Why Lafayette? The Backstory

Spoiler alert: French aristocrat becomes American patriot. It seems like the plot of an epic coming-of-age adventure. The colonies’ struggle for independence moved Lafayette to action. At the age of 19, he agreed to support the cause in person and with his own wealth. By the summer of 1777, he had arrived in America and received a commission of major general in the Continental Army. Between 1777 and 1781, Lafayette fought in some of the most important battles of the Revolutionary War and traveled back to France to negotiate for additional forces and funds, which were instrumental in defeating the British. After the war, as a proponent for human rights, religious freedom, and the abolition of slavery, Lafayette took an active role in leading his native country through changes of government, often at his own peril, while also maintaining friendships in America. Now with that backstory in place, here are some of the ways you can discover French cuisine and culture throughout Charlottesville and Albemarle County in honor of the 200th anniversary of Lafayette's return!

World-Class Wines

Monticello American Viticultural Area

Considered the birthplace of American wine and recognized as Wine Enthusiast’s 2023 Wine Region of the Year, the Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA) encompasses more than 50 wineries. Notable varietals from Central Virginia include Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Viognier, and Petit Manseng, as well as Meritage and Rosé blends.

Set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the vineyards are incredibly scenic and often host live music, food trucks, and special activities suitable for the entire family. As you plan your trip, check out one of our transportation companies and let them do the heavy lifting. They'll work with you to create a customized itinerary, so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride. Some of our wineries even have lodging options on site, perfect for an ultimate vineyard vacation!

Wineries Welcome to the birthplace of American wine. Charlottesville and Albemarle County are home to more than 40 wineries along the Monticello Wine Trail, offering visitors lush views and a dynamic wine scene in the heart of Virginia. Learn More
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Sip and Stay: Winery Lodging Learn More

French Winemakers

A French influence can be felt at several of the wineries located throughout the Monticello AVA. Matthieu Finot at King Family Vineyards, Benoit Pineau at Pollak Vineyards, and Damien Blanchon at Afton Mountain Vineyards were born and trained in France. Today, they are leaders of Virginia’s wine industry, each producing award-winning vintages and collaborating and sharing knowledge with other winemakers. Finot's 2019 Meritage even took home the top prize in the 2024 Virginia Governor's Cup wine competition.

All three wineries mentioned above are located in the Crozet-Afton area, about 15 miles west of Charlottesville. Be sure to visit Greenwood Grocery to shop for fine cheeses and local artisanal products, perfect for a snack or lunch at the vineyard. Then you can burn off those calories at the Blue Ridge Tunnel with a short and interesting hike through Afton Mountain. The longest railroad tunnel in North America when it opened in 1858, this colossal project was led by French immigrant and engineer Claudius Crozet. The tunnel remained in use by railroads until the 1940s, and recently reopened for pedestrians and cyclists. Be sure to bring a flashlight!

Michael Shaps is also a renowned leader in Virginia viticulture through his own wine label and the custom-crush services he offers to vineyards throughout Virginia and the East Coast. Maison Shaps highlights wine from his garagiste-style winery in Meursault, Burgundy, which is managed by his daughter Hanna. Be sure to stop by his two tasting rooms in the Charlottesville area – Michael Shaps Winery and Wineworks Extended – to sample Michael’s wines from both sides of the Atlantic. [Back to Top]

