Take a stroll around Grounds, where Sean spent her college days, which is gorgeous and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While you're there, visit "The Corner" for fun bars, restaurants, and shops, including the famous unofficial bookstore of UVA, Mincer's.
Visit the pedestrian-friendly Downtown Mall for restaurants, shops, great coffee spots, and more.
The Charlottesville area is famous for beautiful hikes in the nearby mountains. We recommend Humpback Rock for a (relatively strenuous) mile-long hike with beautiful views at the summit. If you aren't up for a hike, just a drive down Skyline Drive should be at the top of your list.
The Monticello Wine Trail in Charlottesville and the surrounding area is home to the first vineyards in America. A few of our favorites, mostly thanks to the stellar views, are Pippin Hill, Keswick Vineyards, King Family, Mount Ida, and Blenheim Vineyards (for any Dave Matthews fans!). Calling all McMahons, there’s a great photo opportunity of an iconic Love sign with a Claddagh outside of Southwest Mountain Vineyards, which is the closest vineyard to Keswick Hall and a top choice.
Take a tour of Thomas Jefferson's home and then head over to nearby Carter Mountain Orchard to try some amazing apple cider donuts.
Grab a tee time at this beautiful public golf course.
The most perfect French bakery and coffee shop.
While we’ll always opt for an NYC bagel, Bodo’s (which is considered a Charlottesville staple) is a close second choice. We recommend grabbing bagels and walking to UVA’s Lawn or one of the Pavilion Gardens to enjoy.
Charlottesville is a great little foodie town. A few of our favorites to check out: Tavola, Lampo, The Local, Smyrna, Ten, and C&O. And of course Marigold. But we ask that you save that special spot for Saturday night!