Fun Facts to Know Before Moving to Charlottesville

Newcomers Guide: Fun Facts Your Family Needs

1. Albemarle County History & Three Presidents’ Legacy

   If you’re moving to Charlottesville, understanding Albemarle County history is a must. The area is famous for its trio of U.S. Presidents—Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and James Monroe—whose magnificent homes draw visitors from all over, supporting a thriving local tourism industry. Jack Jouett famously warned Charlottesville of a British invasion in 1791, possibly saving Jefferson himself. Meriwether Lewis, the famed explorer from Ivy, is another local hero whose legacy endures to this day. For Charlottesville family-friendly activities steeped in history, consider a history tour in Charlottesville during the summer months, or attend the downtown Spirit Walk around Halloween. And here’s a local tip: once your driver’s license shows you’re officially living in Charlottesville VA, you can visit Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello for free if you tag along with a paying friend.

2. Downtown Mall Charlottesville

   One of the top things to know before moving to Charlottesville is that the Downtown Mall Charlottesville offers a little something for everyone. Stroll along its pedestrian-friendly streets, grab homemade ice cream at Chaps, pop into the Virginia Discovery Museum, and even try out the echo at the TING Pavilion. When it’s time for lunch, The Nook and other casual spots give off that small-town vibe—making it a must-see during any Charlottesville relocation guide tour.

3. Charlottesville Wineries and Vineyards

   Though Jefferson experimented with winemaking, the local industry didn’t truly flourish until the 1970s. Today, you’ll find more than 35 Charlottesville wineries and vineyards within a 30-mile radius, making it a major part of local culture and tourism. If you’re curious about local vintages, check out Wine & Country Life and get ready to savor some of the best wines in the Eastern United States.

4. A Literary Community

   Living in Charlottesville means joining a community that boasts literary legends like Edgar Allan Poe and William Faulkner, and contemporary writers John Grisham, Jan Karon, Rita Mae Brown, Donna Tartt, and Poet Laureate Rita Dove. Between our local art galleries, theaters, and music venues, your life here can be as art-filled as you’d like.

5. UVA (University of Virginia) History

   The University is central to Charlottesville and Albemarle County real estate conversations. On UVA “Grounds,” freshmen are “First Years,” and the Rotunda overlooks “The Lawn” surrounded by historic residences once occupied by luminaries like Edgar Allan Poe. Every Halloween, children flock to The Lawn for trick-or-treating, and every spring, graduating students gather in caps and gowns. It’s hard to separate UVA (University of Virginia) history from the spirit of our city.

6. Three Notched Road (or Three Chopt Road)

   While locals disagree on the exact name—some say it’s Three Notched, others Three Chopt—everyone can agree that this is now Route 250. It’s a piece of Albemarle County history that newcomers will quickly learn about.

7. Bellair Market Celebrity Spotting

   The best spot for a bit of Bellair Market celebrity spotting is, surprisingly, a gas station. However, Bellair Market is beloved for its chicken salad and sandwiches named after local neighborhoods. It’s also the place where you might catch a glimpse of Howie Long, Sissy Spacek, John Grisham, Mary Chapin Carpenter, or Jan Karon. As far as Charlottesville family-friendly activities go, grabbing lunch here is a local rite of passage.

8. What’s a Wahoo?

   If you hear people say “Wahoo” or “Hoo,” they’re referring to UVA students and sports teams—a nickname dating back to the 1890s rivalry with Washington & Lee. In more recent years, “Hoos” has become a friendly shorthand. For sports lovers and future locals reading any Charlottesville relocation guide, be prepared to cheer, “Go Hoos!”

9. Charlottesville and Albemarle County Basics

   For anyone moving to Charlottesville, the city’s population is around 46,453 (within 10.24 square miles), while Albemarle County spans 726 square miles with a population of 112,395. Both areas have seen notable growth in the last decade. These numbers are essential for anyone curious about Charlottesville and Albemarle County real estate options.

10. Thomas Jefferson’s UVA, Founded in 1825

    Jefferson established the University in 1825, which remained all-male until 1970. The first female president, Teresa A. Sullivan, wasn’t elected until 2010, marking a significant moment in UVA (University of Virginia) history.

11. Anna Anderson and Russian Royalty

    Perhaps one of Charlottesville’s more unusual claims to fame is Anna Anderson, who spent her final years here and claimed to be the Grand Duchess Anastasia of Russia. This fun fact is another addition to the long list of things to know before moving to Charlottesville.

    
    

12. The Corner

    Known simply as “The Corner,” this stretch near the central UVA entrance is a hub for student life. It’s jam-packed with cafes, shops, and restaurants—a quick taste of Charlottesville family-friendly activities if you’re exploring the University area.

13. Albemarle’s Sophisticated Country Living

    Within minutes of the city, you can drive out Barracks Road and find yourself amid rolling hills, horse farms, and Charlottesville wineries and vineyards. Heading east on Route 250 toward Keswick offers glimpses of some of our wealthiest estates—a big draw for those curious about Charlottesville and Albemarle County real estate.

14. Dave Matthews Band (DMB) Hometown

    Locals often mention “The Dave” or “DMB” like old friends. Dave Matthews Band (DMB) hometown pride runs deep here, and superfans love visiting Blenheim Vineyards, the family-friendly winery Dave Matthews founded.

15. Welcome to C’ville

    Frequently honored in “best of” lists, such as Sperling’s Best Places and Reader’s Digest’s Top 10 Best Places to Raise a Family, living in Charlottesville VA offers an enviable quality of life. Check out our Charlottesville local events calendar to stay updated on everything from festivals to history tours in Charlottesville.

    You’ll find a welcoming and fun city in Charlottesville

    In short, Charlottesville relocation guide seekers will find that the city, affectionately called C’ville, is brimming with history, culture, and community spirit. Whether you’re exploring Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, savoring local wines, or simply enjoying the Downtown Mall Charlottesville, you’ll soon discover why so many people are proud to call this region home. If you’re moving to Charlottesville, welcome—you’re in for an incredible experience!