Downtown Mall by Hopkid
Simply a great place to hang out, several blocks of East Main Street in downtown Charlottesville have been made into a pedestrian-only mall. The atmosphere here is great on a sunny spring day and one can lazily walk up and down browsing the many independently-owned shops (not many chain stores here) and eating in the wide variety of restaurants, many of which have al fresco dining areas. Many of the old buildings have been restored or are in a state of restoration to retain a historical element. The Mall is a great place to hang out and watch people which is always interesting in a university town like C'ville. Parking is usually available in the surrounding streets and in the various parking structures and lots. A shuttle runs between the mall and the University of Virginia as well. During the warmer months the Charlottesville Pavillion on the east end of the mall hosts Fridays after Five with live music and food booths and all with no cover charge. Check out the schedule at http://www.charlottesvillepavilion.com/fridays.aspYou can also see what's going on via a webcam at:
http://www.readthehook.com/webcam.html