SURE, EVERYONE KNOWS about that thing with the dome and the big patch of grass in front of it. But what about the other places in and around Grounds? As there aren't many Charlottesville guide books floating around, this column can serve as your primer on noteworthy places to go. These are the places that might not make it into those shiny college brochures or as a stop on an admissions tour but are either essential to life here or just really cool. Here's where to go, organized into nifty little categories by why you should go there.
Because There Are Some Things the University Guides Just Don't Tell You
The Lawn at 3 a.m.: This is not for the squeamish or faint of heart, for you will definitely see skinny white guys running around without a stitch on. Watch the streakers' drunken shenanigans but don't be cruel and steal their clothes.
University cemetery: Located behind New Dorms, this cemetery is beautiful and a peaceful place to visit. Check out the gravestones or sit under one of the big, ancient trees and ponder the meaning of life.
Observatory Hill: Not the dining hall, but the actual hill. For "Blair Witch"-type kicks, go at night and wander up the narrow, winding, forest-lined road that leads up to the observatory. When you get to the top you'll get a good view of the stars.
The pavilion gardens: Located on either side of the Lawn, these beautiful walled gardens are nicely groomed and landscaped. They're perfect places to go for a picnic or, if you're feeling studious, a picturesque study session.
Alderman Library: This library is known for its cavernous stacks, where infinite shelves of books and narrow corridors give the place a distinctly labyrinth-like feel. It may seem mazelike at first, but after wandering around a bit - either by choice or simply because you can't locate the exit - you'll find that there is method to the madness and the place is actually laid out pretty logically. It's a good place to study if you don't want to be distracted. The cafe in the lobby is also a definite plus.
Because Being a Starving College Students is So Passe
Baja Bean: A favorite Corner dining spot, this restaurant serves up cheap, tasty Mexican food and some of the waiters wear enormous, tackily decorated sombreros. What more could you possibly want?
Littlejohn's: This sandwich joint is a beacon in the darkness for late-night snackers everywhere, as it is the only dining venue in the Charlottesville 'hood that's open all night. There's usually a line, but it's worth the wait.
Next we come to the question of the ages: Aunt Sarah's Pancake House versus the Italian Villa Waffle House - which is better? Both serve equally good cholesterol-laden food. Italian Villa is, however, definitely the cooler of the two, if only because of its authentic diner feel - brusque waitresses and all.
Because That's What Your Parents' Credit Cards are for
Barracks: This sprawling shopping center has anything a college kid could ever want: Barnes and Noble, Banana Republic, Blockbuster, and Ben and Jerry's. There are two grocery stores here, a coffee place, a bagel shop, a music store and plenty more. Parents, hold onto your wallets, and let the games begin.
Fashion Square Mall: It's no Mall of America, but it has a pretty respectable assortment of stores, including basics like Gap and Express. It's not too far down Route 29, but it's hard to get out there without a car. As first years are not allowed to have cars first semester, you may have to bribe upperclassmen into giving you a ride. Hint: We like cookies.
Because You Can Only Take So Much Natty Light:
Trax: This music venue isn't in the best part of town, but you should brave the sketchiness, because good acts come from time to time. Last year, bands like Cibo Matto, Dar Williams, and Eddie from Ohio came. They may not be as big as Dave, but they still put on good shows. In the fall, it is reopening as a Top 40 dance club possibly under a new name, which also should be a fun nightspot.
Max's: Wednesday night is country line dancing night. Get in for $2 and mingle with townies. Boot-scoot to songs about guys who have lost their trucks and have a great time doing it. Max's is located right next to Trax.
Tokyo Rose: If you're into indie rock, this is your Mecca. Go for the shows, stay for the sushi.
BW3: Good barbecue and, as an added bonus, Friday night is karaoke night. If you've got a Britney impression, share it with the world here, but make sure that none of your friends brings a video camera or you will regret it later.
(Laura Sahramaa is a Cavalier Daily associate editor. She can be reached at lsahramaa@cavalierdaily.com.)
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