Virginia’s side of the Blue Ridge is one of the most beautiful parts of the American landscape. The subrange is dotted with some of the state’s most charming towns, from Front Royal on the Blue Ridge Parkway to Salem. One of the hidden gems in the Blue Ridge is a lively college town you won’t want to miss: Charlottesville. Beyond the stunning mountain surroundings, this town is brimming with history and a vibrant wine scene worth your time.
Learn about President Thomas Jefferson at Monticello
There is no better place to kick-start your historical adventure in Charlottesville than Monticello. It’s the former residence of Thomas Jefferson and America’s only home recognized as a UN World Heritage Site. One of the former president’s most desirable qualities was his passion and undeniable architectural skills, which were self-taught. He was the lead designer of Monticello, which was built in a neoclassical architectural style. You can learn about his legacy through guided tours of the building, grounds, and gardens.
History Comes to Life in the University of Virginia
One of the best places to learn about Charlottesville’s rich history and soak in its community spirit is the University of Virginia. President Jefferson founded this institution in 1819, with his vision represented in the Academical Village, which remains the historic core of the institution. The main highlight of the Academical Village is the Rotunda, an architectural masterpiece inspired by Rome’s Pantheon.
Explore Diverse Art Collection at Fralin Museum of Art
While strolling through the grounds and buildings of the University of Virginia, stop by the Fralin Museum of Art. Housed in the historic Bayly Building, this museum offers diverse art experiences, with permanent exhibits ranging from ancient to modern art. It also features rotating exhibitions displaying some of the best local and international art.
Explore a Lively Shopping Scene at The Historic Downtown Mall
The Historic Downtown Mall uniquely blends historic charm with a vibrant shopping scene, with more than 120 stores to explore. You’ll also find over 30 delicious restaurants, many offering outdoor dining options. This pedestrian-only spot is perfect for meeting and interacting with people while exploring the shopping, dining, and art opportunities. Strolling through the mall will make you understand why it’s dubbed “the Community Living Room.”
The Paramount Theater is a Must-Do
Visit the Paramount Theater for both its historic charm and artistic grandeur. The theater was opened in 1931 and was a vital part of the locals’ lifestyle until 1974, when it was shut down. Fortunately, it was later renovated and reopened, and now stands as a cultural hub, hosting various live art performances, from concerts to film screenings. It is part of the Historic Community Hall but serves as a standalone destination for cultural enthusiasts.
Discover Carter Mountain Orchard
Carter Mountain Orchard is a year-round destination with impressive seasonal activities and treats. Depending on when you visit, you can pick various fruits, from fall apples to summer peaches. There are numerous fun activities, including hayrides, wine tasting, and sampling ciders in the Bold Rock-Hard Cider Taproom. The orchard’s high-altitude location means you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Charlottesville and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Visit the Historic Jefferson Vineyards
The Historic Jefferson Vineyards is one of Virginia’s top wineries, and it’s not hard to see why. It has a rich history – it was significantly connected with President Thomas Jefferson. The vineyard’s location is the same place where the former U.S. President and Philip Mazzei, an Italian viticulturist, grew grapes nearly two and a half centuries ago. You’ll also enjoy exploring the winery’s incredibly diverse wine offerings.
Discover Rich History in James Monroe’s Highland
James Monroe’s Highland is another significant part of American history you won’t want to miss during your trip to Charlottesville. James Monroe, America’s fifth president, bought this property in 1793, which became his residence for nearly two and a half decades. Visiting the plantation home allows you to learn about the president, his career, family life, and the lives of the people who once lived there, including the enslaved individuals who worked on the plantation.
Don’t Miss the Trump Winery
Enjoying a breathtaking location at the foothills of the Blue Hills Mountains, near James Monroe’s Highland, Trump Winery is the East Coast’s largest winery. Its perfect blend of stunning scenery, world-class wines, and top-notch accommodations makes it a bucket-list-worthy destination. The views, the wine-tasting experiences, and the unique events are all compelling reasons not to miss it.
Hike the Saunders-Monticello Trail
Hiking the Saunders-Monticello Trail is one of the best things you can do in Charlottesville. The scenic path offers insight into the nature, rich history, and the vibrant wine scene of the town and its surroundings. Winding along the Thomas Jefferson Parkway, it stretches two miles and leads to Monticello’s entrance, taking you through Jefferson’s inspiring world.
Play in Nature in Riverview Park
Riverview Park’s scenic, riverside location and tranquil nature make it a perfect place to seek solitude. It’s an ideal outdoor spot for families, thanks to its beautiful nature trails, picnic facilities, and playground next to the river. A paved portion of the Rivanna Trail winds through the park, so you can bring your furry friend on an outdoor adventure.
Explore Rockfish Gap and Its Hiking Opportunities
Located between Charlottesville and Waynesboro, Rockfish Gap is a wind gap in the Blue Ridge Mountains that cuts through Afton Mountain. It is among Virginia’s lowest ridge elevations and provides access to plenty of scenic trails, including the trek from Rockfish Gap to Dripping Rock via the Appalachian Trail—a 23.98-mile hike with scenic stops and more outdoor recreational opportunities, including picnicking.
Explore Ragged Mountain Nature Area
Ragged Mountain Nature Area is one of the most scenic outdoor spots to explore in Charlottesville. The 980-acre area includes a lake, diverse wildlife, and about 7 miles of nature trails, which can be completed in less than three hours. You can also mountain bike, fish, or paddle in the reservoir. It’s only about 20 minutes from Charlottesville’s downtown area.
Ride the Amtrak
Charlottesville is home to an Amtrak station, which is conveniently located within walking distance of the downtown area. Amtrak offers an easy and affordable way to explore some of the major cities in the United States, including Washington, D.C., New York, and Philadelphia. The train meanders through various landscapes, offering views of diverse scenery from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Shenandoah Valley.
Take a Day Trip to Shenandoah National Park
If you love nature and adventure, a day trip to Shenandoah National Park is well worth checking off your bucket list. The park is rich in history, scenic beauty, and outdoor recreation, with much to explore—from enjoying scenic drives along Skyline Drive to hiking its picturesque trails. Driving to the park takes just over an hour.
