Two U.S. Presidents called Charlottesville, Virginia home: Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe. Visit the famous Monticello and James Monroe’s Highland, explore the Fralin Museum of Art at the University of Virginia, take the kids to the Virginia Discovery Museum, and stop by the unique Les Yeux du Monde Art Gallery. Here are the best things to do in Charlottesville, VA.
We recommend that you call the attractions and restaurants ahead of your visit to confirm current opening times.
1. Thomas Jefferson's Monticello
Monticello, located on Thomas Jefferson Parkway just outside of Charlottesville, was the home of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States and is one of the things to do in Charlottesville. Consisting of 5,000 acres, the plantation was used to grow tobacco and other crops. Jefferson designed the house, which sits on an 850-foot (260 meter) hill: Monticello means “little mountain” in Italian.
He began designing and building the house when he was 26 years old. He chose a neoclassical design and incorporated many elements that were popular in Europe during the latter part of the 18th century. Monticello is listed as a U.S. National Historic Landmark, and it is the only private house in the country to be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
931 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville, VA, Phone: 434-984-9800
2. The Fralin Museum of Art at the University of Virginia
The Fralin Museum of Art at the University of Virginia is located in the Thomas H. Bayly Memorial Building which was built in 1935. The museum has a collection of 13,000 art objects dating from ancient times up until the present.
The exhibits include American and European paintings, ancient art from the Mediterranean area, Asian art, Native American art, photographs, five centuries of sculptures, and much more. In addition to the permanent collection and temporary exhibits, the museum offers docent-led tours for students and other groups, as well as lectures and special events.
155 Rugby Road, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-924-3592
3.Historic Downtown Mall, Charlottesville, Virginia
The Historic Downtown Mall is a pedestrian dining, entertainment, and shopping mall on Main Street in the historic downtown heart of Charlottesville. There are over 120 shops and more than 30 restaurants housed in historic buildings along a seven block area of tree-lined and brick-paved streets. The downtown mall is a beautiful mixture of restored buildings that also house cinemas and theaters, which feature plays and musical performances.
Some of the restaurants have outdoor eating areas that visitors can enjoy during the warmer months of the year. Other features include romantic fountains, an ice park, and the Virginia Discovery Museum. The Charlottesville Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for maintaining the mall.
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4. James Monroe’s Highland, Charlottesville, Virginia
Located on James Monroe Parkway, Highland was the home of James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States. Situated adjacent to Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe’s Highland is currently owned by Monroe’s alma mater, the College of William and Mary.
Encouraged by Jefferson, Monroe purchased the 1,000-acre property in 1793 and moved there in 1799. Over time, he bought more land and increased the acreage to more than 3,500 acres and, at the same time, added on to the house.
High debts forced Monroe to sell the property in 1825. Today, the 535-acre property is a working farm, a venue for performances, and a museum.
2050 James Monroe Parkway, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-293-8000
5.Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection of the University of Virginia
The Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection of the University of Virginia is an art collection housed at Pantops Farm on Worrell Drive.
Pantops Farm was owned by Thomas Jefferson at one time, and is today owned by the University of Virginia. The art museum is the only museum in the nation that is exclusively devoted to the art of Australian Aborigines, and it is renowned for its large collection of indigenous Australian art, one of the finest in the world.
The museum was founded in 1997 when John W. Kluge donated his collection of Aboriginal art that included the collection of Edward L. Ruhe. Today, there are more than 1,700 objects including artifacts, paintings, and sculptures in the collection.
400 Worrell Drive, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-244-0234
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6.Les Yeux du Monde Art Gallery, Charlottesville, Virginia
Located on Wolf Trap Road, Les Yeux du Monde Art Gallery is a contemporary art gallery founded in 1995. Les Yeux du Monde means “The Eyes of the World” in French, and the gallery focuses on works of art created by regional, national and international artists artists, some of which include William Albert Allard, Anne Harris Massie, and Russ Warren.
The art gallery works in conjunction with other art institutions such as the Second Street Gallery and the University of Virginia Art Museum. In addition to exhibiting works of art, the art gallery offers tours and lectures by artists.
841 Wolf Trap Road, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-973-5566
7.Ivy Creek Natural Area
Spanning across approximately 219 acres, the Ivy Creek Natural Area is owned in partnership by both the City and County of Charlottesville in Virginia. Management of the nature area is also assisted by the Ivy Creek Foundation, a volunteer organization that helps in caring for the area and operating its nature programs. The Ivy Creek Natural Area offers more than seven miles of nature trails for walking. Horseback riding, bicycles, trail running, and pets are not permitted. Other amenities include historic barn tours, educational classes, and restroom facilities. The Central Red Trail takes visitors from the parking lot to the barn.
