University of Virginia
,University of Virginia, located in Charlottesville, is a prestigious public research university founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819. It is known for its beautiful campus, historic architecture, and strong emphasis on academic excellence and student leadership. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, including highly-ranked programs in law, business, engineering, and medicine.
UVA also has a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, organizations, and cultural events for students to participate in.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore the University Grounds
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the iconic Rotunda, a symbol of the University of Virginia. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about its history and architectural significance.
afternoon
:After lunch, stroll through the picturesque Academical Village, taking in the stunning landscapes and classic designs. Consider visiting the nearby Lawn to see student art displays and engage with local vendors.
evening
:Wrap up your day with a relaxing dinner at a nearby restaurant, savoring some local Virginia cuisine. Post-dinner, attend a lecture or cultural event at the university to immerse yourself in the campus life.
Dive into the Library
morning
:Visit the Alderman Library and explore its vast collection of books and archives. Settle in for a quiet morning of studying or research in this historic building.
afternoon
:Take a break for lunch at a café in the library or nearby. Afterward, explore special collections and exhibits that highlight local history and authors.
evening
:Join a book reading or author event hosted at the library. Spend your evening in a cozy nook, reflecting on the day's discoveries and insights.
Highlights
Good
- Strong academic reputation and rigorous programs.
- Beautiful campus with historic architecture.
- Diverse and vibrant student body.
- Access to a wide range of extracurricular activities and organizations.
- Strong alumni network and career opportunities.
Bad
- High cost of tuition and living expenses.
- Competitive admissions process.
- Some students may find the social scene to be exclusive.
- Limited diversity in some academic programs.
- Challenging workload that may lead to high stress.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Explore scenic trails just a short drive from the university, offering breathtaking views and various difficulty levels for hikers.
Paddleboarding on the Rivanna River
Enjoy a relaxing day on the water, paddleboarding or kayaking along the calm waters of the Rivanna River.
Visiting the UVA Grounds
Take a stroll around the beautiful university grounds, including the historic Rotunda and beautiful gardens.
Biking on local trails
Cycle through the many bike-friendly routes in and around Charlottesville, enjoying the natural beauty and local scenery.
Picnicking at the Monticello
Visit Thomas Jefferson's estate and enjoy a picnic with views of the surrounding landscape.
Attending outdoor concerts at the Sprint Pavilion
Enjoy live music and community events in an outdoor setting, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Exploring the Botanical Garden
Visit the University of Virginia's botanical garden for a peaceful retreat among diverse plant species.
Participating in sports at the Fairfax Field
Join recreational games or sports activities at the university's outdoor fields and facilities.
Adventures
Uncover the best of University of Virginia with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Thomas Jefferson's Rotunda
The iconic centerpiece of the University, the Rotunda offers stunning architectural views and beautiful grounds perfect for photography.
The Lawn
The central green space of the university, surrounded by historic buildings, providing picturesque settings for photos.
McIntire Amphitheatre
A classical outdoor amphitheater with a beautiful backdrop of the university, ideal for capturing both nature and architecture.
Caboose
A unique photo spot featuring a historic train caboose nestled under the trees, offering a charming backdrop for pictures.
Near the Old Cabell Hall
Fabulous views of the surrounding area and the building's classic architecture make for excellent photo opportunities.
The University Gardens
Beautifully landscaped gardens filled with flowers, trees, and walkways, perfect for capturing vibrant natural scenery.
The Academical Village
The UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture and serene courtyards, offering a quaint and historical atmosphere.
The Rotunda Dome
Climbing to the top of the Dome affords panoramic views of the campus and the Blue Ridge Mountains in the distance.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Bodo's Bagels
Bodo's Bagels is a popular local spot known for its fresh, made-from-scratch New York-style bagels. They offer a wide variety of bagel flavors and toppings, and are a must-try for breakfast or a quick bite.
Must-Try!
Pimento Cheese
Pimento cheese is a classic southern dish that can be found at many local restaurants. It's a blend of cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos, and is often served as a spread with crackers or as a topping for sandwiches.
Fried Chicken
Charlottesville boasts some fantastic fried chicken joints, with juicy, crispy chicken that's full of flavor. It's a beloved classic in the area and definitely worth trying.
Unique Experiences
Get to know University of Virginia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
City Market
The Charlottesville City Market is a great place to explore local produce, artisanal goods, and food vendors on Saturday mornings. It's a fantastic spot to sample fresh, locally-sourced street food and experience the vibrant community atmosphere.
The Corner
The area surrounding the University, known as 'The Corner', is lined with food trucks and stalls offering a diverse range of street food options. It's a hub for students and locals alike, featuring everything from international cuisine to classic American fare.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Embrace Diversity
The University of Virginia values diversity and inclusivity. Respect and engage with individuals from various cultural, ethnic, and social backgrounds. Participation in multicultural events and organizations can enhance your understanding and appreciation of different perspectives.
Practice Open Communication
Cultivate an environment of open dialogue by being approachable and respectful when discussing differing opinions. Listen actively and be willing to engage in discussions about cultural norms and differences without prejudice.
