Sydney & Douglas
Things To Do
University of Virginia
Is this our recommendation page if we don't add UVA? Walk through Grounds (no not campus), and enjoy the beautiful architecture Thomas Jefferson designed. The Rotunda is one of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Charlottesville. Make sure to also stop at the Memorial to Enslaved Laborers to honor those who built the University in the 1800s.
Monticello
Monticello is Thomas Jefferson's home and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a tour around Monticello and see the surrounding beautiful views of Shenadoah and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains are the heart and soul of Charlottesville and our relationship, as well. We got engaged at the top of Humpback Rock, where we had our first date back in 2014. Humpback Rock is a 45 min hike (straight up - phew) with beautiful views. There are many other trails to explore, as well!
The Market at Grelen
Yes our wedding venue! They have plenty of hiking trails, beautiful scenery, plants for sale, and food to eat on the days leading up and after wedding. Please pop in while the market is open to continue enjoying the venue, as well.
Shenandoah National Park
Shenadoah has amazing hikes and views! If you want do it the "Doug and Syd way", camp overnight in one of the park's campgrounds. The stars are to die for. It is about an hour's drive west of Charlottesville, so please keep that in mind for timing purposes. However, it is WORTH IT! You will need either a National Park Pass or an entrance ticket to get into Shenadoah. There are many hikes to check out of course! One that we have been dying to do is Old Rag. Anyone who went to UVA will be shocked we have not hiked Old Rag yet. It's a 9 mile hike with rock scrambles. Apparently the views are *chef's kiss*. However, you do need to plan ahead because they are requiring a pre-purchased "Old Rag" ticket. Please research that before you go.
Wineries, Breweries, Cideries... OH MY
There are so many places to drink alcohol and have a great time before our wedding! We have visited many wineries, breweries, and cideries over the years and have some favorites to recommend - - Wineries: King Family Vineyards, Afton Mountain Vineyards, Moss Vineyards, Veritas Vineyards - Breweries: Blue Mountain Brewery, Devils Backbone, Starhill - Cideries: Castle Hill, Bold Rock, Potters Many of these establishments have great events to check out over the weekends!
Montpelier
James Madison's home! Montpelier is right next to the Market at Grelen and very close to Orange, as well! Go and take a tour, explore the grounds, and soak up the history. Tickets go on sale a week in advance.
Carters Mountain Orchard and Country Store
Carter Mountain Orchard has great food, drinks, and views! On Thursdays in August, Carter Mountain holds a Sunset Series with live music, food trucks, Bold Rock Cider, and incredible sunsets. If you do want to go on Thursday, please make sure to reserve your ticket in advance! And bring picnic blankets, chairs, and good vibes. For other days of the week, you can also head to Chiles Orchard to pick fresh peaches, as well!
FOOD!
Charlottesville is known for great restaurants and food! Here are some of our favorites - -Breakfast: Bodos Bagels, Ace Biscuit & BBQ, Marie Bettes -Lunch: Kardinal Hall, Take It Away Sandwiches, Citizen Burger, Got Dumplings -Dinner: Tavola, The Local, Public Fish & Oyster, Lampo Pizza
Free Charlottesville Downtown Shuttle!
If you are looking to get around Downtown Charlottesville for free, look out for a free shuttle. The trolley picks you up from various points along Main Street from UVA's Corner all the way to the Downtown Mall. Click on the website to see the shuttle map and pickup points. Downtown Charlottesville has some great shopping and food options! Check out Citizen Burger, where we had our first official date!