Albemarle County Community Guide

Charlottesville outdoor mall.

Albemarle County is a thriving community located in the heart of the Commonwealth of Virginia. The area, now 726 square miles, was founded in 1744.

Albemarle County was named for Willem Anne van Keppel, the second earl of Albemarle, and titular governor of Virginia at the time.

The county seat is Charlottesville.

Albemarle County is rich in history. Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, and Meriwether Lewis all had their places of residence in Albemarle County. Charlottesville and Albemarle County played important roles in both the Revolutionary and Civil War.

Historical attractions include Monticello, home to Thomas Jefferson; Ash-lawn Highland, home to James Monroe; Montpelier, home to James Madison; and Mitchie Tavern, the acclaimed oldest restaurant in Albemarle County, complete with a museum.

As of 2012, the population in Albemarle County was 101,575.

The county is governed by a Board of Supervisors, consisting of six members. The county has a police department, a sherrif’s office, fire squads and rescue squads.

Albemarle County is located at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The county has 12 parks and over 3,300 acres dedicated to outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, canoe rentals, boat launches, picnicking, and fishing piers.

Skyline Drive is a road in Albemarle County that runs 105 miles north and south along the Blue Ridge mountains in Shenandoah Park. Skyline Drive offers a beautiful view of the mountains and the park, as well as opportunity for hiking and biking.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is another public road in Albemarle County that offers access to hiking trails and campsites.

Albemarle County is an area full of entertainment, fine dining, movie theaters, shopping, and places to stay.

Restaurants

From five star restaurants to hole-in-the-wall local favorites, Charlottesville and Albemarle County have dining suited to every palate. They include: