Sarah & Drew
Things To Do
University of Virginia
Drew and Sarah graduated from UVA in 2019. It's where they met their best friends, explored their interests, and grew together as young adults, so it'll always hold a special place in their hearts. For those interested in visiting, we highly recommend taking a historical tour with the UVA Guide Service. They leave from the Rotunda at 11:00am every day of the academic year, and they'll provide you with information about UVA over the years and a current student's perspective on what changes still need to be made.
Skyline Drive
Take a hike or just go for a drive, but definitely go see the Blue Ridge in all of her glory! If you're looking for a super easy and short hike with a big payoff, Blackrock Summit is the way to go. If you're down for a challenge, check out Humpback Rocks - it's an iconic sunrise hike for UVA students, although it's beautiful at any time of the day, but it's half an hour of pretty steep elevation. If you just want to drive, set Moormans River Overlook as your destination - you'll be able to actually see our wedding venue! Just remember your National Parks Pass or you'll have to pay a small fee to enter Shenandoah National Park.
Cou Cou Rachou
This is the French bakery where Sarah works as a baker! Come for the best pastries on this side of the Atlantic. May we recommend the cardamom braid?
Brasserie Saison
We lived above Brasserie Saison in our very first apartment. It was so special to walk downstairs and order dinner, and we've gone for every big occasion since. The brussels sprouts salad is unlike anything we've ever tasted before, and their seasonal menu is always changing but always delicious!
Albemarle CiderWorks
If you like wineries, you'll like this cidery! Delicious Virginia cider with plenty of tables to sit and taste.
Potter's Craft Cider
If you like breweries, Potter's is the cidery for you! Very lowkey, but a beautiful setting at an old church that has been converted into a bar and seating. Just gorgeous!
Pineapples Thai Kitchen
A new-ish Thai restaurant, so there's never any wait! We love their avocado fresh rolls, crispy chicken, and massaman curry. If you like tea, their ginger tea is great, and of course their Thai iced tea is delicious!
Downtown Mall
Go for some shopping or night life! We love Arsenic & Old Lace for vintage apparel, Blue Whale Books for used books and antique prints, Alakazaam for toys and board games.
Monticello
If you're interested in history, visiting Monticello should be at the top of your list. This was Thomas Jefferson's home near Charlottesville while he designed and worked at UVA. They've added a lot more information about slavery at Monticello in the past decade, so it would be worth a revisit even if you've been before!
Ix Art Park
Business park featuring a brewery, a sake distillery, our favorite local pet store, and a bunch of random art pieces pretty much everywhere. Check out the Love Butt and the book throne!
Ivy Provisions
Delicious sandwiches just outside of town. Get one to-go if you're planning a day of vineyard or brewery hopping!
Pro Re Nata
A fun brewery out in Crozet with a variety of food options and great outdoor seating.
Overton
For all you Overtons - there's an Overton, VA nearby! We've been there and there is absolutely nothing to do nor a sign to take a picture with, but we thought we should bring it to your attention :)
Circa
The best place in town to find old home goods for a great price. Expect to spend some time wandering around and searching high and low - there are treasures to be found but they're often well buried!
Heyday Antiques & Vintage
If you're interested in a more curated secondhand shopping experience, Heyday is the place to go. You'll pay for the knowledge of the vendors as well as the quality of the items, but it's worth a visit to browse through the beautifully styled booths.
City Clay LLC
Sarah has taken pottery lessons here since college. If you're interested in local art, stop by to browse through the small showroom and check out the ceramics culture of Central VA!
Birdhouse
Adorable restaurant focused on chicken, still under the radar of all but the most in-the-know townies. If you'll be in town by Thursday night, get yourself a reservation! We love the pozole.