We visited Charlottesville for a wedding and ended up really loving it. It’s such a charming town with a great food scene, relaxed vibe and plenty to do without feeling overly busy.
Eat & Drink Along East Main Street
Most of your time will naturally centre around East Main Street- this is where the best cafés, bars and restaurants are. It’s perfect for a slow wander, popping in and out of places as you go.
A few spots we loved:
- Miller’s – ideal for a late dinner or drinks. Think burgers, hot dogs, fried chicken and sandwiches. We went on a Thursday and there was a live jazz band, which made it even better.
- The Nook – a proper classic American breakfast spot. Nothing fancy, just done really well.
- Citizen Burger Bar – very good burgers and a great casual vibe.
Honestly, you can’t go too wrong along this street- just wander and see what takes your fancy.
Charlottesville City Market (Saturdays Only)
If you’re there over the weekend, don’t miss the Charlottesville City Market.
It’s full of local food stalls, crafts and small businesses, with loads of tasters (always a win). It’s got such a friendly, community feel and is a great way to start the day.
Explore the University of Virginia
The University of Virginia campus is definitely worth a wander.
The grounds are beautiful, with a mix of historic architecture and open green spaces, and there’s always something going on. It adds a really nice buzz to the town.
Sunset Drinks at The Doyle Rooftop
For a slightly more elevated vibe, head up to the rooftop at The Doyle Hotel.
It’s a great spot for a sunset cocktail, with views over the town and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect after a day of exploring.
Wander & Soak It All In
One of the best things to do here is actually pretty simple – just wander.
Spend some time meandering along East Main Street, dipping into independent boutiques, grabbing a coffee, and stopping for a drink when something catches your eye. It’s that kind of place.