Spring in Charlottesville: The Best Outdoor Activities for Families & Nature Lovers
As the Blue Ridge Mountains bloom with color and the Virginia countryside comes alive, spring is the perfect time to get out and explore the outdoors of the Charlottesville area. From botanical gardens and hiking trails to farm-fresh experiences, here are some of the best springtime outdoor activities in Charlottesville!
1. Explore Charlottesville’s Gardens & Parks
Visit Monticello’s Gardens: Spring is peak bloom season at Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, where visitors can explore historic gardens filled with heirloom flowers and vegetables. Enjoy a garden tour, visit the scenic orchards, or relax and soak in the Blue Ridge Mountain views.
📍 Where: Monticello, 931 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy
🎟️ Admission: Garden & Grounds Pass starts at $22
Stroll Through the University of Virginia Gardens: The UVA Pavilion Gardens are a hidden gem, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of campus. These beautifully landscaped spaces are perfect for a quiet afternoon walk or a family picnic under blooming magnolia trees.
📍 Where: UVA Historic Lawn & Gardens, Charlottesville
Botanical Gardens of the Piedmont: This developing botanical garden is a lovely spot for wildflower lovers and nature enthusiasts. Spring is a great time to visit and explore native Virginia plants in bloom.
📍 Where: 950 Melbourne Rd, Charlottesville
2. Get Active: Hiking, Biking & Outdoor Adventures
Hike at Carter Mountain Orchard: Carter Mountain is a springtime favorite for its breathtaking views and fresh apple cider donuts. Stroll through the blooming orchards, enjoy a casual hike, and relax with a cider at Bold Rock Tap Room.
📍 Where: 1435 Carters Mountain Trail
Explore Ivy Creek Natural Area: For a kid-friendly hiking spot, Ivy Creek Natural Area offers easy trails, wildlife spotting, and beautiful views along the Rivanna Reservoir. It’s a peaceful, shaded retreat for families.
📍 Where: 1780 Earlysville Rd, Charlottesville
Bike Along the Rivanna Trail: Spring is the perfect time for a bike ride along the Rivanna Trail, a scenic 20-mile loop through forests, meadows, and city parks.
Paddle on the Rivanna River: For a relaxing adventure, rent a kayak or canoe and paddle along the Rivanna River. Springtime is a great time to explore the water with mild temperatures and gentle currents.
📍 Where: Rivanna River Company, 1520 E High St
🎟️ Rentals Available
Fridays After Five at the Ting Pavilion: Spring kicks off Charlottesville's free outdoor concert series starting in April.
📍 Where: Downtown Mall, Charlottesville
🎟️ Free admission
3. Pick Your Own Berries & Shop at Local Farmers Markets
Pick Strawberries, Blueberries & Blackberries at Local Farms: Spring is berry-picking season in Charlottesville, and nothing beats the fun of picking fresh fruit with family and friends!
🍓 Strawberry Season (Late April – June)
🫐 Blueberry Season (June – July)
🌿 Blackberry Season (July – August)
Best Farms for Berry Picking:
- Critzer Family Farm (Afton, VA) – Offers strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, plus fresh produce and homemade ice cream.
- Chiles Peach Orchard (Crozet, VA) – Great for strawberries in the spring, plus delicious baked goods and cider.
- Spring Valley Orchard (Afton, VA) – A hidden gem for sweet, juicy cherries in early spring and blackberries in summer.
Check each farm’s website for seasonal picking schedules!
Explore Charlottesville's Farmers Markets: Support local farmers and pick up fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and handmade goods at these top markets:
- Charlottesville City Market – Saturdays, April-December, 7 AM-12 PM
- IX Park Farmers Market – Sundays, 9 AM-1 PM
- Fluvanna Farmers Market – Sundays, March-October, 11 AM-2 PM
- Crozet Farmers Market – Saturdays, May-October,8 AM - 12 PM
- Scottsville Farmers Market – Saturdays, April-October, 9 AM - 1 PM
4. Shop for Plants & Flowers at Local Garden Centers
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your garden, add potted plants to your home, or find unique gifts for fellow plant lovers. Charlottesville has several fantastic local garden shops offering native plants, seasonal flowers, gardening supplies, and expert advice. Shopping at local garden centers not only supports small businesses but also ensures you’re getting healthy, regionally suited plants for your garden.
Local Garden Centers in Charlottesville:
- Fifth Season Gardening – A go-to spot for organic gardening supplies, hydroponics, and unique plants. They also offer brewing supplies for those interested in home fermentation.
- Snow’s Garden Center – A Charlottesville institution known for its wide selection of flowers, shrubs, and landscaping materials. Their friendly staff can help with planting advice and garden planning.
- Ivy Nursery – A beautifully curated garden shop featuring perennials, annuals, and garden décor.
- Ivy Corner Garden Center & Gift Shop – A charming garden center offering a mix of plants, gifts, and home décor.
