Things To Do
The Corner
The Corner is a seven-block collection of bars, restaurants, bookstores, and night spots on University Avenue located near the University of Virginia's Central Grounds. Two of the three Hotel Blocks are conveniently located on this strip, it is also the location of our Welcome Party. This area is a great place to explore and hosts a variety of great bars, restaurants and shops.
Downtown Mall
The Downtown Mall is a vibrant collection of more than 120 shops and 30 restaurants housed in historic buildings along the city's Main Street. Home to some of my favorite spots to grab a bite- Christian's Pizza and Marco & Luca's Dumplings! Convenient parking in nearby garages and parking lots, as well as a free trolley service connecting the Downtown Mall to the University of Virginia make a visit to the downtown area easy for visitors.
Carter Mountain Orchard
Carter Mountain Orchard overlooks dramatic vistas and acres of fruit trees and grapevines. Mere minutes from downtown Charlottesville, the orchard welcomes visitors year-round. Hours and offerings vary seasonally, from mid-August until mid-December, you can pick your own apples or buy ready-picked apples, fresh-pressed apple cider, apple cider donuts (a runaway hit year after year), and our scrumptious apple pies. If you're here Thursday, check out the Sunset Series with live music, food trucks Carter Mountain Wine, Bold Rock Hard Cider, and the best view of a sunset from anywhere around!
Bodo's Bagels
When you are in Charlottesville, going to Bodo’s is just something you do. Bodo’s is so embedded in our culture that it has become a “Charlottesville institution.” Make sure you check out one of the three locations to try out "The Best Bagel of the South." With fresh bagels and sandwiches being made all day, don't be discouraged by the long line- it's worth it and it moves fast!
Continental Divide
The Brown family favorite restaurant, with the slogan "To small. Too noisy. Too crowded. Too bad." This place is the absolute best, conveniently located in between the corner and the downtown mall. We love their margaritas and nachos, make sure you try the Red Hot Blue's. Unfortunately they don't take reservations, but you can also order at the bar if you have to wait.
Rivanna River Company & Riversong Saunas
Charlottesville's paddling outfitter and guide service rents kayaks, canoes, SUPs and tubes on the scenic Rivanna River.
Högwaller Brewing
A fun spot nearby Rivanna River Company
Beer Run
A Brown family favorite restaurant, Beer Run is a restaurant, bar, craft beer store, wine shop, and eatery — it is Charlottesville's quintessential family restaurant and Cookie's favorite place to dine when in town! We recommend the gourmet chicken pot pie.
Riverside Lunch
The best burger in town! Don't miss out on their crispy hot fries, mozzarella sticks, and cheeseburgers "all the way" for a truly satisfying meal. A classic, no-frills dining experience with mouth-watering burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches.
Kardinal Hall
Kardinal Hall is a modern take on an Alpine-inspired beer hall & garden. Located in the historic art-deco Coca-Cola building built in 1939, the repurposed warehouse & bottling plant is situated in the Midtown area. This is one of our favorite places to enjoy beer, bocce, food and fun!
The Spot
Home of the famous Gus Burger, an old school diner located on the corner and my favorite spot to get a late night meal.
Sugar Hollow Dam and Reservoir
If you're looking to explore the area, check out this nearby hike! Three of my favorite wineries- Knight's Gambit, Oakencroft and Stinson are on the way with unbeatable views.
Petite MarieBette
A wonderful local bakery that serves a variety of options ranging from coffee to meals.
King Family Vineyards
If you're looking to explore further outside the city, King Family Vineyards is a boutique winery located in Crozet, 15 minutes west of Charlottesville, at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This beautiful winery is located right down the road from where Alex attended middle and highschool. The covered veranda, expansive lawn, and brick patio are perfect for outdoor picnics and Sunday's through October host Roseland Polo matches.
Monticello
Home of the author of the Declaration of Independence. A World Heritage Site, historic house and plantation, museum, research institute, presidential library, and private, non-profit organization. A beautiful historical site with tours available.
Kappa Sigma Fraternity Headquarters
For Cookie's Kappa Sigma brother's, you'll be thrilled to know Charlottesville is home to the Fraternity's international Head Quarters! It's conveniently located nearby the wedding festivities if you'd like to swing by to pay your dues.