Things To Do
The Lawn
Explore the Grounds of the University of Virginia, tour the Rotunda (where Maggie gave historical tours as an undergrad), and see the Lawn rooms that still serve as student housing for exceptional fourth-year students (except Nate, we're not sure how he got in).
The Corner
A stretch of bars and restaurants on University Avenue, starting behind the Rotunda. The Corner is a popular hangout for students and you can't go wrong with any of the bars and restaurants here, but Maggie & Kyle are partial to the Virginian and Boylan Heights. For a grab-and-go option, we love Take It Away Sandwich Shop - grab a sandwich to eat on the Lawn!
Downtown Mall
Charlottesville's historic Downtown Mall is a pedestrian strip with a variety of shops, restaurants, and an outdoor music venue. We recommend the Nook for brunch, Citizen Burger Bar for a great burger, and The Whiskey Jar for a cocktail.
Tavola
Best pasta in Charlottesville, and right next to our welcome drinks at the Local. Reservations recommended.
Bodo's Bagels
Best bagels in town! Bodo's numbers each customers starting from 1 every day, and it's a tradition for students to try to get the #1 ticket (which usually requires waiting in line before it opens).
Maya
A great option for Southern food between the University and the Downtown Mall. Reservations recommended.
Bellair Market
Tucked away on Ivy Road and attached to a gas station, Bellair Market is one of Charlottesville's best kept secrets! These are Maggie's favorite sandwiches in Charlottesville and a great place to grab and go (even on your way out of town).
Ace Biscuit & Barbecue
Great for breakfast or lunch!
Feast!
A delicious eatery where you can grab and go all local and organic food.
Oakhart Social
Great spot for shared plates, pizzas, and cocktails on Main Street.
Other Spots We Love
BREAKFAST & LUNCH Ivy Provisions Greenwood Grocery (sandwiches) Dairy Market Charlottesville (food hall) Mariebette Cafe & Bakery (pastries, etc.) DINNER & DRINKS Continental Divide (great margaritas) Bang! (asian tapas) Mas (spanish tapas) Alley Light (speakeasy)
Wine, Beer & Cider
WINE Jefferson Vineyards (closest to downtown Charlottesville) Stinson Vineyards Eastwood Farm & Winery Veritas Vineyard & Winery BEER Kardinal Hall (indoor/outdoor brewery with games) Three Notch'd Craft Kitchen & Brewery (great for craft beers/IPAs) The Wool Factory (an old textile mill turned brewery and restaurant) CIDER Carter's Mountain Orchard (pick apples or taste cider with great views of the Blue Ridge Mountains) Potter's Craft Cider
Blue Ridge Mountains
Charlottesville is situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley with access to amazing hikes and scenic routes. If you have a car, we recommend Skyline Drive, and our favorite hikes include Humpback Rock (steep ~1 mile hike off the Blue Ridge Parkway) and Old Rag Mountain (more of a day-long excursion).
Monticello
For a historical outing, check out Thomas Jefferson's home atop Charlottesville's "Little Mountain."