Best Charlottesville Engagement Session Locations

There are so many options for your Charlottesville engagement session! Whether you’re looking for a more natural vibe with mountains or greenery, the classic vibes of UVA, or something more urban, we’ve got a little bit of everything! Below is a list of my favorite Charlottesville engagement session locations perfect for any couple’s engagement story.

Table of Contents

Best Charlottesville Engagement Session Locations
Classic & Elegant Charlottesville Locations
Urban Engagement Session Locations
Mountain Views
For Nature-Lovers
Natural Locations for the Outdoorsy Couple
Charlottesville Vineyards & More

Best Charlottesville Engagement Session Locations

1. University of Virginia (UVA)

If you attended University of Virginia, you know how lucky we are to have such beautiful Grounds! The Lawn, Gardens and Rotunda are all perfect backdrops for revisiting old memories and celebrating new ones.

newly engaged couple kissing in front of university of virginia

2. Downtown Mall + Water Street Parking Garage

Another Charlottesville icon is the Downtown Mall! The historic downtown pedestrian mall has so many great nooks. We can stop at Chap’s or Kilwin’s for ice-cream, or Grit or Mudhouse for coffee. Adjacent to the Mall is the Water Street Parking garage. The rooftop there photographs beautifully at sunset!

couple hugging and kissing during charlottesvile engagement session

3. Ivy Creek Nature Preserve

Ivy Creek is a serene location for engagement sessions. As an official site on the Virginia African American Heritage Trail, it honors the agricultural and social history by preserving the land and wildlife. Because of these efforts the land next to the trails is almost untouched, so it’s perfect for couples looking for lots of greenery and a very natural, rustic vibe.

4. Stinson Vineyards

Stinson is one of my favorite vineyards in the area. They have beautiful rows of grapes and gorgeous mountain peaks, which are visible on sunny and cloudy days! Plus, the people who run the vineyard are so kind. It’s a perfect location for a more polished natural feel, all while supporting an awesome local small business.

couple in blue dancing together during charlottesville engagement session

5. Ravens Roost

This is one of most popular outlooks along the Blue Ridge Mountains for two reasons: the mountain views and easy access! There’s no hiking required to get there. We can drive right up to the overlook, so you can dress up and get amazing mountain views!

couple enjoying sunset over Ravens Roost

6. Devils Backbone Brewery

This is for all the couples who love beer! Make your engagement session experience a day trip by heading out to Devils Backbone. Come out early to enjoy drinks & food at the Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen before your session! This gorgeous location is surrounded by lush greenery and has beautiful lighting as the sun sets over the hills.

7. Market at Grelen

Located in Somerset, Virginia the Market at Grelen sits on 600 acres of absolute beauty. Surrounded by lush greenery and a perfect spot to celebrate your love. The Market at Grelen has several venues on site. So it’s perfect not only for your engagement session but also for saying ‘I do!’

detail shot of engagement ring on leaf at stinson vineyards

8. Gardens at Waterperry Farm

Just 30 minutes outside of Charlottesville, you can’t beat the gorgeous greenery, florals, and mountain views at the Gardens at Waterperry Farm. A great location for any couple with a love for the outdoors, and showcasing the beauty of Charlottesville. If Waterperry Farm is your dream location, check with them to ensure all permits and fees are taken care of before your session!

10. Carter Mountain

Another great location for making a date night out of your session is Carter Mountain! Depending on the season, you can pick apples or peaches. They have the best dessert and drink options, ranging from ice-cream and apple cider donuts to beers and wine slushies. The orchards have endless fruit trees and incredible views overlooking the city.

10. Swanannoa Palace

Swannanoa Palace is a decadent and classic mansion built in 1912. This mansion has an old world feel of a novel that really takes you away! This dreamy location does require a bit of advance planning, since the location is open via permit only.