Discover the Wahoo Spirit at University of Virginia: Your Ultimate Campus Tour Guide
Welcome to the world of the Wahoos in Charlottesville, Virginia! The illustrious University of Virginia, founded by Thomas Jefferson, is a sight to behold. An emblem of neoclassical architecture, prestigious academia, and spirited student culture, the University of Virginia (UVA) defines Charlottesville. Let’s dive into the heart of UVA and embrace their motto — “Go Hoos”!
Explore the Grounds of The University of Virginia
Often referred to as “The Grounds”, UVA’s campus is the perfect blend of historical architecture, impressive academia, and lush green landscapes. Spread over a sprawling 1,682 acres clear of the hustle and bustle of downtown, the Grounds are home to several notable locales.
At the center of it all, Thomas Jefferson’s Academical Village offers a living-learning community. The village, surrounded by student residences and faculty housing, encourages interdisciplinary engagement. This home-away-from-home for faculty and students is guided by Jefferson’s philosophy that learning should extend beyond the classroom.
Presiding over the Academical village is the Rotunda, the iconic symbol of UVA. This architectural marvel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was inspired by Rome’s Pantheon. Serving initially as a library, the Rotunda now hosts university meetings, lectures, and student study groups. The Rotunda’s interior dome room, with its classical proportions, presents unquestionable beauty.
Iconic Architecture and More: Noteworthy Buildings at UVA
The University of Virginia’s blend of rich tradition and modern innovation is represented perfectly through its buildings. Below are a few you must explore:
Alderman Library: Housing countless scholarly works, the Alderman Library is a haven for the academic seeker. Boasting over two million volumes, Alderman is UVA’s main library. Its stately appearance and extensive literary collection draw countless bibliophiles.
The Chapel: Anchoring the bustling campus, the charming UVA Chapel offers serenity amidst the buzzing student life. Sporting a Gothic Revival-style design, the Chapel serves not only as a place of worship but also as a popular venue for small-size weddings and concerts.
Relishing the Athletic Spirit: UVA’s Sports Culture
UVA’s sports culture is driven by two simple words — Wahoo Pride. Games featuring the Cavaliers are energetic and passionate, providing an adrenaline rush like no other. Experience the thrill at:
Scott Stadium: Home to the UVA football team, the Scott Stadium provides the prototypical college football atmosphere. It’s an electrifying experience to join 60,000 others in cheering “Go Hoos!” under the stadium’s bright lights.
John Paul Jones Arena: From thrilling basketball games to live shows, John Paul Jones Arena is UVA’s premier event venue. Aptly named after the father of a lead UVA contributor, this state-of-the-art arena embodies Wahoo pride.
Taste and Chill at The Corner
Just across the street from UVA Grounds lies bustling “The Corner,” a community hotspot for students and faculty. Explore this &-block stretch offering unique boutiques, cozy bookshops, and tantalizing eateries.
Bodo’s Bagels: Start your day with a cup of hot coffee and fresh, hand-rolled bagels from Bodo’s Bagels. Customer favorites include the ‘everything bagel with bacon, egg and cheddar’ and the ‘plain bagel with lox spread’.
Boylen Heights: Craving a plump, juicy burger? Head over to Boylen Heights and create your own perfect burger combination. Its friendly atmosphere caters to sports fans intending to catch a good game on their widescreen TVs.
Delve into UVA’s Cultural offerings: Museums and Exhibitions
UVA’s rich selection of museums cater to every art and history enthusiast.
Fralin Museum of Art: Housing Italian Renaissance art to American Indian art, the Fralin Museum of Art offers a diverse range of artwork. The museum houses not only rotating exhibitions but also the UVA’s permanent art collection.
Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library: Home to an impressive archive of rare books, manuscripts and maps, the Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library is a historian’s dream. Noteworthy in its collections are a copy of the Proclamation of Independence and the archives of Virginia gentry families.
Experiencing UVA: A Day as a Wahoo
Ever wondered what life as a UVA student encompasses? Start your day at Grit Coffee with a caffeine fix, then head to an engaging lecture in one of UVA’s historical buildings. Take a moment to enjoy the serene, natural beauty of The Lawn, and bask in the Colonial Revival-style Pavilion gardens.
Annual Festivals on UVA’s Campus: Time to celebrate
UVA plays host to exciting events round the year. From musical concerts to film festivals, each event paints a vibrant hue on the Ground’s usual tranquility.
Foxfield Races: The Foxfield Races is UVA’s springtime tradition. Gather alongside fellow Wahoos to enjoy the thrilling horse races followed by a decadent picnic.
Virginia Film Festival: Sharing the stage with renowned filmmakers, the Virginia Film Festival is a cinematic treat. Join in the fall with film enthusiasts as they explore contemporary cinema and engage in enlightening discussions.
As we wrap up our comprehensive tour of UVA, it’s important to remember the diversity and unique spirit of the community that permeates these Grounds. Beyond the obvious historical significance and architectural brilliance, what resonates is the spirit of the Wahoos – intense, vivacious, and proud. So, whether you’re a prospective student, a visiting academic, or a tourist exploring Charlottesville, UVA offers rich and rewarding experiences at every turn. Ready to join in on the Wahoo spirit?