1780 Earlysville Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903, 434-973-7772
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8.Carter Mountain Orchard, Charlottesville, VA
Carter Mountain Orchard is located on Carters Mountain Trail in Charlottesville. Visitors are able to pick apples, nectarines, peaches, strawberries, and vegetables between April and November. One of the special events that the orchard offers is the “Thursday Evening Sunset Series.” Visitors can enjoy dinner at picnic tables or on blankets or lawn chairs while they savor hard cider or wine and great sunset views.
The orchard also provides musical entertainment and hayrides. Other events include the Apple Harvest Celebration, the Easter Egg Hunt, and the Peach Festival. In addition to the orchard and its events, there are several other places to explore: the Country Store & Bakery, and the Mountain Grill.
1435 Carters Mountain Trail, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-977-1833
9.Ivy Inn, Charlottesville, Virginia
Located in the 18th century charming clapboard red house with a wide white porch about a mile from the University, Ivy Inn is romantic, tranquil and elegant. Ceiling beams, a cozy fireplace, and white damask tablecloths remind you that you are in the South, where a meal should be a relaxed, pleasant affair.
With four dining rooms and a spacious covered patio, the place is popular with large parties and groups. Chef/Owner Angelo Vangelopoulos uses local, seasonal ingredients to create his version of American cuisine, combining Southern favorites such as shrimps and grits with some more cosmopolitan treats, including a few delightful Greek dishes such as Lamb Served Two Ways. The Ivy Inn has very fine wine lists that feature a few good Virginia wines.
2244 Old Ivy Rd., Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-977-1222
-- "Best Things to Do in Charlottesville, Virginia for Locals & Tourists - Restaurants, Hotels" Back to Top10.The Glass Palette - Interactive Glass Art Studio
Located on East Market Street, the Glass Palette - Interactive Glass Art Studio gives guests of varying ages a chance to create works of art using glass. The studio provides instructions, materials, and tools and offers classes and workshops mostly designed for older teenagers to adults. There are introductory classes, weekend workshops, and one night “Glass Art Experience” classes.
The studio’s “BYOB Glass Art Experience” takes place on Thursday evenings and requires reservations. After sips and snacks, guests create glass works of art. Private parties can also be held at the studio, which supplies all the materials and food.
1304 East Market Street, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-977-9009
11. Feast!
Feast! can be described as a gourmet store, but it is more than that. It is a bright and cheerful gallery in which all the art is edible, and everything smells great. You can find 75 cheeses, 60 kinds of deli and cured meats, artisanal breads, local wines, fresh, organic produce, organic oils, specialty vinegars, condiments from all over the world, and so much more.
Most of what is sold in the shop comes from local farmers and artisans, and it is fresh, seasonal, and of superb quality. You can taste a lot of what they have to offer in their nice little café where they sell excellent sandwiches and soups. Ask for their daily specials.
416 West Main St., Suite H, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-244-7800
12.McGuffey Art Center, Charlottesville, Virginia
Located on Second Street in the historic area of downtown Charlottesville, the McGuffey Art Center is an art school that houses studios for artists and artisans and is open to the public for art exhibits and lectures. New exhibitions open the first Friday of every month. Some of the many exhibitions include “Kim Kelley-Wagner - Something Forgotten,” and “Central Virginia Watercolor Guild’s Annual Exhibition,” among others.
Visitors are welcome to walk into the various artist studios and watch the artists at work. The center also offers group tours, performances, and outreach projects, including classes for children, teens, and adults. The classes are available for individuals and also for groups.
201 Second Street NW, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-295-7973
13.Albemarle Baking Company, Charlottesville, VA
You probably tasted Albemarle Baking Company goodies long before you discovered their bakery located in the Main Street Market.
Their breads can be found in most Charlottesville restaurants and specialty food stores, and many catering businesses also use them. You remember that raisin pecan bread you had with your sandwich at the Feast! café? It came from the Albemarle Company. You have probably tasted their pastries too, or perhaps you’ve sampled their wedding cakes if you attended a wedding while in Charlottesville.
