Moving to Charlottesville: The Essential Guide

Whether you're relocating for work, family, or a change of scenery, Charlottesville offers a unique blend of history, outdoor adventure, excellent dining, and a vibrant community. Here’s your essential guide to settling in and making the most of your new home.

Outdoor & Adventure Activities in Charlottesville, VA

Charlottesville is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, perfect for hiking, kayaking, and outdoor recreation.

Parks & Trails

• Shenandoah National Park – Endless hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives on Skyline Drive.
• Charlottesville Parks & Rec – Features local parks, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
• Rivanna Trail – A 20-mile loop around the city, great for walking, running, and biking.
• Ivy Creek Natural Area – Peaceful nature trails and wildlife observation.

Rivers & Water Activities

• Rivanna River – Perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and floating.
• James River – Great for tubing, fishing, and rafting trips.
• Walnut Creek Park – Offers a lake for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Historic Homes & Landmarks in Charlottesville, VA

Charlottesville is home to some of America’s most historic estates, offering insights into early U.S. history.

• Monticello – Thomas Jefferson’s home, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Highland – Home of James Monroe, showcasing 18th-century life.
• University of Virginia Grounds – Designed by Jefferson, featuring The Rotunda and The Lawn.
• Morven Farm – A historic estate with beautiful gardens and events.
• Castle Hill – An 18th-century plantation with stunning architecture.

Food & Dining in Charlottesville, VA

Charlottesville is a foodie town, offering everything from classic Southern flavors to fine dining experiences.

Local Restaurants

• C&O Restaurant – Upscale dining with a historic ambiance.
• The Tavern on the Main – Modern take on classic American dishes.
• The Local – Farm-to-table dining with a cozy atmosphere.
• Mockingbird – Southern comfort food in a stylish setting.
• Southern Crescent – New Orleans-inspired cuisine with craft cocktails.
• Whiskey Jar – Laid-back spot for bourbon, Southern eats, and live music.
• Public Fish & Oyster – Best seafood in town.
• Bang! – Asian-inspired tapas with bold flavors.
• Tavola – Authentic Italian with an intimate setting.
• MarieBette Café & Bakery – Amazing breakfast, pastries, and coffee.
• Maya – Elevated Southern cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients.
• Michie Tavern – Historic tavern serving traditional Southern fare.

Live Music & Entertainment in Charlottesville, VA

Charlottesville has a vibrant live music scene with venues that bring in national acts and showcase local talent.

Live Music Venues

• The Jefferson Theater – Historic venue with concerts from big-name and indie artists.
• The Ting Pavilion – Outdoor amphitheater with seasonal shows and events.
• The Paramount Theater – Classic venue for concerts, film screenings, and performances.
• The Front Porch – Intimate venue featuring folk, blues, and bluegrass.
• Rivanna Roots Concert Series – Outdoor live music events by the river.
• Fridays After Five – Free weekly concert series at the Ting Pavilion.
• IX Art Park – Artsy venue with community events and live performances.

Golf Courses

For those who enjoy hitting the links, Charlottesville has several scenic courses:

• Keswick Hall Golf Club – Private course with a world-class design by Pete Dye.
• Birdwood Golf Course (Boar’s Head Resort) – Beautiful course with mountain views.
• Farmington Country Club – Private course with historic charm.
• Old Trail Golf Club – Public course with stunning Blue Ridge views.
• Spring Creek Golf Club – Highly rated course, known for its challenging design.
• Meadowcreek Golf Course – City-owned course, great for casual players.
• Glenmore Country Club – Private club with an elegant golf experience.

Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries in Charlottesville, VA

Charlottesville is in the heart of Virginia wine country and boasts some fantastic craft breweries.

Vineyards & Wineries

• King Family Vineyards – Polo matches on Sundays with great wine.
• Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards – Incredible views and elegant wines.
• Barboursville Vineyards – Historic estate with award-winning wines.
• Veritas Vineyard & Winery – Popular for its classic Virginia wines.
• Keswick Vineyards – Family-owned with a great tasting experience.
• Jefferson Vineyards – One of the oldest wineries in the region.

Breweries & Distilleries

• Three Notch’d Brewing – Popular local brewery with creative small-batch brews.
• Champion Brewing Company – Known for hoppy IPAs and outdoor seating.
• Reason Beer – A hidden gem for craft beer lovers.
• Pro Re Nata Brewery – Live music and a great beer selection.
• Castle Hill Cider – For those who enjoy cider over beer.
• Virginia Distillery Company – Known for its excellent whiskey selection.

Schools & Education in Charlottesville, VA

Public Schools

• Charlottesville City Schools
• Albemarle County Public Schools

Private Schools

• St. Anne’s-Belfield School
• The Covenant School
• Field School
• North Branch School
• Mountaintop Montessori
• Free Union Country School
• The Outdoor Learning School

Gyms & Fitness Centers in Charlottesville, VA

• ACAC
• Planet Fitness
• YMCA
• MADabolic
• CrossFit Charlottesville