things to do in charlottesville va
Charlottesville, Virginia, is a charming city surrounded by beautiful mountains and scenic countryside. Here are some things to do in Charlottesville:
Visit Monticello: Thomas Jefferson’s iconic home is a must-visit attraction in Charlottesville. Take a guided tour of the house, gardens, and outbuildings to learn about the life and legacy of the third U.S. President.
Explore the University of Virginia: Founded by Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture. Take a tour of the campus, visit the Rotunda, and explore the beautiful gardens.
Walk the Downtown Mall: The Downtown Mall is a pedestrian-friendly street lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries. It’s a great place to stroll, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the local culture.
Visit the Virginia Discovery Museum: This interactive museum is perfect for families with kids. Explore the exhibits on science, art, and history, and enjoy the hands-on activities.
Go hiking at Shenandoah National Park: Just a short drive from Charlottesville, Shenandoah National Park offers stunning hiking trails, scenic vistas, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Visit the Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection: This unique museum features a collection of Aboriginal art from Australia, as well as rotating exhibits and events.
Take a wine tour: Charlottesville is surrounded by wineries and vineyards. Take a tour or tasting to sample some of the region’s best wines.
Visit the Charlottesville City Market: Every Saturday morning, the Charlottesville City Market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
Go to a UVA football game: If you’re visiting in the fall, catch a University of Virginia football game at Scott Stadium.
Visit the Paramount Theater: This historic theater hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, plays, and musicals.
Explore the historic neighborhoods: Charlottesville has several historic neighborhoods, including the Downtown Historic District, the Old City, and the Belmont neighborhood. Take a self-guided tour to admire the architecture and learn about the city’s history.
Visit the Miller Hall: This historic building was once the home of Thomas Jefferson’s daughter, Martha Jefferson Randolph. Take a tour to learn about the family’s history and see the beautiful gardens.
Go to a festival or event: Charlottesville hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Charlottesville Jazz Festival, the Virginia Film Festival, and the Monticello Wine Festival.
Visit the Ash Lawn-Highland: This historic estate was once the home of President James Monroe. Take a tour to learn about the president’s life and see the beautiful gardens and outbuildings.
- Take a scenic drive: Charlottesville is surrounded by beautiful countryside and scenic drives. Take a drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains or along the Rivanna River to enjoy the views.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Charlottesville, Virginia. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or food and drink, there’s something for everyone in this charming city.