Once you get a chance to sample their delightful treats, you will be hard pressed to say whether they look or taste better. Everything, and they make a lot of fabulous breads, cakes, pastries and tarts, is made on the premises by hand and using the best possible ingredients.
418 W. Main St., Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-293-6456
14.Beer Run, Charlottesville, VA
Beer Run is a restaurant, bar, and craft beer and wine store all in one. It is also a great neighborhood hangout. People come to see what is on tap that day, to check for the daily or weekly events, to watch the game on TV while sipping on their favorite brew, or to get something to eat.
The food is tasty, organic, and seasonal, and the dishes are excellent local versions of pub grub – they are finely crafted using fresh ingredients purchased from local farmers. Their beer and wine cellar will make you dizzy; they have 130 microbrews, in addition to many other kinds of beers from all over the world.
Their wine choices feature organic wines, regular seasonal favorites, and good quality affordable wines. Check the Beer Run calendar of events for wine or beer tastings or special discounts.
156 Carlton Road, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-984-2337
15. Virginia Discovery Museum
The Virginia Discovery Museum is a hands-on museum for children with many exhibits that focus on the arts, history, the humanities, nature, the sciences, and other fascinating topics. Currently located on East Main Street, the museum was founded in 1981 and began as an organization that presented exhibits around Central Virginia.
The museum moved into its first home in 1986, and as it grew it needed a larger home; it moved into its current home on the Downtown Pedestrian Mall in 1990. Some of its exhibits include “A-Mazing Airways,” “Little C’Ville,” “Pollination Station and Bee Hive,” and more. The museum welcomes school field trips and group visits. If you are wondering what to do in Charlottesville, Virginia with kids, this is a great place to visit.
524 East Main Street, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-977-1025
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The Jefferson School African American Heritage Center, housed inside of the Jefferson School City Center, strives to preserve and honor the legacy and rich heritage of the Charlottesville-Albemarle area’s African-American community. It is also dedicated to promoting an understanding of and an appreciation for the contributions of African American people, as well as peoples of the Diaspora, on a local, national, and international level. The Jefferson School African American Heritage Center consists of a contemporary art gallery featuring rotating exhibits and a permanent history exhibit. There are also numerous events hosted at the center throughout the year.
233 4th St NW, Charlottesville, VA 22903, 434-260-8720
17.Michie Tavern, Charlottesville, Virginia
What did they eat in hotels in the 18th century? What did they do for fun? You can get a pretty good idea about life during this time on a tour of Michie Tavern.
This magnificently restored 200-year-old tavern is located not more than half a mile from Jefferson’s Monticello. Visitors can tour the tavern’s oldest parts and learn about how 18th century travelers lived, what they ate, and how they entertained themselves. During lunch hour, staff members dressed in period costumes serve typical Colonial Midday Fare in the restaurant’s rustic setting, offering an 18th-century southern meal of fried chicken, hickory-smoked pork barbecue, marinated baked chicken, stewed tomatoes, buttermilk biscuits, and much more.
There are four stores attached to the Tavern that you should visit, one of which is a General Store located in the 1797 Meadow Run Grist Mill.
683 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-977-1234
18.Birdwood Golf Course at Boar's Head
Located on Golf Course Drive, the Birdwood Golf Course at Boar’s Head is a 500-acre golf course found at the foot of the famous Blue Ridge Mountains. Originally an area of wilderness in Virginia colony in 1739, the land was purchased by the University of Virginia in 1974 and then turned into an award-winning golf course.
It is one of the area’s best golf courses and the home of the university’s men’s and women’s golf teams. With a stunning view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Birdwood Grill offers an extensive menu of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, drinks, and much more. The golf course hosts many events throughout the year.
410 Golf Course Drive, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-293-4653
19.Jefferson Vineyards
Set in the middle of one of the most historic wine regions of the United States, Jefferson Vineyards is located only about ten minutes outside the main area of Charlottesville. Neighboring James Monroe's Highland and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, the winery is open daily for wine tastings. Wines at Jefferson Vineyards range from rich and full-bodied to refreshing and delicate, such as Petite Verdot, Riesling, and Chardonnay. The winery is also one of the state’s highest awarded wineries for Viognier. Guests can choose from the Classic Tasting or the Library Reserve wine tasting, both with souvenir wine glasses.
1353 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy, Charlottesville, VA 22902, 434-977-3042
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Having warm donuts straight out of hot oil with a cup of coffee or a glass of juice is a great way to start your day, especially if you can dip it in your favorite dip and sprinkle it with some fun toppings.
