31 Best & Fun Things To Do in Charlottesville, VA
Are you searching for fun activities in Charlottesville, Virginia? Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this guide features 31 best and fun things to do to make the most of your time in this charming city.
Nestled in the heart of Central Virginia, Charlottesville is renowned for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural beauty. As the home of the University of Virginia and the historic estates of Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe, this city offers a unique blend of academic excellence and historical significance.
Charlottesville, often called “C’ville” by locals, boasts a plethora of entertaining and educational opportunities. From exploring the bustling Downtown Mall to hiking the scenic trails of Shenandoah National Park, this picturesque city ensures that every visitor can find something to enjoy and remember.
31 Best & Fun Things To Do in Charlottesville, VA (2024)
1. Monticello
Visiting Monticello, a four-decade plantation home of Founding Father Thomas Jefferson is one of the adventurous things to do in Charlottesville, VA, for everyone.
The estate puffs Jefferson’s neatly designed mansion in the Palladian fashion, featuring an octagonal dome, large gardens, and a functional plantation with notable variations.
An adventure to Monticello permits adventurers to explore Jefferson’s life and perceptions, his architectural masterwork, life on the plantation, and watch the beautiful gardens.
Address: 1050 Monticello Loop, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
2. University of Virginia 
The University of Virginia is an esteemed public research university recognized for its notable campus designed by Thomas Jefferson and its capacity to provide educational things to do in Charlottesville, VA, for all ages.
The university prides itself on a substantial academic prestige, presenting different undergraduate and graduate programs across varied fields of study, including arts, sciences, engineering, law, and medicine.
Visiting the University of Virginia presents you with a historic campus, experiencing dynamic student life, meeting an outstanding faculty, and getting absorbed into a brimming academic and cultural environment.
Address: Charlottesville, VA, United States
3. Trump Winery
Find unique things to do in Charlottesville, VA, for adults at Trump Winery, an exclusive winery recognized for its extensive vineyards, grand facilities, and production of top-notch wines.
The winery possesses astonishing views, a magnificent taproom, a pleasing dining restaurant, and lodgings at the Albemarle Estate, and gives mixed wine adventures like tours, tastings, and events.
At Trump Winery, Adults can taste one-of-a-kind wines, take delectable cuisine, examine the exquisite sites, and share in the majesty of a grand wine country estate.
Address: 385 Albemarle House Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
4. Carter Mountain Orchard
Touring Carter Mountain Orchard, a family-owned farm with periodic fruit picking, a country store, a bakery, and spectacular vistas of the Charlottesville valley, is among the adventurous things to do in Charlottesville, VA, today.
The orchard’s primary features are pick-your-own fruit adventures, different baked goods, a country store with local merchandise, and sensational picturesque terrain.
Explorers at Carter Mountain Orchard are promised the chance to relish fresh, seasonal produce, engage in tasty fares, get soaked in nature, and make endless memories with loved ones.
Address: 1435 Carters Mountain Trail, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States
5. James Monroe’s Highland
Paying a visit to James Monroe’s Highland, an outstanding manor and museum, a one-time abode of the fifth President of the United States, James Monroe is a must-do activity for visitors in Charlottesville, VA.
The highland features habilitated outbuildings, a reconstructed central house, greens, and exhibits showing Monroe’s life and presidency.
Scour the life of a Founding Father, learn about the history of the United States, and share in the beauty of a reformed farmstead terrain.
Address: 2050 James Monroe Parkway, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
6. The Glass Palette
Release your inner artist at The Glass Palette, a hands-on glass art studio that makes room for exciting things to do in Charlottesville, VA, for all ages.
The main features of this studio include available studio time for making your glass art, glass and supply sales, and glass art tutorials.
At The Glass Palette, you can unleash your internal artist by producing outstanding glass artwork, learning new glassworking methods, and bringing home an extraordinary work of art.
Address: 1304 E Market Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
7. Saunders-Monticello Trail
Taking a stroll on Saunders-Monticello Trail, an unrestricted trail with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains should make your list of free things to do in Charlottesville, VA, this evening.
