Pen Park

Considered the "crown jewel" of the city's park system, Pen Park is a vast recreational area spanning approximately 113 hectares. Located in the city of Charlottesville, USA, this green oasis is the largest public park in the county, offering a perfect blend of active sports and peaceful relaxation in nature.

One of the park's main features is the professional 18-hole Meadowcreek Golf Course, which attracts golf enthusiasts from across the state. In addition to its sports infrastructure, the territory holds significant historical value: ancient family cemeteries with old headstones surrounded by stone walls have been preserved here, creating an atmosphere of connection across time.

The park has retained its historical name for over two centuries, offering visitors spacious lawns, shaded alleys, and picturesque views. It is an ideal spot for those seeking solitude amidst nature without leaving the city limits.

If you need additional information or would like to book a tee time, you can use the park administration's official contact details.

The main magnet for visitors here remains the Meadowcreek Golf Course. You can spend several hours on this 18-hole course, enjoying the high-quality turf and scenic landscape. Even if you aren't a professional player, watching golfers in their bright attire against the emerald green backdrop adds a special charm to your walk.

For history buffs, a visit to the old cemeteries of the Gilmer, Craven, and Hotopp families is a must. Walking along the ancient stone walls and observing the headstones in the tall grass allows you to touch Virginia's past. Recent archaeological discoveries have made this place even more mysterious, as dozens of unmarked colonial-era burials are hidden beneath the ground.

Families with children will appreciate the modern playgrounds and open spaces for active games like frisbee or soccer. You can enjoy a picnic on one of the lawns, go for a bike ride along the winding paths, or walk to the banks of the Rivanna River to enjoy the silence and take beautiful nature photographs.

Getting to this green space is quite easy, as it is located just a 10–15 minute drive from downtown Charlottesville. The main route follows Pen Park Road, which leads directly to the main entrance and spacious parking areas.

For those who prefer public transport, Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) buses are available. You should choose routes heading to East Rio Road, and the remainder of the trip can be completed on foot, by taxi, or by bicycle. A taxi ride from the city center is both fast and convenient.

If you are within Albemarle County, the park is a pleasant walk or bike ride along scenic local roads. Free parking is provided on-site, making it an ideal destination for those traveling by private or rental car.

The history of these lands dates back to the mid-18th century. In 1733, the 400-acre plot belonged to Charles Lynch and later changed hands several times until 1786, when Dr. George Gilmer Jr. established the Pen Park Estate here. The Gilmer family contributed significantly to the region's development, turning this site into a prominent social center.

In the 19th century, a large portion of the estate passed to John H. Craven, who was renowned as a master of scientific farming. He not only expanded the property but also developed the Park Mills industrial center, constructing an impressive three-story building. Before becoming a public park, the land was owned by several prominent families, including the Pollards, Shafers, and Hotopps.

The city authorities began purchasing the land in the 1970s, and by 1979, the entire 280-acre site was opened to the public. To this day, the historical cemeteries of the Gilmer, Craven, and Hotopp families remain on the grounds. Interestingly, modern archaeological research using ground-penetrating radar discovered about 43 unmarked graves, highlighting the deep historical value of this location.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of this place, a typical visit of 1–2 hours is sufficient if your goal is simply to take a walk or have a small picnic on the grass.

However, if you plan to play all 18 holes on the golf course or explore the historical cemeteries and woodland trails in detail, it is better to set aside 2 to 4 hours. This will allow you to take your time and experience the peaceful pace of life in Albemarle County.

The park welcomes guests daily, operating from early morning until late evening. Official visiting hours are from 06:00 to 22:00, allowing you to enjoy both sunrise and sunset here.

Since the golf club's schedule or special events may change the availability of certain areas, it is recommended to check for the latest information on the city's official website in advance.

The park's location makes it easy to combine outdoor recreation with visits to other iconic sites in the region. Exploring the surrounding area will help you dive deeper into the atmosphere of Virginia and discover its rich cultural heritage.