It doesn’t take long to figure out why Charlottesville is a staple among the annual “Best Place to…” media lists. Whether you are talking living, working, dining, hiking, biking, eating, drinking, playing or more…there is more than enough to choose from.
We like to describe Charlottesville this way. It is a place full of people who could live anywhere, but choose to live here. The answer as to “why?” could take days to answer, but here are a few ideas:
- The Great Outdoors – In this work hard/play hard community, it’s totally natural for folks to “head for the hills” once their day or weeks is done. And there is no shortage of things to do once they get there, from skiing the snowy peaks of nearby Wintergreen, to hiking and biking the countless trails that dot our landscape or enjoying first-class golf, tennis and swimming options.
- History Rules – Charlottesville has a unique presidential pedigree, with three historic homes within a 40-minute drive. Mr. Jefferson’s Monticello leads the way, drawing visitors from around the globe, along with James Madison’s Montpelier and James Monroe’s Ash-Lawn Highland. Add in the historic Michie Tavern, extensive Civil War history found within an hour’s drive and more and you have a place that was at the center of the story of America from its earliest chapters.
- Mr. Jefferson’s University – As you likely know, the University of Virginia is a world-renowned institution that brings together an extraordinary array of intellectual firepower and regularly ranks among the top public universities in America. Along with this cultural cache come the many other lifestyle perks of college town life, including major athletic events, outstanding arts offerings and more.
- A Grape Escape – Virginia’s wine scene is one of the fastest growing in America, and the heart of it is right here in Central Virginia. Gorgeous grounds, delicious vintages and informative and educational tours and tastings help make for a great day trip at any of the eight wineries right here in our own backyard.
- Food Glorious Food – Another of Jefferson’s legacies that continues to define our region is his love of fine food. Charlottesville features an embarrassment of culinary riches that run the gamut from flavorful rib-stickin’ barbecue to the ultimate in gourmet dining featuring cuisines from around the world. Learn more here http://www.c-ville.com/index.php?cat=121204061788513
- The Downtown Mall – Shopping, dining and entertainment treasures abound on this pedestrian mall located in the heart of the city. You’ll find specialty shops, an array of outstanding restaurants, a variety of live entertainment venues and more – making it a highlight for out of town visitors and an cherished epicenter of activity for locals too. www.downtowncharlottesville.net
- THAT’S Entertainment! – We like to call Charlottesville a small town with big-city amenities. Nowhere is that more true than in our fast growing entertainment scene.
