If you find yourself passing through central Virginia with a day to spare in Charlottesville, you are in luck. This world class city is often voted one of the best places in America to live, as it is rich in history, entertainment, and beauty. With numerous culinary options, a vibrant main street, and a surprisingly active nightlife, you won’t find yourself bored while passing through Charlottesville.
Breakfast: Ivy Provisions
Start your day in C’ville on the northwest side of town with a fantastic breakfast from Ivy Provisions. A small, charming deli in a refurbished gas station, Ivy Provisions’ menu offers local, housemade fare. You can’t go wrong with any gourmet breakfast sandwich on the menu. While you’re there, be sure to check out their amazing selection of local treats and wines in their retail section.
UVA gounds, Karen Blaha.flickr
University of Virginia
You can’t mention Charlottesville without mentioning the University of Virginia. While you're in town, peruse the lovely campus, which alumna and staff refer to as “Grounds”. Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful universities in the world, exploring the Jeffersonian architecture and verdant lawns, you won’t question why it is considered Thomas Jefferson’s masterpiece. Be sure to check out The Rotunda, a National Historic Landmark modeled after the Roman Pantheon.
Lunch: The Virginian
After exploring Grounds, pop across the street to The Corner, a section of town popular with students and locals alike for its variety of dining and shopping options. Stop in The Virginian for the best mac and cheese in town and enjoy a cozy booth in this rustic restaurant. Open since 1923, The Virginian is considered Charlottesville’s oldest existing restaurant.
Monticello, photo by skeze.pixabay
Monticello
For more history, more Thomas Jefferson, and more lush, natural beauty, hop on over to Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. This plantation is a World Heritage Site, the neoclassical designed home is a well preserved piece of history. If you don’t feel like touring the house, explore the Saunders-Monticello Trail, which winds its way to Monticello through a gorgeous four mile hike. The trail features exquisite views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and has a low grade that makes it accessible for nearly everyone, including children, cyclists, and those in wheelchairs
Dinner: La Taza
Hop on over to Belmont, a neat little neighborhood in Charlottesville, adjacent to downtown. Belmont offers an array of delicious dinner options, but a favorite is La Taza. La Taza’s menu features mouthwatering Latin cuisine. Weather permitting, sit on their beautiful patio where you can often enjoy live music.
Downtown Mall, Bobak Ha'eriWikimedia Commons
Downtown Mall
One of the longest pedestrian malls in the United States, you will find this brick paved, outdoor mall charming and quaint. Featuring local, diverse shops, a historic movie theater, and a variety of bars and restaurants, you’ll be sure to find something to suit your tastes or mood. If you are looking to get a drink after a long day of exploring the lovely Charlottesville, stop in the Alley Light, a speakeasy-like bar tucked away on a side street of the Downtown Mall. The Alley Light is a near-hidden gem offering unique cocktails in a beautiful bar.
Extra Day in Charlottesville?
If you find yourself with an extra day to spare in Charlottesville, I suggest taking a 30 minute drive west to Shenandoah National Park. Take the scenic drive on U.S. Route 250 which will showcase nearby Crozet and Nelson County’s charm. When you get to Shenandoah Park, you can traverse the Skyline Drive, a scenic highway that takes you through the park, or stop and hike at one of the many trails. Shenandoah park features dense forests, waterfalls, wetlands and rocky peaks, not to mention plenty of wildlife.
Babousville Ruins, Amy C Evans.flickr
Hiking not your thing? Relax at one of the many wineries located in and around Charlottesville instead. Favorites include Barboursville Vineyards (where you can explore the splendid lawns and find the ruins of a mansion nearly destroyed by fire) and King Family Vineyards in Crozet where you might catch a Polo match if you happen to be visiting on a summer Sunday.