November marks the tail end of peak fall foliage in the Charlottesville-area and Blue Ridge Mountains, when the last bursts of gold and crimson cling to the trees and the mountain views stretch wide and clear. It’s the perfect time for hiking and adventure — without the crowds of October! In fact, Charlottesville was just recently named a 'Top Adventure Town' by Blue Ridge Outdoors! Here are some of the best hikes in the Charlottesville-area to get you started. If organized events are more your speed, be sure to check out:
Pick-your-own apples are still in season through November at Carter Mountain Orchard, Chiles Peach Orchard, and Trump Cidery! Check their sites for availability and if there are any fun events happening at the same time, like food trucks or live music.
Best Hiking Trails in Charlottesville: Local Trails, Blue Ridge Views & More
There's no shortage of stunning scenery in the Charlottesville area and hiking is a great way to take it all in.
Charlottesville's creative side shines year-round, but November is especially rich with experiences. Here are a few events to get you started -- be sure to check our Arts & Culture Events Calendar for the most up-to-date information.
This annual celebration, hosted by Lua Project in collaboration with McGuffey Art Center, will kick off on November 7th at 5:30PM at the McGuffey Art Center with music, dance, art & more. There will be beautiful memorial altars to see and a community altar to contribute to. The exhibition is free and open to the public. On November 8th, McGuffey will be hosting a film screening for 'A Family Undertaking' from 2-4PM. 👉 Learn More About Both Events
See artists in action during this special event! Over two days, 24 studios will be open, featuring 47 artists and artisans showcasing their talents. Samples of their work and studio locations can be found on their website, along with information on accessibility and written directions for each studio. Be sure to make a two-day adventure out of it and participate in their Passport Program, which offers visitors a chance to collect stamps and win shopping credit!
From weekly toddler art and story time to adult only classes, there’s something for everyone at Scrappy Elephant. Learn watercolor techniques, try your hand at mosaics, improve your crochet skills, and so much more. It's always a great time to learn a new skill! 👉 Learn More & Sign Up Here
Did you know that cider apples have been grown in Virginia since the mid 1700s? In fact, Thomas Jefferson dabbled in cidermaking and pursued the cultivation of several cider apples at his own orchards at Monticello. Each year, Virginia Cider Week honors the rich cider-making heritage in the state with events including tastings, festivals, paired dinners, and more. Plan a visit in November to enjoy tasting the modern versions of this centuries old Virginia tradition in Albemarle County. Be sure to head to the official Virginia Cider website for more information as we get closer -- here are a few events worth the trip:
November is a wonderful time to support your favorite wineries and even discover some new ones! Catch peak foliage season in early November, enjoy events, and get cozy indoors (or in front of the fire) as the colder season sets in. Here are a few ideas to get you started!
Charlottesville and Albemarle County are lucky enough to be home to the Charlottesville Ale Trail, which includes a number of talented craft beverage makers -- many within walking distance from the Downtown Mall! Grab a passport, collect your stamps, and win rewards! Elevate your outing by attending one of the many events these spots host, taking on a puzzle crawl, or pairing your pint with seasonal bites found at neighboring restaurants!
Now through January 31st, visitors can head to the Jefferson School African American Heritage center to view their new exhibition from artist and genealogist Dr. Shelley Murphy. The exhibition honors the African American Men and Women who served in the Revolutionary War. Through rare documents, profiles, military records, and historical interpretation, it restores the visibility of those whose courage helped shape the nation’s founding. The Jefferson School's exhibitions are open Tuesday - Friday from 1-6PM and Saturday from 10AM-1PM.
The Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society offers a diverse variety of historic walking tours to locals and tourists alike. Schedule a private guided tour by emailing or calling the Historical Society. Through November 29th, they are also offering three Saturday morning tours (tickets required):
Highland is pleased to host the VA250 traveling exhibition, Give Me Liberty: Virginia & the Forging of a Nation. Commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this exhibition explores the unique and essential Virginia people, events, and sites that helped bring liberty and democracy to a nation. 👉 Purchase Tickets Ahead of Time
For one night only, experience an unforgettable evening of dinner and discussion at Montalto with renowned chef Aarti Sequeira. Indulge in a meticulously crafted three-course meal including Monticello-grown ingredients and learn more about food as a vehicle for diplomacy. This intimate dining experience offers a rare opportunity to savor history through food, all while enjoying breathtaking views from Jefferson’s high mountain. 👉 Limited seating is available.
Unlocked History's escape rooms are the perfect adventure for history buffs, family-friendly fun, or those seeking an indoor refuge from colder weather! Their creative puzzles are just the right amount of challenging and center around historic happenings such as WW2, Da Vinci and the Renaissance, Martha and Thomas Jefferson at Monticello during the American Revolution, and even Edgar Allan Poe during his (brief) time at the University of Virginia!
Our markets aren't closed yet! Several farmers markets are shifting hours and staying open to continue to provide the best of the season’s harvest and local handcrafted goods.
The holiday season is fast approaching and finding the perfect gift (sooner rather than later) is on everyone’s mind. Thankfully there are plenty of stores in the area to check out -whether you're looking for local, handcrafted, boho, modern, or simply a great deal! While the main shopping locations include the historic pedestrian Downtown Mall, The Shops at Stonefield, Barracks Road Shopping Center, and 5th Street Station, there are a wide variety of shops throughout Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Looking for something specific? Start with the Shopping page to see a complete list of our local shopping partners.
Wahoowa! UVA athletics are on fire this year, and nothing beats the energy of cheering on the Hoos at home! With soccer, football, basketball, and volleyball in full swing, here are the top times to visit:
It's never too early to celebrate the season -- take part in these early winter activities OR plan ahead! Be sure to keep an eye on our events calendar for the most up-to-date events.
Virginia's premier holiday light show is back for its fifth season at Boar's Head Resort with even more light displays than last year! This illuminated half-mile lakeside stroll offers visitors an extraordinary palette of colorful illuminations for a magical show of lights like no other. Select nights will also feature drone shows, fireworks, and live performers! 👉 Plan Your Winter Wander Adventure
Back for its fourth season, Veritas Illuminated Light Show's dazzling walking light trail winds through the grove and vines of Veritas Vineyard and Winery. Open from 5:30-9PM, warm up near the fire with a cup of mulled wine or head into the tasting room for seasonal dishes. Veritas Illuminated is excellent for families with small children, those wanting to bring their dogs, and couples looking for a magical date night! 👉 Learn More About Veritas Illuminated.
Every year, the historic pedestrian Downtown Mall transforms into a wintery wonderland with businesses participating in a number of fun, festive activities. The transformation usually happens in late November (more information TBD). Expect holiday lights, family-friendly events, and self-guided adventures galore!
Winter in Charlottesville and Albemarle County is a beautiful time to visit! December through March is considered off-season for the Charlottesville area, making it a great time to visit. Lower rates on accommodations, shorter wait times for restaurants, and an overall quieter experience is just what the doctor ordered for a calm getaway. There’s something special about walking into a local winery and hearing the crack of the fireplace and feeling the warmth and coziness of the tasting room. Spending a few extra moments mulling over menu options with a restaurant server. Or just taking time to see how the day plays out without concrete plans in place. Winter may just become your favorite travel season!
This website uses cookies to enhance user experience on our website. Learn more.
Quick Search
Full Search