The Best College Town In Virginia
Charlottesville, Virginia, is steeped in history, culture, and academia. Founded in 1762 in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this lovely colonial-era town quickly established itself as a vital hub for commerce and governance in Virginia’s early days, ensuring its place as a key player in the development not just of the state, but the United States as a whole.
It was here that Thomas Jefferson, one of America’s Founding Fathers and the third US President, chose to establish a public university that would rival already established institutions like Harvard, the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, and even Yale. His remarkable vision led to the founding of the University of Virginia (UVA), now one of the country’s premier institutions of higher learning.
A History of Excellence at UVA
What makes Charlottesville a great college town? It’s the strong synergy between the university and the surrounding community. Great college towns not only offer opportunities for cultural and academic engagement but also boast a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to students, residents, and visitors. Charlottesville meets all these criteria, consistently ranking not only among the best public universities in the United States but also among the best travel destinations in the South.
The University of Virginia was established in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, who envisioned it as a center for research and learning. Jefferson personally designed the campus layout, including the famous Rotunda, a grand central building inspired by Rome's Pantheon. Initially, UVA’s educational mission was modest, starting with only 123 students, but it has expanded significantly to now serve over 26,000 students.
Academically, UVA is well-known for its law, business, and medicine programs, with the Darden School of Business and the School of Law drawing top talent worldwide. It also has a notable alumni network, including author Edgar Allan Poe, astronaut Kathryn Thornton, and journalist Katie Couric—a testament to its legacy of developing leaders and innovators.
Must-See Attractions on Campus
Whether you’re a student or a visitor, the Academical Village is the historic heart of the university’s magnificent campus and a great place to get to know UVA. Conceived and designed by Jefferson himself, this well-preserved “village” stands as a hallmark of both architectural brilliance and philosophical depth, embodying his revolutionary idea of integrating living, learning, and community within an educational setting. His vision was groundbreaking in the early 19th century and continues to shape UVA’s identity as a leading place of learning.
At the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage Site is The Lawn, a long, rectangular expanse of grass and trees that serves as the university’s central axis. The Rotunda, inspired by the Roman Pantheon, anchors the space as its architectural and symbolic centerpiece. Originally housing the university library, the Rotunda now hosts events and meetings and is open to the public, with some of the best views of the Lawn can be had from the Rotunda’s upper levels.
Boarding the Lawn are 10 pavilions, each with a distinctive classical design. Reflecting Jefferson’s commitment to blending architecture with education, these pavilions serve as both faculty residences and instructional spaces, fostering an environment where academic exchange thrives. The Lawn is flanked by 54 student rooms (27 on each side), highly coveted accommodations awarded to fourth-year students through a competitive application process.
You can stroll along the covered walkways in front of these accommodations, each featuring a classic wooden rocking chair and a small blackboard displaying the words “Ask Me About,' inviting students to stop and chat about topics they want to learn more about or share their knowledge.
Another campus must-see is the Fralin Museum of Art, which houses a diverse collection of works ranging from classical to contemporary. Other highlights include the Leander McCormick Observatory, which offers public nights where visitors can stargaze through historic telescopes, and the University Cemetery, where Jefferson’s descendants and notable faculty are buried, providing a contemplative link to the past.
Charlottesville Beyond the Campus
Charlottesville features numerous attractions linked to the university but situated off-campus. The Downtown Mall, a historic pedestrian-only street nearby, hosts shops, restaurants, and bars favored by students and visitors. Additionally, the historic Paramount Theater, constructed in 1931, continues to host concerts, plays, and film screenings.
The big off-campus attraction, though, is Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. Jefferson had his magnificent estate built atop a hill within sight of the university’s Rotunda (at least it was at the time) over a period of 40 years starting in 1769. Pay a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site and you’ll see neoclassical designs including a striking dome and columned porticoes drawn from ancient Roman and Palladian principles.
The interior showcases Jefferson’s inventive spirit, with features such as skylights, a dumbwaiter, and alcove beds added to maximize space and function. Admission is by well-organized guided tours only, and for those who enjoy walking, the extensive grounds are a delight to explore on foot. While you can take the shuttle bus for the short uphill journey from the visitor center to Monticello, the easy walk back down takes you past the property’s graveyard, where Jefferson and members of his family are buried.
If you’re planning a night or two in this beautiful college town (which you definitely should), consider checking the availability at the charming Oakhurst Inn. Situated just a short walk from UVA’s campus, this upscale 4-star hotel offers a picturesque setting and is only about 10 minutes on foot from the Lawn and the Rotunda. The Oakhurst Café, part of the hotel, is conveniently located along your path and is an excellent choice for breakfast, lunch, or simply enjoying coffee and a sweet treat, popular among locals and students alike.
The Final Word
Charlottesville’s identity as Virginia’s best college town is well-deserved. Together, this lovely town and its university have created a community that values not only education but also the region’s fascinating history and rich culture. The University of Virginia’s contributions, from its academic excellence and traditions to its economic and cultural impact, have transformed the town into a hub of innovation and exploration. Little wonder, then, that Charlottesville’s rich history, picturesque campus, and thriving downtown make this Southern town a destination that appeals to students, alumni, residents, and visitors.
