In Charlottesville, the season’s cool temperatures and shorter days only mean more of an excuse to gather and get cozy every chance we get. And unsurprisingly, one of the most crowd-pleasing ways to warm up and unwind is around a roaring fireplace. Lucky for us, when it comes to local spots where a hearth takes center stage, Charlottesville doesn’t disappoint. Keep reading to discover the top places to kick off this year’s sweater weather season fireside!
1. The Alley Light: Hidden off a cobblestone alley on the Downtown Mall, this speakeasy-style spot pairs a flickering fireplace with craft cocktails and candlelight — basically Charlottesville’s version of Paris in winter.
2. C&O Restaurant: An old-school Charlottesville favorite where brick walls, soft lighting, and a crackling hearth make you forget the world outside. Perfect for a glass of red and that long-overdue date night.
3. Common House: For members and guests alike, the lounge fireplace at this social club hits that sweet spot between cozy and cosmopolitan. It’s where creative energy meets the warmth of a well-poured old fashioned.
4. The Clifton: Set just outside town, this historic estate hotel features roaring fireplaces in its library and restaurant — ideal for lingering over dinner or a weekend cocktail by the fire.
5. Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards: A quick drive from town, this hilltop winery redefines rustic luxury. On that note, the tasting room’s stone fireplace and sweeping mountain views are best enjoyed wrapped up in a blanket with a flight in hand.
6. The Oakhurst Inn Café: Tucked off Jefferson Park Avenue, this local gem feels like your most stylish friend’s living room — complete with strong coffee, a roaring fire, and the best biscuits in town.
7. Tavern & Grocery: Once a 19th-century tavern, now a neighborhood restaurant where the fire never stops burning. The verdict? It’s the ultimate hangout for locals who want warmth without the pretense.
8. Keswick Hall: If you’re in the mood for grandeur, Keswick is the ultimate fireside destination. Think marble, velvet, and a massive hearth in the lobby bar — the kind of place where winter is made elegantly welcoming.
Igniting the Final Match: Between these historic hangouts and cozy hideaways, we hope we’ve given you plenty of reasons to keep the fire going all fall (and winter) long.
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