Charlottesville Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels
independent city in Virginia, United States
About Charlottesville
Of the eight U.S. presidents who came from Virginia, two — Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe — were from Charlottesville, and two more came from neighboring counties. Central Virginia was a major battlefield during the Civil and Revolutionary Wars. Jefferson, whom locals affectionately call "Mr. Jefferson," or "TJ," continues to cast a long shadow, particularly over local architecture. Many of Charlottesville's public buildings are made of brick and built in a Jeffersonian style, and many private homes are colonial. His home at Monticello and the Jefferson-designed University of Virginia have set the tone for the communities' beautiful buildings. When visiting Charlottesville, be sure to stop by the Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society to learn more about the area's rich history.
Top Attractions in Charlottesville
Explore the best things to see and do in Charlottesville:
- ★Banff Mountain Film Festival
- ★Blue Ridge Wine Excursions
- ★Botanical Garden of the Piedmont
- ★Camryn Wine Tours
- ★Charlottesville Dogwood Festival
- ★Charlottesville Salsa Club
- ★Charlottesville Swing Dance Society
- ★Dazzling fall colors
Where to Eat in Charlottesville
Must-try local food and restaurants:
- 🍴Albemarle Baking Company
- 🍴Bang
- 🍴Bashir's Taverna
- 🍴Beer Run
- 🍴Belmont Pizza
- 🍴Bizou
Where to Stay in Charlottesville
- 🏨Arcady Vineyard Bed & Breakfast
- 🏨Comfort Inn Monticello
- 🏨Fairfield by Marriott Charlottesville North
- 🏨Hilton Garden Inn Charlottesville
- 🏨Mason Lane Cottage
- 🏨Omni Charlottesville Hotel
Charlottesville Travel Guide Sections
Our comprehensive guide covers 10 sections including: