1. Celebrate the 4th of July

Kick off the month with a host of local July 4th celebrations. We've compiled them all here!

Stick around in the city for the C'ville Spectacular Fireworks show on July 4th at 9PM sharp or head out of town for celebrations in Crozet, Scottsville, and at Boar's Head Resort. On the 4th, Monticello will host their annual Independence Day Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony. This event is free, but registration is required! This year’s speaker is award-winning filmmaker Ken Burns!

2. Attend the Annual Sangria Ramble

Join us for the 6th Annual RT. 29 Sangria Ramble and savor the flavors of summer! This year, 8 venues are each crafting a refreshing and unique sangria, ready to delight your senses. Participating Locations: Albemarle CiderWorks - 2545 Rural…

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Enjoy two days of sangria-filled fun at Potter’s Craft Cider, Albemarle CiderWorks, Wisdom Oak Winery, Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards, Loving Cup Vineyard & Winery, Mountain & Vine Vineyard & Winery, and Lovingston Winery. Each location will offer its own unique sangria and a free on-site experience to be won. Take a selfie at each of the participating venues over the course of the weekend, tag the venue or put us in your story then sit back and enjoy your drink.

Summertime is the perfect time to explore any of the 40+ wineries along the Monticello Wine Trail – recently named Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast! Don’t just take our word for it – read these recommendations for exploring our summertime wines from Black Women Who Wine.

Award-Winning Wineries in Charlottesville with Incredible Food Pairings Discover the best Charlottesville-area wineries serving up award-winning wines alongside unforgettable food pairings, from wood-fired pizza to farm-to-table fare. Learn More
5 Family-Friendly Wineries to Enjoy in Charlottesville & Albemarle County Wine tasting is a must-do activity here in Charlottesville and Albemarle County – and thanks to many of our local wineries along the Monticello Wine Trail, your tasting experience can be turned into a day for the whole family! Learn More

3. Pick Fresh Peaches

Area orchards burst to life in the summer with juicy, fresh fruit and you-pick flowers. July is especially great for picking peaches at Chiles Peach Orchard, Carter Mountain Orchard, and Henley’s Orchard.

Visit our Orchards & Farms page for a list of all local farms and filter for “Seasonal U-Pick" opportunities.

4. Indulge in Charlottesville Restaurant Week

July is a quieter time for visitors which not only means more affordable room rates – it’s a great opportunity to dine at restaurants that can be difficult to get a table at during other times of the year!

We recommend taking advantage of Cville Restaurant Week from July 21st – 27th. Choose from pre-fixed menus for either $35 or $45 to taste the best of our local restaurants. Consider booking a room at the Doyle, Draftsman Hotel, or the Kimpton The Forum Hotel -- all of which have on-site restaurants participating in the week’s events. You can also book a food tour with C-ville Bites for a more intimate, guided experience. And of course, don’t forget to celebrate National Ice Cream Month at these local spots!

Need some inspiration for your culinary adventure? Check out this trip itinerary for “How to Spend 24 Excellent Hours in Charlottesville” from Eater DC.

C‑Ville Bites C-ville Bites offers Charlottesville Downtown Mall Food Tours on Fridays and Saturdays from 4-6:30 pm.This delicious tour is a 2.5 hour walking tour that lets you taste and learn about the amazing food and culture of Charlottesville. The tour includes… Learn More
9 Must-Try Ice Cream Spots in Charlottesville Craving a sweet treat? Discover 10 of the best ice cream shops in Charlottesville, from local favorites to hidden gems perfect for a summer scoop. Learn More

5. Beat The Heat Indoors

6. Cool Off on the Water

There are tons of opportunities to get out on the water in July. Explore our Waterways page to discover local rivers and reservoirs right here in Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Bring a kayak or paddleboard to spots like Beaver Creek Reservoir, Ragged Mountain Reservoir, and Walnut Creek. Or book an experience with Elemental Experiences for a mini retreat where the paddleboard is provided – all you have to do is just show up!

Waterways Charlottesville and Albemarle County are home to two rivers: the scenic Rivanna River and mighty James River. Both offer opportunities to kayak, canoe, tube, or SUP. If you're looking for a more laid back experience, look for calmer bodies of… Learn More
The Ultimate Fishing Guide to Charlottesville and Albemarle County Diverse fishing options abound in Charlottesville and Albemarle County, all set against the scenic backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Learn More

If you’re planning a trip to the Rivanna and James Rivers, be aware that river levels vary at this time of year. Be sure to check in with our local river outfitters for information on river levels and current trip offerings.

Every Wednesday in the summer, head to Rivanna River Company for “Little Saturdays.” Splash in the river, play lawn games, purchase local beverages, and take advantage of the outdoor grills for the perfect summer evening for the whole family!

Book Your Stay

Enjoy lower rates during the summer – especially when you book a mid-week stay! Visit our Places to Stay page where you can filter for all your needs – from outdoor swimming pools to complimentary breakfasts, to the best pet-friendly places to bring your furry friends.

For even more ideas on how to enjoy a summertime trip, check out our Ultimate Summer Bucket List.

Places to Stay Charlottesville and Albemarle County offer visitors a wide variety of places to stay, including resorts, hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts, cabins, and vacation rentals. Learn More
The Ultimate Summer Bucket List Welcome to summer in beautiful Charlottesville and Albemarle County! We’ve got all you need for a summer getaway: stunning views, outdoor adventures, an extensive wine and craft beverage scene, and so much more. Learn More

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