The Complete Guide to Visiting Charlottesville, Virginia

An urban gateway to the environmental splendor of Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Mountains, the historic city of Charlottesville has a lively and welcoming feel. 

Home to the University of Virginia and Thomas Jefferson’s mountaintop estate, Monticello, the area is filled with stories to uncover, both well-known and little told. It’s also a bustling town of artists, entrepreneurs, chefs, and winemakers, all passionate about shaping Cville’s future. 

Step into the past, take in nature’s beauty, and sip some of the world’s best wine when you travel to Charlottesville. 

THE BEST TIMES TO VISIT CHARLOTTESVILLE

Although the region is welcoming year-round, Charlottesville may be at its prettiest when the leaves begin to turn and orange and yellow hues spread over the Blue Ridge Mountains. Higher elevations also make for cooler temperatures, making an afternoon exploring wineries, hiking mountains, or just window shopping more enjoyable. 

There’s also the University’s schedule to consider. If you’re interested in exploring UVA or its surrounding neighborhoods, it could be best to go while school is in session. If you’re looking for a quieter time, you may want to opt for the summer. Graduation season in May fills hotels quickly. 

WHERE TO STAY

The Doyle Hotel: Downtown Fun and Mountain Views $$

With comfortable amenities, modern accents, and an array of room styles, The Doyle Hotel has something to suit all guests. Each room features art and furniture by local and regional artists, and you’ll never go hungry (or thirsty) with access to the rooftop bar, lobby bar, cafe, and speakeasy. 

Oakhurst Inn: Country House, Lively Environment $$

Located just steps from UVA Grounds, the Oakhurst Inn is a tranquil and historic escape from the bustle of University life. You’ll be close enough to walk to many attractions and restaurants, but will feel like a special guest when staying in one of the inn’s 36 rooms. 

Graduate Charlottesville: Convenience and Cavalier Accents $$$

Stay at the Graduate Charlottesville and enjoy access to the best of UVA and downtown Charlottesville. The hotel is located right on the Corner, a lively stretch of shops and restaurants near the University. Each room has a creative and nostalgic flair, from writing desks and plush beds to preppy-inspired finishes. 

Kimpton The Forum Hotel: Eclectic Charm $$

Like many properties near UVA, the architecture of Kimpton The Forum Hotel was inspired by Jefferson’s Academical Village. But beyond the brick facade is a contemporary and welcoming space for visitors to rest, eat, and explore. Don’t miss the backdoor arboretum and botanical gardens or the on-site restaurant, Birch & Bloom. 

Boar’s Head Resort: Refined Outdoor Adventure $$$

From their network of trails to the racquet club, aquatics center, golf course, and luxurious spa, Boar’s Head Resort has the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Book a pet-friendly room if you’re bringing your pup or check out the suites and cottages for more space. 

The Draftsman: Stately, Authentic, Artful $$$

The upscale boutique hotel The Draftsman has 150 rooms, each with luxurious furnishings, stylish decor, and elegant finishes. For dinner, plan to eat at The Ridley, a farm-to-table Southern restaurant named for Dr. Walter N. Ridley, the first Black student to graduate from UVA. 

The Clifton: History and Hospitality $$$

Stay amidst the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains at The Clifton, a boutique hotel that prides itself on its inclusive and comfortable atmosphere. From its location about 15 minutes from downtown Charlottesville, guests can enjoy walking trails, a private lake, an infinity pool, and a variety of room options, including accommodations in the manor house, garden cottages, and the farmhouse. 

WHERE TO EAT

Bodo’s Bagels

No trip to Charlottesville is complete without a visit to this bagel institution. Bodo’s has been serving up sandwiches on fresh-baked bagels since 1988. 

MarieBette Café & Bakery

Stock up on pastries or dine in and enjoy a sandwich like the Palladio with roasted peppers, fresh mozzarella, caramelized onions, garlic jam, and scrambled eggs on 5-grain sourdough. The European-inspired bakery also has a smaller location, Petite MarieBette, near the Downtown Mall. 

Farm Bell Kitchen

Located inside the historic Dinsmore Inn, Farm Bell serves brunch every day with a variety of sweet offerings, delectable eggs benedicts, and more standout dishes. 

