outdoor Adventures
Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains with hiking trails like Saunders-Monticello Trail and Crabtree Falls, or drive through Shenandoah National Park‘s Skyline Drive for stunning views – there are plenty of options available to outdoor enthusiasts visiting Charlottesville.
Hiking Trails
Charlottesville is home to some of the most scenic hiking trails in Virginia, all offering unique experiences for nature lovers. Saunders-Monticello Trail is a 4-mile hike that passes through woods, fields, and streams creating a beautiful backdrop for walkers, joggers, bikers and wheelchair users alike.
For those looking for more challenging hikes with breathtaking views should visit Crabtree Falls or Humpback Rock on Skyline Drive. Shenandoah National Park also has over 500 miles of trails where visitors can enjoy different wildlife sightings along the way while exploring about 70 waterfalls within park boundaries.
Saunders-Monticello Trail
The Saunders-Monticello Trail is a stunning 4-mile scenic trail located in Kemper Park, Charlottesville. It’s associated with outdoor adventures and is perfect for hikers, cyclists, and on-leash dog-walking.
Named after Thomas Jefferson’s good friend William Short (“Saunders”), the trail takes visitors through Monticello – the former plantation and residence of US President Thomas Jefferson – offering spectacular views of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley along the way.
The trail is wheelchair accessible and runs through an 89-acre park that features several trails, an arboretum, and a 2-acre pond.
Crabtree Falls
Photo by Matthew Paulson
Crabtree Falls is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Charlottesville, Virginia. The falls offer visitors the chance to enjoy a 1.8-mile hike through breathtaking scenery, culminating in views of the longest vertical cascade in the Eastern US.
Open year-round and accessible to hikers of all levels, Crabtree Falls is an excellent location for nature photography and birdwatching. The area also offers options for camping, fishing, and picnicking with family and friends amidst stunning natural beauty.
Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park is a stunning natural playground located near Charlottesville, Virginia. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, nature trails, fishing, bird watching, horseback riding and camping.
With over 500 miles of hiking trails and 70 scenic overlooks that offer breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounding countryside – Shenandoah National Park has something for everyone! Take Skyline Drive to explore its various attractions such as campgrounds, visitor centers, picnic areas, trailheads or waterfall hikes.
During the fall season when the foliage transforms into a spectacular display of vibrant colors – visitors can enjoy unique viewings that attract travelers from all over the world.
Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive is a 105-mile scenic byway that runs through Shenandoah National Park and connects visitors to the park’s major visitor centers, campgrounds, picnic areas, and most trailheads.
The drive offers breathtaking views of mountains and valleys with 75 overlooks along the way for visitors to stop and take in the scenery. For outdoor enthusiasts visiting Charlottesville, Skyline Drive is a must-see attraction as it provides opportunities for hiking, biking, birdwatching, and exploring nature.
Visitors can stay at one of the park’s several campgrounds or lodges to further immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Shenandoah National Park.
Humpback Rock
Humpback Rock is a must-see hiking destination located in George Washington National Forest, just a short drive from downtown Charlottesville. The challenging trail offers stunning views of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley and takes around an hour to reach the top.
It’s suitable for all skill levels, but proper hiking shoes are recommended due to its steep and rocky terrain. Humpback Rock is also perfect for picnicking with family and friends, especially during autumn when the trees change color creating beautiful scenery.
Walnut Creek Park
Walnut Creek Park is a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Charlottesville. This expansive park spans over 500 acres and features a picturesque 45-acre lake that offers various water activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming.
Aside from its natural wonders, Walnut Creek Park has amenities that cater to families and groups hosting events with several picnic areas equipped with tables and grills.
The pavilion may be rented to host your parties or gatherings while enjoying scenic views of the lake.
Rivanna River Trail
The Rivanna River Trail in Charlottesville is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. This 20-mile trail offers a mix of parkland, streets, and greenways, with various points of access throughout the city.
The trail is perfect for hiking, running, mountain biking, fishing, and paddling. While exploring the trail, you’ll have the chance to spot wildlife species like beavers, hawks, eagles, ospreys, foxes and coyotes.
