play stroll shop savor explore feast journey visit where tradition is always new. stay play shop eat From the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains to the rolling countryside, Albemarle County is filled with history. Horse farms and vineyards crisscross the landscape. The homes of three great presidents— Jefferson (01) , Madison, and Monroe—remain beautifully preserved. At its heart, lie the picturesque city of Charlottesville and the University of Virginia, one of the nation’s great public universities and a world- renowned architectural masterpiece. But the past is only part of the story. Stroll on the Historic Downtown Mall any day of the week and you will experience a thriving community: referred to as a foodie destination with over 30 world-class restaurants, and more than 120 unique shops, various hotels, live music, theater, art, and sports. Charlottesville and Albemarle County VA, cited time and again as one of the best places to live in America, is a place where tradition is always new. visitcharlottesville.org SECTION I PAGE 2 HISTORY & MORE SECTION II PAGE 6 OUTDOOR RECREATION SECTION III PAGE 8 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT SECTION IV PAGE 10 FESTIVALS, ARTS & CULTURE SECTION V PAGE 12 AGRI-ARTISANS & WINERIES SECTION VI PAGE 14 LOCAL FOOD & DINING SECTION VII PAGE 16 SHOPS & CENTERS SECTION VIII PAGE 18 LODGING & B&BS SECTION IX PAGE 22 GETTING AROUND 01
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play
stroll
shop
savor
explore
feast
journey
visit where tradition is always new.
stay play shop eat
From the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains to the rolling countryside, Albemarle County is filled with history. Horse farms and vineyards crisscross the landscape. The homes of three great presidents—Jefferson (01), Madison, and
Monroe—remain beautifully preserved. At its heart, lie the picturesque city of Charlottesville and the University of Virginia, one of the nation’s great public universities and a world-renowned architectural masterpiece.
But the past is only part of the story. Stroll on the Historic Downtown Mall any day of the week and you will experience a thriving community: referred to as a foodie destination with over 30 world-class restaurants,
and more than 120 unique shops, various hotels, live music, theater, art, and sports. Charlottesville and Albemarle County VA, cited time and again as one of the best places to live in America, is a place where tradition is always new.
visitcharlottesville.org
SECTION IPAGE 2 HISTORY & MORE
SECTION IIPAGE 6 OUTDOOR RECREATION
SECTION IIIPAGE 8 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
SECTION IVPAGE 10 FESTIVALS, ARTS & CULTURE
SECTION VPAGE 12 AGRI-ARTISANS & WINERIES
SECTION VIPAGE 14LOCAL FOOD & DINING
SECTION VIIPAGE 16 SHOPS & CENTERS
SECTION VIIIPAGE 18 LODGING & B&BS
SECTION IXPAGE 22 GETTING AROUND
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discover where tradition is always new.
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The spirit of Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence, third president of the United States, founder of the University of Virginia, architect, philosopher, farmer, and viticulturist, permeates Albemarle County. His ingeniously designed home, Monticello (01), and neoclassical Rotunda and grounds of the University of Virginia are internationally acclaimed destinations, designated as World Heritage Sites by the United Nations.
A short drive will transport you to the distinctive and very different homes of two
other Founding Fathers. Ash Lawn-Highland (02), home to America’s fifth president, James Monroe, is restored as an 18th-century working farm. Learn about the lives of the president’s family, as well as the many other residents of the plantation since 1799, including the Massey family and African-American slaves and servants. The nation’s fourth president, James Madison, lived at the elegant Montpelier (03), where he developed the framework for America’s Constitution.
Along the way, travelers can enjoy a typical Colonial midday meal at the historic Michie Tavern, ca. 1784 (04).
IHISTORY & MORE
04
03Visit Monticello’s newest exhibition, Landscape of Slavery: Mulberry Row at Monticello, featuring outdoor mini-exhibitions at key sites augmented by computer animation and website.
prespassport.monticello.org
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HISTORY & MORE (CONTINUED)
explore where tradition is always new.
