Charlottsville - Virginia - Culture

The City of Charlottesville is located in Central Virginia, approximately 100 miles southwest of Washington, D.C. and 70 miles northwest of Richmond, Virginia. Situated within the upper Piedmont Plateau, at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and at the headwaters of the Ravenna River, Charlottesville was established as a town in 1762 by the Virginia General Assembly, and was incorporated as an independent city in 1888. As a result of eight annexations, the most recent of which was effective in 1968, the City now encompasses a land area of 10.4 square miles, and has a population of approximately 40,000 residents. The area is touched equally by all four seasons. The average annual temperature is nearly 57° F and average annual precipitation of approximately 44 inches.

Charlottesville is entirely independent of any county or any other political subdivision. It is not subject to taxation by any county or school district, and is not liable for any county or school district indebtedness.

Charlottesville, Virginia invites you to experience the high quality of life that has encouraged individuals and businesses alike to call the City home. Centrally located and nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge, Charlottesville residents enjoy the very best of urban, suburban, and rural advantages.

Tourism plays an important role in the City’s economy.  On a nearby mountain sits Monticello, home of Thomas Jefferson and celebrated emblem of his genius. Ash Lawn-Highland, home of James Monroe, features beautiful gardens and furnishings reflecting the Federal style is just a few miles away. The Virginia Discovery Museum, which is located downtown, provides interactive exhibits for children and adults. The Omni Hotel downtown has conference and meeting facilities to accommodate groups of all sizes and purposes.