We liked the idea of a destination wedding, but why go all the way to Mexico when there is a great destination nearby? Charlottesville is a beautiful part of the country with tons to see and do, and we hope you'll take advantage of it all while you're there!
Things to see and do in and around Charlottesville...
Historical sites: The must-see in the area is Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello (allow a good two hours to tour the site). The University of Virginia was founded by Jefferson and houses the Rotunda that he designed. Also nearby is James Madison’s home at Montpelier. (This is actually just down the road from the wedding venue) and James Monroe's home at Highland.
Nature sites: To the west of Charlottesville the Shenandoah Mountains transition into the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you go to the northwest you can drive along Shenandoah Park’s Skyline Drive and if you head to the southwest this transitions into the Blue Ridge Parkway. One of the highlights for hiking nearby is Humpback Rocks. For those with kids in town (or who just love great apples), Carter Mountain Orchard let's you pick your own apples or buy them buy the bushel!
Wineries: This part of Virginia has some beautiful wineries, many of whom also serve good wine! Our favorite in the area is Barboursville, which is just outside of town. Other good wineries in the area include Barren Ridge, Blenheim, Early Mountain, King Family, and Veritas. If you're really adventuresome, you can also try 'American Style' ciders at Castle Hill Cider.
Arts and Culture: As the home of the Dave Matthews Band (don't lie, you know you like them), Charlottesville has a lot of live music venues and a pedestrian only downtown with galleries and shops that's definitely worth a stroll. If you want some more highbrow art, there's the Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection at UVA, as well as the contemporary Les Yeux de Monde gallery a little bit out of town.
Check out the red icons on this map for more things to see and do in the area!