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The area’s world-class historic sites should not be missed, but you can find history around almost every corner. Centuries ago, Main Street was a Monacan Indian hunting path. It now connects the University of Virginia (01), where the Rotunda (02) was built by artisans and African-American slaves, to Downtown (03). Today, Main Street is laced with historic architecture, picturesque parks, statuary, and plaques illuminating figures from the region’s past: Jack Jouett, the Paul Revere of Virginia; Lewis and
Clark; Stonewall Jackson; and Robert E. Lee. See the courthouse in Court Square (04), which has remained in continuous use for more than 200 years, frequented by Presidents Jefferson, Madison, and Monroe. The Jefferson School African American Heritage Center (05), listed in the National Register of Historic Places, sheds light on the story of education for African Americans in Virginia. Thomas Jefferson is honored on the grounds at the University of Virginia, but so is Edgar Allan Poe,
whose room on the Lawn is preserved. Further afield, in Scottsville, take the Hatton Ferry across the James River, the last poled ferry still operating in the United States.
In 2009, a 180-mile-long route stretching from Monticello to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, was
designated a National Scenic Byway, called “The Journey Through Hallowed Ground.” According to the late historian C. Vann Woodward, the scenic landscape has “soaked up more of the blood, sweat, and tears of American history than any other part of the country.”
WALK OUR 8-BLOCK HISTORIC Downtown—one of the longest pedestrian malls in the U.S.
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visitcharlottesville.org/EXPLORE
Albemarle County is nestled within a spectacular natural landscape, and miles of hiking trails—Saunders-Monticello, Rivanna, Ivy Creek, and Ragged Mountain—showcase central Virginia’s native beauty.
Nearby, the Shenandoah National Park features some of the nation’s most beautiful wilderness. The
Skyline Drive, which runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is dotted with breathtaking vistas. And the park’s 500 miles of hiking trails reveal cascading waterfalls and refreshingly-cold swimming holes; all along the park you’ll find secluded wooded hollows and wide open meadows, teeming with plants and wildlife.
For outdoor adventurers, the possibilities are endless: kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, cycling, horseback riding, camping, hot air ballooning, and skydiving are all within reach. Fishing or tubing along the gentle James River is a favorite summer pastime, while our winters offer first-rate skiing, and golfers enjoy local courses year round.
IIOUTDOOR
RECREATION
play where tradition is always new.
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The Skyline Drive rides the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains for 105 MILES through Shenandoah National Park, and joins the Blue Ridge Parkway, which connects Shenandoah to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.visitcharlottesville.org/PLAY
The vibrant scene is fed by the city’s unique range of venues: from the 3,500-seat nTelos Wireless Pavilion (01) to the state-of-the-art John Paul Jones Arena (02). Critically acclaimed artists play every night of the week at intimate spaces, like the Jefferson Theater and Southern Music Hall.
Nationally touring dance, music, theater, and comedy acts perform at the majestic Paramount Theatre (03), and the U.Va. and Piedmont Virginia Community College auditoriums. Many local companies—Ash Lawn Opera, the Heritage Theater Festival, the
Charlottesville & University Symphony Orchestra, Live Arts, Oratorio Society of Virginia—have been performing for decades.
The visual arts scene stretches from the artist studios at McGuffey Art Center to cutting-edge contemporary shows at Second Street Gallery (04) to U.Va.’s Fralin Museum of Art. The Kluge-Ruhe Collection is the only museum in the United States dedicated to Australian Aboriginal art. And for families, the Virginia Discovery Museum is a hands-on children’s museum with exhibits that engage the mind.
enjoy where tradition is always new.
IIIARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
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01
visitcharlottesville.org/ENJOY
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When it comes to booking musical talent, Charlottesville competes with the greatest cities in the world. Lady Gaga, U2, Jay-Z, and Bruce Springsteen have all stopped by recently. And hometown fave Dave Matthews regularly plays sold-out shows.
02
03 04
experience where tradition is always new.
IVFESTIVALS,
ARTS & CULTURE
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02
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From national-caliber festivals to local celebrations, Charlottesville hosts events year round.
LOOK3 Festival of the Photograph (01) brings together world-renowned photographers, exhibits and workshops. The Virginia Festival of the Book showcases lectures and readings by best-selling authors; and the TomTom Founders Festival (02) brings
together music with art, design, and technology, and connects people while inspiring innovation. The Virginia Film Festival (03) features world premieres, historic screenings, competitions, and celebrity hobnobbing.
Historic Garden Week celebrates the region’s rich gardening traditions. The Taste of Monticello Wine Festival (04) and Monticello Heritage Harvest
Festival celebrate local agriculture. And there is nothing like the County Fair or Dogwood Festival for old-fashioned fun. Twice a year, people flock to the Foxfield Races (05), a premier steeplechase event.
