things to do in Charlottesville, VA

Private 1-hour horseback ride through vineyard and creek at Cunningham Creek Winery

Private woodland trail ride with mountain views and a Brewpub pint

Float the Rivanna River with a shuttle back

Rent a John E Painter Park shelter from 8am to dusk for your group

Calm-water paddling with a beach stop on the Rivanna

Float the James at dusk with live acoustic music and charcuterie

Take a private guided horseback ride with time for a cider tasting after

Choose three South Charlottesville stops for wine, cider, or bourbon

Explore an artist-built enchanted forest that sparks your imagination

Trade the everyday rush for a little time among the herd

Float the James River aboard two private batteaux

Ride a private guided trail through Keswick Vineyards, then enjoy a complimentary glass

Cave with a guide in dark Fountain Cave with route options

Float the James River while exploring Virginia's batteau heritage

Rent boats or tubes for the day and run your own shuttle and transport plan

Tackle a challenging 3–4 hour caving expedition in Fountain Cave

Self-guided Rivanna paddle with shuttle and Class II ledges

Paddle the Rivanna on a short float with shuttle included

Pool access all season in Grottoes, May 23–Sept 7, 2026

Paddle the Rivanna South Fork with shuttle service and Class I–II rapids

Walk Grand Caverns by candlelight and dig into its 1800s history

Wood-Fired Sauna, Cold Tubs, and Riverfront Community

Watch The Polar Express deep inside Grand Caverns