Your Next Trip TRAVEL GUIDE

Charlottesville

Charlottesville, Virginia offers a blend of deep American history, vibrant arts, and rich culinary and wine experiences. In this episode of Your Next Trip, we explore local gems like the Crozet Artisan Depot and Ix Art Park, indulge in the region’s wine country, and visit the historic homes of James Monroe and Thomas Jefferson.

Now, check out our recommendations featured in this episode and more!

What to do

Crozet Artisan Depot

A historic 1913 train depot turned gallery + shop supporting 80+ local artisans. Great for unique souvenirs and tasting life in Crozet’s creative community.
Address: 5791 Three Notched Road, Crozet, VA 22932
Hours: Mon–Sat 10 AM–5 PM; Sun 12 PM–5 PM
Cost: Free entry; art and crafts sold separately
Website: crozetartisandepot.com

Blenheim Vineyards

Owned by Dave Matthews, this scenic Monticello AVA winery pairs artful wines with wood‑frame tasting rooms and hilltop views. Known for its “Painted” limited-edition labels and sustainable farming.
Address: 31 Blenheim Farm, Charlottesville, VA 22902
Hours: Thurs–Mon 11 AM–5:30 PM; Sat until 7 PM (closed Tue–Wed)
Cost: Tastings ~$25/person (reservations recommended on weekends)
Website: blenheimvineyards.com

University of Virginia Grounds

Exceptional campus walk with the Rotunda, The Lawn, UVA Corner shops, the Small Special Collections Library (housing Declaration documents), Poe’s dorm room, and Berlin Wall panels.
Address: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
Hours: Grounds generally open daily; library and Rotunda vary—usually 9 AM–5 PM
Cost: Free access to Grounds; Library may require UVA visitor pass
Website: virginia.edu (check site for seasonal schedules)

Where to stay

Oakhurst Inn

Charming boutique B&B nestled 10 minutes from UVA, offering wrap‑around porch breakfasts and easy access to Downtown Mall.
Address: 414 Longwood Ave NW, Charlottesville, VA 22903
Website: Oakhurst Inn

Boar’s Head Resort

Upscale resort with golf, spa, pools, on 573 acres just south of UVA—ideal for relaxation after touring.
Address: 1 Boar’s Head Ln, Charlottesville, VA 22903
Website: Boar’s Head Resort

Graduate Charlottesville

Stylish mid‑century hotel steps from the Downtown Mall—with rooftop bar and local art displays.
Address: 306 W Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22903
Website: Graduate Charlottesville

And there’s tons of other fabulous places to stay during your trip.

Check out the best accommodation deals below.

What to eat

Michie Tavern

Historic tavern dining experience offering Southern hospitality and traditional Virginia fare since 1784. Great stop for lunch after Highland.
Address: 683 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy, Charlottesville, VA 22902
Hours: Lunch service daily ~11 AM–3 PM; check for seasonal special events
Cost: Entrées ~$15–25, fixed‑price lunch buffet option
Website: michietavern.com

The Whiskey Jar

Casual neighborhood spot downtown with Southern comfort food, great cocktails, and nightly live music starting at 7:30 PM.
Address: 227 W Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22903
Hours: Usually 11 AM–10 PM; live music around 7:30 PM
Cost: Entrees ~$15–30; cocktails ~$8–12
Website: thewhiskeyjarcharlottesville.com

Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen & Brewery

Craft beer house with elevated pub fare—excellent for dinner after a day of tasting and exploring.
Address: Multiple locations; the original at 400 E Market St, Charlottesville, VA 22902
Hours: Typically 11 AM–late; dinner service from early evening
Cost: Entrees ~$12–25; brewery flights ~$8–12
Website: threenotchdbrewery.com

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Charlottesville is late spring (April–May) and early fall (September–October). These months offer mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and peak vineyard season — plus fewer crowds compared to summer. Fall foliage in the Blue Ridge region is especially stunning, and many orchards and wineries host seasonal events.
Getting Around
Charlottesville is best navigated by car, especially for exploring the surrounding Albemarle County vineyards, farms, and historical sites. Rideshares like Uber and Lyft are available in town, but not as reliable in rural areas. Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) offers free rides on most city bus routes, helpful for getting around the university and downtown zones.
Safety Tips
Charlottesville is generally safe and welcoming for visitors. Stick to well-lit areas when walking the Downtown Mall at night, and always lock your car if visiting rural wineries or trailheads. Be mindful of wildlife and winding roads in the countryside — especially around dusk.
Helpful Notes
Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD) Most businesses accept credit and debit cards, but keep a few dollars on hand for small purchases at farm markets or art co-ops.

Local Tipping Etiquette: 15–20% is standard for restaurants and bars. Tip $1–2 per drink at bars with live music.

Parking: Downtown Charlottesville offers street parking and several paid garages. Many wineries and attractions have free parking, but arrive early on weekends to avoid full lots.

Wine Country Note: Virginia law allows tastings but limits open alcohol in public. Many vineyards offer pre-packaged picnic sets — ideal if you plan to linger with a bottle outdoors.

Plug Type: A/B
Voltage: 120 V
Frequency: 60Hz

Packing list

Here’s our suggested items to pack for this destination. Please always consider the weather and activities you will be doing.

Essentials

Lightweight layers (temperatures can shift from cool mornings to warm afternoons)
Comfortable walking shoes (for UVA Grounds, Downtown Mall, and historic sites)
Casual chic outfit (for winery visits or dinner at upscale restaurants)
Rain jacket or compact umbrella (spring and fall showers are common)
Sun hat or baseball cap (especially for orchard visits and vineyard tastings)
Sunglasses & sunscreen (outdoor patios and art parks are sun-exposed)

For Outdoor Adventures

Reusable water bottle
Daypack or tote (for shopping at artisan markets or orchard/farm purchases)
Bug spray (especially for vineyard or orchard evenings)
Golf attire & clubs (if you plan to play at Old Trail Golf Club)

For Wine & Cider Tasting Days

Breathable, polished attire (winery tasting rooms vary from casual to refined)
Small cooler or wine carrier (some vineyards allow takeaway bottle purchases)
Blanket or ground cover (for picnics at Carter Mountain or King Family Vineyards)

Toiletries & Tech

Portable charger (for full days out exploring)
Lip balm with SPF
Moisturizer (mountain air can be drying)
Camera or smartphone with storage space (you’ll want photos from Ix Art Park to Monticello)

Seasonal Extras

Spring/Fall: Light scarf or wrap, warm cardigan
Summer: Bug netting hat (if hiking or visiting orchards), extra deodorant
Winter (off-season): Heavy coat, gloves, and insulated boots

Don’t Forget:

Valid ID (required for tastings at breweries and wineries)
Copies of any vineyard or Monticello tour reservations
Credit card or small cash for parking and local purchases

Get a full packing list and free downloadable template at Pack Better.

This episode of "Your Next Trip" explored the ancestral lands of

We extend our respect and gratitude to the Indigenous communities who have been the stewards of these lands for generations. Research for this acknowledgment was made possible using the NativeLand.ca.

Learn more about responsible travel practices in the TWD Responsible Travel Guide.

Visit the guide

Trip provided by: Visit Charlottesville

Director of Photography & Editor: Kris Valeriano