You can also enjoy stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and experience the vibrant fall foliage that Virginia is known for.
Carter Mountain Orchard
Carter Mountain Orchard is a must-visit if you’re in Charlottesville. This family-owned orchard has something for everyone, from fruit and veggie picking to wine tastings for adults.
The Country Store & Bakery sells specialty foods and sweet treats like apple cider doughnuts, apple pies, and apple butter. And the stunning views of the Shenandoah Valley are an added bonus! Visitors can enjoy live music events and festivals at the orchard, while hayrides and corn mazes are available for those looking for more outdoor activities.
Art And Culture
Experience Charlottesville’s thriving art and culture scene by visiting institutions such as the Fralin Museum of Art at UVA, Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection, and McGuffey Art Center.
Discover local talent and national exhibitions that showcase diverse creative expressions.
Fralin Museum Of Art
The Fralin Museum of Art is one of the best things to do if you’re interested in art and culture while visiting Charlottesville. Located on the University of Virginia’s campus, the museum boasts a collection of over 14,000 works that span ancient times up to present-day.
The museum has several exhibition spaces showcasing American art, African art, and other cultural artifacts.
One unique aspect of this museum is its educational programs designed for both children and adults. It also conducts research and collaborates with other institutions to publish scholarly findings related to their collections.
Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection
For travelers interested in art and culture, the Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection is a must-see when visiting Charlottesville. Located at UVA, this unique museum is the only one of its kind in the United States devoted entirely to Australian Aboriginal art.
With over 2000 objects on display, visitors can explore traditional and contemporary artwork that showcases the diversity of Aboriginal culture. The collection features breathtaking pieces like bark and acrylic paintings by legendary artists such as Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri, Rover Thomas, and Emily Kame Kngwarreye.
In addition to exhibitions, the museum hosts various events throughout the year ranging from lectures to workshops aimed at promoting understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal culture.
McGuffey Art Center
The McGuffey Art Center is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts in Charlottesville. Founded in 1916 as a school for African-American children, it has since evolved into a non-profit organization that provides an active and supportive environment for local and regional artists to create and showcase their work.
With over 40 artist studios and galleries, visitors can appreciate contemporary art from various genres such as painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, among others.
Moreover, the center offers workshops and classes suitable for all ages where people can hone their craft or explore new artistic endeavors. The center also hosts exhibitions throughout the year with openings and events designed to promote local artists’ work further.
The Paramount Theater
The Paramount Theater, located at the heart of Downtown Mall in Charlottesville, is a must-visit for any traveler interested in experiencing the arts and culture of the area.
Originally designed in an art deco style as a movie palace back in 1931, The Paramount has undergone significant renovations and now showcases its rich history through ballets, operas, musicals, movies, and other performances throughout the year.
Visitors can enjoy free behind-the-scenes tours to explore this iconic venue while learning about its extensive legacy.
As a non-profit organization that relies on community support to operate successfully, ticket prices are made accessible to everyone. In addition to hosting many famous performers throughout its history like Louis Armstrong and Elvis Presley , The Paramount is home to both Charlottesville Symphony Orchestra and Virginia Film Festival.
Lewis & Clark Exploratory Center
Located in Darden Towe Park, the Lewis & Clark Exploratory Center is an interactive museum dedicated to the art and culture of the famous expedition. Visitors can see a replica of their keelboat and Fort Mandan, learn about the flora and fauna encountered on the journey, and enjoy water activities like kayaking or canoeing on Rivanna River.
The center hosts events for all ages throughout the year and has a gift shop where you can buy educational materials and souvenirs related to the Expedition.
It’s wheelchair accessible with ample parking space as well which makes it easy for everyone to visit.
Food And Drink Experiences
Indulge in delicious bites and refreshing drinks at Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall, Dairy Market, Bodo’s Bagels, Albemarle Baking Company, and more.
