Charlottesville, home to one of the nation’s great universities, set amongst the beautiful, rolling hills of a cherished historic landscape, has become a highly sought-after residential destination. It’s easy to see why professionals, families, retired people, and those drawn to its small-town charm, college-town vibe, outstanding cuisine, vineyards, and celebrated intellectual and cultural life have chosen to call Charlottesville home.
Charlottesville is an idyllic location with amenities galore in spite of a population of just over 45,000. Just two hours from Washington D.C., three hours from Atlantic Beaches, and an easy train ride away from the most popular East Coast cities, Charlottesville offers lifestyle options that would not normally be associated with Blue Ridge Mountain views and peaceful suburban neighborhoods.
Outdoor living is the highlight of the city. Charlottesville residents can be found eating outside at one of the myriad “al fresco” dining options, and many wineries offer stunning views for your next picnic. Charlottesville is the perfect location to enjoy biking, hiking in the nearby mountains and on the Appalachian Trail, and paddling and aquatic sports on the many surrounding rivers and lakes.
Most people know Charlottesville for its history. The city is home to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello and the University of Virginia, Historic Court Square, Michie Tavern, James Monroe’s Highland, and many other notable sites. Each has played a vital role in the history of our nation, and with ever-evolving programs to immerse visitors in the past, there is always something new to learn and appreciate.
What really makes Charlottesville unique are the lifestyle options: the town far exceeds its small-town expectation in its array of entertainment and arts, shopping, and dining. The area thrives on education and offers opportunities for every member of the community to learn, grow, and thrive. The city is not only uniquely walkable but also offers a comprehensive bus system, well-maintained streets and sidewalks, hiking trails, parks, and recreational facilities. The city maintains 26 parks, including popular “spraygrounds” and swimming pools, and four fitness centers.
If sports are your pursuit, the University of Virginia offers world-class stadiums to watch football, lacrosse, and championship basketball. Equine enthusiasts can enjoy the exciting Foxfield Steeplechase races or revisit the past at the Montpelier races at James Madison’s former home. For the golfer, Charlottesville offers several championship courses designed by top architects where golfers can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding scenery while improving their game.
The shining gem at the heart of Charlottesville is its identity as a culinary destination. The city has become famous worldwide for its outstanding wine, beer, and cuisine. Diverse offerings that are executed at an extremely high level and often include local ingredients make Charlottesville’s cuisine much more sophisticated than one would expect of the average small town. The Monticello Wine Trail is made up of 40 wineries that surround the Charlottesville area and includes several highly distinguished vintners. Charlottesville and the surrounding region have also been the home to some very highly acclaimed beers and distilled liquors.
The diversity of the Charlottesville culinary scene is truly stunning. From world-class chicken at Wayside Takeout that has been called “the south’s best chicken” in Southern Living magazine to the refined French cuisine offered at fleurie, Charlottesville defines what it means to offer great food of every variety. A comfortable, casual atmosphere persists, even Charlottesville’s food trucks will thrill your tastebuds.
Charlottesville has been called one of the country’s best places to live for a reason, or rather, for more reasons than we can list in this article! To learn more, visit the Neighborhood page, or explore the town yourself! There is always more to love about Charlottesville.
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