Duck Donuts, located on Bond Street, brings out the child in all of us and invites us to have some fun with this beloved American comfort food. What makes this shop unique is that you wait while they make your donut right there in front of you.
Then you get to play with vanilla, strawberry, chocolate, peanut butter, lemon, or maple glaze and sprinkle your donut with shredded coconut, rainbow sprinkles, chopped peanuts, chocolate sprinkles, or bacon.
2075 Bond St #120, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-823-1960
21.Jefferson Theater, Charlottesville, VA
Located on East Main Street in Charlottesville’s historic Downtown Mall, the Jefferson Theater, a major Charlottesville performing venue, was originally built as a live performance venue that featured silent films and vaudeville acts. Built in 1912, it welcomed well-known entertainers like the Three Stooges and Harry Houdini.
After a major restoration, the theater reopened in 2009 with amenities like central air conditioning and heating, a refurbished balcony, two full-service bars, and other exciting features. The updated state-of-the-art light and sound systems are perfect for today’s performances of bluegrass, country, hip-hop, reggae, and rock music. The theater can also be rented for meetings, lectures, parties, and weddings.
110 East Main Street, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-245-4980
22.Trump Winery
Trump Winery in Charlottesville, Virginia prides itself on producing high quality, terroir-driven red, white, and sparkling wines. Several of the wines have won both national and international "best in class" designations and gold medals. Guests can sample a variety of wines in the Tasting Room, as well as stay in luxury accommodations of Albemarle Estate or celebrate a special occasion in one of the beautiful venues. A seasonal menu of food is available in the Tasting Room as well, along with a selection of gourmet foods for a picnic. There is also an assortment of gifts and apparel in the shop.
385 Albemarle House Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22902, 434-266-9909
23.Blenheim Vineyards
Blenheim Vineyards in Charlottesville, Virginia has been producing sustainable, quality, 100-percent Virginia grown wines for more than ten years and manages over thirty acres of estate vineyards. The wines crafted at Blenheim include whites like Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and Chardonnay, as well as several reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. There are also a wide variety of blends available at the winery. Visitors can view the wine production facility through the glass paneled floors in the tasting room above. The tasting room at Blenheim Vineyards itself blends natural aspects of the winery’s historic location with a modern architectural style.
31 Blenheim Farm, Charlottesville, VA 22902, 434-293-5366
24.Citizen Burger Bar
Boasting being the “Burger Bar for the People,” Citizen Burger Bar is a local dining spot in Charlottesville, Virginia that believes “kicking back” with a good beer and a delicious burger is one of the “essential liberties' of life. The team at the burger restaurant works with a handful of excellent farms located nearby to design a menu focused around high quality, locally produced ingredients. Burgers feature locally made buns, fresh bacon, grassfed local beef, and Virginia cheese. In addition to burgers, Citizen Burger Bar also offers non-beef burgers, a variety of snacks, salads, and other sandwiches.
212 E Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22902, 434-979-9944
23 Best Things to Do in Charlottesville, Virginia
- Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, Photo: Courtesy of LP - Fotolia.com
- The Fralin Museum of Art at the University of Virginia, Photo: The Fralin Museum of Art at the University of Virginia
- Historic Downtown Mall, Charlottesville, Virginia, Photo: Historic Downtown Mall
- James Monroe’s Highland, Charlottesville, Virginia, Photo: James Monroe’s Highland
- Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection of the University of Virginia, Photo: Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection of the University of Virginia
- Les Yeux du Monde Art Gallery, Charlottesville, Virginia, Photo: Les Yeux du Monde Art Gallery
- Ivy Creek Natural Area, Photo: Gerry/stock.adobe.com
- Carter Mountain Orchard, Charlottesville, VA, Photo: Courtesy of Scott - Fotolia.com
- Ivy Inn, Charlottesville, Virginia, Photo: Ivy Inn
- The Glass Palette - Interactive Glass Art Studio, Photo: The Glass Palette - Interactive Glass Art Studio
- Feast!, Photo: Feast
- McGuffey Art Center, Charlottesville, Virginia, Photo: McGuffey Art Center
- Albemarle Baking Company, Charlottesville, VA, Photo: Albemarle Baking Company
- Beer Run, Charlottesville, VA, Photo: Beer Run
- Virginia Discovery Museum, Photo: Virginia Discovery Museum
- Jefferson School African American Heritage Center, Photo: Jefferson School African American Heritage Center
- Michie Tavern, Charlottesville, Virginia, Photo: Michie Tavern
- Birdwood Golf Course at Boar's Head, Photo: Birdwood Golf Course at Boar's Head
- Jefferson Vineyards, Photo: Jefferson Vineyards
- Duck Donuts, Charlottesville, Virginia, Photo: Duck Donuts
- Jefferson Theater, Charlottesville, VA, Photo: Jefferson Theater
- Trump Winery, Photo: Trump Winery
- Blenheim Vineyards, Photo: Blenheim Vineyards
- Citizen Burger Bar, Photo: Citizen Burger Bar
- Cover Photo: Courtesy of Konstantin L - Fotolia.com
More Ideas: Foxfield Inn
The Foxfield Inn is a modern and elegant bed and breakfast in Charlottesville that blends comfort and charm to bring guests an exceptional retreat. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Charlottesville's picturesque horse country, the Foxfield Inn presents the perfect place to escape from the hectic pace of city life and to kick back and relax in a calm, rejuvenating environment.
