Things To Do
Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards
This was the first winery we visited and the views do not disappoint. The food is also pretty great. Reservation highly recommended.
Blue Mountain Brewery
This is close to a relatively flat walking trail through an old railroad tunnel. Highly recommend walking the trail and heading over to Blue Mountain Brewery for food and drinks afterward.
Three Notch'd Craft Kitchen & Brewery - Charlottesville
We love to hop over here for a burger and to taste their local craft beer creations.
Monticello (Thomas Jefferson's Estate)
We cannot recommend this tour enough. The tours are insightful and grounds are breathtaking. Make sure to get tickets in advance.
Downtown Mall
Take a stroll through downtown Charlottesville on this iconic pedestrian street. Here, you will find restaurants, shops, street entertainers and more!
The Rotunda - University of Virginia
Open to the public from 9 AM - 5 PM daily. Rotunda was designed by Thomas Jefferson as the architectural and academic heart of the University’s community of scholars. He named the University’s original buildings the “Academical Village.” As the phrase suggests, the Academical Village is based on the Jeffersonian principle that learning is a lifelong process, and that interaction between faculty and students is vital to the pursuit of knowledge. Jefferson modeled the Rotunda after the Pantheon, a second-century temple in Rome. Construction began in 1822 and was completed in 1828, two years after Jefferson’s death on July 4, 1826. Built at a cost of almost $60,000, it was the last structure to be finished on the Lawn. Together with Monticello, the Academical Village is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Edgar Allan Poe's Dorm Room - University of Virginia
Did you know that Edgar Allen Poe briefly attended UVA? Take a visit to his dorm room which has been preserved with representative artifacts. You will be greeted by a member of UVA's Raven Society, who will be delighted to recite details of Poe's life at UVA.
The Paramount Theater
Check out a nostalgic flick or live show at this fitting location! Opened in 1931, the Paramount theatre is located on Charlottesville's Downtown Mall, a stunning brick pedestrian street. It is a member of the League of Historic American Theaters. Showtimes are mostly on weekends and it's recommended to purchase tickets in advance.
Carter Mountain Orchard and Country Store
Could there be a more fitting activity to do in Virginia in the Fall? Visit Carter Mountain Orchard for apple picking, cider donuts, warm apple cider, custard, wine, and hard cider. Shop around the country market for rustic decor and yummy apple-flavored treats such as jams, sauces, butters etc. Not into apples? Take in the stunning panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains! Hay rides are typically available for kids.
Dairy Market Charlottesville
Can't get your party to agree on what to eat? You're in luck! The dairy market is a trendy food hall that is home of multiple restaurants from burgers and salads to ice cream and Filipino cuisine, a full bar, and Star Hill Brewery's satellite location.
Shenandoah National Park, Rockfish Gap Entrance Station
This is the ultimate fall destination in the Charlottesville area due to the vibrant foliage. At the end of October, the leaves will be at their peak! If you're looking for a hike, check out some of the trails on the NPS website. Some popular hikes include Old Rag and Humpback Rock. If you are short on time, just take a cruise down skyline drive and enjoy the views! You won't regret it, we promise!
Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail, East Trailhead
We've hiked this trail multiple times and it never gets old! This trail features a retired CSX railroad tunnel, built between 1850-1858. This is a moderate 4.6 mile hike with little elevation gain. The tunnel is about 1.5 miles in from the trail head and is almost a mile long. Be sure your phone is fully charged, or even better, bring a flashlight! The tunnel is long and damp at times, so proceed with caution!
Ragged Mountain Natural Area
Head out on this 6.3-mile loop trail around a reservoir near Charlottesville, Virginia. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 50 min to complete.
King Family Vineyards
Not only does this winery have great views and wine, but on Sundays it holds polo matches that are free to attend. Dress in Sunday best and bring some snacks to go along with a bottle of wine from the vineyard and be ready to stomp some divots during halftime. Check the website for the schedule as they may just be holding a polo match the Sunday after the wedding.
Bodo's Bagels
This Charlottesville staple is sure to cure any hangover you may or may not receive from our wedding. Hayley's order is: Onion bagel with pastrami, cheese, pepper spread, lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo. Don't judge, just try it! But don't forget napkins 😋