13 Reasons to Love Living in Charlottesville, VA

Historic district of Charlottesville, Virginia, home of President Thomas Jefferson
Historic district of Charlottesville, Virginia, home of President Thomas Jefferson

living in charlottesville va
Charlottesville didn’t get named “Joy Town” for nothing. Virginia’s treasure has lots to be joyful about.
Are you looking for a city with culture, history, and awesome food? What about outdoor space and fun for the whole family? Or, maybe you’re a student interested in the university.
No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Charlottesville. It has some of the happiest residents in America. Keep reading for 13 reasons to love living in Charlottesville, VA.

1. Active Lifestyle

Charlottesville has the pleasure of being at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are tons of hiking trails and kayak routes in the summer. In the winter, skiing and tubing become daily activities.
Visitors marvel at the views in Shenandoah National Park. Your lungs will thank you for all the clean, fresh air.

2. So Much Beer

Craft breweries are alive and well in Charlottesville. Consider spending a day on the Blue Ridge Trail self-guided brewery tour. You’ll hit all the best beer hotspots, like the Wild Wolf Brewery.
Most of the bars and restaurants in town serve local brews. No matter where you go, you’ll get to sample some of Virginia’s finest beers.

3. …And Wine

Wine enthusiasts won’t get left out, don’t worry! There are ample vineyards and winery tours available for anyone who enjoys the grape.
Check out The Monticello Wine Trail for over 30 miles of gorgeous vineyards. Sample as much as you like, and make sure you buy a bottle or two for home.

4. Fascinating History

Did you know that three US presidents came from Charlottesville, VA? Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and James Monroe. The stories and tales of Charlottesville’s history are fascinating.
You can visit Thomas Jefferson’s home in Monticello. And, check out the many monuments throughout the city.

5. Student Life

The University of Virginia calls Charlottesville home, as do thousands of students. The influx of students every year adds a lively and fun atmosphere to the city.
Students enjoy the campus life full of pubs and restaurants. They walk the halls once walked by Jefferson, Edgar Allen Poe, and even Tina Fey.
U of V has a reputation for business degrees, economics, biology, and psychology. It employs exceptional professors and teachers. Students graduate with a pride in their school, and in its city.

6. Variety of Neighborhoods

Charlottesville has a very low crime rate. It’s the perfect place to raise a family, build your career, and retire in. The summers never got hotter than 75, but the winters can get quite chilly.
There are a variety of neighborhoods to suit your needs. North Downtown is full of activity and nightlife. Keswick and Pantops offer serene suburban homes and horse farms.

7. Orchard Fun

Who doesn’t love fresh homemade apple pie? It’s easy to come by in Charlottesville thanks to all the local orchards.
Each season, locals flood to the Carter Mountain Orchards for apple or peach picking. Living off the land is a common theme in this city, and orchard hopping is a big part of it.

8. Live Music

Music fanatics are living the dream in Charlottesville. Here you’ll find large venues with well-known headliners, and small venues with open mics.
For big names, head to the Pavilion or the Jefferson. For a cozier feel with less-known acts, stop by The Garage. You’re bound to discover the next big thing.

9. Growing Foodie Scene

Charlottesville’s culinary scene is alive and blooming. With so many farms nearby, many restaurants focus on eating locally. The idea of farm to table dining thrives in this city.
One of the best places to stop for a bite is Ace Biscuits & Barbecue. Patrons swoon over the fried chicken biscuit with sausage gravy.

10. Festivals and Events

There’s always something to celebrate in Charlottesville. The list of festivals that happen all year round is extensive. Here are a few:

  • The Foxfield Races
  • Virginia Wine Month
  • First Night Virginia
  • Virginia Oyster Month

You haven’t celebrated the 4th of July until you’ve done it in Charlottesville. There’s always something going on in this city!

11. The Downtown Mall

One of the most popular landmarks in Charlottesville is The Downtown Mall. Not only is the shopping exceptional, but it’s a beautiful area to explore.
This historical property has over 120 shops. With ample space for street performers, locals frequent this bustling attraction.

12. An Artist’s City

There are dozens of places for artists to explore and work on their trade. From painters to sculptors to filmmakers, the art scene in Charlottesville is awesome.
Create your own art at Muse Paintbar or The Glass Palette. Get lost in gorgeous galleries like the Fralin Museum of Art. And, catch some flicks at the Virginia Film Festival or the Heritage Theatre Festival.
Get your creative juices flowing when coming to Charlottesville.

13. Fun for Kids

Along with the ample nightlife in Charlottesville, there’s tons for young families to do. With so much nature and outdoor space, kids get to spend the whole year playing outside.
The IX Art Park is a fun place for families to see street performers and outdoor art. For kid-friendly learning, head over to the Virginia Discovery Museum. Later, watch a polo match at the Kings Family Vineyards.
Charlottesville has a strong reputation for having excellent schools. With a city so rich with history, kids get many chances to learn hands-on in their own hometown.

Want to Learn More About Living in Charlottesville, VA?

What’s not to love about living in Charlottesville, VA? It has something for everyone.
If you’re a young family looking to put down roots or a baby-boomer planning retirement, there’s a place for you here. Not to mention how great it is for college students to enjoy their education while feeling safe.
If you’re interested in learning more about buying a home in Charlottesville, check out the blog.