The Inn boasts five beautifully appointed guest rooms, designed and decorated for absolute comfort and luxury. Guest rooms enjoy exceptional amenities such as private bathrooms with whirlpool tubs and wood-burning fireplaces for cozy winter nights and guests are treated to a delectable gourmet breakfast every morning in the sunny dining room and afternoon refreshments of homemade cookies, fruit and hot and cold beverages. Other amenities at the Inn range from an outdoor hot tub beneath a pretty pergola covered in Clematis and Bittersweet covered pergola, spacious patios and common rooms where guests can relax and socialize and complimentary wireless Internet throughout the property.
Charlottesville and Albemarle County offer much in the way of things to see and do from historical attractions such as is Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, James Madison's Montpelier, Ashlawn-Highland and Michie Tavern to wine-tasting tours of more than 20 wineries in the area, as well as award-winning breweries and distilleries. Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in a variety of fun recreational activities such as hiking, cycling, horseback riding, bird watching, and hot air ballooning, and the region is home to the University of Virginia and its Cavaliers sports teams.
The Foxfield Inn has five beautifully appointed guest rooms, each individually decorated and furnished in comfort and style. Guest rooms luxurious linens, plush towels, and luxe bath products, as well as modern amenities such as remote-controlled gas fireplaces and Bose sound systems.
The Rose Room is a study in elegance with a gorgeous king-size bed and pillow-top mattress dressed in luxurious linens, feather or foam pillows and handmade quilts and a remote-controlled gas fireplace. A private en-suite bathroom features a walk-in shower and oversized whirlpool tub, and large windows boast beautiful garden views.
The Hunt Country Room is the biggest room in the Inn and is decorated in an equestrian theme. The room features a beautiful king-size bed with pillow-top mattress dressed in luxurious linens, feather or foam pillows and handmade quilts and a remote-controlled gas fireplace. A private en-suite bathroom features a walk-in shower and oversized whirlpool tub, and a romantic loveseat folds out into a double bed to cater for a third guest if required.
The newly renovated Audubon Room is prettily decorated in a bird theme, highlighting the bluebirds that nest on the property almost year-round. The room enjoys a comfortable king-size bed with pillow-top mattress dressed in luxurious linens, feather or foam pillows and handmade quilts and a remote-controlled gas fireplace. A private en-suite bathroom features a walk-in shower and oversized whirlpool tub, and a romantic loveseat folds out into a double bed to cater for a third guest if required.
The intimate Garden Room overlooks the park-like backyard of the Inn and the resident 200-year-old oak tree. The room offers a queen-size bed with pillow-top mattress dressed in luxurious linens, feather or foam pillows, and handmade quilts. A private en-suite bathroom features a walk-in shower and oversized whirlpool tub and a gas fireplace, and private gazebo adds extra touches to this romantic room.
One of the original bedrooms in the house, the Dogwood Room is a cozy and charming abode that overlooks the goldfish pond and the gardens. The room has a queen-size bed with pillow-top mattress dressed in luxurious linens, feather or foam pillows and handmade quilts and a private en-suite bathroom with a shower/bath combination.
A complimentary gourmet breakfast is served every morning in the sunny dining room or on the pergola-covered terrace overlooking the gardens. Breakfast consists of hot and cold options, fresh fruit and juice and freshly brewed coffee and tea. Refreshments of homemade cookies and hot and cold beverages are served in the communal lounge area or out on the patio each day.
