Monticello is the autobiographical masterpiece of Thomas Jefferson—designed and redesigned and built and rebuilt for more than forty years. Its gardens were a botanic showpiece, a source of food, and an experimental laboratory of ornamental and useful plants from around the world.
Just minutes from downtown Charlottesville and Monticello, visitors overlook lush groves and breathtaking views of the valley below. Against this stunning backdrop, families and friends pick sun-ripened peaches and crisp apples while breathing in the fresh mountain air. From season to season, there’s always something fun!
A visit to Charlottesville isn't complete without a stop at the Downtown Mall. A wonderful mix of restored and renovated buildings, visitors can enjoy shopping, dining and entertainment along the brick-paved pedestrian area. 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. Enjoy dining al fresco at a number of fine restaurants or shop at a number of unique boutiques. Watch a movie, play or live music at one of several performance venues. 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.
The Virginia Discovery Museum is a small, nonprofit children's museum for families with infants to kids age 8. VDM seeks to foster intellectual curiosity and development for all children in our community through hands-on educational, exploratory, and imaginative play across 6,000 square feet of exhibit space.