Spotlight: Charlottesville
In these times of uncertainty, I find it comforting to visit cozy communities to regain a sense of connection. Charlottesville, Virginia (population 48,000) checks off many boxes if you want a break from city living or day after day home office settings. Like many small towns, there is so much to explore.
Charlottesville is a short two-hour car ride from Washington, DC. The University of Virginia, designed by Thomas Jefferson, who was an architect as well as a politician, is a gateway to the nearby Shenandoah National Park. This university hub includes charming retail, wonderful farm to table restaurants, a hip music scene, and welcoming boutique hotels for weekenders, college parents, and business travelers. History encompasses this area with beautiful old residential neighborhoods covered by large, canopied trees ideal for strolling. Friendly residents welcome the opportunity to have a conversation.
There are cool small restaurants here and I made an excellent choice to eat anytime at the Blue Moon Diner. It is across the street from The Quirk, the stylish hotel where I stayed with my Australian Terrier, Henry Parker Schnabel.
The Diner was created in 1979 and still has the kind of character and history that can take you back in time or help you make new memories. Ms. Tara, an indispensable part of the diner, is a former roller derby queen!
For a throwback experience visit the famous Blue Moon Diner.
Charlottesville is a town teeming with both academia and art. United States African American Poet Laureate and Charlottesville resident, Rita Dove, has her telling words highlighted on a masterful work of art painted on the Graduate Hotel. Philadelphia artist, David Guinn, created the mural as part of a project that weaves its way throughout downtown Charlottesville. There is much art showcased throughout the city in hotel lobbies, restaurants, and streets.
Freedom Whispers in the Sky by artist Nastassja Swift.
Invasive Queer Kudzu by artist Aaron McIntosh.
On my way to the historic downtown mall I passed the iconic Paramount Theatre, which is surrounded by coffee houses, each with its own chill vibe. You can buy a slice of amazing home-made pie from The Pie Chest to nosh while watching people walking their dogs and even listen to family singing groups. The mall's relaxed and calm ambiance is something I take advantage of when visiting.
There is a welcoming, restful, and quiet joy in small towns everywhere. These are destinations where you can let your hair down and forget about outside distractions while enjoying a slice of American culture.
While we are all still in the midst of a global pandemic, it has helped me to not take the smaller things for granted. We cannot travel extensively yet. Lockdowns happen, and we reopen again. It’s like doing our laundry: wash, rinse, spin. Repeat. Take a break - find yourself a small town.
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