Spotlights
Missing Charlottesville? Northern Virginia Dupes for UVA Classics
If you’re a student, alumni, or Charlottesville native who is in the DC area this fall, but you’re missing the classic feel of Charlottesville, try out these alternatives for some of our favorite Charlottesville staples near UVA | Northern Virginia!
Bodo’s Bagels 
- Brooklyn Bagel Bakery: a classic family run NYC-style bagel shop located in Arlington, VA with a simple but delicious menu. The Brooklyn Bagel Bakery has been open for over 20 years, and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon, which is great for all local bagel lovers!
- Call Your Mother Deli: another popular bagel location in the DMV area, Call Your Mother is a growing chain of bagel shops spanning from their initial location in DC all the way to Colorado.
Corner Juice 
- South Block: acai bowl, smoothie bowl, and smoothie lovers unite at South Block, where there are many options for everyone’s taste! South Block uses only Fair Trade acai to support the Amazon Rainforest and our local communities. In addition, they also support Fruitful Planet which donates to food insecure communities and people in need.
- Pura Vida Miami: conveniently located in the Mosaic District in Fairfax – just minutes away from our campus – is Pura Vida Miami, which boasts cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and more! With an expansive food menu, Pura Vida Miami is the perfect location for a healthy lunch along with a juice or smoothie.
Asado Wing and Taco Company
- bartaco: for the taco aspect of Asado’s, bartaco is a perfect alternative with options ranging from classic carnitas to duck! bartaco also has an expansive “not-tacos” menu if you prefer bowls or quesadillas!
- K-Wings Korean Style Chicken: for the variety of wing flavors that Asado’s provides, try K-Wings! From classic buffalo to curry, their range of flavors will be sure to satisfy!
Chaps Ice Cream
- Mimi’s Handmade: handcrafted in small batches, Mimi’s Handmade offers classic and unique flavors of ice cream! They are conveniently located in the Mosaic district near UVA | Northern Virginia, but they also have a location in Arlington and two in Maryland.
- Moo Thru: another small batch ice cream shop, Moo Thru has locations throughout Virginia, including Charlottesville! In addition to scoops, they also sell pints so be sure to stock up for late night cravings!
The Rotunda:
- Thomas Jefferson Memorial: for history buffs, the Rotunda and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial are sure to be packed full of information about UVA’s founder: Thomas Jefferson. The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is located near the Tidal Basin in Washington D.C., and it is among the cherry blossoms in the spring, so be sure to check it out!
- National Museum of American History: on the national mall in Washington D.C., this museum offers a look into the past and present of American history. With changing exhibitions, be sure to visit this institution and learn more about how we have evolved!
Humpback Rocks:
- Great Falls National Park: reminiscent of the rock outcropping of the Humpback Rocks peak, Great Falls has trails and jagged rock features. However, Great Falls adds a river aspect with the rocks creating interesting water patterns along the Potomac River. Located about 25 minutes away from UVA | Northern Virginia, Great Falls makes for a perfect outdoor excursion this fall!
- Billy Goat Trails: from easier trails to rock scrambles, the Billy Goat Trails offers adventure to all from experienced hikers to casual first-timers! Also located right outside Great Falls National Park, Billy Goat Trails offers gorgeous views and a customizable hike to fit your day.
