I recently returned from a wonderful week at the beach. While it wasn’t our usual trip to the coast, spending time enjoying the surf, sun, sand—and those stars—did wonders for us all. Simply shifting my perspective and doing things outside the norm of my home’s walls was refreshing. While another trip to the beach isn’t in the cards this summer, there’s still plenty to do around town, even in pandemic times, to change your scenery. Here we’ve rounded up some of our favorite options.

Visit the downtown mall. If it’s been awhile since you’ve been, don your mask and head on down to the mall. It’s open for business and most stores are having major sales. I visited this week after way too long and it felt like reuniting with an old friend. Some of our favorite shops to hit include QUATTRO TIZI, DARLING BOUTIQUE, MAGPIE KNITS, ALTON LANE, and NEW DOMINION BOOKSHOP. While you’re there, grab some treats from PETITE MARIEBETTE and duck into SPLENDORA’S for some gelato.

Spend an afternoon at a winery. As you know, Charlottesville and the surrounding area is home to so many fabulous wineries. Change up your routine by heading out to one. Just be sure to check out their website regarding their operating hours and procedures as many now recommend making a reservation. We love the award-wining wines at EARLY MOUNTAIN WINERY and the views at PIPPIN HILL FARM & VINEYARDS can’t be beat.

Take a day trip to Gordonsville. We wrote a day trip guide awhile back, and now is as good a time as ever to head down the road to Gordonsville. While you’re there, stop into two of faves, CAVALLO GALLERY and ANNETTE LAVELLE ANTIQUES.

Go treasure hunting. Get lost with an afternoon of sussing out great finds. Treasures of all manner can be found at CIRCA. I recently scored some great vinyl to add to my collection. JOSEPH, JOSEPH & JOSEPH is a great stop for globe-trotting discoveries and you can always find beautiful things at And George. Don’t forget about scoring great in-season clothes when you visit NATALIE DRESSED and DARLING BOUTIQUE.

Enjoy sunset sips. In case you missed it, the rooftop bar at QUIRK HOTEL CHARLOTTESVILLE is officially open. With unparalleled views and a cocktail menu with a mix of playful drinks and classics, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a vacation destination.

Tuck into al fresco dining. ‘Tis the season to enjoy cocktail hours in the twilight or to dine under the stars. Even if you’re spending time at home, you can still make it special. String up the twinkle lights, prep the hurricane lamps and head over to BE JUST to shop their al fresco dining selections. We’re smitten with their mezcalera glasses. If it’s just too hot to cook, then order up — and support local — from one of the many restaurants in town. Added bonus: most now offer on-the-go cocktails!