Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, Charlottesville, Virginia © Joel Gafford | Dreamstime 33610465
Enjoy the scenery as you drive into Charlottesville. Nestled among the Blue Ridge Mountains, the scenery is gorgeous (and free!). Start your day with brunchat Brookville, a cozy spot along the shops and restaurants of the Downtown Mall that serves hearty, creative American fare. Don’t skip the French-press coffee.
Afterward, explore what the Downtown Mall has to offer — there are a few cute and quirky stores — and continue on to the University of Virginia’s campus. Founded by Thomas Jefferson, the university, along with Jefferson’s home Monticello, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Jeffersonian architecture and meticulously kept grounds will keep you busy for a bit.
Charleston Capitol Building © Veronica An
When you’re ready to liven things up a bit, the immediate Charlottesville area offers a variety of wineries and breweries to get your drink on. Veritas Vineyard and Winery offers a great tour and wine tasting for about $12 per person. In the evening, when you’re ready to hit the town, head back to Downtown Mall, where most of the Charlottesville night life is located. Start at Commonwealth Restaurant and Skybar, where you can get a great meal along with a delicious cocktail. Sip them on the roof if the weather is nice. Afterward, wrap up the night at The Whiskey Jar for some well-crafted mixed drinks, a late night menu and live music on the weekends.
Read This Next
New Pete Dye Course Opens in Virginia
Sports
Oct 10, 2014All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Apr 1, 20254 Can’t-Miss 2025 Summer Festivals in Columbus, Ohio
Summer festival season will soon be in full swing, and Columbus, Ohio, has an impressive lineup of events worth a visit.
Sponsored Content
Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.
Hotel
Apr 1, 2025Celebrate California’s Cherry Blossoms with Four Sisters Inns
Four Sisters Inns properties can be found up and down the coast of California, offering wonderful opportunities to celebrate the state’s cherry blossoms.
Slideshow
Apr 1, 20257 Must-See Sites in Québec
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are seven must-see sites in Québec.
Sponsored Content
AmaWaterways’ Specialty River Cruises
When you embark on a river cruise with award-winning AmaWaterways, unpack once and step aboard a world of unparalleled experiences. With enriching excursions, exquisite locally sourced food and wine, nightly entertainment and more included in the fare, you will learn why AmaWaterways has the most returning guests out of any river cruise line.
Destinations / North America
Mar 31, 2025Which Are the Safest U.S. National Parks?
If you are hesitant to explore U.S. national parks for outdoor adventure this summer as less staffing and other issues could mean potentially greater danger for tourists — and because, yes, most parks experience some guest injury incidents each year, sometimes even fatalities — personal injury law firm Mallow Law Office can ease your worries. The law office crunched the numbers to identify the safest national parks in the country based on fatalities from 2014 to 2023. The results?
ShareThis