Relaxing in Charlottesville, VA in 3 Days

• Day 1: Visit the Monticello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the life and accomplishments of Thomas Jefferson. Afterward, head over to the Virginia Discovery Museum for a fun and interactive learning experience. End your day with a relaxing evening at the Boar's Head Resort, complete with a luxurious spa and picturesque views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
• Day 2: Begin your day with a peaceful stroll through the University of Virginia's Rotunda and Lawn, designed by Thomas Jefferson himself. For lunch, enjoy a delicious meal at the Bodo's Bagels or the South Street Brewery. Spend your afternoon with a visit to the Carter Mountain Orchard, an apple orchard with stunning views and fresh fruits to pick. End your day at the Jefferson Theater, a historic venue that hosts a variety of concerts and events.
• Day 3: Start your last day with a coffee and some pastries at Mudhouse Coffee. Then explore the Downtown Mall, filled with unique shops, restaurants and art galleries. Have a picnic and enjoy the sun at the McIntire Amphitheatre. End the day with a scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Parkway and a delicious dinner at the Clifton Inn Restaurant.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Monticello (3 hours, $28)
• Virginia Discovery Museum (2 hours, $10)
• Boar's Head Resort (4 hours spa package, $300)
• University of Virginia's Rotunda and Lawn (1 hour, free)
• Bodo's Bagels or South Street Brewery (1.5 hours, $20)
• Carter Mountain Orchard (2 hours, $15 per person for a bag of apples)
• Jefferson Theater (3 hours, $20 per ticket)
• Mudhouse Coffee (1 hour, $10)
• Downtown Mall (2 hours, varies based on spending)
• McIntire Amphitheatre (1 hour, free)
• Blue Ridge Parkway (2 hours, free)
• Clifton Inn Restaurant (2 hours, $50 per person for dinner)
Total Estimated Costs: $468

Transportation

Charlottesville offers several transportation options, including buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft. For those who prefer to drive, rental cars are also available at the Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport. It is important to note that parking is limited in some areas, so plan accordingly. Travel costs will vary based on the mode of transportation chosen.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Shenandoah National Park or the James Monroe's Highland. If you have less time, skip some of the indoor museums and allocate more time to outdoor activities, such as hiking or picnicking. Remember to dress comfortably and bring sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of snacks and water.

Airports

The Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (CHO) is located about 9 miles from downtown Charlottesville. The airport is served by several major airlines, including American, Delta, and United, and offers nonstop flights to several destinations in the United States, such as New York City, Chicago, and Atlanta.