5022 Plank Rd
North Garden, Virginia 22959
(434) 202-8063
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Mobile Visitor Centers Begin Summer Break on July 15th.
The Mobile Visitor Centers will be on Summer Break from July 15th to July 28th. Visitors looking for information can visit the Albemarle County Office Building (401 McIntire Rd.) Monday—Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by calling 434-293-6789.
More InfoFamily-Friendly Things to Do in Charlottesville & Albemarle County
Whether you're traveling with toddlers, school-aged kids, or teens, Charlottesville and Albemarle County offer plenty of opportunities for family fun.
From hands-on museums and outdoor adventures to kid-approved restaurants and spacious wineries, there's no shortage of ways to make lasting memories together!
1. Explore History
Thomas Jefferson's Monticello
A visit to Monticello is engaging for all ages! Before heading to the mountaintop, be sure to stop by the newly refurbished Griffin Discovery Room, a hands-on activity center filled with interactive exhibits and activities. While you're there, pick up the Monticello Field Guide, an activity booklet that allows kids to dig deeper as they explore Monticello. On the historic mountaintop, explore at your own pace with a self-guided mobile scavenger hunt -- they currently have one for teens, families, and art enthusiasts! Monticello also offers a seasonal Family Friendly Tour, a 45-minute guided tour for families with children ages 5-11 that is uniquely designed to spark curiosity through storytelling and age-appropriate conversation.
James Monroe's Highland
Just a short drive from Monticello, James Monroe's Highland is another great stop for families interested in history. Guests are encouraged to explore Highland's interior exhibits and outdoor spaces at their own pace, with a number of additional resources available on-site including a scavenger hunt for children and families. While you're there, be sure to stretch your legs and explore Highland's Rustic Trails, which wind through the pasture and wooded hillside surrounding Highland.
-- Plan Your Trip Around These Events --
Monticello and Highland host a number of family-friendly events throughout the year that are worth attending! Including (but not limited to):
- Highland hosts their annual Sheep Shearing event in April.
- In late July/early August, Highland hosts the Albemarle County Fair.
- Monticello's Naturalization Ceremony on July 4th is a memorable experience for the whole family.
- Monticello celebrates Home Educators' Day in September with a day of interactive learning and exploration.
- Monticello puts on a special holiday version of their family-friendly tours in December.
2. Family-Friendly Wineries
Wine country isn't just for adults. Many wineries along the Monticello Wine Trail welcome families with expansive lawns, outdoor seating, games, and beautiful scenery where everyone can relax. Parents can enjoy award-winning Virginia wines while kids have room to explore and play.
3. Get Outside and Explore
Charlottesville's natural beauty makes it easy to spend an entire day outdoors!
-- Local Tips for Family Adventures --
Local Instagram accounts like CharlottesvilleFamily, Cville_Kids, and KidFriendlyCharlottesville regularly share upcoming family events, new attractions, playground recommendations, and weekend inspiration to help you make the most of your visit!
4. Things to Do Indoors
Whether you're escaping the summer heat or a rainy afternoon, these indoor attractions keep kids entertained year-round.
Hunt for Art at The Fralin Museum and Kluge-Ruhe Museum
Both museums offer scavenger hunts that encourage children to explore their galleries while searching for clues -- just ask for one at the front desk before beginning your visit. At The Fralin Museum of Art, kids ages 2-5 and their accompanying adult are invited to attend "Pictures & Pages," which allows a close-up look at the current exhibits, fun story time, and hands-on art activities. Dates vary and can be found on their website. In addition to regularly offered classes and workshops for varying ages, Kluge Ruhe also offers a number of touch stations throughout their exhibit which visitors are encouraged to touch.
Creative Experiences
Let creativity take over at these businesses! Your kids will be able to paint, craft, and create their own keepsakes to take home.
Games and Entertainment
Looking for classic family fun? Need an outlet to burn off some youthful energy? Here are some options for a wide range of ages:
Play Spaces for Younger Children
5. Family-Friendly Food and Sweet Treats
After a day of exploring, refuel at one of Charlottesville's many family-friendly restaurants and treat yourself to a well-earned dessert! From spacious patios and play areas to ice cream shops and bakeries, these local favorites are sure to satisfy every member of the family.
Family-Friendly Restaurants
Don't Skip Dessert!
6. Don't Miss These Annual Family Events
Not sure when to visit? Plan your trip around one of Charlottesville's family-friendly celebrations!
7. Plan Your Family Getaway
The only thing better than a day full of exploring? Waking up to ANOTHER day of fun! Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a week-long vacation, Charlottesville and Albemarle County offer plenty of family-friendly lodging options that make it easy to stay close to the fun!