(Charlottesville, VA) – The Charlottesville Albemarle Convention and Visitors Bureau (CACVB) is inviting this area’s residents to “Stay Local, Play Local” once again this summer. This initiative encourages citizens to discover and explore the wide variety of free and low-cost activities that Charlottesville and Albemarle County have to offer.
Charlottesville and Albemarle County provide endless options and attractions for a day full of family fun or a romantic couple’s getaway. Explore stops along the Monticello Artisan Trail or the learn more about the area’s rich history on the Jefferson Heritage Trail. Savor and visit with friends at one of the many local wineries, breweries and cideries while enjoying the picturesque and pastoral views. Rediscover timeless historic attractions like Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, James Monroe’s Highland or Michie Tavern. Catch a show or concert at one of the many local music venues and if that’s not enough, take a short, scenic drive to see what’s new in the charming towns of Scottsville or Crozet to discover more about why Albemarle County is the perfect option for a summer staycation! Before you visit, remember to check out these attractions’ websites, as many are offering special discounts this summer.
Outdoor activities abound in Charlottesville and Albemarle County and summer is one of the best times to enjoy them. You can spend a day in the wilderness by embarking on a day of cycling or hiking on the numerous trails that weave their way throughout the region. Horseback riding, golfing and even hot air ballooning, are all options located just a short drive away. Several meandering rivers give outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to go kayaking, canoeing, fishing, or even stand-up paddleboarding. Or you could really beat the heat by planning your own local “day at the beach!” Spend some time enjoying the sand, sun and water at the beaches of Chris Greene Lake or Walnut Creek Park. The James River and Rivanna River also offer tubing excursions for a leisurely and relaxing afternoon of floating. After a day in the great outdoors, gear up for a night on the town and explore some of the many tantalizing culinary options in a city that has been at the epicenter of the farm-to-table movement for many years.
The CACVB will also be having an official photo contest later this summer with great prizes to be awarded. Details will be released within the next few weeks on www.visitcharlottesville.org/staylocalcville.
“Residents have so many selections to pick from,” said Liz Palmer, Chairman of the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors. “Choosing to stay and play local means less money spent on gas and more resources and time available to enjoy our many backyard treasures.”
“We are fortunate to have so many possibilities right here at home, so planning a vacation can be affordable and rewarding,” said Charlottesville Mayor Mike Signer.
“Charlottesville and Albemarle County have so much to offer,” said Kurt Burkhart, CACVB Executive Director. “From award-winning wineries and restaurants, to outdoor activities, historic landmarks, unique shopping and a vibrant culture and music scene, it is no wonder that our area is such an appealing destination for tourists. This summer, we invite locals to be tourists in their own backyard and spend their vacation dollars right here in our community.”
About the Charlottesville Albemarle Convention & Visitors Bureau (CACVB):
In addition to serving as the global resource for marketing the tourism assets of Charlottesville and Albemarle County, Virginia, through www.visitcharlottesville.org, the CACVB assists tour operators, meeting planners, reunions and other groups in planning visits to the destination. CACVB’s mission is “to enhance the economic prosperity of City and County by promoting, selling and marketing the City of Charlottesville and County of Albemarle, as a destination, in pursuit of the meetings and tourism markets.” CACVB operates the Downtown Visitor Center (610 E Main St) which is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and a second visitor center, the Albemarle Tourism and Adventure Center in downtown Crozet (5791 Three Notch’d Rd) at the historic train depot; it is open Wednesday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. The CACVB also provides a touch-screen kiosk at Monticello’s Thomas Jefferson Visitor Center. The official website of the CACVB is www.visitcharlottesville.org. In addition, the organization manages powerful social media channels; ExperienceCharlottesville on Facebook, @VisitCVille on Twitter, CVilleVA on Pinterest, and @CharlottesvilleVA on Instagram and Vimeo.
