Things To Do
Shenandoah National Park
The south entrance to Shenedoah is ~30 minutes from Charlottesville. There are many hikes and trails that you can access from here. Another option is driving part of Skyline Drive which takes you through the heart of Shenedoah National Park. There are many overlooks and short trails you can take off of the road. Great way to see a lot of the park if you're not feeling a big trek!
Monticello
Thomas Jefferson's historic mansion is just minutes outside of Charlottesville. Grab tickets on the website for their daily tours. Graham's comments - my parents went here and had a blast! If you're interested, I can put you in touch with Leslie who would love to give you the inside scoop!
Downtown Mall
If you want to poke around (as the Pescheret's say), the Downtown Mall is the spot - a pedestrian walkway with lots of restaurants, shops, and bars.
Humpback Rocks
If you're up for a hike, this is a moderate 4-mile loop with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Ragged Mountain Nature Area
If you're looking for less elevation, Ragged Mountain is a trail system close to Charlottesville that provides long and short walking paths through a beautiful wooded area. Keep in mind there's still a bit of elevation change and uneven footing. Graham's comments - the trails are marked with a confusing array of bear sculptures. Good luck deciphering any of it!
Merrie Mill Farm and Vineyard
If you're in search of a wine tasting and great food, Merrie Mill is a beautiful vineyard east of Charlottesville that's known for their food as well.
Blenheim Vineyards
Another beautiful winery around Charlottesville.
Bodo's Bagels
For breakfast, Bodo's is a Charlottesville staple and fan favorite of UVA students.
Belle
Belle is great for takeaway breakfast & coffee or lunch (their sandwiches are top notch). They also have sit down Sunday brunch and dinner most evenings. Graham's comments - get the Cuban. It was delicious. Paired with a Topo Chico, you've got yourself the makings of a nice little lunch!
MarieBette Café and Bakery
Amazing brunch spot! They also have pastries and coffee to go.
The Nook
Cute diner that serves breakfast and lunch on the downtown mall, just down the street from the Omni.
Grit Coffee, Downtown
Good coffee spot right down the street from the Omni for those in need of immediate caffeination.
Shenandoah Joe Coffee Roasters
Another great local spot to grab coffee.
Dr. Ho's Humble Pie
Great, massive pizzas with funky toppings. Just outside of Charlottesville close to Pippin Hill.
The Wool Factory
The Wool Factory is a cool, renovated textile factory that has a great fine-dining restaurant, Broadcloth, and a wine store/coffee shop, the Workshop. Also close to the Rivanna Trail, a path that loops around Charlottesville.