Immerse Yourself in Charlottesville Culture

• Jefferson's Monticello - Explore the home and garden of one of America's Founding Fathers, Thomas Jefferson. Learn about his life and legacy as well as the history of the estate. (3 hours)
• Virginia Discovery Museum - Enjoy a hands-on educational experience at this children's museum. Exhibits include water play, a farm-to-market adventure, and a STEM lab. (2 hours)
• The Rotunda at the University of Virginia - Visit the iconic centerpiece of the University of Virginia, designed by Thomas Jefferson himself. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the building and the university. (1 hour)
• Charlottesville Historic Downtown Mall - Wander through this pedestrian mall filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Check out local art galleries, bookstores, and theaters. (2 hours)
• Ash Lawn-Highland - Discover the home of another American Founding Father, James Monroe. Take a guided tour of the property to learn about his life and presidency as well as the history of the estate. (2 hours)
• Carter Mountain Orchard - Experience the flavors of Virginia on this family-owned and operated farm. Pick your own apples and peaches, sample local wines and ciders, and take in stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. (2 hours)

Time and Costs Estimates

• Jefferson's Monticello (3 hours, $28)
• Virginia Discovery Museum (2 hours, $8)
• The Rotunda at the University of Virginia (1 hour, Free)
• Charlottesville Historic Downtown Mall (2 hours, varies)
• Ash Lawn-Highland (2 hours, $18)
• Carter Mountain Orchard (2 hours, varies by activity)
Total Estimated Costs: $52-$70

Transportation

Public transportation options in Charlottesville are limited, so a car or bike rental is recommended. Parking is available at most locations, but may be limited during peak times such as weekends and holidays. Travel time between locations can range from 5-40 minutes, depending on traffic and location proximity.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider taking a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway or hiking in Shenandoah National Park. For a taste of local cuisine, visit the Charlottesville City Market on Saturdays or the Crozet Artisan Depot on Sundays. If you have less time, prioritize visits to Jefferson's Monticello and the University of Virginia's Rotunda as they are the most historically significant sites.

Airports

Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (CHO) is the nearest airport to Charlottesville, located 8 miles from the city center. Other nearby airports include Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport (SHD) in Weyers Cave, Virginia, and Richmond International Airport (RIC) in Richmond, Virginia.