29 Best & Fun Things To Do in Charlottesville, VA
Are you trying to find something entertaining to do in Charlottesville, Virginia? This guide offers the top 29 enjoyable activities to do in this little city, whether you’re a visitor or a local.
Located in the center of Virginia, Charlottesville is well-known for its illustrious past, thriving arts community, and breathtaking scenery. With the University of Virginia located here as well as the historic homes of James Monroe and Thomas Jefferson, this city offers a special combination of historical significance and intellectual achievement.
Things To Do in Charlottesville
In the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park is a vast natural gem that offers breathtaking views, luxuriant woods, an abundance of wildlife, and family-friendly activities in Charlottesville, Virginia.
The park offers camping, fishing, and animal viewing opportunities along with hundreds of miles of hiking trails and stunning Skyline Drive that winds over the mountains.
A trip to Shenandoah National Park provides an escape from the bustle of the city, as well as opportunities to get back in touch with the natural world, explore various ecosystems, and create a lifetime of peaceful, outdoor memories.
Address: Highway 211 East, Virginia, United States.
2. IX Art Park
Are you looking for fun indoor and outdoor activities this weekend in Charlottesville, Virginia? Perhaps you’ve heard of a popular outdoor sculpture park. IX Art Park is the only place to look.
In addition to the park’s vibrant collection of sculptures and murals, “The Looking Glass,” an intriguing art museum, features the work of more than 25 local and regional artists in a welcoming setting.
Art enthusiasts can discover a wide variety of artwork, take in local activities, relax in a cutting-edge setting, and experience the transformative impact of art by visiting IX Art Park.
Address: 522 2nd Street SE D, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
3. Regal Stonefield
Experience the newest blockbuster films at Regal Stonefield, a movie theater complex that provides Charlottesville, Virginia with the most exciting nighttime activities.
The cinema has comfortable seating for comfortable viewing, various screens for the newest films, and a concession counter with food and cool drinks.
Watching movies in a cozy, convenient, and private location is one of the romantic things to do in Charlottesville, Virginia, for couples as you explore the city.
Address: 1954 Swanson Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22901, United States.
4. The Rotunda
One of the exciting things to do in Charlottesville, Virginia, is to take a tour of The Rotunda, a renowned and iconic structure with historical significance located at the University of Virginia.
The mansion, designed by Thomas Jefferson, is a neoclassical masterpiece modeled after Rome’s Pantheon and serves as a symbol of the institution and Jeffersonian ideals.
Examining the Rotunda offers the opportunity to become immersed in the building’s past, peruse displays honoring the university’s heritage, and experience the heart of the University of Virginia campus.
Address: 1826 University Avenue, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States.
5. Bodo’s Bagel
Adding authentic New York-style bagels from Bodo’s Bagels, a well-known local bagel business, to your list of things to do this weekend in Charlottesville, Virginia, should be top priority.
This attraction allows you to savor New York-style bagels and get a quick and delightful meal. It serves freshly baked bagels, handcrafted cream cheeses, and scrumptious breakfast and lunch sandwiches.
Address: 1418 Emmet Street. (Rt. 29), Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
6. Decades Arcade
With more than 110 games spanning the 1950s to the present, Decades Arcade is Central Virginia’s largest arcade and offers entertaining family activities.
There are many pinball machines, video games, arcade cabinets, and home consoles in the arcade that can be played for free.
Visiting Decades Arcade promises a contemplative gaming experience, allowing visitors to lose themselves in classic and modern games, compete with friends, or have an enjoyable and participatory journey.
Address: 418 E Main Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
7. Ting Pavilion
In Charlottesville, Virginia, Ting Pavilion is an outdoor music venue that hosts fun events all summer long.
The pavilion features a large lawn, excellent seating, and a well-functioning stage; all of these features are accessible by foot from eateries and other attractions.
