Momticello
Charlottesville, Virginia didn’t deserve the bad publicity it received recently because it’s a friendly and inclusive city. The University of Virginia attracts and welcomes students from everywhere. As a university town, it’s lively, upbeat and cultured. I enjoyed a long weekend there during the late summer when it was humming.
Charlottesville is one of America’s oldest cities, but cleverly combines the past with the present, making it a popular destination. Here are five must-see sites.
Monticello
The third president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, is rightly considered to be a Renaissance man, and one of his talents was architecture. One of his greatest architectural achievements was the design of his own home. Visitors are taken on a guided tour of the first floor of the house. The docent discusses much about the man, his philosophy and his relationship with his slaves. There is also a guided slave tour. But visitors may tour the plantation and outbuildings on their own.
University of Virginia
Jefferson established the school in 1817. Many American luminaries have studied there, such as Edgar Allen Poe and Woodrow Wilson. The Rotunda, designed by Jefferson, is the building to see. Besides the extraordinary structure, important artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries are on display.
Jefferson School
I was impressed by this building that had been a segregated school for African American. It has been restored to its 1926 condition and refabricated to be an African American Heritage Center. It offers the community educational program, meeting spaces and exhibitions. It’s worth a visit to see the small museum that reveals its history.
Main Street
In Charlottesville, America’s iconic thoroughfare, Main Street, has it all. You can stroll one of the nation’s largest pedestrian malls, located downtown. Restaurants, “indie” shops and a mid-century theater line the sides for eight-blocks. The street starts at the university and passes parks, historic statuary and buildings, stores and markets.
Wine
Without going into history and statistics, let me say that Virginia is one of the top wine-producing states, The Charlottesville region is where much of it is produced.
I stopped at Blenheim Vineyards, owned by musician Dave Matthews. There are four separate vineyards that produce 55% of his wines. The regular tastings include five varieties. They include Whites, Reds, Sweet, Dry and an assortment of fruits.
Go to www.visitcharlottesville.org to find lodging, events and other info for a great getaway.
