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Charlottesville

Charlottesville, Virginia, US

Charlottesville, Virginia, offers travelers a blend of rich history, vibrant arts, and scenic beauty. Home to the University of Virginia, it's known for historic landmarks like Monticello, wine trails, and a lively downtown scene.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/New York

Local Time

10:07 AM

Population

48,500

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

64-86°F (18-30°C) - Hot and humid; thunderstorms continue.

Best Time

Apr-May, Sep-Oct

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Great

Airport Info

IAD

Washington Dulles International Airport

Distance

Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes by car from Charlottesville, VA via I-64E and I-66E, covering a distance of about 111 miles.

Description

A major international hub located in Dulles, Virginia known for its extensive international and domestic flight services, modern facilities, and airport lounges.

Charlottesville captivates visitors with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it's home to the University of Virginia, founded by Thomas Jefferson, whose iconic Monticello estate is a must-see. The Historic Downtown Mall offers unique shopping, dining, and entertainment, while local vineyards and craft breweries provide relaxing retreats. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking and scenic drives. Annual events like the Virginia Film Festival add cultural richness. Charlottesville's vibrant arts scene and welcoming community make it a delightful destination year-round.

Charlottesville Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Safe

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Visitors should be aware of local laws regarding alcohol consumption and public behavior.

Crime Rates

Charlottesville generally has a lower crime rate compared to other cities of similar size. However, like any city, there are areas where crime is more prevalent.

Health Risks

Healthcare facilities are readily available, with several hospitals and clinics in the area. There are no significant health risks specific to Charlottesville.

Natural Disasters

Charlottesville is not prone to frequent natural disasters, but visitors should be aware of the potential for severe weather, such as thunderstorms and occasional snowstorms in winter.

Law Enforcement

The Charlottesville Police Department is visible and active in the community, contributing to a sense of safety among residents and visitors.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Charlottesville is considered safe, with reliable bus services provided by Charlottesville Area Transit.

Solo Travelers

Charlottesville is generally safe for solo travelers, but standard precautions should be taken.

Recent Developments

There have been no significant recent developments impacting safety in Charlottesville.

No data Found...

Charlottesville Monthly Weather Overview

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Best season to visit

Current Conditions ():

Best Time to Visit Charlottesville

Summary: The best time to visit Charlottesville is spring and fall when temperatures are mild (15-25°C/59-77°F) and vibrant foliage or blooming flowers enhance the experience. Key events and vibrant landscapes make these seasons particularly inviting.

🌱

March

Spring begins with mild temperatures (8-18°C/46-64°F). Cherry blossoms and festivals bring life to the city.

🌸

April

Best

Ideal for visiting, temperatures range from 50-68°F (10-20°C). Enjoy the blooming gardens and outdoor events.

🌷

May

Best

Pleasant weather continues (13-24°C/55-75°F). Perfect for hiking and exploring the Monticello Wine Trail.

☀️

June

Early summer warmth (18-29°C/64-84°F), with lush greenery and outdoor concerts.

🏖️

July

Warm and humid (21-31°C/70-87°F). Festivals and Independence Day celebrations are highlights.

🌞

August

Continued summer heat (21-30°C/70-86°F). Good for river activities and late-summer events.

🍂

September

Best

Early fall brings cooler weather (16-27°C/61-81°F). Ideal for vineyards and outdoor enjoyment.

🍁

October

Best

Fall foliage is spectacular (10-20°C/50-68°F). Popular for hikes and scenic drives.

☔

November

Crisp autumn air (5-15°C/41-59°F), with Thanksgiving events and art festivals.

🎄

December

Holiday season brings festive lights and mild winter weather (1-10°C/34-50°F).

❄️

January

Cold and tranquil (0-8°C/32-46°F). A quiet time for museum visits and cozy restaurants.

💘

February

Chilly but romantic (1-10°C/34-50°F), with wine tastings and winter charm.