Downtown Mall
The Downtown Mall in Charlottesville is a must-visit destination for food and drink experiences. With over 30 restaurants and cafes, the mall boasts one of the highest numbers of eateries per capita in the US.
Feast! is a standout gourmet shop and gallery that spans 8,000 square feet, while visitors can also find locally sourced cuisine at Citizen Burger Bar, Brasserie Saison, Mas Tapas and other hotspots.
If you’re looking for diverse culinary options all located within walking distance from each other or want to soak up some local culture on your travels – head downtown! Don’t miss out on Dairy Market – a modern food hall experience featuring around 18 different vendors offering various food items you won’t be able to find anywhere else in town.
Dairy Market
Dairy Market is an 8,000 square-foot market hall located in Charlottesville, Virginia and offers an array of food and drink experiences for visitors. With approximately 18 unique vendors, the market showcases a diverse range of culinary delights including gourmet foods, deli and cured meats, cheese, apple cider doughnuts, and pies.
The market is conveniently situated near other popular attractions such as Shenandoah National Park and Monticello Wine Trail making it an ideal pit stop on any itinerary.
The surrounding Charlottesville area boasts numerous farms, orchards, dairies, and vineyards creating endless opportunities to indulge in farm-to-table restaurants or hop between wineries on a boozy tour.
Bodo’s Bagels
Bodo’s Bagels is a must-visit spot for breakfast and lunch in Charlottesville. The bagel shop has been serving up its signature all-natural, locally sourced bagels since 1988, and it has become an institution in the community.
Their freshly made bagels are available in different flavors and toppings that can be customized to your liking. Be sure to try their famous bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich on a plain or everything bagel; it’s a local favorite! Bodo’s also offers salads, sandwiches, spreads, baked goods like apple cider donuts and pies that will surely satisfy your cravings.
This beloved eatery is not just known for their delicious food but also for their involvement in the Charlottesville community with their support of local events and charities.
Don’t miss out on this award-winning gem that was voted as “Best Bagels in Virginia” and “Best Breakfast”.
MarieBette Cafe And Bakery
MarieBette Cafe and Bakery is a charming French-inspired cafe located in the heart of Charlottesville’s historic Main Street Market. Serving up delicious breakfast, lunch, brunch items, and baked goods made with local and organic ingredients, travelers will love the cozy and welcoming atmosphere that this cafe exudes.
The indoor and outdoor seating options make it an excellent spot to relax after a day exploring all Charlottesville offers. With their commitment to sustainability and community involvement, it’s no surprise that MarieBette Cafe and Bakery has been named one of the best bakeries in America by Food & Wine.
Albemarle Baking Company
The Albemarle Baking Company is a must-visit for any foodie in Charlottesville. This premier bakery has been serving the community for over 25 years and specializes in handmade artisanal bread, pastries, desserts, and cakes.
You can’t leave without trying their famous baguettes, croissants, or sourdough bread. The bakery offers gluten-free and vegan options while sourcing ingredients from local farmers to support the community.
Not only does this cozy spot have an inviting atmosphere but it also offers catering services for events.
Ivy Inn Restaurant
The Ivy Inn Restaurant in Charlottesville is a must-visit destination for foodies looking for an unforgettable dining experience. Owned by chef Angelo Vangelopoulos and his wife Farrell, the restaurant has been serving innovative dishes with locally-sourced ingredients since 1995.
With over 300 wines on its list, including Virginia and California varieties, Ivy Inn is the perfect place to enjoy delicious food paired with exceptional drinks. The restaurant’s cozy and elegant atmosphere makes it perfect for special occasions such as weddings or corporate events.
The owners’ commitment to sustainability reflects in their efforts to minimize their environmental impact while maintaining excellent service. Make sure you check out the Sunday Supper Club that features a rotating menu theme along with wine pairings.
Charlottesville Food Trucks
Charlottesville has a thriving food truck scene that showcases local and international culinary delights. Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican, Korean BBQ or Southern-style comfort food, the city’s food trucks have it all.
