There is so much to see and explore in and around Charlottesville, especially during the summer months. Here are 5 things that we love about summers in Charlottesville along with some suggestions of where to go to enjoy each one. 

1. Getting Outside

Whether you like hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, or just relaxing outside there are plenty of green spaces to explore!

• Take a hike on one of the many local trails including Rivanna Trail (Link), Ivy Creek Natural Area (Link), or Humpback Rocks (Link)
• Spend time kayaking, tubing or paddle boarding with Rivanna River Company (Link) & James River Runners (Link) 
• Take a mountain bike to the trails at Preddy Creek Trail Park (Link) or Mint Springs Valley Park (Link)
• Check out some of the many local parks for trails, playgrounds, boating, and more in Charlottesville (Link), Albemarle  (Link), Greene (Link), or Fluvanna (Link)
  
  

2. Fresh Farm Food

Living in Central Virginia means access to fresh local food from the farm whether you're cooking it yourself or enjoying a local farm-to-table restaurant.

• There are so many different farmer's markets to choose from, no matter where you're located in Charlottesville (Link), Albemarle (Link), Fluvanna (Link), or Greene (Link).
• Don't forget to make your plans for Charlottesville's summer restaurant week (Link)

3. Music & Movies

Looking for entertainment? There's always something happening from live music to classic movies & more.

• Summer isn't complete without at least one visit to Friday's After Five on the Downtown Mall (Link)
• Check out summer concerts at Ting Pavilion (Link) or enjoy music on the river with Front Porch (Link)
• Enjoy a classic movie in the AC at Paramount Theaters (Link)
• Want to see the latest movies and enjoy a night outside? Check out Goochland Drive-In Theater (Link)

4. Local Drinks

Summer is the perfect time to visit one of our many local vineyards, breweries, or cideries to relax with a drink, some snacks, and some live music.

• Find a new winery to try or revisit an old favorite  (Link)
• Walk the Charlottesville Ale Trail for some local brews (Link)
• Enjoy the views at the breweries, cideries, and wineries on the Nelson 151 trail (Link)

5. Creative Projects

Find inspiration from the art around town or take a class from a local artist to learn a new skill.

• Explore the murals of Charlottesville with this handy map from the Charlottesville Mural Project (Link)
• Try some new art projects at The Glass Palette (Link) or The Art Bar (Link)
• Take classes from a local artist at Bluebird & Co (Link) or join a paint-and-sip event at a local winery (Link)

Let us know if you try something new from this list!