Experiences

Visit this acclaimed winery known for its commitment to sustainable viticulture. Their Tasting Room has a wood-fired oven and refined-rustic bistro ambiance. Enjoy our new immersive Guided Wine Tasting & Tour experience. Foodies will delight in the 4- or 5-course wine-paired farm-to-table dinner called “Vintner's Table.”

A Clifton team favorite! This casual environment is family-friendly with lawn games, tastings, and beautiful views. All of the indoor and outdoor seating is available on a first come, first served basis. One of the most unique aspects of this vineyard is that it overlooks a polo field where you can enjoy watching polo matches every Sunday from April - October.

The Tasting Room at Merrie Mill features two copper bars in a lofted interior, multiple terraces and lawns overlooking the vineyards. Reservations can be made for wine tastings and lovingly prepared food. 

Southwest Mountains Vineyards (about 13 minutes from The Clifton), is nestled in the rolling hills of the Virginia countryside, and was converted historic barn that dates back to 1903. Go enjoy the taste our award-winning wines while you take in the idyllic and serene landscape. Rain or shine, regardless of the season you visit, they are are here to welcome you.

Visit this well-know vineyard to sample their complex portfolio of wine ranging from sparkling to beautifully balanced red wines. Make a reservation for a wine tasting and enjoy indoor or outdoor seating with beautiful views.

Let the Blue Ridge views and cozy fireplaces and fire pits set the scene for your outing with friends and family. Mt. Ida's Tasting Room features enclosed and heated outdoor dining and bar spaces all winter. Our Brewer’s Bar features three TV’s for watching college Basketball and Football or the Sunday game. Get some work done during the week with our high-speed wifi and cozy corners.

Enjoy all the natural beauty of Keswick, Virginia, the foothills of the Southwest Mountains and be surrounded by the original vineyards planted in 1999 at their outdoor tasting bar and courtyard. Children and pet friendly- they even have a put put course on site!

Explore nearby vineyards on horseback with Indian Summer Guide Service, one of the most sought-after Charlottesville area activities. Closed shoes and pants are required. Open daily. Make your reservations in advance.

A popular hike that delivers sweeping views of the Shenandoah Valley and Shenandoah National Park at the summit. It's a steep climb but worth the amazing views!

A summertime favorite for locals, college students, and visitors! This 2-mile trail leads to a natural swimming hole. Wear your swimsuit under your hiking clothes for the full experience. 

The scenic 3-mile loop trail to Crabtree Falls is moderately strenuous hike with a steep incline and rocky terrain. Hikers should allow 1.5 to 2.5 hours for the entire hike.

This 2 mile trail is right around the corner from The Clifton and a favorite among our guests. You can park at Monticello for free, you'll see the board walk as you enter the parking lot. The trail is mostly shaded with gorgeous trees that umbrella the trail but you'll get some views of the Blue Ridge mountains and Charlottesville. 

Our Paddle Experience is a mini retreat on Beaver Creek Reservoir in Crozet, VA. The session includes paddle instruction, exploring the lake, and a peaceful Nature Meditation and Mindful Stretch portion, while floating on anchored paddleboards. Beginners welcome, no need to stand, and we provide everything you need! 

Rivanna River is a spectacular place for kayaking, tubing, paddle boarding, and canoeing.  Rivanna River Company provides all the tools and equipment you need for a great day trip! You can pre-order sandwiches here at The Clifton for a picnic along the way.

James River Batteua Company combines batteau history and outdoor recreation to create fun and unforgettable river experiences for everyone. Join on the James in Scottsville, Virginia just south of Charlottesville for a river or sunset cruise. 

The Club at Glenmore’s immaculate 18-hole golf course is among Central Virginia’s most uniquely scenic and challenging. If interested, contact our Concierge at concierge@the-clifton.com or 434.971.1800.

Thomas Jefferson is one of the most quoted founding fathers of American history. We always recommend visiting Monticello to our guests. With many tours and passes to choose from, interesting exhibits and extensive gardens, you’ll definitely learn something new. About ten minutes from The Clifton.

Discover the many interesting details that archeologists and historians have uncovered even as recently as 2016 to tell a fuller story of this remarkable estate. The 1000-acre property was originally purchased by James Monroe and was a fixture of his personal life throughout his 50-year political career.

Arguably the most iconic building in Charlottesville, The Rotunda is a National Historic Landmark and is a must-visit site for anyone interested in learning more about Thomas Jefferson and the University of Virginia. Complimentary historical tours are offered at 10am daily (except home football game days) during the academic year.

Just minutes from downtown Charlottesville and Monticello, visitors overlook lush groves and breathtaking views of the valley below. Against this stunning backdrop, families and friends pick sun-ripened peaches and crisp apples while breathing in the fresh mountain air. 

Nothing is as peaceful as drifting over the tree tops in beautiful Albemarle County, Virginia with a hot air balloon ride. They offer sunrise and sunset flights year-round in the greater Charlottesville area. 2-3 hr experience from start to finish. The launch site is directly in front of the Clifton!

The Virginia Discovery Museum is a small, nonprofit children’s museum and welcomes more than 70,000 visitors each year to explore, imagine, and discover through play across 6,000 square feet of educational play space. Located on Charlottesville's Historic Downtown Mall. Ages Infant-Age 8 recommended.

Since 1948, Mincer's University of Virginia Imprinted Sportswear has been a family-owned, family-operated Charlottesville enterprise. Located right across from the UVA Campus. Grab a bagel from a local favorite called "Bodo's" and bring home some UVA gear!

Just minutes from Monticello, Simeon Market is a country store and market revisited... reinvented. Serving coffee to warm and energize you, breakfast to start your day, sandwiches to keep you going, and baked goods to treat yourself. 

The Dairy Market champions small and local entrepreneurs by partnering with diverse merchants in an authentic space. They are passionate about creating an inclusive and engaging place for ALL to enjoy from places to eat, drink, and shop! 

Looking for a driver to take you to any of the above expreiences? Ask us to book you a ride or reach out to Scott directly at 434-962-7484.He is available for general transportation, airport or train transportation, or tours including wineries or breweries tours!