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University of Virginia Grounds

The Lawn, Emmet Street South, Charlottesville, VA, USA

All hours.

$

road-trips, outdoor-adventures

UVA's historic beauty makes a destination of its own, so don't miss your chance to meander the grounds while you're in the area.

The sprawling 1682 acres of grounds at the University of Virginia are perfect for horticulturists, architects, and history buffs but for kids, trick or treating on the Lawn at Halloween is a highlight. Arrive by 3 pm to beat the crowd and get ready for amazing Instagram shots to share with the world! The Rotunda and Lawn don’t need filters. Then tour the area with the kids and say hello to UVA’s student leaders, honored to live on the lawn in historic rooms - (if it's Halloween they'll be passing out treats and giving your kiddos a glimpse of history).

A couple of hours visiting the grounds (we don’t say campus here!) will give your family a good look at the spectacular architecture and history. Definite stops: Rotunda, the Lawn, and the Range (this is the backside room on the lawn reserved for graduate students). Must-Sees: Edgar Allan Poe’s room, Scott Stadium, John Paul Jones Arena, and the University Chapel which hosts gorgeous weddings.

Grab sandwiches to go from Take It Away on the university's beloved 'Corner' (don't forget to ask for their famous house dressing on the side!). Then venture over to the UVA lawn for a family picnic. Let your children run free and enjoy the generally beautiful weather! Kite flying in the spring is super fun, as is hanging around the wedding chapel and spying a bride or two. The chapel books up a year in advance and with good reason - its gothic storybook style is stunning.

Features

History Picnic Architecture
Thoughtfully captured by:
Caitlin Iseler
Caitlin Iseler, happyly founder and CEO, was born in New York and is one of eight children. Her favorite holiday is Thanksgiving and the chance to sit at one table with her favorite 40 people. Caitlin, her outdoor loving husband, Thomas, and daughter, Hanah, live in Virginia Beach. She is also blessed to be a bonus mom to 2 incredible humans, Max & Elizabeth. Being a mom has always been something she dreamt of and it brings her joy beyond measure. Before starting happyly, Caitlin spent 15 years working in executive search with technology companies, most recently with Korn Ferry. In what seems like a lifetime ago, she attended the University of Virginia and was a member of the National & ACC Championship Teams, a gift that keeps giving.
More activities by Caitlin
3-mile out and back run or walk in the heart of DC.
Great public pool in the West End neighborhood.
An older playground with views that never get old, and running routes too!

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