King Family Vineyards King Family Vineyards is a family owned and operated vineyard and boutique winery located in Crozet, Virginia, 15 minutes west of Charlottesville, at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. We are conveniently located to Rt. 250, the Blue Ridge… Learn More
Pollak Vineyards Pollak Vineyards, a dream of Margo and David Pollak, is a boutique-sized winery on a 98-acre farm in Greenwood, Virginia, just west of Charlottesville. With the goal of making French-style wines from estate-grown grapes, the Pollaks have created a winery… Learn More
Afton Mountain Vineyards Afton Mountain Vineyards is one of Virginia’s first farm wineries with original vines planted in the 1970s. Our focus is on making wines of unrivaled quality from our own estate-grown grapes. Surrounded by 360 degree mountain views, our Tasting House… Learn More
Greenwood Gourmet Grocery Situated seconds from I-64, Nestled into the heart of Virginia Wine Country and at the Junction of the Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge Parkway, we are the perfect lunch stop on your way to anywhere. Learn More
Michael Shaps Wineworks Known for his innovation and winemaking expertise, Michael Shaps has established himself at the forefront of the modern Virginia wine industry. He produces wines under the Michael Shaps label and for several prestigious wineries throughout the state.Founded in 2007, Michael… Learn More
Wineworks Extended Known for his innovation and winemaking expertise, Michael Shaps has established himself at the forefront of the modern Virginia wine industry. He produces wines under the Michael Shaps label and for several prestigious wineries throughout the state.Founded in 2007, Michael… Learn More

Bon Appétit!

Bring your appetite! Charlottesville’s diverse neighborhoods feature dozens of restaurants with both upscale and everyday dining options. Great food can be found in unexpected places like former industrial spaces, country markets, and local shopping centers. (Businesses with an asterisk* are open for lunch.)

French Dining in Downtown & Midtown

Two major culinary hubs in the heart of the city are the historic pedestrian Downtown Mall and West Main Street, an area often referred to by locals as Midtown. The Alley Light, Fleurie, and Petit Pois* serve innovative and memorable French cuisine in the coziest of settings. Café Frank is a Franco-Italian restaurant with fun selection of spirits, while Orzo Kitchen & Wine Bar highlights dishes from around the Mediterranean. Bizou*, C & O Restaurant, and Hamiltons' at First & Main* combine French technique with local ingredients.

Wine & Dine

Recently named one of the top wine shops in the nation by USA Today, Crush Pad Wines is a combination of shop, wine bar, and restaurant. In the evenings, pasta can be ordered from Luce for delivery to your table! Seating is available first come, first served.

Dining in Historic Settings

Reserve a chef’s tasting menu at Broadcloth, located in a renovated textile factory in the historic Woolen Mills neighborhood, or embrace romance at The Clifton's 1799 Restaurant featuring Michelin-starred head chef Matthew Bousquet. Marigold by Jean-Georges*, located at Keswick Hall, is world-renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s only restaurant in Virginia, with views overlooking the resort’s famed golf course.

Sweet Treats

Enjoy delicious baked goods and coffee at Belle, which also serves brasserie style dinner Thursday – Saturday. Or, grab a buttery, flaky creation at French-inspired bakeries like Cou Cou Rachou, and MarieBette Café & Bakery/Petite MarieBette. Visit Cake Bloom for a Cake & Bubbles experience and Gearharts Fine Chocolates and Cocoa & Spice for decadent chocolates handcrafted on site.

Charcuterie & Small Plates

Peck and Graze Craze specialize in cheese boards to go. Ethos Wine & Tea*, Feast*, Mona Lisa Pasta*, Tilman’s*, and Wich Lab* create stellar sandwiches, while Mas Tapas, Tonic, Bang, Oakhart Social, The Southern Crescent, and Zocalo feature small plates and shareable entrees. [Back to Top]

Shop 'Til You Drop

It's hard for shoppers to think about France, without imaging a stroll down the Champs-Élysées in Paris. Luckily for shoppers in the Charlottesville area, there are a variety of upscale boutiques, quirky shops, and independent bookstores, all perfect for finding a unique treasure.

Yves Delorme & Caspari

Founded in 1845, the French linens company, Yves DeLorme is known for its luxury home accessories inspired by nature. The shop here offers both the latest styles and older patterns at discounted prices. Caspari’s fine stationery and paper goods capture garden chic, textile art by Pierre Frey and Scalamandré, and collections from the New York Botanical Garden, Museum of Fine Arts Boston, and Musée des Arts Décoratifs. Visit the flagship store on Charlottesville’s historic pedestrian Downtown Mall.

