The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Charlottesville, VA to Mechanicsville, VA
The scenic drive from Charlottesville, Virginia, to Mechanicsville, Virginia, is a great way to explore the beauty of the Old Dominion. This road trip covers over 100 miles of breathtaking views and attractions that are sure to keep you entertained from start to finish. As you pack your car and hit the road, be sure to take in all the highlights along the way, including the halfway point, Manakin-Sabot, VA.
Top 5 Things to Do
1. Visit Monticello
Monticello is the historical home of one of the United States’ most renowned founding fathers, Thomas Jefferson. Here, you can gain an insight into Jefferson's life and career as well as explore the vast plantation that is still standing today. The plantation also includes a beautiful garden full of unique flowers and vegetation.
Interesting Fact: Jefferson began the construction of Monticello at the young age of 26 and continuously made changes to it throughout his life.
2. Tasting & Touring at Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards
When you are driving through the countryside, you cannot miss the Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards. Here, tourists can indulge in tasting the most finely crafted wine and food in the area. The vineyard has a great reputation for its scenery and ambiance that make for a great complement to some of the delicious wines available on site.
Interesting Fact: Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards is certified as Sustainable Vineyard by the “Sustainability in Practice” (SIP) Certification that ensures growing practices that respect the land and the surrounding environment.
3. Visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
If you are looking for a more cultural experience during your road trip, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is the place to visit. The museum features more than 33,000 works of art from around the world, including American, African, and European art. These works range from ancient times through contemporary art, so there is something for everyone.
Interesting Fact: The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts was founded in 1936 and originally started in a small room in the Virginia State Capitol building.
4. Stock Up on Refreshments at Ashland Berry Farm
This farm is just a short drive from Mechanicsville, VA and is a great way to stock up on refreshments after the long journey. The farm offers the best locally grown fruits, vegetables, and berries. As a bonus, it has an adjacent cafe that features some of the most authentic local food in the area.
Interesting Fact: Ashland Berry Farm has been providing fresh produce to the community for over 50 years.
5. Discover the Virginia State Capitol Building
The Virginia State Capitol Building was designed by Thomas Jefferson and is one of the most architecturally significant buildings in the country. The building has unique architectural features, including a statue of George Washington riding on top of the dome. Inside, visitors can explore the historic chambers of the Virginia Senate and House of Delegates.
Interesting Fact: The Virginia State Capitol Building is the oldest continuously operating state capitol in the United States.
Conclusion
The road trip from Charlottesville, Virginia, to Mechanicsville, Virginia, is a journey of a lifetime. It has some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, coupled with some of the most impressive and historic tourist attractions. By visiting Monticello, Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Ashland Berry Farm, and Virginia State Capitol Building, tourists will be able to explore the full range of what Virginia has to offer.
This trip is approximately 106 miles, and if you want to do everything we suggest, it would take a few days. The unique experience of traveling the countryside and discovering new things makes this road trip worth the time spent. Whether you travel with friends or family, the Charlottesville-Mechanicsville road trip is an adventure that will leave lasting memories to cherish.