Charlottesville
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Charlottesville's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a visit to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. Enjoy a guided tour of the estate and its beautiful gardens.
Head to the nearby Virginia Discovery Museum for interactive exhibits. Afterward, stroll along the Downtown Mall for lunch and shopping.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring regional flavors. End your evening with a performance at the Paramount Theater.
Drive to Shenandoah National Park for breathtaking views along Skyline Drive. Take a short hike to stretch your legs and enjoy nature.
Pack a picnic lunch and find a scenic spot to relax. Spend the afternoon exploring more trails or taking photographs of the stunning landscapes.
Return to Charlottesville for dinner at a cozy eatery. Unwind with a walk around the city or enjoy a local brewery.
Start with a visit to the Fralin Museum of Art at the University of Virginia. Explore the diverse collections and stunning architecture on campus.
Visit the Historic Court Square and nearby galleries for a taste of local art. Grab lunch at one of the nearby cafés.
Enjoy a cultural event, such as a gallery opening or live music. Dine at a restaurant featuring local ingredients.
Take a scenic drive through the vineyards of Albemarle County. Stop by a winery for a tasting session of Virginia wines.
Enjoy lunch at a winery with a beautiful view. Continue your wine adventure with visits to more vineyards or a vineyard tour.
Return to Charlottesville and dine at a farm-to-table restaurant. Relax with a glass of local wine in hand.
Take a guided tour of the University of Virginia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Absorb its history and architecture.
Visit the Rotunda and learn about its significance. Have lunch at a campus eatery and soak up the college atmosphere.
Attend a lecture or performance at the university. Finish your day with dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Rent a bike and start your day on the Rivanna Trail. Enjoy the fresh air and scenic views along the water.
Stop for a picnic lunch at one of the trail’s rest areas. Continue biking or stroll along the riverbanks to enjoy nature.
Return to town for dinner at a casual bistro. End your day with a relaxing evening walk.
Check the local calendar for festivals or farmers markets. Enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere.
Indulge in local food vendors and crafts while mingling with locals. Explore arts and crafts booths to find unique souvenirs.
Enjoy live music or entertainment at the event. Wrap up with dinner at a favorite downtown spot.
Visit the Jefferson-Madison Regional Library for book talks and local author events. Discover the literary history of the area.
Tour the nearby Bookbinders restaurant for its unique literary theme. Spend time at a café reading a book or two.
Attend a book reading or poetry night at a local bookstore. Dinner can be at a literary-themed café nearby.
Join a food tour to taste local specialties and learn about the culinary scene. Visit farmers' markets for fresh ingredients.
Enjoy a cooking class at a local culinary school. Savor a deliciously crafted lunch prepared by you.
Dine at one of Charlottesville’s top-rated restaurants. Experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting local bars.
Begin with a self-guided walking tour of historic sites in downtown Charlottesville. Learn about the city’s rich heritage.
Visit the Virginia Historical Society for engaging exhibits. Have lunch at a historical tavern to soak up the ambiance.
Explore local history through storytelling at a nearby venue. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with historical significance.