Living in Charlottesville, VA
While Charlottesville, Virginia, is home to the University of Virginia, the city is about much more than the school. Living in Charlottesville means living in one of the most scenic areas of Virginia, with the Blue Ridge Mountains, plenty of outdoor activities, and lots of culture. Nearby Richmond and Washington, D.C., also both give Charlottesville residents a taste of big-city life when those cravings come.
Things to Do in Charlottesville, VA
There are plenty of fun and varied things to do in Charlottesville. For example, University of Virginia fans flock to basketball and football games, and plenty of residents enjoy the area's orchards and museums. In fact, rocker Dave Matthews is one of the folks who vouches for Charlottesville, since he lives in the city and owns a winery there. As if that was not reason enough for wine lovers to rejoice, the area boasts more than 20 vineyards and plenty of wine-tasting activities. The brewery scene is nearly as strong, and you don't need to dig at all to discover that Charlottesville has a vibrant arts and entertainment presence. If you are a fan of live music, prepare to get up close and personal in concert with your favorite singers, whether they sing the blues or are rock gods.
Living in Charlottesville is heaven for outdoor lovers. Ride horseback, kayak the nearby James River, hike largely untapped swaths of wilderness, or hop on a bike to explore miles of trails and back-country. For example, the Shenandoah National Park offers more than 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail, and landmarks, such as Monticello, have scenic walkways. Lovers of more extreme adventures can choose among activities such as skydiving, high ropes courses, and even hot air ballooning.
Housing in Charlottesville
Each Charlottesville neighborhood offers unique advantages and charm. For instance, the area around UVA has large, historic homes, as well as more modest offerings. Apartments, including luxury living, are also available. If you prefer a feel that is more urban, check out the North Downtown neighborhood and live a stone's throw away from your favorite restaurants. Condos, apartments, and homes of all sizes are available in this area. Other popular neighborhoods include Belmont and The Meadows. The diversity of options means that many homes for sale in Charlottesville, Virginia, are affordable.
Transportation and Travel in Charlottesville
Washington, D.C., the nation's capital, is about 120 miles northeast from Charlottesville. You can drive there, take a bus, or buy an Amtrak ticket. At 72 miles off, Richmond is another close-by destination. However, when residents stick closer to home, many are apt to walk or cycle to get around in lieu of driving.
