Home of the author of the Declaration of Independence. A World Heritage Site, museum, research institute, presidential library and private, non-profit organization.
James Monroe’s Highland is an historic site with a new story to tell. America’s fifth president lived at Highland with his family, including wife Elizabeth Kortright Monroe, from 1799 to 1823. They owned the property even longer (from 1793 to 1826). Between a fire that destroyed the main residence and enhancements by later owners, mystery and misunderstanding surrounded the site for years—only now are historians and archaeologists peeling back the layers of history to uncover Highland’s—and Monroe’s—true past.
In 1819, Thomas Jefferson founded the University of Virginia and inaugurated a bold experiment – a public university designed to advance human knowledge, educate leaders and cultivate an informed citizenry. he Rotunda—originally the University’s library—still serves as the heart of the University and as a symbol of our endless pursuit of knowledge. The eastern and western sides of the Lawn retain the unique pavilions sketched by Jefferson, flanking student living quarters. In 1987, UNESCO named the University (in conjunction with Monticello) a World Heritage Site. This rare distinction has been bestowed upon only the world’s most culturally significant landmarks.
Charlottesville's outdoor pedestrian mall has it all - food, music, movies, and people watching galore.
Need some time in nature?
We love Greenwood Grocery! They have many local and gourmet food and craft items, and amazing sandwiches and prepared foods! We recommend you pick up some lunch and go visit Beaver Creek Lake, right down the road for a picnic by the lake!
Mudhouse has some of the best coffee and treats in town! We love stopping in to grab a mocha or chai and to relax in their comfy chairs! They also have a downtown location at the Mall if you're in that area and need your caffeine fix!
Willie's favorite pizza. Need we say more?
Feelin' fancy? Pippin Hill has delicious gourmet food and a great view from their extensive patio and grounds. Check out the kitchen gardens and visit the chickens while you're there!
The Batesville Market is located at the corner of Plank Road and Craig’s Store Road in the Batesville Historic District. Constructed around 1900, it has had several incarnations, originally as the Charles Joseph Store, then for three generations as the Page’s Store. More recently it has been known as the Batesville Store and the Plank Road Exchange, and is now is the Batesville Market. It's the quintessential country store - great local food and products and regular live music.
A well-stocked convenience store and gas station just down the road.