Spanning 4.3 miles, the trail has paved, crushed cinder, boardwalk paths, a picturesque pond, and a greenhouse as it oversees the Monticello estate
Relish the chance to go hiking, running, walking, or cycling while basking in nature, taking in lovely views, and surveying the history of Thomas Jefferson and Monticello.
Address: 503 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
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8. Historic Downtown Mall
Shopping at The Historic Downtown Mall, a lively pedestrian-only street blazing with significant buildings, shopping, dining, and entertainment options, is among the best things to do in Charlottesville, VA, this weekend.
The mall provides an array of special shops, and restaurants with open-air seating, art galleries, theaters, and public spaces like Emancipation Park.
Get the option to marvel at the distinctive architecture, appreciate delectable food, find local art, witness a live performance, and absorb yourself in the vibrant ambiance of a booming city center.
Address: E Main Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
9. The Paramount Theater
Catching a view of live performances and films at The Paramount Theater, an iconic movie court converted performing arts center, is an entertaining thing to do in Charlottesville, VA, at night.
The theater offers incredible Art Deco architecture, premium acoustics, and a rich history as a community gathering destination.
Families, couples, individuals, and friends can encounter first-rate live performances, get dipped in the structural magnificence, and partake in a bustling cultural setting.
Address: 215 E Main Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
10. Mulberry Row
Experience historical things to do in Charlottesville, VA, for everyone at Mulberry Row, the core of Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello farmstead and a one-time vibrant community of enslaved and free persons.
With revamped buildings, archaeological areas, and interpretive displays, the 500-acre treasure gives insights into the everyday lives of those who lived and labored there.
Mulberry Row equips visitors with a strong chance to examine the intricate history of slavery in America and immerse in stories of people who lived on the farmstead.
Address: Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
11. City Market
City Market is Charlottesville’s oldest outdoor market providing a plethora of cheap things to do in Charlottesville, VA, in the summer.
The commercial hub presents a collection of fresh produce, handcrafted items, baked goods, coffee, and different traditional foods.
Partake in the lively local community, eat fresh and tasty food, uncover distinctive handwrought items, and absorb yourself in the enchanting aura of Charlottesville.
Address: 100 E Water Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
12. Ragged Branch Distillery
Ragged Branch Distillery is a family-held distillery famed for its standard production of exceptional whiskey and fun things to do in Charlottesville, VA, for adults.
The distillery boasts a comfortable taproom with whiskey samplings, acquainted staff, and gorgeous scenic sights of the nearby countryside.
Friends can appreciate the option to soak themselves in a distinct world of whiskey-making, savor premium spirits, and relish the peaceful standout of the Virginia countryside.
Address: 1015 Taylors Gap Road, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
13. Virginia Discovery Museum
Exploring the Virginia Discovery Museum, an interactive children’s museum is an educational activity for kids in Charlottesville, VA.
The museum brags hands-on exhibits covering arts, sciences, humanities, history, and nature, allowing families with kids to learn and play together.
Address: 524 E Main Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
14. Ivy Creek Natural Area
Find fun activities for nature lovers in Charlottesville, VA, at Ivy Creek Natural Area, a conservatory offering habitats like upland woods, pine stands, meadows, streams, and shorelines.
The 219-acre sprawling area features over 7 miles of walking trails suitable for hiking, birdwatching, and nature observation.
An adventure to Ivy Creek Natural Area guarantees the possibility of escaping the city, basking in nature, taking peaceful walks, and watching various wildlife species in their natural habitat.
Address: 1780 Earlysville Road, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
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15. MoGuffey Art Center
Art lovers can stop by The McGuffey Art Center, a significant artist-managed establishment to enjoy fun things to do with family in Charlottesville, VA.
Nestled within a school building, the center shelters over 45 artists and provides studio spaces, presentation galleries, and diverse art classes and workshops.
Marvel at the work of regional artists, partake in creative workshops and get a grip on Charlottesville’s dynamic arts community.
Address: 201 2nd Street NW, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
16. The Corner
Unearth fun, educational, and entertaining things to do at The Corner, a resonant district grounded around the University of Virginia campus.
The district prides itself on a different blend of shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment destinations catering to students, visitors, and locals.