Bookstores

Charlottesville and Albemarle County rival much larger destinations as a hub for independent booksellers. On the Downtown Mall you will find 2nd Act Books, The Beautiful Idea, Blue Whale Books, Daedalus Bookshop, Hello Comics, and New Dominion Bookshop. Head to places like Crozet and Scottsville in Albemarle County to explore Bluebird & Co. and Baines Books & Coffee respectively.

Ivy Road Corridor

La vie est faite de petits bonheurs (life is full of small pleasures), especially in your home and with the people you love! Discover home accessories and lovely keepsakes with French flair at Pour la Maison, Be Just, Kenny Ball Antiques, Helen Storey Antiques, and Comer & Co. Head to Foods of All Nations for international groceries and a large selection of wines.

Farmers Markets

Held Saturday mornings, Farmers Market at Ix Art Park and Charlottesville City Market are the quintessential community events. Go to people watch and shop for fresh produce, homemade gifts, and takeaway food, just like in France. As a bonus for winter visitors, the market at Ix Art Park is open year round! [Back to Top]

Shopping Here in Charlottesville and Albemarle County, we have lots of great options for shopping! Learn More
Farmers Markets Charlottesville-area farmers’ markets have been popular gathering spaces for years, bringing together locals, vendors, families, students, and tourists alike on almost every Saturday morning of the year. Learn More

Apples & Ciders

Introduced by European immigrants, apple trees were being widely grown throughout North America by the mid-1600s, predominately for cider. At the time of the Revolution, apples – for eating, baking, drying, preserving, and of course cider making – were a vital part of the American diet and culinary identity. Today, Virginia ranks among the top six U.S. states for commercial apple production.

Enjoy stunning views and buy seasonal treats at Carter Mountain Orchard, its sister property Chiles Peach Orchard, and nearby Henley’s Orchard. Pick-your-own apple season usually lasts through November, but these orchards’ farm shops remain open well into December offering pre-picked apples, cider, and other goodies to take home. Check out local events during Virginia Cider Week, November 15 – 24, and raise a glass to Lafayette.

Historic Sites

Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello

Thomas Jefferson is perhaps the original Francophile-in-chief. As Minister to France (1784 – 1789), Jefferson was able to experience French architecture, food, wine, and fashion in person. He also discovered people and modes of thought that greatly influenced his way of life, for the rest of his life. Learn more about Jefferson and France here and be sure to visit Monticello, his mountaintop home. Consider taking the special From Slavery to Freedom Tour to better understand the deeply entwined and complicated histories of Sally Hemings, James Hemings, and Jefferson’s time in France.

James Monroe’s Highland

James Monroe and Gilbert du Motier met as young men serving under George Washington during the Revolutionary War. They remained lifelong friends, and it was President Monroe who invited Lafayette to return for a tour in 1824 – 1825. As Minister to France (1794 – 1796), negotiator of the Louisiana Purchase, and Secretary of State (1811 – 1817), Monroe maintained strong relationships in France for decades. Visit Highland to learn more about the Monroe family and the enslaved men, women, and children who lived and worked on the property.

While visiting these presidential homes, be sure to set aside time to hike the Saunders-Monticello Trail and the Highland Rustic Trails. Both trail systems are free and open to the public and allow you to experience landscapes almost unchanged since the 19th century.

James River Batteau Company

Head to the small town of Scottsville for a cruise in a traditional batteau. Developed in 1775, the poled, flat-bottomed James River batteau transported tobacco and other goods to Richmond until the 1840s. Today, the James River Batteau Company offers sunset cruises with charcuterie and live music – all part of the ambiance that combines history and natural beauty. Or choose a daytime cruise and then dine at The Batteau Restaurant & Wine Bar overlooking Mink Creek. [Back to Top]

