Student Guide To Charlottesville
Once you decide to move to Charlottesville, you will have a new city to explore. Charlottesville is rich in history and culture so you will never have a dull moment. Before you begin, you must first find the right area of town to look for Charlottesville apartments. Here is a quick overview of the different regions in Charlottesville.
- Downtown: is a bustling and exciting part of town. Students who live in this area are surrounded by delicious restaurants, art galleries, boutiques, festivals, and even a weekly farmers market.
- South of Charlottesville: The main draw for this area is the 5th Street Station Shopping Center. It allows students to remain close to companies such as Great Clips, Panera Bread, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Alamo Drafthouse Cinema.
- Near University of Virginia: is one of the most coveted areas for students because of its proximity to grounds. It is also home to The Corner, which is a strip of restaurants, shops, and nightlife perfect for the college lifestyle.
- North of Charlottesville: is the area comprised of the Route 29 corridor. This region has a variety of student apartment complexes and regularly visited locations such as Fashion Square Mall, Kroger and Fresh Market.
- Pantops: is located on the east side of town. Though it is mainly dedicated to the retired community, it also contains recreation highlights such as Meade Park and Darden Towe Park.
Charlottesville Restaurants
When you choose student housing in Charlottesville, VA, such as The Standard at Charlottesville, you will have granite countertops and stainless steel appliances enabling you to cook delicious meals. However, eating out can provide you with quick alternatives when you are on the go or places to bond with friends on weekends. Charlottesville has a wide array of restaurants to satisfy every appetite and budget.
Mas Tapas
For a unique dining experience, choose Mas. It serves tapas, smaller portions that are meant to be shared communally. Patrons can enjoy the tasty food knowing it was made with local, organic vegetables, grains, meats, and herbs. The menu is inspired by Spanish, European and Mediterranean dishes.
Take-It-Away
When you need a quick yet delicious meal, Take-it-Away is the place to go. Sandwiches are made with fresh-baked bread, quality meats and cheeses, and a famous house dressing. For an even better experience, order your sandwich to go and have a picnic on the lawn.
The White Spot
The White Spot is the perfect spot to satisfy your late-night cravings. When you visit, be sure to try the Gus Burger. It is their famous cheeseburger topped with a fried egg. If there is a line out the door, don’t worry! The line moves quickly and the food is worth it.
Continental Divide
If you find yourself craving Mexican food, try Continental Divide. It boasts delicious food, a lively atmosphere, and margaritas, for those over 21 years old. If you like hot sauce, be sure to try their in-house sauces.
The Virginian
This classic go-to restaurant has been around since 1923. Though it specializes in comfort food, there is something for everyone on the menu. When you go to The Virginian, remember that any side can be substituted for a bowl of their delicious, creamy macaroni and cheese.
Grit Coffee Bar & Cafe
When you are tired of on-grounds libraries, change up the scenery by studying at Grit Coffee. Here, you will find some of the best coffee in Charlottesville and a cozy atmosphere ideal for being productive.
Entertainment In Charlottesville
Though the amenities at your off grounds housing near University of Virginia can keep you entertained indefinitely, make sure that you explore the surrounding city as well. Charlottesville is an exciting city that is the perfect combination of history, music, and culture.
Monticello
Perhaps the most well-known attraction in Charlottesville is Thomas Jefferson’s home, the Monticello. Tickets provide visitors with a guided tour through the house and access to walk through the gardens.
Main Street Arena
The Main Street Arena provides locals of all ages to ice skate, take lessons or join the lacrosse league. The large space can also be rented out for private events and weddings. In the summer, come to the Main Street Arena to play soccer, lacrosse or corn hole.
Charlottesville City Market
Saturdays in Charlottesville are made more exciting with weekly farmers markets in the parking lot across from the Downtown Mall. Vendors sell a range of local plants and flowers, meats, arts and crafts, and food. When your younger siblings visit, they can get a balloon or have their face painted. Before you make plans, be sure to check the website for hours because they change depending on the season.
Sprint Pavilion
Charlottesville is home to a thriving music scene for students to enjoy. Sprint Pavilion offers both covered and open-lawn seating. This pavilion also hosts a variety of events such as wine festivals, craft fairs, and movie screenings.
John Paul Jones Arena
John Paul Jones Arena has become the backdrop for some of the top acts in the industry and also hosts UVA basketball games. Make sure that you sign up for the email alerts so you find out when your favorite artists are coming into town.
Parks & Recreation
When you are looking for a change of scenery, explore the many parks and hiking trails Charlottesville and the surrounding areas have to offer. There are many beautiful and exciting ways to engage with nature in close proximity to your UVA off grounds student housing.
Shenandoah National Park
When you are looking to escape into nature, there is no better place than Shenandoah National Park. Though it requires a bit of a drive, you will have access to 200,000 acres of gorgeous protected land where you can camp and hike.
Ivy Creek Natural Area
If you are looking for something a bit closer, Ivy Creek Natural Area is only a 10 minute drive away from grounds. Though the entire park is 215 acres and has over six miles of walking trails, there are plenty of leisurely hikes where you can simultaneously learn about Charlottesville’s rich history.
Booker T. Washington Park
The 9.25 acres at Washington Park represent some of the most frequented nature areas in the city. Washington Park has plenty of activities including an outdoor pool, recreation building, playground, basketball courts, softball field, and picnic shelter. Grab some friends and play ultimate frisbee or join a pickup game of soccer.
James River Runners
If you are looking for a refreshing way to engage in nature during the warm months, check out the available rentals from James River Runners, You can acquire all of the resources you need to canoe, kayak, tube, camp and fish along the James River.
Humpback Rocks
If you want the shortest walk that will result in the best view, hike to the Humpback Rocks. This student favorite is steep but provides hikers with a 360-degree view. Be aware that on weekends, it can be quite busy.
Choose Off Grounds Housing In Charlottesville, VA
After learning about all of the exciting attributes of your new home, it is vital that you choose one of the best Charlottesville apartments near UVA has to offer to make your experience complete. The Standard at Charlottesville provides residents with spacious rooms, stylish furniture packages, on-site retail and an advanced fitness facility. Contact our office today to schedule a tour!