Charlottesville VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Charlottesville, Virginia.
1. Monticello
JEFFERSON'S HISTORIC ESTATE
Monticello is Thomas Jefferson's historic plantation and estate, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of America's third president. The site features a visitor center with exhibits and tours highlighting both Jefferson's achievements and the stories of the enslaved people who worked there. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved house, walk the grounds, and learn about Jefferson's many innovations and contributions to American history.
2. Trump Winery
SCENIC VINEYARD VIEWS
Trump Winery offers a serene wine tasting experience surrounded by picturesque Virginia countryside views. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings in a beautiful setting that includes both indoor and outdoor relaxation areas. The winery features a selection of locally produced wines in a tranquil environment perfect for unwinding.
3. The Glass Palette
INTERACTIVE ART STUDIO
The Glass Palette is an interactive glass art studio where visitors can create their own glass masterpieces. The studio offers hands-on experiences for all ages and skill levels, making it perfect for families and art enthusiasts. Visitors leave with unique, personally crafted glass souvenirs that serve as memorable keepsakes from their time in Charlottesville.
4. University of Virginia
JEFFERSON'S ACADEMIC VISION
The University of Virginia, founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, is renowned for its distinctive architecture and academic excellence. Visitors can tour the historic grounds including the iconic Rotunda, which was designed by Jefferson himself and modeled after the Pantheon in Rome. The university's beautiful campus features the famous Academical Village with its Lawn and pavilions, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
5. Saunders-Monticello Trail
SCENIC NATURE WALK
The Saunders-Monticello Trail offers a beautiful 2-mile path that winds through native woodlands leading to Jefferson's Monticello. The trail features boardwalks, bridges, and overlooks providing stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can enjoy this accessible trail year-round for walking, jogging, or simply appreciating the natural beauty of the Virginia landscape.
6. James Monroe's Highland
PRESIDENTIAL WORKING FARM
James Monroe's Highland was the plantation home of the fifth U.S. President from 1799 to 1823, located just minutes from Monticello. The property operates as a working farm and museum, featuring the original guesthouse from 1818, later additions, and reconstructions of various outbuildings including slave quarters. Visitors can explore the historic buildings, walk scenic trails throughout the property, and learn about Monroe's life through guided tours of this well-preserved presidential estate.
7. Carter Mountain Orchard
PANORAMIC ORCHARD VIEWS
Carter Mountain Orchard offers visitors the chance to pick their own seasonal fruits while enjoying spectacular panoramic views of Charlottesville. The orchard is famous for its apple cider donuts, fresh produce, and a country store selling local products and homemade treats. Visitors can participate in seasonal activities including apple and peach picking, hayrides, and special events throughout the year.
8. Historic Downtown Mall
PEDESTRIAN SHOPPING DISTRICT
The Historic Downtown Mall is one of America's longest pedestrian malls, featuring over 120 shops and 30 restaurants in the heart of Charlottesville. This European-style promenade is lined with mature trees, open-air cafes, charming boutiques, and diverse dining options spanning international cuisines. Visitors can shop for unique gifts, enjoy live entertainment, or simply stroll along this vibrant urban center that showcases Charlottesville's community spirit.
9. Virginia Discovery Museum
INTERACTIVE CHILDREN'S LEARNING
The Virginia Discovery Museum is a hands-on children's museum located at the eastern end of Charlottesville's Downtown Mall. The museum features over a dozen interactive exhibits designed for children ages newborn to eight, encouraging learning through play and exploration. Families can enjoy specialized areas including a Sensory Studio for the youngest visitors, STEM labs, a Literacy Lounge, and themed imaginative play spaces like a bakery, farm, and post office.
10. Shenandoah National Park
MAJESTIC MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS
Shenandoah National Park, located near Charlottesville, offers over 200,000 acres of protected mountain wilderness with spectacular views and abundant wildlife. The park is famous for Skyline Drive, a 105-mile scenic highway that runs along the Blue Ridge Mountains' crest with 75 overlooks providing breathtaking vistas. Visitors can enjoy over 500 miles of hiking trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail, along with opportunities for camping, fishing, and wildlife observation throughout all four seasons.
11. Monticello Wine Trail
VIRGINIA WINE COUNTRY
The Monticello Wine Trail encompasses over 30 wineries in the Charlottesville area, continuing Thomas Jefferson's vision of establishing vineyards in Virginia. Visitors can tour multiple award-winning wineries offering tastings of locally produced varietals against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The wine trail provides a perfect day trip experience combining fine wines, beautiful rural scenery, and insights into Virginia's growing reputation as a premier wine region.
12. Walnut Creek Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Walnut Creek Park is a 525-acre recreational area featuring a 60-acre lake perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming during warmer months. The park offers an extensive network of multi-use trails ideal for mountain biking, hiking, and exploring the native Virginia woodlands. Visitors can also enjoy picnic facilities, a disc golf course, and a designated dog beach making it a versatile outdoor destination for all ages.
13. Keswick Hall
LUXURY ESTATE RETREAT
Keswick Hall is a luxury resort set on 600 acres just outside Charlottesville, offering elegant accommodations in a historic mansion setting. The property features the acclaimed Full Cry golf course designed by Pete Dye, along with fine dining options serving farm-to-table cuisine. Visitors can enjoy the resort's spa services, tennis courts, and infinity pool while experiencing the refined atmosphere of Virginia's wine country.
14. Blue Ridge Parkway
AMERICA'S FAVORITE DRIVE
The Blue Ridge Parkway, accessible from Charlottesville, is a 469-mile scenic highway connecting Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The parkway is renowned for its stunning mountain and valley vistas, especially spectacular during fall foliage season when the landscape transforms into a tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds. Visitors can enjoy numerous overlooks, hiking trails, waterfalls, and cultural exhibits highlighting the region's Appalachian heritage.
15. Michie Tavern
HISTORIC SOUTHERN DINING
Michie Tavern is a historic 18th-century tavern located near Monticello that offers authentic Southern cuisine served in a traditional setting. Visitors can enjoy a midday feast featuring Southern fried chicken, pulled pork, and other regional specialties served by staff in period attire. The tavern complex includes self-guided tours of the historic building along with four shops housed in period structures where guests can browse for unique gifts and souvenirs.