Things to do in Charlottesville

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Photo provided by www.visitcharlottesville.org
Photo provided by www.visitcharlottesville.org
Photo provided by www.visitcharlottesville.org
Photo provided by www.visitcharlottesville.org
Photo provided by www.visitcharlottesville.org

Charlottesville Attractions

Surrounded by green farmland, fruit orchards, and the azure-tinted Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville stands at the center of the lush Albemarle County, which Thomas Jefferson fondly referred to as the "Eden of the United States." With such spectacular natural beauty to be found here, it's no wonder that both the former president and fifth president James Monroe chose to make the Charlottesville area their home. A visit to this small and enchanting city offers outdoor paradise, a wealth of early US history, and vibrant cultural attractions right at your fingertips. Between all the things to see and do in Charlottesville, your only difficulty will be deciding how to narrow down your itinerary.


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What to do in Charlottesville

Free Things to Do in Charlottesville

They say the best things in life are free. Be sure to visit the following around Charlottesville:

The Fralin Museum of Art - Approach the friendly staff or curator and find out about the collections housed here.

Albemarle County Court House - Stroll around this historic place and discover a couple of secrets from yesteryear.

Historic Court Square - This is a thriving location where you can absorb the atmosphere and experience local life.

University of Virginia Hospital - Make room in your to-do list to look at this place of local importance.

Rivanna Trails - Take a break from the urban jungle and spend time in Mother Nature at this inspiring spot.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Charlottesville

When strolling around Charlottesville, it's easy to find signs of its colonial-era roots, but the city also brims with the energy of its lively, modern side. In its different neighborhoods, beautiful brick buildings, up-and-coming restaurants, and quaint shops invite you to discover an enchanting mix of old and new.

Downtown

Charlottesville's original Downtown district is defined by its popular Downtown Mall, an 8-block pedestrian area lined with oak trees and packed with shopping and dining possibilities. For a slice of local culture, wander into art galleries, or catch a performance at the restored Jefferson Theater.

University of Virginia

Founded by Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia showcases stunning Jeffersonian architecture and remains the only UNESCO-listed university in the US. After admiring the grassy Lawn and Pantheon-inspired Rotunda in the Academical Village, hit up The Corner to stock up on Cavaliers merchandise.

Shenandoah National Park

Breathtaking Virginia scenery awaits on the Skyline Drive, which picks up just outside of Charlottesville and winds for over 105 miles (170 km) through Shenandoah National Park. As you venture deep into the Blue Ridge Mountains, stop at 75 different overlooks to gaze down on the verdant Shenandoah Valley.

Things to See in Charlottesville

As the home of two Founding Fathers, the Charlottesville area boasts its fair share of rich history. Walk in the shoes of Thomas Jefferson at Monticello, his magnificent mountaintop plantation and today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the grand neoclassical main house and beautiful grounds, and then head just down the road to the more modest Ash-Lawn Highland, which was once the home of fifth president James Monroe. If you're hungry for even more US history, join a historian for a private tour of Civil War sites in Charlottesville, which include the University of Virginia and Rio Hill.

Sightseeing in Charlottesville

When searching for things to do in Charlottesville, you'll find yourself spoiled for choice. Explore the beauty in the city's backyard with a hike on the Saunders-Monticello Trail, or visit the Carter Mountain Orchard for a chance to pick your own apples and peaches right off the tree. If you're on the hunt for spots to eat and drink, chocolate tours and craft beer tours can be arranged, or you can delve into Charlotte's authentic southern fare at historic restaurants like the 18th-century Michie Tavern. Charlottesville's climate offers ideal conditions for growing grapes, so stop in to try red and white varietals at acclaimed wineries such as Jefferson Vineyards and Blenheim Vineyards. And for a taste of the city's thriving arts scene, catch the latest production at the Paramount Theater, or find out what local artists are working on at the McGuffey Art Center, one of the oldest cooperative art centers in the US. While visiting the University of Virginia, set aside time to check out the Kluge-Ruge Aboriginal Art Collection for a fascinating look at a fine collection of indigenous Australian art.

Things to Do in Charlottesville with Kids

You'll find loads of great things to do in Charlottesville with the young ones. Make some new memories together with these family friendly experiences:


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Charlottesville

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Charlottesville

Charlottesville showing landscape views, tranquil scenes and farmland

North Downtown

4.5/5(76 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in North Downtown, Historic Court Square and Paramount Theater are top sights worth seeing.

North Downtown
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Belmont

While Belmont might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Ting Pavilion and Downtown Mall.

Belmont
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Fifeville

4/5(25 area reviews)

When in Fifeville, you can plan a visit to Charlottesville Pavilion and Rotunda, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Fifeville
Nighttime view of the Rotunda at the University of Virginia

UVA

If you're spending some time in UVA, Scott Stadium and John Paul Jones Arena are top sights worth seeing.

UVA
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Ridge St.

While visiting Ridge St., you might make a stop by sights like Ix Art Park and Play On! Theater.

Ridge St.
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Venable

4.5/5(81 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Venable, Rotunda and Corner District are top sights worth seeing.

Venable

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Charlottesville

Frequently asked questions

Is Charlottesville worth visiting?
Whether you're planning to discover the cultural hotspots and local charm or try unique foods and go on outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do in Charlottesville.
How do I spend a day in Charlottesville?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Virginia Discovery Museum and AMF Kegler's Lanes. Then, check out different parts of Charlottesville for local restaurants and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Charlottesville?
The top tourist attraction in Charlottesville is Trump Winery, so don't forget to add it to your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Charlottesville?
Three days will give you time to tick off the leading city highlights, including The Jefferson Theater, Paramount Theater and Jefferson Vineyards. The average stay in Charlottesville is two days. If you have the urge to extend your adventure, Swift Run Gap Entrance Shenandoah isn't far away.
Is Charlottesville a walkable city?
It all depends on what you plan to see and do in Charlottesville. Several top sights, such as The Jefferson Theater and Paramount Theater, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Charlottesville's best neighborhoods, Venable is 2 miles away from downtown, while North Downtown is 0.4 miles away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Charlottesville with kids?
Deciding what to do in Charlottesville with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're vacationing with toddlers or teenagers, there are loads of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Charlottesville for adults?
Trump Winery and Blenheim Vineyards are just a couple of the things to do in Charlottesville. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Charlottesville?
From visiting parks to wandering around hip neighborhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Charlottesville. If you need inspiration, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Arcady Vineyard is a must for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing adventures.