Citizen Burger Bar

The ethos at this Downtown Mall spot is that kicking back with a tasty burger and a beer is one of life’s essential liberties. To make it happen, Citizen Burger Bar teams up with a few exceptional nearby farms to design a menu around locally produced, top-tier ingredients.

Take It Away

This Corner sandwich shop has been feeding UVA students, community members, and visitors since 1992. Don’t forget to top your custom sandy with their famous house dressing. 

Brazos Tacos

Creative taco combinations are all the rage at this family-friendly spot. Stop by the location at IX Art Park for all-day breakfast or head to the Barracks Road taco bar to enjoy lunch on the covered outdoor patio. 

Cou Cou Rachou

This classic French bakery changes up its menu daily, but you’re always guaranteed something delicious. 

Dairy Market

Find something for everyone at this food hall, whether you’re in the mood for pasta, wood-fired pizza, curry, or an ice cream treat. 

C&O Restaurant

Enjoy an upscale dinner at this country French establishment, a Charlottesville staple since 1976. 

Maya

Get a reservation and sample handcrafted Southern fare at this charming restaurant. Don’t miss a slice of Peanut Butter Fluff Pie for dessert. 

Tavola

If you can’t decide between the variety of house-made pasta dishes at this Italian bistro, opt for the four-course tasting menu with a beverage pairing. 

Oakheart Social Restaurant

This Americana eatery serves a variety of small plates and dishes that encourage a communal experience, whether you’re dining indoors or outside on the patio. 

Smyrna

Smyrna is a Mediterranean restaurant with a seasonal menu that capitalizes on the freshest flavors, executed by chef Tarik Sengul. 

Still hungry? Find more places to eat in Charlottesville. 

TOP ATTRACTIONS & LANDMARKS

Monticello

Discover more about the author of the Declaration of Independence and the third President of the United States at Thomas Jefferson’s mountaintop home and plantation. Explore tours of the home, gardens and grounds, and Mulberry Row, where you can learn about the experiences of the enslaved people who lived and worked at Monticello.

University of Virginia

Thomas Jefferson founded the University of Virginia in 1819 and designed several of the original buildings. The centerpiece of the University grounds is the Rotunda, a grand domed building modeled after the Pantheon in Rome. Explore the Rotunda and the surrounding Academical Village, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Monticello. 

James Monroe’s Highland

Adjacent to Monticello is another presidential estate. Admission to Highland includes exhibits inside numerous buildings and exploration of the rustic trails on the property. 

Michie Tavern

Step back in time with a visit to Michie Tavern, an 18th-century resting and refueling spot located close to Monticello. Shop for souvenirs in the general store and dine at the 1784 Pub to get a taste of the food and hospitality that the Founding Fathers enjoyed. 

Carter Mountain Orchard

Pick your own peaches in the summer and apples in the fall at this lush orchard. After exploring the grounds and perusing the country store, grab a pack of fresh apple cider donuts and indulge while you enjoy the view of the valley below. 

IX Art Park

Art abounds at this community event space, immersive art museum, and outdoor mural and sculpture area. Get tickets to experience The Looking Glass, featuring installations from over two dozen artists, or check the calendar for the next event or festival happening at IX. 

Jefferson School African American Heritage Center

Located in a historic school building, this organization promotes the heritage and legacy of the African American communities of Charlottesville and Albemarle. Visit the permanent historical exhibit or consult the events calendar for upcoming tours, film screenings, and panels. 

Fralin Museum of Art

This University of Virginia museum is a brief walk from the Rotunda and features rotating exhibitions. The free museum’s permanent collection includes nearly 14,000 works, including paintings, photography, and mixed media works from around the globe. 

Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection

The Kluge-Ruhe is the only museum in the United States that is dedicated to Indigenous Australian art. Gain an appreciation for modern and contemporary Indigenous art on one of the free tours, which are given daily. 

Rivanna Trail

Conquer the 20-mile pedestrian trail that circles the city of Charlottesville. Hikers and joggers can meander through forests, discover six parks, and enjoy waterside views. 