For information on tickets to area festivals, concerts, and events, contact or visit the Visitor Information Center on the Downtown Mall.
Each year, the Virginia Film Festival features more than 70 screenings. Guest artists have included Sandra Bullock, Anthony Hopkins, Oliver Stone, Sigourney Weaver, and local resident Sissy Spacek.
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visitcharlottesville.org/EXPERIENCE
VAGRI-ARTISANS
& WINERIES
Scenic drives through Albemarle County are unlike anywhere else in the country, with miles of gentle roads winding over hills and low mountains, opening suddenly to dramatic vistas of open space. And around any given corner you may discover a vineyard or orchard, gallery or brewpub. The website Go Green Travel Green named Charlottesville and Albemarle County VA the top spot in the country for agritourism.
savor where tradition is always new.
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Family-run orchards and farms invite families to make memories among rows of strawberries, peaches, apples, and pumpkins. Follow one of the many driving trails to discover an abundance of treasures that are grown and made right here. The Monticello Artisan Trail features artists, galleries, and workshops. The Jefferson Heritage Trail honors the
area’s first winemaker—Thomas Jefferson—highlighting the vineyards now dotting the route between his two homes, Monticello and Poplar Forest. Experience the cider revival firsthand at six of our local artisanal cideries. And the Brew Ridge Trail, featuring a half dozen breweries, celebrates Virginia craft beer. Its motto: More Breweries than Stop Lights.
With an eclectic mix of restaurants, local vineyards, and mountain trails nearby, it’s no wonder this region was voted one of the TOP 10 WINE VACATION destinations in the world by Wine Enthusiast Magazine.
visitcharlottesville.org/SAVOR
VILOCAL FOOD & DINING
Charlottesville has more restaurants than most cities twice its size. In USA Today/Rand McNally’s recent “Best of the Road” competition, it was named runner up in the “Best for Food” category. Farm-to-table is the new mantra and many restaurants showcase the region’s abundant agriculture.
Forbes Magazine cited the city as a top spot for locavores.
Food lovers take note: some of Albemarle County’s best eats aren’t found in typical restaurants. The “hidden kitchens” in country stores, farm stands, food trucks, carts, and gas stations sell some of the area’s most celebrated cuisine.
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visitcharlottesville.org/FEAST
Forbes Magazine cited the city as the LOCAVORE CAPITAL of the world.
feast where tradition is always new.
Seasonally, the producers-only City Market includes crafts, artisanal foods, and fresh fruits and vegetables on Saturday mornings. Stretching toward
the University, West Main Street and The Corner complete Charlottesville’s mix of independent retailers. Venture out into Ivy for antiques.
At the other end of the spectrum,
the Barracks Road Shopping Center offers 80 distinctive shops, boutiques, and restaurants, all linked with walkways dotted with fountains and trees. Fashion Square Mall includes
familiar shops for clothes, beauty, toys, and more. Seminole Square, Albemarle Square, Pantops, and Stonefield shopping centers feature a variety of groceries and goods.
VIISHOPS &CENTERS
shop where tradition is always new.
The Historic Downtown Mall—a tree-lined, 8-block, pedestrian walkway—is home to more than 120 shops, most independently owned.
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The “Buy Local” movement isn’t just about food. Charlottesville features more than 120 LOCALLY OWNED boutiques, galleries, and antique shops.
visitcharlottesville.org/SHOP
LODGING ADDRESS CITY WEBSITE PRIMARY PHONE RESTAURANT
The 10th Street Bed and Breakfast 339 10th Street N.W. Charlottesville 10thstbandb.com (434) 981-8570
200 South Street Inn 200 West South Street Charlottesville southstreetinn.com (434) 979-0200
Affordable Suites of America 524 Harris Road Charlottesville affordablesuites.com/affordablesuites-charlottesville-hotel (434) 984-9020
Alexander House Inn & Hostel 1205 Monticello Road Charlottesville alexanderhouse.us (434) 327-6447
Omni Charlottesville Hotel 235 West Main Street Charlottesville omnihotels.com (434) 971-5500
Quality Inn University Area 1600 Emmet Street Charlottesville qualityinn.com (434) 971-3746
Red Carpet Inn 405 Premier Circle Charlottesville n/a (434) 973-8133
Red Roof Inn 1309 West Main Street Charlottesville redroof.com (434) 295-4333
Residence Inn by Marriott 1111 Millmont Street Charlottesville marriott.com (434) 923-0300
Rooster Hill Bed and Breakfast 5864 Wyant Lane Charlottesville roosterhillbb.com (434) 260-0064
The Silver Thatch Inn 3001 Hollymead Drive Charlottesville silverthatch.com (434) 978-4686
Sleep Inn & Suites Monticello 1185 5th Street S.W. Charlottesville sleepinn.com (434) 244-9969
Super 8 Motel 390 Greenbrier Drive Charlottesville super8.com (434) 973-0888
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Five-star luxury? Quaint comfort? Downtown chic? Rural charm? Whatever your style, Charlottesville has a range of unique and unforgettable hotels, inns, and resorts.