The Downtown Mall is home to many popular food trucks, such as Ace Biscuit & Barbecue and Brasserie Saison’s Le Camion. In addition to the downtown area, other must-visit locations include McIntire Park and Darden Towe Park where various food trucks gather regularly.
Notable mentions among Charlottesville Food Trucks are MarieBette Cafe and Bakery on wheels that offer delicious breakfast items such as flaky croissants stuffed with ham or cheese, freshly brewed coffee made from locally roasted beans, and warm apple cider doughnuts – a fall favorite! Another great option is Public Fish & Oyster’s Pearl Island Seafood Truck that serves up oysters on-the-half-shell sourced directly from Virginia waters along with other seafood delicacies like lobster rolls and clam chowder soup perfect for a cooler day.
Feast!
Feast! is a must-visit destination for foodies in Charlottesville. The gourmet shop and gallery offer an impressive range of artisanal foods presented in an artistic manner.
Among the highlights, visitors can expect to find deli and cured meats, around 75 varieties of gourmet cheese, apple cider doughnuts, pies, and jams.
Founded locally back in 2002, Feast! supports Virginia farmers by sourcing many of its ingredients from them. Visitors can purchase gift baskets filled with specialty items or order online for delivery outside of Charlottesville.
Wineries, Breweries, And Cideries
Explore the Monticello Wine Trail, which includes wineries like Jefferson Vineyards and Blenheim Vineyards, or try Bold Rock Cider and other local breweries on a tour with CVille Hop On Tours.
Monticello Wine Trail
The Monticello Wine Trail, inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s love for wine, features some of Charlottesville’s best wineries, breweries, and cideries.
It includes historic vineyards like Jefferson Vineyards and Blenheim Vineyards that Thomas Jefferson himself commissioned. Visitors can also explore award-winning craft cider from Bold Rock located near Monticello or enjoy elegant European-style wines at Gabrielle Rausse Winery on the historic Redlands Farm.
The Cville Hop On Tours is a fun way to experience all these tastings safely with friends.
The trail passport allows visitors to keep track of their progress as they taste different varietals such as Chasselas Doré ─ one of the first grape varieties brought to Monticello by Thomas Jefferson.
Jefferson Vineyards
Located just a few miles from downtown Charlottesville, Jefferson Vineyards offers visitors the chance to sample some of Virginia’s finest wines. Commissioned by Thomas Jefferson in 1774, this vineyard has a rich history and beautiful surroundings, making it an ideal place for wine tastings.
Situated amongst the rolling hills and lush countryside of Albemarle County, guests can enjoy a range of affordable fees while sipping on classic varietals like Chardonnay or Cabernet Franc.
Blenheim Vineyards
Blenheim Vineyards is a must-visit destination for wine lovers in Charlottesville. Owned by musician Dave Matthews, this beautiful winery has been producing some of the best wines in Virginia since 2000.
Blenheim’s tasting room offers stunning views of their vineyard and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. Visitors can taste a variety of wines made from locally grown grapes such as Cabernet Franc and Viognier.
The winery also hosts live music performances on weekends during the summer months, making it an excellent spot to relax with friends while enjoying delicious wine and good company.
Gabriele Rausse Winery
Gabriele Rausse Winery is a must-visit destination for wine lovers in Charlottesville. It is located just 8 miles from downtown Charlottesville.and offers visitors tastings and tours of their Italian-inspired wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Grigio.
The winery was founded by Gabriele Rausse, known as the “father of modern Virginia wine.” Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains while sipping on award-winning wines.that have received numerous accolades from competitions like the Virginia Governor’s Cup.
A visit to Gabriele Rausse Winery can also be part of the Monticello Wine Trail Passport program.where visitors can explore other participating wineries as they earn rewards along the way.
Bold Rock Cider
One of the top things to do in Charlottesville is to explore its many wineries, breweries, and cideries. Bold Rock Cider stands out as one of the most popular destinations for visitors looking to try some refreshing craft cider made from locally sourced apples.
Located in Nellysford, just a short drive from Monticello, Bold Rock offers tours and tastings that showcase their award-winning ciders. Not only are their products delicious, but they also take sustainability seriously by implementing eco-friendly practices such as recycling and composting.
