Travel Guide to Charlottesville, VA
A Weekend in Charlottesville
Charlottesville is one of those places with a small-town feel but plenty of energy. Home to the University of Virginia and surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, it offers a blend of historic charm, a thriving food and wine scene, and endless outdoor activities. Whether you're hiking in Shenandoah National Park, relaxing at a nearby vineyard, or catching a game on campus, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful Virginia town.
Climb the Shenandoah Mountains
Just an hour from downtown Charlottesville, Shenandoah National Park offers some of the most stunning mountain views on the East Coast. The drive alone is enough to put you in a peaceful state of mind. Once there, we hiked Mary’s Rock, a moderately challenging trail known for its sweeping 360-degree views of the valley below.
The path is rocky (hiking boots are recommended) and winds through the forest before ending at a breathtaking summit. In late October, the leaves were just starting to turn, marking the beginning of an ideal season to visit.
Spend Time at a Virginia Winery
It might surprise some, but Virginia has quite a wine scene. We recently visited our first, Barboursville Vineyards, just 30 minutes outside of town — a beautiful introduction to the region’s wine country. Set on historic estate grounds with rolling hills and rows of vines, it’s a lovely afternoon escape.
We sat outside overlooking the vineyards and chose from several customizable tasting options, along with light food pairings. The winery showcases a wide range of wines, from Virginia staples like Viognier and Cabernet Franc to Italian varietals such as Fiano and Nebbiolo. The setting is relaxed, and whether you’re a serious wine lover or simply looking for a scenic afternoon, Barboursville is an easy place to spend a few unhurried hours.
Visit Carter Mountain Orchard
When I asked locals for things to do in Charlottesville, one response came up again and again: “You have to visit one of our orchards.” So we did.
Just 25 minutes from the UVA campus, Carter Mountain Orchard is a local favorite, and for good reason. Depending on the season, you can pick apples or peaches, sip cider, and enjoy the view of the tree-lined valley below. We were able to pick from six different apple varieties that day, and headed to the rows of Fuji apples, which were crisp, sweet, and delicious.
There are hay rides and stands selling fresh food (apple cider donuts, anyone?), local wine, and cider, making it easy to see why Carter Mountain is a sought-after destination for both visitors and locals.
Explore Charlottesville’s Food Scene
Charlottesville has a thriving food scene that continues to impress us. Here are a few of our recent favorites.
The Corner Juice: Located on The Corner near UVA, this spot, founded by UVA grads, focuses on making fresh, healthy food accessible. It quickly became my favorite morning or afternoon stop, offering smoothies, açaí bowls, cold-pressed juices, and sandwiches made with local ingredients.
Asado Wing & Taco Company: Great for a casual meal, Asado serves flavorful street-style tacos, juicy wings, and generous margaritas. Perfect after a day of exploring or to catch a game on one of the many TVs.
Tavola: Located in the Belmont neighborhood, this cozy, buzzing trattoria serves excellent antipasti, handmade pasta, creative cocktails, and numerous Italian wines by the glass.
Public Fish & Oyster: A must for seafood lovers, offering fresh oysters, seafood tours, and n excellent beer and wine list, in a welcoming, upbeat atmosphere. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available.
Bonus: Catch a UVA Football Game
If your visit falls during football season, experience the excitement of a UVA football game at Scott Stadium. The energy is infectious, with students, alumni, and fans all coming together to cheer on the Cavaliers. Before or after the game, take a walk through UVA’s historic campus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with red-brick buildings and white columns inspired by Greco-Roman and Italian Renaissance architecture. It’s a fun way to experience what makes this university town so special.
Charlottesville is one of Virginia’s most inviting destinations — easygoing, welcoming, and full of character. Climb a mountain, pick an apple, explore the food scene, and experience a little of everything that makes this corner of Virginia so special.
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