5 days in Charlottesville & Detroit Itinerary

Situated at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville is perhaps best known as the home of three of the United States' founding fathers, including Thomas Jefferson.

Explore Charlottesville's surroundings by going to Luray Caverns (in Luray) and Old Rag Mountain Hike (in Shenandoah National Park). Next up on the itinerary: tour the pleasant surroundings at Monticello, sample some tasty brews at a beer tour and tasting, and steep yourself in history at The Glass Palette - Interactive Glass Art Studio.

For photos, more things to do, traveler tips, and other tourist information, refer to the Charlottesville day trip planning tool.

New York City to Charlottesville is an approximately 3.5-hour flight. You can also drive; or take a train. Traveling from New York City in May, you will find days in Charlottesville are a bit warmer (76°F), and nights are about the same (55°F). Wrap up your sightseeing on the 14th (Sat) to allow time to fly to Detroit.

Founded in 1701 by a French explorer and adventurer, Detroit exerted a profound impact on the world for most of the 20th century.

Start off your visit on the 15th (Sun): steep yourself in history at The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, then contemplate the long history of Motown Museum, and then admire the masterpieces at Detroit Institute of Arts. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: appreciate the history behind Michigan Soldiers and Sailors Monument, then examine the collection at The Henry Ford, and then see the interesting displays at Greenfield Village.

For photos, reviews, traveler tips, and more tourist information, you can read our Detroit day trip planner.

Traveling by flight from Charlottesville to Detroit takes 5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or do a combination of train and bus. Traveling from Charlottesville in May, you will find days in Detroit are little chillier (71°F), and nights are about the same (51°F). Finish your sightseeing early on the 16th (Mon) to allow enough time to fly back home.