The Corner presents a vigorous ambiance, and options for shopping, dining, and exploring the crux of Charlottesville’s student way of life.
Address: 1501 University Avenue, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
17. John Paul Jones Arena
Enjoy live matches and other entertaining things to do in Charlottesville, VA, for all ages at John Paul Jones Arena, a multi-functional stadium owned by the University of Virginia.
Serving as the home court for the Virginia Cavaliers men’s and women’s basketball teams, the stadium organizes concerts and other events with modern facilities for athletes and fans.
Encounter the exhilaration of college basketball tournaments, appreciate live music concerts, and participate in other recreation events.
Address: 295 Massie Road, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
18. Chris Green Lake Park
Chris Green Lake Park is a county park with a 53-acre lake encircled by forested rolling hills to cater to fun things to do with family in Charlottesville, VA, today.
Sprawling 239 acres, the park features a swimming beach, boat launch, canoe/kayak rentals, disc golf course, dog park, fishing pier, picnic areas, playground, and hiking trails.
With a flair for promoting fun things to do with kids in Charlottesville, VA, the park makes room for swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, picnicking, playing with your dog, and enjoying nature.
Address: 4748 Chris Greene Lake Road, Charlottesville, VA 22911, United States.
19. Random Row Brewing Co
Random Row Brewing Co. is a locally-managed craft brewery famous for its fresh, directly-tapped beers, welcoming atmosphere, and other unique activities for adults in Charlottesville, VA.
The brewery possesses a changing preference for beers, an ample taproom with a beer green sense, a separate food truck area, and organizes different community occasions.
The opportunity to appreciate world-class, locally brewed craft beer, unwind in a friendly atmosphere, and engage in community events while relishing food truck treats is promised at Random Row Brewing Co.
Address: 608 Preston Avenue # A, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
20. Albemarle County
Visiting Albemarle County, a scenic area in the Piedmont area of Virginia, containing the city of Charlottesville and nearby countryside is one of the free things to do in Charlottesville, VA, this weekend.
This destination includes rolling hills, notable farmsteads, outstanding wineries, and closeness to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Stop by Albemarle County to dig into historic areas, satisfy with wine tasting, relish open-air activities such as hiking and biking, and experience the rich culture and history of the region.
Address: 401 McIntire Road, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
21. Bold Rock Center Mountain
Bold Rock Center Mountain is a cidery offering a diverse array of unique activities for adults to do in Charlottesville, VA, this evening.
The cidery gives stunning views of the nearby area, Bold Rock’s hard ciders on tap, and the opportunity to buy merchandise and homemade goods.
Visiting Bold Rock Center Mountain lets you relax with a cider, get soaked in the panoramic scenery, and enjoy apple-picking during the apple season.
Address: 1435 Carters Mountain Trail, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
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22. Unlocked History Escape Rooms
Discover thrilling activities for families in Charlottesville, VA, at Unlocked History Escape Rooms, an absorbing escape room adventure that mixes history and puzzles.
The escape attraction features three styled rooms “The British are Coming,” “The Raven,” and “The Allied Spy,” separately giving special puzzles, challenges, and historical backstories.
You can work with friends or family to unravel puzzles, discover clues, and exit the room within a time limitation while learning about notable events and personalities.
Address: 1717 Allied Lane, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States
23. Violet Crown Charlottesville
Violet Crown Charlottesville is a contemporary, separate cinema providing the most entertaining things to do in Charlottesville, VA, tonight.
The theater has relaxing seating, cutting-edge sound systems, and different films, like independent, foreign, and documentary features.
A Night at Violet Crown Charlottesville provides a memorable cinematic encounter, blending a love of film with a comfortable ambiance and the chance to uncover the latest thrilling movies.
Address: 200 W Main Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
24. MarieBette Café and Bakery
Checking out Marie Bette Café and Bakery, a fascinating cafe with European-style breakfast and lunch fare, and delicious cakes is one of the best things to do in Charlottesville, VA, every day.
The café offers a pleasant outdoor seating zone, a simple café area for relishing pastries and coffee, and a sit-down dining room for a complete breakfast, brunch, or lunch affair.
