Spread over 5,000 acres (2023.428 hectares), Monticello is one of the most well-known attractions in the region. Designed and built by the third president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson himself, this courtly edifice is lodged on the fringes of Charlottesville. Monticello’s design was heavily influenced by elements of the Italian Renaissance architecture, while also featuring Neoclassical and Palladian architectural styles. Among other crops, the plantation saw the cultivation of wheat and tobacco on a large scale. Skirted by winding, unpaved paths and wide expanses of delightful gardens, Monticello sits in stark contrast, and yet blends in with its ethereal, verdant surrounds. Steeped deep in antiquity and a strong sense of presidential heritage, Monticello also doubles as a museum and a research institute. Built in 1772, and now governed by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation (TJF), Monticello is now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sporting a Greek-influenced facade, Paramount Theater is a premium entertainment venue in Charlottesville that has made watching movies a unique experience. With huge renaissance period paintings adorning the wall, this theater features a neoclassical style, adding style to the venue. Well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, Paramount Theater boasts luxurious seating arrangements and an amazing sound system. It aims to promote art and culture with theatrical performances, cultural events, and workshops. Check out this important fixture of the Charlottesville landscape on your next tour of the city.
A historical art school, the McGuffey Art Center is well-known all over the city for its contemporary art exhibitions by local artists as well as the numerous talks held from time to time. Not only do visitors get the chance to glimpse and even rent artworks by artists like Dominique Anderson, Judy McLeod and Rebekah Wostrel, but the art center also organizes a number of events and even summer camps for budding artists. If you are still wondering about whether you should head to this artsy corner, know that the McGuffey Art Center boasts of three galleries, guided tours and workshops among other facilities.
Home to the fifth president of the United States, James Monroe’s Ash Lawn is an historical estate spread over 535 acres (216.51 hectares). Boasting of various structures including a smokehouse, an ice house and a front porch, the historical house was built in 1799 and was even a flourishing plantation. Governed by the College of William and Mary, the alma mater of James Monroe, Ash Lawn is now a part of the National Register of Historic Places.
Since its establishment in 1912, Jefferson Theater has hosted a variety of events ranging from silent movies to live musicals. After a complete make-over and renovation, it re-opened in 2007 to entertain the audience once again. The decor has a modern touch that manages to retain its original charm, modern acoustics that will thrill attendees, and lighting equipment that promises high-quality entertainment. Located in the Historic Downtown Mall, Jefferson Theater has two fully stocked bars where you can enjoy pre-theater drinks.
An upbeat and upscale outdoor performance space, Ting Pavilion is in close proximity to major restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers in the downtown area, making it a hotspot among locals. Founded in 2005, this venue consists of a big lawn, first-class seating space, and professional stage. Welcoming local and national artists, Sprint Pavilion is one of the most popular cultural spots in the city. Some of the music legends who have played here include James Brown, Loretta Lynn, Bonnie Raitt, David Byrne, and George Clinton. Check website for upcoming shows and more details.
Located at the City Center for Contemporary Arts, just off the Historic Downtown Mall, the Second Street Gallery is one of Central Virginia's leading contemporary art institutions. Established in 1973, the gallery has always been at the forefront of the contemporary art world, lending its support to some of this generation's most brilliant artists and educating the community about the significance of their work. Forever responsive to the concerns of the present, contemporary art grants the viewer an opportunity to explore the world through the eyes of another, enriching their own understanding of contemporary issues. The Second Street Gallery aims to facilitate this through a year-round program of art exhibitions, workshops, classes, lectures and other art events. The gallery is also a regular participant of the monthly first Friday celebrations in Charlottesville. Visit the gallery for a glimpse of inspirational artwork created by emerging and established contemporary artists.
Managed and maintained by the Waynesboro Heritage Foundation, Waynesboro Heritage Museum is one of the important attractions of the city. It displays collections and works that speak of the history of Waynesboro, right from the early settlements to the current modern advent of technology and industries. Every year, it hosts exhibitions that pay tribute to the local culture and heritage. The museum also has an on-site shop, where you can pick up collectibles and souvenirs. You can also visit the Plum House museum of the foundation, located at 1012 West Main Street. For further details, check the website or call ahead.
Claimed to be the city's first church, Christ Church was built in 1820 and continues its service to the community to this day. A classic example of 19th century architecture, the vintage limestone structure stands out among the rest of the street's more modern buildings. Inside the church is a site of serenity, with its lengthy single aisle, stained glass, high ceiling and wooden beams evoking a sense of nostalgia of the late 19th century.