Address: 700 E Main Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
8. MarieBette Café and Bakery
One of the best things to do in Charlottesville, Virginia, is to check out Marie Bette Café and Bakery, a fascinating cafe featuring delectable pastries and European-style breakfast and lunch dishes. It’s open daily.
The café has three distinct areas: a sit-down dining room for a full breakfast, brunch, or lunch experience; a modest café section for enjoying pastries and coffee; and a beautiful outdoor seating space.
You may enjoy delicious pastries, excellent French-inspired food, and a welcoming, enticing atmosphere at MarieBette Café and Bakery.
Address: 700 Rose Hill Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
9. Violet Crown Charlottesville
The most enjoyable things to do in Charlottesville, Virginia, tonight may be found at Violet Crown Charlottesville, a modern, independent theater.
The theater offers comfortable seats, state-of-the-art sound systems, and a variety of films, including international, independent, and documentaries.
A Night at Violet Crown Charlottesville offers a unique cinematic experience that combines a passion for movies with a cozy setting and the opportunity to see the newest, most exciting films.
Address: 200 W Main Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
10. Unlocked History Escape Rooms
Unlocked History Escape Rooms is an engaging escape room experience that combines history and puzzles. Find exciting family activities there.
The three themed rooms in the escape attraction are called “The British are Coming,” “The Raven,” and “The Allied Spy.” Each area has its own unique set of riddles, challenges, and historical background information.
Together with friends or family, you can solve riddles, find clues, and leave the room in the allotted time while discovering interesting facts about historical figures and events.
Address: 1717 Allied Lane, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States
11. Bold Rock Center Mountain
This evening in Charlottesville, Virginia, adults can engage in a variety of unusual activities at Bold Rock Center Mountain, a cidery.
Bold Rock hard ciders are available on tap at the cidery, which also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the chance to purchase handmade crafts and merchandise.
When apple picking season arrives, Bold Rock Center Mountain is a great place to unwind with a cider, take in the expansive views, and have fun.
Address: 1435 Carters Mountain Trail, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
12. Albemarle County
One of the free things to do in Charlottesville, Virginia this weekend is to visit Albemarle County, a picturesque region in the Piedmont region of the state that includes the city of Charlottesville and the surrounding countryside.
This location boasts gently sloping terrain, renowned farmsteads, exceptional wines, and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Visit Albemarle County to explore historic sites, indulge in wine tastings, enjoy outdoor pursuits like biking and hiking, and learn about the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Address: 401 McIntire Road, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
13. Random Row Brewing Co
In Charlottesville, Virginia, Random Row Brewing Co. is a locally owned and operated craft brewery well-known for its freshly tapped beers, friendly atmosphere, and other unusual adult activities.
The brewery offers a wide selection of rotating beers, a spacious taproom with an eco-friendly beer selection, a dedicated food truck area, and hosts various community events.
Random Row Brewing Co. promises the chance to enjoy top-notch, locally brewed craft beer, relax in a welcoming environment, and take part in community events all while indulging in food truck fare.
Address: 608 Preston Avenue # A, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
14. Chris Green Lake Park
Chris Green Lake Park is a county park in Charlottesville, Virginia, that offers enjoyable family activities around a 53-acre lake surrounded by rolling hills of forest.
The 239-acre park has bathing beaches, fishing piers, boat launches, canoe and kayak rentals, disc golf courses, dog parks, picnic spots, playgrounds, and hiking paths.
With a penchant for highlighting enjoyable activities for families in Charlottesville, Virginia, the park offers spaces for swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, picnics, dog play, and taking in the scenery.
Address: 4748 Chris Greene Lake Road, Charlottesville, VA 22911, United States.
15. John Paul Jones Arena
Experience live games and other family-friendly events at the University of Virginia’s multipurpose stadium, John Paul Jones Arena, in Charlottesville, Virginia.
The stadium hosts concerts and other events and has state-of-the-art amenities for athletes and spectators. It serves as the home court for the Virginia Cavaliers men’s and women’s basketball teams.