visitcharlottesville.org /STAYFREE BREAKFAST
PETS ALLOWED
HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE
WIRELESS INTERNET
EXERCISE ROOM
MEETING SPACE RATE TOTAL
ROOMS DESCRIPTION
$100-189 106 Where warm welcomes and relaxing stays are a fine tradition
$100-189 120 Spacious guest rooms close to area attractions, U.Va., and local companies
$190+ 5 Relaxing and only minutes away from wineries, mountains, Monticello, and U.Va.
$100-189 100 Walking distance to U.Va. and Historic Downtown
$100-189 123 Conveniently located off of US 29N in Seminole Square Shopping Center
$190+ 7 Farmhouse charm, boho-chic, modern amenities, and fabulous sheets
$100-189 124 Convenient to Monticello, U.Va., local attractions, complimentary shuttle
$100-189 132 Exemplary Southern hospitality with convenience, comfort, and consistency
$100-189 170 Adjacent to The Shops at Stonefield/ IMAX Theater and more
$159-209 137 Opening Sept. 2013—Charlottesville’s newest hotel located at the Shops at Stonefield
$190+ 5 Beautiful, upscale, Historic Downtown inn
$190+ 9 Oldest existing house in downtown Charlottesville—A beautifully restored inn
$100-189 6 Ideally located to U.Va., Monticello, brewpubs, and cideries
$100-189 180 On U.Va. grounds—home for individuals, groups and conferences
$100-189 12 Walking trails leading to the James River, and 24-hour continental breakfast
100 Bowen Loop Suite 200 Charlottesville, VA 22911
434.973.8342
Served by Delta Connection, United Airlines, American Airlines, US Airways Express, and charter services.
AMTRAK amtrak.com
810 W. Main Street Charlottesville, VA 22903
434.296.4559 800.872.7245
GREYHOUND BUS LINES greyhound.com
310 W. Main Street Charlottesville, VA 22901
434.295.5131 800.231.2222
STARLIGHT EXPRESS nycshuttle.com
Hassle-free ride between C’ville & NYC
Garden Center 2324 India Road Charlottesville, VA 22901
434.295.0782
Getting AroundCHARLOTTESVILLE FREE TROLLEY SERVICE charlottesville.org/transit
434.296.7433
Free rides between Downtown, The Corner and U.Va. Grounds every 15 minutes, Mon-Sat 6:40am-midnight, Sun 8 a.m.-5:45 p.m.
CHARLOTTESVILLE AREA TRANSIT charlottesville.org/transit
434.970.3649
Daily bus service (limited on Sundays; does not operate on major holidays). Bus stops marked with “CAT” signs. Pick up a free System Information booklet on any CAT bus or at the Downtown Transit Station, 615 E. Water Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902.
UNIVERSITY TRANSIT SERVICE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA virginia.edu/uts
434.924.7711
Bus transportation around the University area; connects with the CAT system.
CHARLOTTESVILLE ALBEMARLE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU visitcharlottesville.org or, by mobile, m.visitcharlottesville.org
P.O. Box 178, Charlottesville, VA 22902
434.293.6789 877.386.1103 Fax: 434.295.2176
CHARLOTTESVILLE REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE cvillechamber.com
P.O. Box 1564 Charlottesville, VA 22902
434.295.3141 Fax: 434.295.3144
Charlottesville Airport is a convenient way to connect to any point on the globe, with non-stop flights to six major hubs: Chicago, La Guardia, Dulles, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Charlotte.