Seasonal Events in Charlottesville

November

Virginia Film Festival

Annual festival showcasing films from Hollywood and independent filmmakers.

Virginia Film Festival

April

Tom Tom Founders Festival

Celebrates innovation, music, art, and food with various events across the city.

Tom Tom Fest

April to September
(Fridays)

Fridays After Five

Free weekly concert series at the Ting Pavilion in downtown Charlottesville.

Ting Pavilion

April to December
(Saturdays)

Charlottesville City Market

Weekly farmers' market with fresh produce, crafts, and local foods.

Charlottesville City Market

Popular Foods in Charlottesville

Pimento Cheese

A creamy, tangy cheese spread popular in Southern cuisine, often served with crackers or on sandwiches.

Virginia Ham

A cured ham that is a classic Southern dish, known for its saltiness and tradition.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Unripe tomatoes that are fried with a cornmeal coating, offering a crunchy and tart taste.

Brunswick Stew

A hearty stew made with chicken, vegetables, and barbecue sauce; a Southern comfort food.

Apple Butter

A spread made from slow-cooked apples, commonly used on toast or biscuits.

Closest Airports to Charlottesville

Regional Airport

Charlottesville Albemarle Airport (CHO)

A regional airport near Charlottesville providing daily flights to major hubs with facilities including dining options and free Wi-Fi.

Approximately 20 minutes by car from Charlottesville, VA, covering a distance of about 9 miles via US-29 N.

Check for live flight updates and parking information. Car rentals and taxi services are conveniently located.

CHO Website

International Airport

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

A major international hub located in Dulles, Virginia known for its extensive international and domestic flight services, modern facilities, and airport lounges.

Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes by car from Charlottesville, VA via I-64E and I-66E, covering a distance of about 111 miles.

Use the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Silver Line Express for easy Metro access. Ample parking and car rentals are available.

IAD Website

Popular Trip Types

Bachelorette Party

Charlottesville, Virginia, offers vibrant wineries and breweries, perfect for a fun-filled bachelorette party experience. The city boasts a lively arts scene, unique dining options, and charming local shops, making it a great destination for a memorable pre-wedding celebration with friends.

Family Vacation

Charlottesville is an excellent family vacation spot, with attractions like the Virginia Discovery Museum, the nearby Monticello for educational exploration, and numerous outdoor parks. The city also offers family-friendly accommodations and dining options, making it ideal for travelers of all ages.

Couples Retreat

With its picturesque vineyards, scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and historic charm, Charlottesville provides the perfect romantic setting for a couples retreat. Enjoy intimate wine tastings, romantic dinners, and cozy bed-and-breakfasts for a peaceful and intimate getaway.

Girls Shopping Weekend

Charlottesville is home to a variety of local boutiques and artisan shops, particularly in the Historic Downtown Mall area. The city's unique collection of art galleries, fashion stores, and antique shops make it a prime location for a girls' weekend dedicated to shopping and exploration.

Cultural Exploration

Rich in history and culture, Charlottesville offers opportunities for cultural exploration with its historical sites like Monticello and the University of Virginia. The city's museums, art galleries, and cultural events provide a deep dive into the region's heritage and artistic scene.

Custom Language

Wahoowa

Go Hoos

A cheer for UVA sports teams, showing support and enthusiasm.

Grounds

Campus

Used by UVA students and faculty to refer to the university campus.

First-Year

Freshman

Refers to new students at UVA, part of tradition avoiding the term freshman.

The Corner

University Strip

A popular area near UVA with shops, restaurants, and hangouts for students.

The Lawn

Historic Center

Central part of UVA designed by Jefferson, used for events and gatherings.

Popular Sports & Teams in Charlottesville

Virginia Cavaliers Football

The Virginia Cavaliers football team represents the University of Virginia in the NCAA's Atlantic Coast Conference. Known for their passionate fan base and historic rivalries, they play their home games at Scott Stadium in Charlottesville.