Adhere to the Honor Code
UVA has a strong academic honor code that emphasizes integrity and respect. Always be honest in your academic endeavors and respect the work of your peers. This fosters a community of trust and mutual respect among students.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of University of Virginia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
At the University of Virginia, tipping practices generally align with national standards, where tipping is common in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and personal services. It is customary to tip service staff like waiters, bartenders, and delivery personnel around 15-20% of the total bill. However, in student-run establishments on campus, tipping may be less common or not expected. Students should be aware of individual service situations.
Payment
Payment practices at the University of Virginia primarily include cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment solutions for transactions at dining facilities, bookstores, and other services on campus. The university also encourages the use of its own student ID card, which can be loaded with funds for convenient cashless transactions at various locations. Students may also utilize university payment systems for tuition, fees, and other administrative expenses, which often involve online payment options.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into University of Virginia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit the University of Virginia. The weather warms up and the campus blossoms with beautiful flowers, especially the iconic cherry blossoms. Expect vibrant colors, outdoor events, and students enjoying the mild weather. It’s a great time for exploring gardens and historical sites.
Summer
Summer (June to August) can be quite hot and humid in Virginia. However, this is a lively time on campus with various summer programs and activities. Expect fewer students, as many are away, but the campus still buzzes with tourists. Make sure to stay hydrated and take advantage of early morning or late evening tours.
Fall
Fall (September to November) is another ideal time to visit. The weather is crisp, and the foliage transforms the campus into a picturesque scene with vibrant autumn colors. Expect various homecoming events and a dynamic atmosphere as students return to campus. It’s perfect for tours, especially to see the historic architecture framed by fall leaves.
Winter
Winter (December to February) at the University of Virginia may be colder with occasional snowfall. While this season is quieter and less crowded, visiting during this time allows for a more serene experience. Expect to see the campus covered in snow, offering a beautiful, peaceful landscape. Campus events may be less frequent, but the ambiance is uniquely tranquil.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Humpback Rocks
A popular hiking destination featuring a steep trail with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a challenging climb.
Ragged Mountain Natural Area
A local favorite with a variety of trails winding through forests and offering glimpses of wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
McIntire Park
A more accessible option with easy trails, great for families and casual walkers, featuring scenic views and open spaces.
Sherando Lake Recreation Area
Located a bit further out, this area offers multiple trails around scenic lakes, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
Sphinx Mountain Trail
A moderately difficult trail that rewards hikers with expansive views of the surrounding areas, ideal for more experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into University of Virginia through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach University of Virginia by plane.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Located approximately 100 miles northeast of the University of Virginia, Dulles is one of the major airports serving the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
Richmond International Airport (RIC)
Situated about 75 miles southeast of the University of Virginia, Richmond International Airport serves the capital city of Virginia and the surrounding areas.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
Located around 120 miles southwest of the University of Virginia, Charlotte Douglas is a major hub in the southeastern United States.
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
Approximately 110 miles northeast of the University of Virginia, this airport is located close to downtown Washington, D.C.
Norfolk International Airport (ORF)
Around 150 miles southeast of the University of Virginia, Norfolk International serves the Hampton Roads area of Virginia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White
The largest demographic group at the University of Virginia, typically comprising a significant portion of the student body.
Asian
A prominent demographic group often represented among the undergraduate and graduate students.
Hispanic/Latino
A growing demographic group within the University, contributing to the cultural diversity on campus.
Black/African American
An important demographic group that plays a key role in the University’s community and culture.
International Students
Students from various countries around the world, contributing to the global perspective at the University.
Native American
A smaller demographic group that is recognized for its cultural contributions to the University.
Multiracial
Students identifying as belonging to more than one racial background, reflecting the University's commitment to diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
A popular fall sport at UVA, the football team competes in the NCAA Division I Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and has a strong following among students and alumni.
Basketball
Men's and women's basketball teams at UVA are highly competitive in the ACC, with the men's team having won multiple national championships.
Lacrosse
UVA has a storied lacrosse program, with both men's and women's teams excelling in NCAA competitions.
Soccer
The men's and women's soccer teams at UVA are well-regarded and frequently compete at high levels nationally.
Swimming and Diving
UVA has a strong tradition in swimming and diving, producing numerous national and Olympic level athletes.
Rowing
The UVA rowing team has a strong presence on the water and competes in various prestigious regattas.
Track and Field
UVA's track and field program includes a variety of events and is known for producing talented athletes who compete at national levels.
Field Hockey
The women's field hockey team at UVA has seen significant success and competes at a high level in the NCAA.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many restaurants in Charlottesville offer extensive vegetarian and vegan options, with some establishments dedicated exclusively to plant-based cuisine. Diners can easily find diverse and delicious meat-free dishes across the city.
Gluten-Free Options
For those requiring gluten-free options, numerous eateries in Charlottesville are known for their gluten-conscious menus, offering a wide selection of dishes that cater to gluten-free dietary needs.