Visitors can even purchase merchandise like glasses or gift boxes to bring home a taste of Virginia’s finest cider while supporting local businesses.
Cville Hop On Tours
Cville Hop On Tours is a popular and safe way to explore the growing brewery and winery scene in Albemarle County. Visitors can hop on and off the shuttle service at different pick-up points, including select hotels and Three Notch’d Brewing, to explore popular spots such as the Monticello Wine Trail, Bold Rock Hard Cider, Gabrielle Rausse Winery, and more.
The tours include transportation, tastings, and behind-the-scenes looks at the production process. Knowledgeable guides lead the tours and are available to answer questions or provide recommendations.
Private tours for groups or special events are also available. Cville Hop On Tours promotes responsible drinking by encouraging guests to drink in moderation and have a designated driver while exploring the area’s wineries and breweries.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Virginia Discovery Museum, James River Batteau Tour, and Luray Caverns are just a few family-friendly activities in Charlottesville.
Virginia Discovery Museum
The Virginia Discovery Museum is a must-visit spot in Charlottesville for families with kids aged 1 to 8. It’s a non-profit children’s museum that provides an educational and fun experience for children.
The exhibits are interactive, encouraging learning, creativity, and socialization. Children can explore the treehouse, conduct experiments in the science lab, and build things in the construction zone.
The museum also offers summer camps and birthday party packages at affordable prices. What’s more? The admission fee is also pocket-friendly or often free for members to access all year round! And it doesn’t stop there; parents will love that it has wheelchair accessibility and nursing areas available as well.
The Glass Palette – Interactive Glass Art Studio
Looking for a fun and unique activity in Charlottesville? Look no further than The Glass Palette – Interactive Glass Art Studio! Owned by Maria DiMassimo and her daughter Cara, the studio offers a range of classes and workshops for both adults and kids to learn about glass art.
From fused glass to crackle techniques, visitors can enjoy interactive glass-making created by skilled artists. The studio provides all necessary tools and materials needed to make spectacular pieces of artwork, and even has a gift gallery with handmade glassworks available for purchase.
Plus, The Glass Palette also hosts private events that are perfect for birthday celebrations or bachelorette parties.
James River Batteau Tour
A James River Batteau Tour is an unforgettable experience that allows you to explore the scenic and historic James River in a unique way. The flat-bottomed boats used for the tour are replicas of 18th-century batteau boats that played a significant role in Virginia’s history.
While on the tour, you can learn about the history of batteau boats and their importance in transportation and commerce in Virginia. The tour passes through the historic James River and Kanawha Canal, providing educational opportunities about ecology and wildlife of the river.
With knowledgeable tour guides sharing interesting information about the area’s culture and history, this is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. You can also enjoy fishing or have a picnic while catching stunning views of Blue Ridge Mountains as well as observing native wildlife such as bald eagles, ospreys, deer, etc., making it an excellent educational opportunity for families to bond over exploring new things together.
Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns is a must-visit attraction for travelers to Charlottesville, Virginia. Located in nearby Luray, this popular tourist destination offers guided tours of the largest caverns in Eastern America.
The formations inside the caverns have been forming for millions of years and visitors can marvel at unique formations such as the Great Stalacpipe Organ, Dream Lake and Wishing Well.
But that’s not all – Luray Caverns also provides plenty of family-friendly activities such as gem mining, an outdoor garden maze made up of over 1,500 trees, and a Car & Carriage Museum featuring vintage cars and carriages.
Conclusion
There are countless things to do and see in Charlottesville, Virginia. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a history buff, or a foodie, this charming city has something to offer for every traveler.
From hiking scenic trails at Shenandoah National Park to exploring the architectural masterpiece of Monticello designed by Thomas Jefferson, there’s no shortage of exciting activities and attractions to keep you entertained.
Don’t forget to indulge in local cuisine like apple cider doughnuts and visit wineries along the Monticello Wine Trail for a true taste of Virginia.
