The Ultimate List of the Best Things to Do in Charlottesville, VA

There are so many fantastic things to do in Charlottesville and the surrounding areas during your stay. You’ll find anything from presidential homes and collegiate charm to breathtaking hikes and countryside wine tasting, making for an unforgettable getaway. Whether you catch sunrise over the Blue Ridge, enjoy a riverside farm-to-table meal, or relax at our comfortable inn, Charlottesville and Lovingston deliver an all-around escape.

Here are the best things to do in Charlottesville and nearby: 

1. For history buffs, head to tour Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estate and plantation, with a behind-the-scenes look and immersive stories that take you back in time. You can explore the grounds, learn more at the museum or presidential library, and visit the shops and on-site cafe. 
2. The University of Virginia is another one of the best things to do in Charlottesville. On these immersive historical tours, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the architecture, as well as the stories of enslavement, liberation, and education. 
3. Enjoy the eight-block pedestrian Downtown Mall, lined with art galleries, boutiques, theaters like the iconic Paramount, and dozens of restaurants with a vibrant mix of live music and local flair. It’s small-town charm at its finest! 
4. Dining out will be a highlight of your time in Charlottesville, VA! From traditional Southern fare at places like Mockingbird and the Whiskey Jar, to elegant fine dining at C&O Restaurant and Tavola, you’ll have your pick of fantastic culinary delights. 
5. For craft beer lovers, one of the best things to do in Charlottesville is visit the breweries in town. There’s even the Charlottesville Ale Trail, which has more than 15 local breweries to tour, taste, and explore! 
6. If you’re more of a wine drinker, exploring the wineries in Virginia wine country needs to be at the top of your list! You’ll find a lovely selection of vineyards and estates that produce beautiful, locally grown vintages. A couple of our favorite options near our Bed and Breakfast in Virginia are Brent Manor Vineyards and Lovingston Winery. Be sure to check out the Monticello Wine Trail, with dozens of award-winning wineries open for tastings and tours. 
7. The Carter Mountain Orchard is a must-stop in the area, especially in the autumn as the Virginia fall colors begin to put on a show! This family-owned farm and orchard offers U-Pick options, seasonal events, and educational programs on their sustainable farming practices. 
8. If you’re ready to hit the trails, there are so many excellent outdoor recreation options in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A great place for hiking is the Virginia Blue Ridge Railway Trail, about 15 minutes from our B&B. The seven-mile trail is open for hiking, biking, and horseback riding year-round, but during the fall, the colors are vibrant and a stunning backdrop!
9. For those who enjoy fly fishing, paddling, or kayaking, this area is rich in waterways to explore. Sherando Lake is a 25-acre spring-fed lake situated within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, providing ideal conditions for fishing and boating. You can also find great day trips on the James River with rentals and tours. 
10. Fall is the perfect time to book a tee time, and one of the best things to do in Charlottesville and the surrounding area is to hit the links. We love the course options at Wintergreen: Devil’s Knob and Stoney Creek.