Things To Do
Humpback Rock
A short drive from Charlottesville, this ~2 mile out-and-back hike delivers amazing views that are well worth the uphill climb. Caroline and Thomas highly recommend rewarding yourself with a beer (or two) from Blue Mountain Brewery on your way back into town.
Charlottesville's Historic Downtown Mall
Grab a coffee at MarieBette or Mudhouse and stroll along the pedestrian-only downtown strip lined with restaurants and shops. If you’re feeling very adventurous, stop in Bebedero and try the scorpion shot.
Carter Mountain Orchard and Country Store
For scenic views (without the hike) and delicious apple cider donuts, check out Carter Mountain Orchard. They also offer apple picking. If you arrive in Charlottesville early, take in a sunset at Carter Mountain.
MarieBette Café and Bakery
No one does breakfast, pastries and coffee better than MarieBette, located just off of the Downtown Mall. They don’t offer reservations, so go early to avoid a long wait!
Shenandoah Joe Coffee Roasters
Thomas’ first stop before proposing because he knows the importance of keeping Caroline well-caffeinated. This coffee shop offers great pour-overs and other coffee drinks.
Ivy Provisions
No trip to Charlottesville is complete without breakfast or lunch at Ivy Provisions. Thomas’ favorite: En Fuego; Caroline’s favorite: Notorious P.I.G.
The Virginian
Located across from Main Campus along the Corner, this spot is (probably) best known as the place where Caroline and Thomas first met. Likely to be lively on a football Saturday, but, as Caroline and Thomas can attest, it’s a great meet-up spot to grab a beer. For any late night fans, it’s sure to be a fun time.
C & O
A converted railroad depot, this is a mainstay of Charlottesville. It’s a great place for dinner on the Downtown Mall, and a short 2-minute walk from the Welcome Party location. It is also the restaurant where Thomas first met and charmed Caroline’s Duke-graduate parents (despite his Tar Heel allegiance).
The Alley Light
This speak-easy style restaurant is unmarked, hidden on side street, but, don’t fear, google maps can get you there. This is Caroline and Thomas’ favorite place to grab a cocktail — order off the menu or tell the bartenders what you like in a drink and enjoy their creativity. They also offer shareable plates for dinner. If you like Rye Whisky, order a “Tommy Stick Around” named for Caroline’s brother.
King Family Vineyards
Grab a flight or order a bottle of wine and take in the beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Caroline and Thomas celebrated their engagement here, so it’s a fitting place to toast to the bride and groom.
Pro Re Nata
If you prefer beer over wine, Pro Re Nata Brewery is right across the street from King Family. Caroline took Thomas there on an early date, figuring he’d be most comfortable at a bar named using medical terminology.
Blue Mountain Brewery
If you’ve seen Thomas lately, he was probably sporting his favorite (and well-worn) Blue Mountain Brewery shirt. There is no better place to enjoy a beer, the Blue Ridge Mountains and the unbeatable Charlottesville fall weather. Blue Mountain Brewery also offers lunch, appetizers and cornhole.