Where America’s Past Meets the PresentThings to Do in Charlottesville

Boasting over 100 shops and restaurants throughout its brick-laden layout, visiting the Downtown Mall is one of the top things to do in Charlottesville with days spent window shopping and sharing meals in the open air.

Witness the Virginia Cavaliers storm the field and take victory from their opponents in the state’s oldest football stadium—constructed in 1931.

Home to UVA’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, this sprawling arena doubles as one of the area’s premier entertainment venues.

Inherited from his father and named for its hilltop location just outside of Charlottesville, Thomas Jefferson’s home and UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into one of our founding father’s life and legacy. 

An estate filled with history, heritage and intrigue, fifth president James Monroe’s former home tells a story as complex as this country he led, with new elements uncovered even today.

Despite undergoing significant changes since fourth president James Madison lived here, the essence and legacy of Montpelier still remains intact for visitors longing to piece together our earliest beginnings.

Founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia carries legacy and tradition across its nearly 2,000-acre property, where generations of students have come to expand their potential. 

Looping around the Charlottesville Reservoir at a little over six miles long, the Ragged Mountain Nature Area trail takes you on a journey through a vibrant forest, where hickory, maple and pine trees tower above the footpath.

Winding around fifth president James Monroe’s former estate, a variety of paths ranging from short, easy loops to longer, steeper trails take you through this historic landmark.

Encircling the city of Charlottesville, the 20-mile rustic hiking path connects six city parks and follows the natural greenbelt that surrounds the city.

Teeming with over 200,000 acres of natural beauty, a journey into Shenandoah National Park is a nature lover's dream—especially when the verdant foliage takes on the rich red and orange hues of fall.

Following Thomas Jefferson’s belief that we could produce bottles rivaling our European neighbors, the Monticello Wine Trail stands as a testament to dedication. Today, most wineries on this path are casual, opening around 11 and offering light snacks and tasting tours.

A fitting story for the husband-and-wife team who built their lives around an attention to detail, Pippin Hill Farms & Vineyards is the culmination of a dream to see Virginia at the forefront of wine’s next chapter.

Embark on an urban trek through our top breweries via a walkable 1.5-mile trail that highlights Charlottesville’s most dynamic creations.

Starting within the city and venturing out about an hour south, the Blue Ridge Trail includes six craft beer breweries that pair lagers, stouts and more against the scenic backdrop of Virginia.