The Foxfield Inn offers a range of amenities in addition to luxurious accommodations, including a delicious home cooked breakfast and refreshments in the afternoons such as homemade cookies, fresh fruit, and hot and cold beverages, and a guest pantry with refrigerator and microwave for common use. Other amenities include an outdoor hot tub covered by a pergola draped in fragrant flowers, spacious communal areas, patios and gazebos where guests can relax, a den with television, DVD player and a library of CDs and DVDs, and a Tesla charger for electric cars. Complimentary high-speed wireless is available throughout the property.
Back to: Best Things to Do in Charlottesville, Virginia and Weekend Getaways in Virginia.
2280 Garth Rd, Charlottesville, Virginia 22901, Phone: 434-923-8892
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More Ideas: Mayhurst Inn Near Charlottesville
The Mayhurst Inn is a luxurious bed and breakfast near Charlottesville in the heart of Orange, Virginia that promises an idyllic countryside escape. Built in 1859 as a plantation home, the Italianate Victorian Inn has been beautifully restored to its former glory to offer an enchanting getaway with stunning gardens, elegant accommodations, sumptuous cuisine, and an array of things to see and do in the area.
Set on 37 acres of rolling Virginia Piedmont landscapes and surrounded by exquisitely manicured gardens, lawns and old growth fields and trees, the 155-year old manor house has eight individually decorated guest rooms and suites with period decor, private bathrooms, modern amenities, and inspiring views. Three-coursegourmet breakfasts are served every morning on the sunny terrace or next to the fireplace, and snacks, soft drinks, wine, and cheese are offered every evening in the library. Special treats such as bottled water, fine chocolates, deluxe bath products and complimentary wireless Internet add an extra level of luxury.
The 19th-century manor house is noted for its historical as well as architectural merit and is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Steeped in history and romance that dates back to the Civil War, the Inn is built on the hallowed ground where Generals Robert E. Lee, A. P. Hill and "Stonewall" Jackson walked, and the Confederate troops pitched their tents.
Mayhurst is located within an easy driving distance of a variety of attractions and activities, ranging from Civil War battlefields, museums, and Presidential homes to wineries, antique malls, and art studios. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, golf and hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains and there are numerous excellent restaurants for casual and fine dining in the area.
The Mayhurst Inn features eight individually decorated guest rooms with private bathrooms, period decor, wood-burning fireplaces and lovely views of the gardens and grounds. All rooms feature air-conditioning, luxury bed linens, high-quality bath products, hair dryers, fine chocolates on arrival, and complimentary wireless Internet.
Designed to honor President James Madison, the Madison Room features a king-size four poster bed with ruby red bed covers and a marble fireplace. A private en-suite bathroom has a claw foot bath with overhead shower, and the room has lovely views over the pond.
The Magnolia Room is named for the large magnolia trees that grow in the gardens of the Inn and whose blooms cover the walls of this open chamber. The room features a queen-size antique French bed, a wood burning fireplace and an en-suite bathroom with 1890 marble lavatory, vintage bath, and overhead shower.
The Southern Charm Room is a sunny room in hues of blues and white with a large palladium window that overlooks the pond. Perfect for couples wanting an element of romance, this room enjoys a king-size bed, a wood-burning fireplace, and a private bathroom with double whirlpool tub.
The Italian Suite is a luxurious room with a handcrafted queen-size bed and en-suite bathroom with shower and bath, and a separate sitting room has a large marble and granite double whirlpool tub and gas fireplace. A private balcony boasts beautiful views over the gardens and fish pond.
The General’s Room features beautiful 1860 antique furnishings and decor and has a queen-size bed with luxurious linens, a private bathroom with bath and shower, a black marble gas fireplace and three enormous arched windows that embrace beautiful views.
Designed to reflect a quaint 1930s garden cottage, the Garden Room is decorated in hues of soft yellows, blues, and greens and has a beautiful exposed wooden ceiling. The cozy room features a king-size bed, a private bathroom with shower and bath, an electric fireplace and a private terrace with garden views.
Once the original Mayhurst Plantation School House that was built in circa 1837, the School House has been completely restored into a beautiful room with all modern amenities, including a queen-size bed, full bathroom with bath and shower, fully equipped kitchen and central climate control.
