It's been a long, hot summer here in Charlottesville, and pretty much everyone has a small part of themselves that can't wait for cooler weather and being able to walk to class without becoming drenched in sweat. But before fall officially comes and the sundresses are packed away until April, here's a list of some last-minute summer things to do in Cville before the warm temperatures disappear:
1. Carter's Mountain Sunset Series
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Every Thursday from May until the end of September, Carter's Mountain Orchard stays open until 9 so visitors can enjoy live music, drinks, dinner, ice cream, hay rides, and an unbeatable view of the sunset. It's definitely not something to miss.
2. Downtown Mall Farmer's Market
Starting at 7 AM on Saturdays, the Farmer's Market at the Downtown Mall is perfect for anyone wanting to shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, garden herbs and flowers, homemade treats, and handcrafted jewelry. You can also get your fair share of free samples, which is always a plus.
3. Hiking
There are endless cool places to go hiking around Charlottesville. Do a classic sunrise hike at Humpback, or drive a little further for something longer like Crabtree Falls or Old Rag. You get exercise AND awesome Instagram pictures. Win.
4. Outdoor concerts
If you missed Flume and the Lumineers, don't worry-- there's still a bunch of concerts coming up at Sprint Pavilion, like Styx and the Avett Brothers, as well as tons at the Jefferson and JPJ (Carrie Underwood on October 22nd, just FYI).
5. Schuyler Quarry
This is a must-do at least sometime before you graduate. The Quarry is about a half hour drive from Grounds, and it's the perfect place for cliff jumping, picnicking, tanning, and enjoying these last few weeks of summer.
6. Beaver Creek Reservoir
Only twenty minutes away, Beaver Creek features a giant lake for fishing, boating, and picnicking. It also offers beautiful views of the water and mountains. Make sure to bring your Eno.
7. Outside dining
There's no better way to spend a warm evening than eating outside at a delicious restaurant with friends. Stay on the Corner and enjoy the outdoor dining areas at Trin, Bilt, or Crozet, or travel to the downtown area to Bizou or The Local for their great patios.
8. IX Art Park
The Art Park is just another cool and unique place that adds color to Charlottesville. Stop by after visiting Brazo's Tacos or the I Love Charlottesville sign, or come on for Food Truck Thursdays to try delicious street food.
9. James River tubing
If you're lucky enough to have a free weekend, drive down with some friends to go tubing on the James River. Bring a speaker and a cooler with drinks and food and spend the day relaxing and getting tan.
10. Visit wineries
Charlottesville is famous for its incredible mountain wineries and local breweries. Bold Rock Cidery, Jefferson Vineyards, and the Trump Winery offer beautiful views, great venues, and of course, delicious drinks.
11. Attend a polo match
Foxfield and Gold Cup aren't until the spring, but matches are held at King Family Vineyards every Sunday from Memorial Day until mid-October for all of you who love horse racing almost as much as you love day drinking in fancy dresses and bow ties.
12. Enjoy Grounds
The easiest and simplest way to enjoy the last few weeks of summer is to take advantage of our beautiful school. Do homework on the Lawn, set up your Eno by dorms, get dumplings for lunch and sit in the Amphitheater with some friends.
There are countless fun things to do while it's still warm out here in Charlottesville. If you're an outdoorsy person, a wine-and-dine person, or just someone who likes to lay somewhere nice in the sun, make use of these cool options before fall hits.
