<p>I can best offer a Mom’s experience of what I enjoy most in Charlottesville. Shopping is excellent. There are many great boutiques and chain stores that are not located in my small city. Some of these stores are in Fashion Square, others are at Barrack’s Road, and some are in the Downtown Mall. I especially enjoy browsing antique shops near the grounds and look forward to new stores that will be opening soon in the Shops at Stonefield. My husband enjoys a trip to Crutchfield’s and Whole Foods when we are in town. A day trip to C’ville to shop is always followed by taking my S to dinner. There are great restaurants near the Corner - Lemongrass (a fav) and Little John’s to name a couple. Other favorite restaurants of ours are Bella’s, Hamilton’s, and the Nook. A trip to nearby Monticello is a must. We planned this for an Easter Sunday and that was perfect. This year, we hope to visit a vineyard. We have not yet explored outdoor activities in Charlottesville, but there is a climbing wall and there are bike paths. Wintergreen ski resort is about 40 minutes from campus. Montpelier is another great day trip. To be honest, my favorite thing to do in Charlottesville is to walk the grounds, from the Corner to Scott Stadium, along the Rotunda and Lawn, around the ampitheater, and by the old dorms. I love the Lawn, and the Rotunda, and being on grounds gives me a sense of belonging to this incredible university that I wish I had also attended.</p>