Spread over 5,000 acres (2023.428 hectares), Monticello is one of the most well-known attractions in the region. Designed and built by the third president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson himself, this courtly edifice is lodged on the fringes of Charlottesville. Monticello’s design was heavily influenced by elements of the Italian Renaissance architecture, while also featuring Neoclassical and Palladian architectural styles. Among other crops, the plantation saw the cultivation of wheat and tobacco on a large scale. Skirted by winding, unpaved paths and wide expanses of delightful gardens, Monticello sits in stark contrast, and yet blends in with its ethereal, verdant surrounds. Steeped deep in antiquity and a strong sense of presidential heritage, Monticello also doubles as a museum and a research institute. Built in 1772, and now governed by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation (TJF), Monticello is now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the longest pedestrian malls in the country, the Historic Downtown Mall is a must-visit during your time in the city. Not only does the mall boast of a number of stores catering to people of all ages and budgets, but one can also find a number of restaurants to satiate the appetite after a day spent shopping. An indoor ice skating rink and a discovery museum for children can also be found here, making Historic Downtown Mall a great place to spend some time with you family. Art galleries and theaters are also on-site, perfect for those who are culturally inclined. Whether you want to shop for goodies for your kitchen, or simply want to immerse yourself in the local culture, then a visit to the Historic Downtown certainly won’t disappoint.
The Virginia Discovery Museum is fully equipped with amenities and exhibits that contribute to the all-round development of kids. Through exhibits on educational facts regarding culture and people, stories, and poetry, it captures the imaginations of people belonging to all ages, as well as providing them with the privilege of seeing many interactive art displays. The Virginia Discovery Museum is also frequented for field-trips and educational outings with parents.
Home to the fifth president of the United States, James Monroe’s Ash Lawn is an historical estate spread over 535 acres (216.51 hectares). Boasting of various structures including a smokehouse, an ice house and a front porch, the historical house was built in 1799 and was even a flourishing plantation. Governed by the College of William and Mary, the alma mater of James Monroe, Ash Lawn is now a part of the National Register of Historic Places.
Founded by Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia was established in 1819 and is one of the only collegiates in the country to be designated a UNESCO world heritage site. Boasting of a student population that comprises of people from all over the United States as well as from more than 100 countries, the university is known for everything from academic records and research to athletics. Spread over 1682 acres (680.68 hectares), the university is not only a prominent landmark but also a must-visit during your time in the city.
A historical art school, the McGuffey Art Center is well-known all over the city for its contemporary art exhibitions by local artists as well as the numerous talks held from time to time. Not only do visitors get the chance to glimpse and even rent artworks by artists like Dominique Anderson, Judy McLeod and Rebekah Wostrel, but the art center also organizes a number of events and even summer camps for budding artists. If you are still wondering about whether you should head to this artsy corner, know that the McGuffey Art Center boasts of three galleries, guided tours and workshops among other facilities.
Enjoy gorgeous views, take in the fresh summer breeze and relish recently plucked fruits at the Carter Mountain Orchard. Wine shops selling local wines made from freshly cultivated grapes and a country store stocked up on everything from jams to local handicrafts, ensures that any grocery or home decor items can be shopped from here. Musical events also take place here through the summer while the Carter Mountain Orchard also plays host to fun events like Easter Egg Hunt, Apple Harvest Celebration and the Peach Festival.
Deep in the Shenandoah River valley, wild landscapes forged by the Blue Ridge mountains rise and fall in dramatic intervals, even as the crisp mountain air comes alive with dulcet birdsong. This is the untamed beauty of the Shenandoah National Park, a state treasure lanced by backcountry hiking trails, breathtaking driving paths, and a vibrant wildlife. The park centers around the soaring beauty of Hawksbill Mountain, which is its highest peak at 4,050 feet (1234.44 meters). Around the mountaintops, a captivating scenery unfolds as per nature's myriad whims, ranging from a billion-year-old rocky terrain, to waterfalls of various shapes, sizes, and cascades. Under a canopy of oak and chestnut trees thrives an incredible wildlife consisting of animals like the black bear and the white-tailed deer. Those who hike through the park's enchanting trails are guaranteed a sight of the undulating mountains in the distance as they stand encircled by a mystical shade of blue.
Since its establishment in 1912, Jefferson Theater has hosted a variety of events ranging from silent movies to live musicals. After a complete make-over and renovation, it re-opened in 2007 to entertain the audience once again. The decor has a modern touch that manages to retain its original charm, modern acoustics that will thrill attendees, and lighting equipment that promises high-quality entertainment. Located in the Historic Downtown Mall, Jefferson Theater has two fully stocked bars where you can enjoy pre-theater drinks.
The Jefferson Vineyards are as famous for its history as they are for their wines. The sprawling vineyards are planted on the land which were bought by Italian physician and friend of Thomas Jefferson, Philip Mazzei in the 18th Century. The vineyards are famous for its Petit Verdot, Viognier, Meritage etc. among many other varietals. A must-visit, the vineyards are perfect for a romantic afternoon.