Things To Do

Favorite Restaurants!

Breakfast: Tavern and Grocery: Our favorite breakfast spot in Charlottesville. (highly recommend the shrimp and grits) Marie Bette French Bakery: French bakery downtown, great for a quick coffee and pastry (highly recommend the pretzel croissant) Farm Bell Kitchen: Southern breakfast spot near the graduate and UVA campus Bodos Bagels: local favorite bagel spot (there is usually a line) Lunch: Citizen Burger: Great burger spot The Virginians: Local lunch spot on UVA campus (salads, sandwiches, burgers etc.) Lemongrass: Thai and Vietnamese Dinner: Tavola: Fantastic Italian Mas Tapas: Spanish tapas Public Fish and Oyster House: Seafood and pub spot near downtown Conmole: Mexican restaurant specializing in Oaxacan dishes, (great margaritas/moles/empanadas) Orzo Kitchen: Seafood/Italian The Local: Gastro pub fare

Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello

We highly recommend a visit to Monticello. Thomas Jefferson’s estate is comprised of the main house, several gardens, other exhibits around the property. About ten minutes from The Clifton.

James Monroe's Highland

This 1000-acre property was originally purchased by James Monroe and was a fixture of his personal life throughout his 50-year political career.

Carter Mountain Orchard and Country Store

Carter Mountain is one of our favorite Apple orchards in the area. The orchard also has a large back patio area where you can purchase beer, cider, and apple cider donuts. The view overlooks several groves and vineyards in the valley.

Monticello Wine Trail (Full List of Charlottesville Vineyards)

If you are interested in a more comprehensive list of vineyards in the area, please refer to the Monticello Wine Trail! The Monticello Wine Trail, designated Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast in 2023, includes more than 40 wineries within 25 miles of Charlottesville—from historic estates to contemporary boutique vineyards.

Veritas Vineyards and Winery (Favorite)

Keswick Vineyards (Favorite)

A family-run vineyard in the area that offers award-winning wines, mini golf, and live music on weekends.

Southwest Mountain Vineyards (Favorite)

Southwest Mountains Vineyards (about 13 minutes from The Clifton), is nestled in the rolling hills of the Virginia countryside, and was converted historic barn that dates back to 1903.

Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards (Favorite)

A beautiful culinary vineyard with scenic mountain views, a rustic-chic tasting room, and a full menu. Perfect for combining elevated wine tasting with farm-to-table dining. A 15 minute drive from the Clifton Inn.