Monticello No other home in the United States more accurately reflects the personality of its owner than Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's architectural masterpiece and beloved mountaintop home. Monticello is the only home in America recognized by the United Nations as a World… Learn More
James Monroe’s Highland Highland, the home of James Monroe, fifth president of the United States, is adjacent to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia. Purchased by Monroe in 1793, the property was home to the Monroe family for nearly 25 years.Highland interprets the… Learn More
Saunders-Monticello Trail With native hardwood forest, deep ravines and spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the trail winds its way toward Monticello and back in a very manageable four miles. A maximum grade of 5% keeps it completely accessible to walkers… Learn More
Highland Rustic Trails Just over the mountain from the Saunders-Monticello Trail and park system are the Highland Rustic Trails, a system of rolling, scenic trails adjacent to the historic home of the 5th U.S. President, James Monroe. Be sure to tour James Monroe's… Learn More
James River Batteau Company James River Batteau Company offers one-of-a kind river experiences that get you out on the water in style! Take a step back in time, as you are invited aboard their 18th century replica James River Batteau for a River Tour… Learn More
The Batteau Restaurant & Wine Bar At The Batteau Restaurant & Wine Bar, we offer a unique and elegant dining experience while simultaneously cultivating a casual and comfortable atmosphere. We want you to be just as comfortable dressing up and treating yourself, as we do casually… Learn More

Vive Lafayette!

Generations of Americans have been motivated by Lafayette’s personal initiative and contributions to Franco-American relations.

James Rogers McConnell was one of several UVA alumni who volunteered for France before the U.S. joined allied forces in World War I. McConnell first enlisted in the ambulance corps. He then flew with the Lafayette Escadrille, a squad of adventurous American flyers who served under French command. He was shot down in March 1917 and is buried in Paris. The Aviator statue, located at UVA near Clemons Library, honors McConnell. Its sculptor, Gutzon Borglum, is best known for his work at Mount Rushmore.

“The Allied Spy” room at Unlocked History Escape Rooms lets you experience the real-life heroics of special agent Virginia Hall. Hall worked undercover in France during World War II, supporting French Resistance forces and reporting on German activities. She organized thousands of fighters on the eve of the D-Day invasion.

Plan Your Stay

When it’s time to turn in for the night, you can immerse yourself in history by staying at accommodations built during the early 19th century including The Clifton, the Crossroads Inn at Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards, and Hollymead House in Albemarle County. Or stay in the heart of the city at the Dinsmore House or Inn at Court Square, which are both located within walking distance of the University of Virginia and downtown Charlottesville. Browse our Places to Stay page for even more lodging options. We look forward to welcoming you soon! [Back to Top]

Places to Stay Charlottesville and Albemarle County offer visitors a wide variety of places to stay, including resorts, hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts, cabins, and vacation rentals. Learn More
The Dinsmore House Bed & Breakfast Named a 2009 "Great Value" by Travel and Leisure, the Dinsmore House is an historic bed and breakfast inn located in the heart of Charlottesville, Virginia. The home, built by Thomas Jefferson’s master builder in 1817, is at the University… Learn More
The Clifton The Clifton is Charlottesville’s premier boutique hotel, restaurant and wedding venue. We offer luxury amenities and exceptional service on 100 acres of pristine Virginia countryside. Whether staying with us to experience Charlottesville’s wine and horse country, tour presidential homes, or… Learn More
Inn at Court Square Welcome to the Inn at Court Square, a small boutique hotel located in Charlottesville, Virginia. Here, you’ll discover two beautifully restored houses known for their architecture.Built in 1785, the federal period house is the oldest existing house in historic downtown… Learn More
Crossroads Inn Tucked amidst secret gardens and neighboring vineyards, Crossroads Inn marries rural charm with authentic, historic character. While just fifteen minutes from the University of Virginia and bustling downtown Charlottesville, everything about the history, natural landscape, and warm hospitality transports… Learn More
Hollymead House Hollymead House is a historic Inn, longest operating Inn in Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Purchased in 2018, meticulously restored for 3 years and re-opened for Inn/overnight guests in April, 2021. Close to UVA, vineyards, downtown Charlottesville, breweries, restaurants and hiking… Learn More

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