The Piedmont Suite is named after the gentle, rolling pastoral land at the base of the Blue Ridge is known as the Piedmont. This guest room is made up of two rooms divided by a central bathroom, which has a shower-over-bath combination and features a large bed chamber with a queen-size bed, fireplace and separate sitting room with comfortable armchairs and cable television.
A full gourmet breakfast is served every morning with hot and cold choices of eggs, breakfast meats, fresh fruit, yogurt, cereals, coffee, tea, and juices.
Amenities at the Mayhurst Inn include luxurious accommodations with modern amenities in for the form of eight beautifully decorated guest rooms, an elegant dining room in which a gourmet breakfast is served each morning, sunny patio for outdoor dining and special events and exquisitely manicured gardens with picturesque ponds and terraces.
The Mayhurst Inn provides a beautiful venue for weddings and other special occasions with a variety of venues ranging from gorgeous outdoor settings to elegant indoor chambers. Situated on 37 acres of pristine landscapes, which feature manicured gardens and lawns, ancient ash, poplar, pine, oak and magnolia trees, and picturesque ponds, Mayhurst can host wedding parties and other events for up to 300 people. Professional staff are available to help with all the details from venue choice to seating arrangements, and customized menus can be created by the kitchen’s expert culinary team.
Indoor venues range from the elegant dining room, library and parlor, which can seat 30, eight and 20 guests, respectively, while outdoor venues for ceremonies and receptions include the patio which can seat up to 64 people and the gardens where 300 guests can gather.
Back to: Weekend Getaways in Virginia
12460 Mayhurst Lane, Orange, Virginia 22960, Phone: 540-672-5597
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More Ideas: Ivy Inn
Established in 1995 by Chef/Owner Angelo Vangelopoulos, Ivy Inn in Charlottesville is a family-owned restaurant that offers local residents and visitors the opportunity to experience a bit of history while dining in an elegant atmosphere. With a rich history dating back to the early 1700s, diners can enjoy a delicious assortment of food in a historically rich environment at the Ivy Inn.
Reservations
Reservations are not required at Ivy Inn. However they are highly recommended. Reservations can be made online via OpenTable or by emailing the restaurant directly. Reservations can also be made by calling the restaurant directly at (434) 977-1222.
Menu
The menu at Ivy Inn consists of a variety of solid dinner appetizers, entrees, and desserts. There are several local favorite entrees available as well. Menu items offered are as follows:
· Dinner Menu
o Starters - Duck liver terrine, shrimp bisque, crispy pork belly, warm medley of amFog wild mushrooms, shrimp and grits, a selection of artisan cheeses, lacinato kale minestrone, sautéed fresh duck foie gras, crispy halloumi cheese, and more.
o Main Items - Local rag mountain trout, Maryland style jumbo lump crab cake, pan-seared sea scallops, sautéed duck breast, slow cooked bison short ribs, Angus beef tenderloin, duet of lamb, grilled Scottish salmon, and more.
o Sides - Crispy roesti potatoes, grilled broccolini, artichokes alla romana, Yukon Gold mashed potatoes, and more.
o Desserts - Key lime pie, trio of chocolate, coconut tiramisu, orange blossom creme brulee, strawberry rhubarb crisp, sticky English toffee pudding cake, lemon meringue ice box cake, and more.
· Wine List - Ivy Inn has an extensive wine list offering wines by the glass and bottle. Other drinks are available such as ciders and beers.
Special Events Catering
Ivy Inn is a perfect venue for a variety of special occasions and events, and patrons will be quite pleased with the menu offerings at Ivy Inn. Ivy Inn has significant experience with special event catering, having provided catering services for weddings, business dinners, birthday and holiday parties, and cocktail and wedding receptions.
Ivy Inn offers several dining room options as well as a tented garden patio. The dining room options include:
· The Shenandoah Room
· The Winchester Room
· The Blue Ridge Room
· The Williamsburg Room
· Covered Garden Patio
Those interested in utilizing Ivy Inn for a special event are encouraged to tour the facilities in advance.
Ivy Inn can also help create a menu for a special event. The available menu options are based on the number of people attending the event. Additional offerings such as alcohol can be incorporated into the creation of a menu for a special event at Ivy Inn.
More information about special events catering is available by visiting the Ivy Inn website.
Events
Ivy Inn hosts and participates in several events throughout the year. Patrons can keep abreast of these events by visiting the Ivy Inn website or by staying connected via various social media platforms.
Address
Ivy Inn Restaurant, 2244 Old Ivy Road, Charlottesville, VA, Phone: 434-977-1222
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