Riverview Park

For convenient access to the Rivanna Trail, head to Riverview Park, where you can also bike, fish, watch for wildlife, and set up a picnic. 

SHOPPING & SOUVENIRS

Downtown Mall

This iconic pedestrian mall is home to over 120 shops and dozens of restaurants. Stop into consignment and vintage stores, pick up something new to read at New Dominion Bookshop or Hello Comics, or discover some tunes at Melody Supreme record store. 

Shops at McIntire Plaza

You’ll be able to spot this shopping center from its bold color scheme of painted buildings. Peruse the offerings at Heyday Antiques & Vintage, vintage furniture store Circa, and outdoor equipment shop High Tor Gear Exchange. 

Barracks Road Shopping Center

Shop from well-known brands like American Eagle, Anthropologie, and Madewell at this expansive shopping center. You’ll also find The Virginia Shop, which specializes in food, gift baskets, wine, and treats from around the Commonwealth. 

NIGHTLIFE & ENTERTAINMENT

Drinks on The Doyle Hotel rooftop

Sip cocktails as the sun sets on the Blue Ridge Mountains, plus enjoy shareables, sandwiches, and more. 

Lounge at The Alley Light

Enjoy light bites or split a grazing board and try one of the craft cocktails at this French-style lounge. The restaurant aims to make as many cocktail ingredients as it can in-house—ask about their homemade bitters, syrups, and sodas. 

Experience Top-Tier Wineries on the Monticello Wine Trail

Named 2023 Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast, the Monticello AVA is truly unique. Let the Monticello Wine Trail guide you to some of the best wineries in town, whether you’re looking for an intimate vineyard tour, a breathtaking view to enjoy a flight, or a winery with onsite accommodations. 

Journey down the Charlottesville Ale Trail

Discover Charlottesville’s bounty of breweries, cideries, and distilleries when you explore this craft beverage trail. Spots on the trail include Three Notch’d Brewing, Starr Hill Brewery, and Vitae Spirits. 

Jam at the Ting Pavilion 

This outdoor pavilion at the eastern end of the Downtown Mall brings local and national artists to play shows. The summertime Fridays After Five concert series is free and raises proceeds for local nonprofits.  

Shop, Eat, and Party on The Corner

Steps from the University of Virginia is the Corner, a stretch of shops, restaurants, and lively bars. Catch a game and drink a Wahoo at Boylan Heights sports bar, grab dinner and brews at The Virginian, or indulge in some late-night grease at The White Spot. 

Spend an Afternoon at Potter’s Craft Cider

Escape from the bustle of the city to a century-old stone church that’s been transformed into a picturesque cider tasting room. Pair your favorite Potter’s Craft Cider with a bite to eat from the food menu. There’s also live music most weekends.

Cheer on the Hoos

Catch a basketball, football, soccer, or baseball game, or one of the other dozens of athletic contests happening on Grounds while school is in session. Football games are played at Scott Stadium and basketball tips off at John Paul Jones Arena, which also hosts concerts and special events. 

ANNUAL FESTIVALS

Tom Tom Festival

When: April 

Where: Multiple locations

This festival of entrepreneurship has been popping up in venues around Charlottesville for over ten years. With talks, workshops, and keynotes alongside dance parties, porch concerts, and mixers, Tom Tom encourages out-of-the-box thinking and true community connections. 

Two Up Wine Down

When: November 15, 2025 

Where: Jefferson School African American Heritage Center

Meet new people and taste some of the best wine in Virginia at this wine festival organized by The Veraison Project and Oenoverse. Enjoy tastings, vibe with music from DJs, and hear from the Virginia wine curators who are making strides in the scene. 

Virginia Festival of the Book

When: March

Where: Multiple locations

Every kind of bookworm will find something to enjoy at the Festival of the Book, a program of Virginia Humanities. Meet with authors, engage in illuminating discussions, and hear from expert panels on writing, publishing, and more. Events take place at venues around Charlottesville, including local libraries. Most events are free. 

