Whether you're in Charlottesville taking classes, working, or just hanging out, there are so many wonderful things to do here in the summer when the city has less people. Take advantage of this opportunity and make this your Charlottesville summer bucket list!
1. Get the number one ticket at Bodos.
It's significantly easier to get the number one ticket over the summer when there are less people, but still expect to get up early.
2. Get a big group together to go to trivia at Mellow Mushroom.
Fewer people means actually getting a table at trivia. Go before it starts and grab dinner!
3. Hike Old Rag.
In the summer, you have more free time, and there aren't any excuses to not go to one of the longer hikes in the area.
4. Hike Humpback for sunrise and sunset.
Once again, fewer people means a better experience for you. It'll be quieter at the summit in the summer, and you can take advantage of the later sunrise.
5. Go cliff jumping at Schuyler Quarry.
It's hard to find driving from grounds, but it's totally worth it. Expect getting out of the water after you jump to be a challenge!
6. Visit Monticello.
Get immersed in Charlottesville's history by visiting Thomas Jefferson's primary plantation.
7. Walk around the Downtown Mall.
You'll never run out of things to do at the Downtown Mall. Enjoy spending time outside while doing some shopping!
8. Picnic at Beaver Creek Reservoir.
About 20 minutes away from UVA, Beaver Creek is beautiful and peaceful. Bring an Eno and stay for a while!
9. Stargaze at McCormick Observatory.
Go on the first or third Fridays of every month for a public open night anytime from 9-11 p.m. to look at the stars, explore the building, and learn from the exhibits.
10. Visit the IX Art Park.
Explore a sculpture park near downtown Charlottesville. Bring an old book to put in the community library!
11. Go to a concert at The Jefferson.
The Tallest Man on Earth, The Jayhawks, and The Legwarmers are all coming in June!
12. Go to the Thursday Evening Sunset Series at Carter's Mountain.
Every Thursday from mid-May to September, Carter's Mountain is open until 9 p.m. to encourage people to come and watch the sunset with them.
13. Visit the I Love Charlottesville sign.
Do you even live in Charlottesville if you've never visited the I Love Charlottesville sign?
14. Go to Walnut Creek Park.
You can hike or mountain bike on the trails, go swimming in the lake, or just enjoy the great outdoors!
15. Streak the Lawn.
The weather is perfect for it, and hopefully there will be fewer people to see you running naked down this UNESCO world heritage site.
16. Convince your friends to come back for Midsummers.
Get all your pals to come back to Charlottesville for a weekend of breaking in your new lease and celebrating with friends.
17. Go to Fridays After Five.
Music at the nTelos Wireless Pavilion every Friday after five. What more could you want?
18. Befriend an athlete.
A lot of athletes are here in the summer for training and summer classes. Take advantage of this opportunity before they get swamped by annoying fans during the school year!
19. Go to Blue Hole.
Beat the heat by driving to Sugar Hollow Reservoir and then hiking to Blue Hole, one of the deepest swimming holes in the area.
20. Tubing on the James River.
The perfect lazy summer activity.
Summer's just around the corner, and there's no shortage of things to do in Charlottesville. Start checking these things off and enjoy a break from school!
