Charlottesville’s rich cultural and natural history is celebrated by a selection of top-notch museums, galleries, musical venues, shops, restaurants, outdoor destinations and wineries.
Enjoy five of our favorite autumnal activities to complete your perfect fall getaway in Charlottesville!
1) University of Virginia Grounds and Monticello
For the historically inclined out there, you’re in luck! The Charlottesville area is brimming with exciting places that have each played a unique role in the history of our nation.
The original Grounds of the University, designed by Thomas Jefferson are still in use today! Grab a sandwich from Take it Away on UVA’s corner, pack a blanket and relax in Jefferson’s “Academical Village.” It’s one of our favorite places to see fall foliage at its finest!
While in C’ville, be sure to check out TJ’s mountaintop home, Monticello. Tour his home, and the surrounding gardens and plantations while learning about the rich history from expert guides.
2) Carter Mountain Orchard
Nothing says fall like a mug of steaming apple cider.
Visit Carter Mountain Orchard and pick your own apples while overlooking panoramic mountain views.
Stop in the gift shop for the most divine apple cider donut you’ve ever had.
3) Blue Ridge Hiking
Tangles of scenic, winding mountain trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway await the outdoor enthusiasts of Charlottesville.
Perhaps the best representation of the natural beauty found so readily throughout the greater Charlottesville area is Humpback Rocks.
Emerge from the Humpback trail to sweeping views of Charlottesville and Piedmont; bring a picnic to enjoy with friends and you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world. We recommend packing cider from your afternoon at Carter’s Mountain for a warming beverage on the mountaintop.
4) Pippin Hill Farm and Vineyards
For a relaxing afternoon tasting signature wine pairings with seasonal foods, look no further than our Tasting Room just minutes from Charlottesville.
Enjoy our locally crafted wine at our hand-carved bar or on the covered stone terrace overlooking the vineyard and extensive valley views.
Inside our bistro-style seating area, nosh on fall favorites from our ever-evolving seasonal menu including Roasted Kuri Squash Tortellini and Warm Honeycrisp Apple Crumble.
Oh, and get excited – Pizzas from our wood burning oven will return at the end of October! Stay tuned.
5) Dinner at Red Pump Tuscan Kitchen
For the gourmande’s of the world… We strongly urge you to stick around for a quality dining experience.
New to the downtown mall is Red Pump Tuscan Kitchen, a little piece of Italy right here in C’ville.
The restaurant offers an Italian and Mediterranean menu featuring a classic wood-burning oven. The food is exquisite, and some may argue, the ambiance even better. Chic, romantic and hip, it’s the perfect space to cozy up with friends and family this fall.
Photo Credit:
Photo 1: The Univeristy of Virginia, Photo 2: Darden School, Univeristy of Virginia, Photo 3: UVA Magazine, Photo 4: Virginia,org, Photo 5: Jen Fariello, Photo 6: Shannon Gillen for Red Pump Tuscan Kitchen