Take in live music performances, experience the thrill of college basketball games, and take part in other leisure activities.
Address: 295 Massie Road, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
16. The Corner
Discover engaging, instructive, and enjoyable activities in The Corner, a vibrant neighborhood centered around the University of Virginia campus.
The neighborhood takes pride in offering a unique combination of stores, eateries, pubs, and entertainment options for residents, tourists, and students.
The Corner offers a buzzing atmosphere along with choices for dining, shopping, and discovering the heart of Charlottesville’s student culture.
Address: 1501 University Avenue, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
17. MoGuffey Art Center
Those who appreciate art can spend enjoyable family activities at The McGuffey Art Center, a notable artist-managed facility in Charlottesville, Virginia.
Located inside a school, the center offers studio spaces, exhibition galleries, varied art programs, and workshops to around forty-five artists.
Admire the creations of local artists, engage in artistic workshops, and learn about Charlottesville’s vibrant arts scene.
.Address: 201 2nd Street NW, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
18. Ivy Creek Natural Area
Ivy Creek Natural Area is a conservatory in Charlottesville, Virginia that offers interesting activities for those who enjoy the outdoors. It features ecosystems such as upland woodlands, pine stands, meadows, streams, and shorelines.
Over 7 miles of walking trails are available on the 219-acre, expansive property for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation.
You can be sure that visiting Ivy Creek Natural Area will allow you to get away from the city, enjoy the outdoors, go on leisurely walks, and see a variety of wildlife species in their native environment.
Address: 1780 Earlysville Road, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
19. Virginia Discovery Museum
Children may learn by exploring Charlottesville, Virginia’s interactive children’s museum, the Virginia Discovery Museum.
The museum boasts interactive displays that include history, the humanities, science, arts, and nature, enabling families with young children to engage in learning and playtime.
Address: 524 E Main Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
20. Ragged Branch Distillery
The family-run Ragged Branch Distillery is well-known for both its consistently high-quality whiskey production and its adult-only activities in Charlottesville, Virginia.
The distillery has a welcoming taproom with whiskey tastings, friendly personnel, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Friends will value the opportunity to indulge in fine spirits, immerse themselves in the unique world of whiskey-making, and enjoy the serene beauty of the Virginia countryside.
Address: 1015 Taylors Gap Road, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
21. City Market
The oldest outdoor market in Charlottesville, Virginia, City Market offers a ton of inexpensive summertime activities for visitors.
Fresh vegetables, handcrafted goods, baked goods, coffee, and many traditional cuisines are all available at the commercial area.
Take part in the vibrant neighborhood, enjoy delicious, freshly prepared food, find unique handcrafted goods, and lose yourself in Charlottesville’s allure.
Address: 100 E Water Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
22. Mulberry Row
Mulberry Row offers a unique opportunity for visitors to engage with history while visiting Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello property. This area was once home to a thriving community of free and enslaved people.
Remodeled structures, archeological sites, and educational exhibits provide a glimpse into the daily life of the people who worked and lived there, covering 500 acres.
Mulberry Row gives guests an excellent opportunity to learn about the complex history of slavery in America and become engrossed in the tales of the farmstead’s residents.
Address: Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
23. The Paramount Theater
One fun thing to do in Charlottesville, Virginia at night is to see movies or live events at The Paramount Theater, a former movie theater turned performing arts venue.
The theater has a strong history as a place for community gatherings, stunning Art Deco design, and first-rate acoustics.
Families, couples, singles, and friends can enjoy top-notch live performances, immerse themselves in the architectural wonder, and engage in a vibrant cultural environment.
Address: 215 E Main Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
24. Historic Downtown Mall
One of the finest things to do this weekend in Charlottesville, Virginia, is shopping at The Historic Downtown Mall, a bustling pedestrian-only strip bursting with historic buildings, food options, and entertainment venues.
The mall offers a variety of unique stores, theaters, art galleries, outdoor dining options, and public areas like Emancipation Park.