At MarieBette Café and Bakery, you can savor superb French-inspired cuisine, yield delectable pastries, and share in a friendly and alluring ambiance.
Address: 700 Rose Hill Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
25. Ting Pavilion
Ting Pavilion is an open-air music destination that makes room for entertaining activities in Charlottesville, VA, during the summer.
The pavilion is characterized by an ample lawn, exceptional seating, and a proficient stage, all located within walking span of restaurants and other attractions.
Enjoy live music, unwind on the lawn, survey downtown Charlottesville, and encounter the dynamic ambiance of a summer show.
Address: 700 E Main Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
26. Decades Arcade
Fun things to do with kids in Charlottesville, VA, await you at Decades Arcade, Central Virginia’s most extensive arcade with over 110 games from the 1950s to this day.
The arcade has an array of pinball machines, video games, arcade cabinets, and home consoles, available for free play.
Stopping by Decades Arcade pledges a reflective gaming adventure, permitting guests to absorb themselves in traditional and trendy games, contend with friends, or appreciate a fun and interactive expedition.
Address: 418 E Main Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
27. Bodo’s Bagel
Shopping at Bodo’s Bagels, a well-known local bagel shop with original New York-fashioned bagels should make your list of must-do things in Charlottesville, VA, this weekend.
This attraction offers freshly baked bagels, homemade cream cheeses, and tasty breakfast and lunch sandwiches, allowing you to grab a quick and enjoyable meal and taste New York-fashioned bagels.
Address: 1418 Emmet Street. (Rt. 29), Charlottesville, VA 22903, United States.
28. The Rotunda
Touring The Rotunda, a landmark and legendary building with historic significance at the University of Virginia is one of the adventurous things to do in Charlottesville, Virginia.
Developed by Thomas Jefferson, the manor is a neoclassical masterwork created after the Pantheon in Rome and acts as a sign of the university and Jeffersonian standards.
Checking the Rotunda shows a prospect to soak oneself in the structure’s history, survey exhibits displaying the university’s legacy, and encounter the core of the University of Virginia’s campus.
Address: 1826 University Avenue, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States.
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29. Regal Stonefield
Catch a view of the best blockbuster movies at Regal Stonefield, a movie theater complex offering the most entertaining things to do in Charlottesville, VA, at night.
The theater boasts multiple screens showing the latest releases, plush seating for relaxed viewing, and a concession stand for snacks and refreshing drinks.
As you explore Charlottesville, you can enjoy romantic things to do in Charlottesville, VA, for couples by seeing movies in a comfortable, convenient, and intimate setting.
Address: 1954 Swanson Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22901, United States.
30. IX Art Park
Are you searching for a bustling outdoor and sculpture park with blends of indoor things to do in Charlottesville, VA, this weekend? Search no further than IX Art Park.
The park has a colorful array of murals and sculptures and ‘The Looking Glass’, an absorbing art museum shows the work of over 25 local and regional artists in an engaging environment.
A visit to IX Art Park allows art lovers to explore a myriad of art, observe community events, unwind in an innovative environment, and share in the power of art.
Address: 522 2nd Street SE D, Charlottesville, VA 22902, United States.
31. Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park is a large natural treasure in the Blue Ridge Mountains with dazzling sceneries, lush forests, plentiful wildlife, and fun things to do in Charlottesville, VA, for family.
The park boasts Skyline Drive, a picturesque road meandering through the mountains, hundreds of miles of hiking trails, and flowing waterfalls, with a chance of camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
A visit to Shenandoah National Park offers a getaway from metropolis life, and events to reconnect with nature, probe different ecosystems, and make endless memories via outdoor experiences and peace.
Address: Highway 211 East, Virginia, United States.
Plan Your Visit to Charlottesville, VA
Charlottesville, Virginia is a picturesque city with adventures waiting to be discovered. From its rich historical heritage and vibrant arts scene to its stunning vineyards and welcoming atmosphere, there’s a plethora of fun and recreational activities to enjoy in this delightful city.
Plan your visit today and explore all the incredible attractions Charlottesville has to offer! Have an enjoyable trip.
