Located just 10 miles away via Interstate 64 West, Crozet, Va. is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the standard routine of University life. With its array of unique outdoor activities and tasty food and beverage options, Crozet is a great place for a quick getaway. Here's a list of some of the top ways to enjoy the town without breaking the bank.
1) Mint Springs Valley Park
As the summer sun continues to heat up the Commonwealth, a trip to Mint Springs Valley Park, located just outside of downtown Crozet, is a fun and cheap way to cool off. The park, which charges an admission fee of $3, is open until Labor Day for swimming in the lake and tanning on its sandy beach. Fishing for freshly-stocked trout can also be a superb way to spend the afternoon at the park.
2) Chiles Peach Orchard
If water sports aren't your cup of tea, Crozet also offers the only local peach orchard where visitors can pick their own peaches: Chiles Peach Orchard. Chiles, which was opened by the Chiles family in 1912, sells over 10 varieties of peaches, Ruth Chiles explained.
According to Chiles, it is easy to spot the "perfect peach" for picking, as long as you know what you are looking for.
"The best peaches are red on one side and yellow or cream-colored on the other side, that's where the flavor develops," Chiles said.
Picking season lasts from late May through the beginning of September. Visitors can also purchase assorted local produce.
According to Chiles, the peach yogurt at the orchard's Ice Cream Shack is always a big hit when temperatures rise.
3) Uncle Charlie's Smokehouse
Though at first glance Crozet might seem like a sleepy town, visitors who take a closer look will note the numerous restaurants, bars and venues around downtown.
If you are looking for music and a good bar, the first place to head is Uncle Charlie's Smokehouse. Located in the town's old pharmacy, Uncle Charlie's is known for its chicken wings, bands and bar, bartender Steve Blake explained.
All of the meat prepared at Uncle Charlie's is smoked for four to six hours in a hickory smoker before being lightly fried, Blake said.
The Smokehouse also offers a variety of different live bands every weekend.
"We draw the best bands in [the area]," Blake said. "We play everything from bluegrass to rock 'n' roll to original 'psychedelic'."
4) La Cocina del Sol
Looking for something a bit spicier? La Cocina del Sol serves up delicious Southwestern cuisine right across the street.
Featuring its signature margaritas, La Concina del Sol makes tacos, quesadillas, burritos and chimichangas -- all for about 11 bucks. The restaurant also has a backyard porch, great for a casual summertime dinner. For a cool and refreshing appetizer, try the fresh avocado and tomato dip. Served with homemade tortilla chips for under $6 this starter is a steal.
5) Crozet Pizza
No day in Crozet is complete without a trip to Crozet Pizza.
Crozet Pizza began as the brainchild of ex-New Jersey electrical engineer turned pie-master Bob Crum some 30 years ago, explained pizza-maker Jordan Brunc.
According to the restaurant's Web site, not only the Washington Post, but also Fodor's and National Geographic have hailed the pizza place as one of the nation's best.
Notable celebrities such as Muhammad Ali and Steve Carell have been spotted at Crozet Pizza, Brunc said.
Some of the most popular pies are the aptly named "Special" -- mushroom, onion, green pepper, pepperoni and sausage -- and "Veggie" -- spinach, tomatoes and garlic.
The restaurant's shirts are also very popular, according to Brunc.
Pizza prices run from a small cheese at $11.50 to a large "Special" at $22. House, Greek and spinach salads are also available for $3.75 to $5.25.
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