Things To Do

Monticello Wine Trail

The Monticello Wine Trail includes 33 wineries, all within driving distance from central Charlottesville. Book a wine tour and spend an afternoon hopping between some of the region’s best vineyards. Charlottesville may just be the Napa Valley of the East Coast.

Monticello

Thomas Jefferson’s home at Monticello is just a quick 15-minute drive away from the University’s Grounds. Tailor your visit to your interests with a specialized tour of Monticello, from a behind-the-scenes tour of Jefferson’s home to a tour focused on slavery at Monticello. With a wide variety of trees and flora, Monticello’s impeccable grounds are a must-see for any garden aficionado.

Blue Ridge Mountains

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville offers access to some of the best hiking trails (and views) in Virginia. The nearby Shenandoah National Park boasts over 500 miles of trails, including a portion of the Appalachian Trail. Experienced hikers can embark on the all-day adventure of hiking Old Rag Mountain, the park’s most popular and most strenuous trail.

University of Virginia

Carter Mountain Orchard

When you're planning your fall travel schedule, be sure to include a stop in Charlottesville, Virginia, to taste Carter Mountain's signature apple cider donuts. (And don't forget to pair it with hard apple cider.)