A Cultural Immersion Trip to Charlottesville, VA

• Day 1: Visit the Thomas Jefferson's Monticello mansion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn about Jefferson's life and impact on American history while exploring his stunning home and gardens (2-3 hours). Afterward, head to the Virginia Discovery Museum, a hands-on children's museum featuring interactive exhibits related to art, science, and culture of Virginia (1-2 hours).
• Day 2: Start your day with a visit to the University of Virginia Rotunda, designed by Thomas Jefferson himself. Take a guided tour to explore the intricate architecture of this historic site (1-2 hours). Then continue on to the Fralin Museum of Art, collections that display American and European art, contemporary art, Ancient Mediterranean Art, and other fine art (1-2 hours). End your second day by visiting the Downtown Mall and local shops.
• Day 3: Spend a day outdoors immersed in nature at the Shenandoah National Park. Explore the vibrant fall colors of the Blue Ridge Mountains and go on a scenic drive along the park's winding roads (4-6 hours).

Time and Costs Estimates

• Thomas Jefferson's Monticello (2-3 hours, $30-40)
• Virginia Discovery Museum (1-2 hours, $10-15)
• University of Virginia Rotunda Tour (1-2 hours, $10-20)
• Fralin Museum of Art (1-2 hours, FREE)
• Shenandoah National Park (4-6 hours, $35-40)
• Total Estimated Costs: $85-135

Transportation

The most convenient way to get around Charlottesville is by car or by Uber. However, visitors can also use the Charlottesville Free Trolley or the CAT bus system. The Shenandoah National Park is only accessible by car and is a couple of hours away from Charlottesville.

Useful tips

If you have more time, try visiting the Michie Tavern and attend one of their historic foodways programs. You can also visit Carter Mountain Orchard to pick apples and see the vibrant orchard scenery. If you have less time, consider combining Monticello with the University of Virginia Rotunda tour, or skipping the Fralin Museum of Art.

Airports

Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (CHO) is the main airport in Charlottesville and is 10 miles from downtown.