Virginia Film Festival

When: October 22-26, 2025

Where: Paramount Theater, multiple locations 

Each year, the Virginia Film Festival brings over 100 films and dozens of events to the Charlottesville area. Hear from actors, directors, writers, and more, and get tickets to see selected shorts, new features, and older film screenings with panel discussions. Past guests include Ava DuVernay, Werner Herzog, Ethan Hawke, Spike Lee, and Sandra Bullock.  

Fae Festival

When: June 28-29, 2025

Where: IX Art Park

An urban Renaissance Faire unlike any other, the Fae Festival transforms IX Art Park into a medieval market, complete with performers and much revelry. Dress in your finest garb, shop from local vendors, and visit the workshop tent to learn something new. General admission starts at $15; kids under 12 are free. 

Loop De’Ville

When: September 27, 2025

Where: Rivanna River Co. 

This free outdoor festival celebrates and educates locals and visitors about the Rivanna Trail. Enjoy a day of guided group hikes, walks, runs, and bike rides, and fuel up from the on-site local food trucks. Go all-out and do the full loop around the city—that’s approximately 20 miles—or just tackle a section.

JUST DOWN THE ROAD…

…Towns to Explore

Gordonsville | A hotspot for antiquing enthusiasts, Gordonsville is also known for its museums, including the Civil War Medical Museum, as well as its fall festivals. It’s only a thirty-minute drive from downtown Charlottesville. 

Orange | Under 30 miles northeast of Charlottesville in the Blue Ridge foothills, you’ll find the charming town of Orange. Home to James Madison’s Montpelier as well as a bevy of local boutiques and fresh restaurants—it is also the hometown of legendary chef Edna Lewis, known as the Grande Dame of Southern Cooking—Orange has plenty to discover.   

Staunton | Around 40 miles west of Charlottesville, Staunton is a mountain town with no shortage of shops, restaurants, and outdoor opportunities. Catch a play, visit a presidential library, and stop by art galleries as you explore. 

…More Outdoor Fun

Shenandoah National Park | Around a 30-minute drive from downtown Charlottesville is the Rockfish Gap entrance to Shenandoah National Park, a 300-square-mile sanctuary of trailside flowers, tumbling streams, and panoramic mountain vistas. 

Woodrow Park | This five-acre park in Staunton gives you a scenic overlook of the town from the top of Sears Hill. 

Wintergreen Resort | Just under an hour from Charlottesville is Wintergreen Resort, where visitors can take advantage of skiing, golf, racquet sports, a luxurious spa, and hiking trails.  

Tubing in Scottsville | Book with an outfitter like James River Reeling and Rafting, which will help you float down a relaxing four-mile stretch complete with a cooler filled with some refreshing drinks.  

Humpback Rocks Trail | Climb 700 feet up Humpback Mountain and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the Rockfish and Shenandoah Valleys. The hike is only a thirty-minute drive from downtown Charlottesville.  

Blue Ridge Tunnel | This hike will take you through a 4,273-foot-long tunnel through Afton Mountain. Known as the longest railroad tunnel in North America when it opened in 1859, the tunnel has not hosted rail traffic since the 1940s, when a replacement tunnel was constructed near the old passage.  

…Noteworthy Attractions

Montpelier | Explore the home of James Madison, the fourth President of the United States and Father of the Constitution. Stroll along the eight miles of walking trails on the grounds and check out the exhibitions to learn about Madison as well as the institution of slavery at Montpelier and in America. 

Frontier Culture Museum | Walk in the footsteps of Shenandoah Valley settlers at this open-air living history museum. Interact with costumed historical interpreters and learn about the variety of groups that lived in the area and worked the land. 

Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum | Learn more about the consequential and controversial Woodrow Wilson, 28th President of the United States. Explore thought-provoking exhibits and meander through the surrounding gardens during your visit. 

American Shakespeare Center Blackfriars Playhouse | The timeless works of Shakespeare are adapted, interrogated, and staged by the American Shakespeare Center, which calls Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton home. 

Bold Rock Nellysford | Keep sipping at this cidery in Nellysford, around a 40-minute drive from Charlottesville. Pair your drinks with an appetizer like the whipped feta or smoked chicken nachos and relax on the outdoor patio. 

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with your family, a Virginia vacation’s got all that you love, all in one place. Use this guide to Charlottesville to help you start planning your Virginia vacation today!