Get to enjoy the chance to take in the eye-catching architecture, delicious cuisine, local art, live performances, and lively atmosphere of a bustling city center.
Address: E Main Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
25. Saunders-Monticello Trail
Among the free activities in Charlottesville, Virginia, this evening should be a stroll along the Saunders-Monticello Trail, an open path that offers sweeping vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The 4.3-mile trail overlooks the Monticello estate and features boardwalk walkways, a charming pond, crushed cinder pavement, and a greenhouse.
Savor the opportunity to go hiking, running, walking, or cycling while admiring the beauty of the outdoors, learning about Thomas Jefferson’s life and legacy at Monticello, and enjoying nature.
Address: 503 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
26. The Glass Palette
At The Glass Palette, a hands-on glass art studio that creates space for fun activities for people of all ages in Charlottesville, Virginia, you can unleash your inner artist.
This studio’s primary features include glass and supply sales, glass art tutorials, and studio time that is available for creating your own glass artwork.
You may bring out your inner artist at The Glass Palette by creating exceptional glass artwork, picking up new glassworking techniques, and taking home an amazing piece of art.
Address: 1304 E Market Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
27. James Monroe’s Highland
Visiting James Monroe’s Highland, an exceptional manor and museum, which was once the residence of the fifth President of the United States, is an essential experience for tourists visiting Charlottesville, Virginia.
The upland has restored structures, a central home that has been rebuilt, green spaces, and displays that highlight President Monroe’s life and administration.
Explore a Founding Father’s life, discover American history, and take in the breathtaking views of a transformed farmland.
Address: 2050 James Monroe Parkway, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
28. Carter Mountain Orchard
Among the daring things to do in Charlottesville, Virginia, today is to tour Carter Mountain Orchard, a family-owned farm featuring sporadic fruit harvesting, a country store, a bakery, and breathtaking views of the Charlottesville valley.
The orchard’s main attractions are pick-your-own fruit experiences, a variety of baked delicacies, a country store selling regional goods, and breathtakingly beautiful surroundings.
At Carter Mountain Orchard, visitors are assured of the opportunity to savor in-season, fresh vegetables, partake in delectable meals, immerse themselves in the natural world, and create many memories with loved ones.
Address: 1435 Carters Mountain Trail, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States
29. Trump Winery
Discover adult-only activities in Charlottesville, Virginia at Trump Winery, a prestigious winery known for its vast vineyards, opulent buildings, and production of fine wines.
The winery offers a variety of wine experiences, including tours, tastings, and events, and it boasts breathtaking vistas, a magnificent taproom, a delightful dining restaurant, and accommodations at the Albemarle Estate.
Adults may enjoy one-of-a-kind wine tastings, mouthwatering cuisine, breathtaking views, and the grandeur of a massive wine country estate at Trump Winery.
Address: 385 Albemarle House Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
30. University of Virginia
The University of Virginia is a prestigious public research university known for both its noteworthy Thomas Jefferson-designed campus and its ability to offer educational activities for visitors of all ages in Charlottesville, Virginia.
The institution, which offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in a wide range of subject areas, including the arts, sciences, engineering, law, and medicine, takes pleasure in its significant academic reputation.
When you visit the University of Virginia, you can see its historic campus, engage in vibrant student life, get to know the exceptional faculty, and immerse yourself in a vibrant intellectual and cultural environment.
Address: Charlottesville, VA, United States
31. Monticello
One of the most daring activities in Charlottesville, Virginia, for all ages is a visit to Monticello, the four-decade plantation residence of the Founding Father Thomas Jefferson.
The estate showcases Jefferson’s well-planned Palladian palace, complete with an octagonal dome, expansive gardens, and a working plantation with distinctive modifications.
A trip to Monticello allows visitors to experience the plantation lifestyle, learn about Thomas Jefferson’s ideas and life, and admire the stunning grounds.
Address: 1050 Monticello Loop, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.