The Chiles family has been farming in Central Virginia for over 100 years—in Crozet, Virginia, we’re locals. Whether you’re looking for family fun, a romantic getaway, or even a solo pilgrimage, Crozet has something for everyone.
Friday Night: Meet Crozet
Get Thrifty
If you don’t want to go home empty handed, explore the many quirky shops in the area. The Green Olive Tree is a volunteer-run thrift shop, while Crozet Antiques is a charming little store filled with uncommon goods and pieces. For quaint, locally-made artisan crafts and accessories, try Crozet Artisan Depot or The Barn Swallow.
There’s nothing trashy about this upcycled structure, home to Pro Re Nata Brewery. Instagram: @prorenatabrewery
Get Boozy
They say Virginia is wine country, but the local beer scene is nothing to sneeze at. Try Pro Re Nata for an industrial vibe (the new seating area is built from shipping containers) or Starr Hill for a country-rockin good time. Check their online calendars before you go—both breweries boast food trucks, live music, and other events on most nights.
Saturday: Eat, Exercise, Be Merry
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, after all.
C’mon Out to Chiles Peach Orchard
What better way to kick off your Saturday than with all-you-can-eat pancakes? Top them off with local fruit and you’re basically in heaven. If you can’t get enough of the pretty orchard views, stay to pick your own fruit or relax with a tasting in the Bold Rock hard cider and Prince Michel wine tasting rooms. Our farm market is stocked with gourmet goodies to take on the road, and our calendar is filled with events for the whole family. Cool off with soft-serve ice cream or fresh-pressed cider—what more could you need? Oh yeah, cider donuts.
Mint Valley Springs is one of several gorgeous running spots. Instagram: @lynnprice1776
Run It Off
Crozet is home to some of the finest running trails in Virginia. Whether you’re a seasoned runner who can’t go without your morning jog, or someone who’s been trying to get into running and maybe just needs the gorgeous Blue Ridge backdrop for that final push, visit Crozet Running for high quality athletic ware and tips on where to run.
Shop Til You Drop
No trip to Crozet would be complete without a visit to Piedmont Place, the “heartbeat and activity hub” of the town. Sign up for a class with Santosha Yoga, stock up on beer for the evening with Blue Ridge Bottle Shop (especially if you regret not buying a case or two at last night’s brewer…) or buy a book to keep you company at Over the Moon. There are also plenty of shops for smoothies, ice cream, and other snacks.
Piedmont Place is filled from top to bottom with fun and food. Instagram: @piedmontplacecrozet
Wine and Dine
End the day at one of Crozet’s signature restaurants, like Crozet Pizza, which has regular customers from all over due to National Geographic calling it the “Best in the World,” among other raving reviews. Order a house-favorite pizza and pair it with a boozy Crozet Lemonade for a true Crozet experience. If you want something upscale (literally), try the rooftop restaurant over Smoked Kitchen and Tap.
Sunday Morning: Say Goodbye
Brunch it Up
For brunch, nothing beats Fardowners, named for the Irish immigrants who constructed tunnels through the Blue Ridge Mountains and put Crozet on the map. Except maybe second breakfast at Chiles Peach Orchard.
End the weekend on a sweet note with Mudhouse Coffee. Instagram: @mudhousecoffeeroasters
Hit the Road
We all feel that post-brunch nap urge, but chances are you’ve got to get back home and wrap up your getaway. Beat the sleepies with the 2017 Roaster of the Year, Mudhouse Coffee. Their thoughtfully-sourced pour-overs are sure to hit the spot when you hit the road.
Of course, don’t feel pressured to fit everything in one weekend. Crozet is a wonderfully cozy and romantic getaway from the hustle and bustle of Charlottesville—you’ll want to come back again and again!
