Visit our Mobile Visitor Centers for maps, recommendations, and more!
The Mobile Visitor Centers will be closed Thursday, August 13th due to excessive heat. Visitors looking for information can visit our Office located at 3510 Remson Court, Suite 102, for brochures or call us at (434) 293-6789. The office building is open Wednesday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
More InfoA Guide to Black-Owned Businesses in Charlottesville & Albemarle County
Charlottesville and Albemarle County are home to a vibrant community of Black-owned businesses that help shape the area's culture, creativity, and culinary scene.
From generations-old family restaurants to boutiques, barbershops, and locally-owned lodging, these businesses offer meaningful ways to experience the destination while supporting local entrepreneurs. Whether you're visiting for the weekend or looking to discover somewhere new close to home, this guide is a great place to start. While it isn't a complete list, these 18 businesses showcase just a few of the incredible Black-owned establishments that make Charlottesville such a welcoming and diverse place to explore.
MarieBette Café & Bakery | 700 Rose Hill Drive
MarieBette is a gem, known for French-inspired pastries with a neighborhood coffeehouse feel. For a quick stop near the Downtown Mall, visit their sister location, Petit MarieBette, on E. Water Street.
Michelle's Soul Food | 719 West Main Street
Michelle's Soul Food has taken over the spot once home to the legendary Mel's Café, bringing over 20 years of culinary experience to classic Southern comfort dishes, from fried fish to candied yams.
Order Up Eatery | 233 4th Street NW
Order Up Eatery inside the historic Jefferson School City Center serves up soulful sandwiches, wings, and Sunday specials that have earned a loyal following. While you're there, stop by the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center and visit their permanent historical exhibit and rotating contemporary art gallery.
The Ridley | 1106 W. Main Street
Located in the Draftsman Hotel, The Ridley serves refined Southern cuisine and honors Walter Ridley, the first Black graduate of UVA. A portion of annual profits are donated to The Ridley Foundation in his name.
Royalty Eats | 820 Cherry Avenue
Royalty Eats serves up comfort food with a royal touch, from wings to sides that taste like home.
Dop3 Fashion | 1859 Seminole Trail, Suite B
Dop3 Fashion offers trendy clothing and accessories for the whole family, with new styles added regularly.
Rock Paper Scissors | 321 E. Main Street
Located on the Downtown Mall, Rock Paper Scissors is Charlottesville's go-to shop for custom invitations, stationery, greeting cards, and thoughtful gifts.
We Grow | 410 Valley Street, Scottsville
Take a short drive to Scottsville to visit this charming plant and flower boutique. We Grow offers houseplants, floral design, gardening supplies, and hands-on workshops for gardeners of every skill level.
Black Women Who Wine
Founded by Tasha Durrett, Black Women Who Wine brings people together through monthly wine tastings, educational events, and seasonal gatherings like book clubs with Bluebird & Co., celebrating Black women in Virginia wine country.
Culinary Concepts AB | 2041 Barracks Road
Whether you're an experienced home cook or trying something new, Culinary Concepts AB offers interactive cooking classes that make for a fun date night, group outing, or unique vacation experience.
DreaTchal Lymphatic & HydraFacial Studio | 345 Merchant Walk Square, Suite 20
Treat yourself to a little self-care with a lymphatic drainage massage or HydraFacial at DreaTchal's Merchant Walk studio, offering personalized wellness treatments designed to help you relax and recharge.
The Barber's Den | 169 Seminole Court
The Barber's Den combines classic barbering with a modern, welcoming atmosphere for fades, beard trims, and precision cuts.
Cavalier Barbers | 108 2nd Street NE
A longtime Downtown Mall staple, Cavalier Barbers is known for professional cuts, a relaxed environment, and welcomes both appointments and walk-ins.
Ebony Images | 153 Seminole Court
Serving the Charlottesville community for years, Ebony Images specializes in hair care and styling for all textures in a friendly, professional setting.
Natre'al Hair Design | 263 Ridge McIntire Road
Specializing in natural hair care, braids, locs, and protective styles, Natre'al Hair Design welcomes clients of all ages with personalized service and expert care.
Merrick Adventures & Transportation
Whether you're planning a winery tour, brewery hop, birthday celebration, or bachelorette weekend, Merrick Adventures & Transportation offers customized group transportation with comfortable seating and entertainment features to keep the fun going between stops.
Timeless Tours
Travel in comfort with Timeless Tours, offering luxury transportation for wine tours, weddings, airport transfers, and special occasions throughout Central Virginia.
10th Street Bed & Breakfast | 339 10th Street NW
Just a short distance from the Downtown Mall and West Main St, the 10th Street Bed & Breakfast offers a cozy, welcoming place to stay with easy access to Charlottesville's restaurants, shops, and attractions.