The Corner UVA
The Corner: UVA's bustling six-block business district, packed with affordable eats, shops, and student life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively student atmosphere
The Corner UVA
Best Time
Lively student atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The Corner: UVA's bustling six-block business district, packed with affordable eats, shops, and student life.
"A lively hub connecting UVA to off-campus housing, packed with food and shops.
"🎯 Grab a Bite Past 2 AM
Craving a late-night snack? Many wish for a 24-hour sandwich shop like the old Corner Sheetz.
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking is limited and paid. Watch for meters and garages; illegal parking risks tickets or towing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bodo's Bagels
Multiple locations on The Corner
A beloved Charlottesville institution for delicious, affordable bagels. A must-try for any visitor.

The Virginian Diner
University Avenue
The oldest restaurant on UVA Grounds, serving classic diner fare. A historic taste of student life.

106.1 The Corner Lounge
University Avenue
Catch live, in-studio performances from local and touring musicians. A vibrant spot for music lovers.

Mincer's
University Avenue
Your go-to for UVA apparel and souvenirs. Rep the Wahoos with pride!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating The Corner's Bustle
Evening Safety & Student Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Grab a Bite Past 2 AM
Craving a late-night snack? Many wish for a 24-hour sandwich shop like the old Corner Sheetz.
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking is limited and paid. Watch for meters and garages; illegal parking risks tickets or towing.
🎶 Live Music Vibes
Check out 106.1 The Corner for live in-studio performances and local music.
🛍️ UVA Gear Galore
Mincer's is the spot for all your UVA apparel and souvenir needs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Grab a Bite Past 2 AM
Craving a late-night snack? Many wish for a 24-hour sandwich shop like the old Corner Sheetz.
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking is limited and paid. Watch for meters and garages; illegal parking risks tickets or towing.
🎶 Live Music Vibes
Check out 106.1 The Corner for live in-studio performances and local music.
🛍️ UVA Gear Galore
Mincer's is the spot for all your UVA apparel and souvenir needs.
☕ Coffee Opinions
Corner Juice gets mixed reviews for its matcha; some find it watery.
🍻 Ellie's Happy Hour
Don't miss Survivor Hour every Thursday for great drink deals at Ellie's.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Corner is a vibrant and essential district for UVA students and visitors, praised for its affordable and diverse food options, lively atmosphere, and UVA spirit shops. While it offers convenience and a taste of local culture, some visitors note limited parking and concerns about the homeless population during evening hours.
"The Corner is the six block business district for The University of Virginia that spans approximately one mile.
The Corner is located basically off the main drag of University Avenue to one side. However, there are intersecting streets that are also considered The Corner. The first business is Bank of America and the last The Graduate Hotel.
Some of the most popular businesses are Mincer's a UVA outfitter, Virginian Diner, The White Spot Restaurant and Bodo's Bagels. The area has intense foot traffic when school is in session. The Corner is a main connection between the school and off campus housing.
Parking is very limited off street paid meter, or two area garages. Be aware if you're parked illegally the chance is high of ticket, or tow.
My negative is homeless presence in the evening mainly at the train underpass. I've never had an issue. However there are safety concerns I feel at night. So it's not recommended for females to walk at night by themselves.
The Corner is an area landmark associated with UVA. It's always a place I visit when in town."
J David Hillery
"The Corner has a ton of excellent food options with a wide range of variety, as well as small grocery/souvenir shops. Great place for people at the University to conveniently grab a bite.
Only downside is the unfortunately large homeless population, some of whom occasionally get aggressive/violent, but if you go during the semester when it's populated, it's pretty safe."
Rahim Zaman
"This section of Charlottesville has a great selection of shops. There are a wide range of places to eat and all are affordable. It tends to get crowded on the weekends, but that makes this place seem lively. In addition, the corner is a moderate distance (around 1.5 miles) away from the historic downtown."
Emma Abraham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Corner is located along University Avenue, just off the main University of Virginia campus. It's easily accessible by foot from campus and nearby off-campus housing. If driving, be aware that parking is limited and often metered.
Parking is available but can be challenging. Look for metered street parking along University Avenue and intersecting streets, or utilize the nearby parking garages. Illegal parking can lead to tickets or towing.
Absolutely! The Corner is directly adjacent to the University of Virginia campus and is a primary pedestrian thoroughfare connecting students to shops and restaurants.
Walking is the best way to experience The Corner, allowing you to easily pop into shops and cafes. Many visitors also combine a trip to The Corner with exploring the UVA campus and Downtown Mall.
While not explicitly detailed in the provided content, Charlottesville has local bus services that may serve the University area. Checking with Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) would be advisable for specific routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, The Corner is a public business district and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely walk around and visit the shops and restaurants.
Hours vary by business, but most shops and restaurants are open during typical daytime and early evening hours, especially when school is in session. Some places, like Ellie's, have specific happy hour times.
There are no admission fees to enter or explore The Corner. You only pay for any purchases you make at the shops or restaurants.
To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting on weekdays during off-peak hours, or during university breaks. Weekends and evenings during the semester can be quite busy.
Yes, places like Ellie's offer weekly happy hour specials on Thursdays.
Live music performances can also be found at venues like 106.1 The Corner.🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Mincer's is the primary destination on The Corner for UVA apparel, souvenirs, and fan gear.
You'll find a mix of shops including UVA outfitters, convenience stores, and souvenir shops catering to students and visitors.
Beyond the student-focused shops, The Corner offers a variety of eateries and some smaller boutiques. The focus is largely on convenience and student needs.
Yes, there are convenience stores and smaller grocery options available on The Corner for everyday essentials.
Popular souvenirs include UVA branded clothing, hats, mugs, and other memorabilia from shops like Mincer's.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bodo's Bagels is a legendary spot for breakfast and lunch.
The Virginian Diner offers classic diner fare, and Ellie's is known for its happy hour deals.While specific late-night options are limited, some visitors express a desire for more 24-hour food establishments, reminiscent of past options like Corner Sheetz.
The Corner offers a diverse range of affordable food options, including bagels, diner food, pubs, and cafes.
Generally, the food options on The Corner are considered affordable, catering to a student budget.
Corner Juice is a coffee shop on The Corner, though reviews for its matcha have been mixed.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant street life, the historic architecture of The Virginian Diner, and the lively atmosphere around UVA's campus. The iconic 'Corner' signage is also a popular photo op.
Yes, you can generally take photos of live music performances at venues like 106.1 The Corner, but always be mindful of venue policies and avoid flash photography that might disrupt performers.
Absolutely! The University of Virginia campus itself, including the Rotunda, offers stunning architectural photography. The nearby Downtown Mall also provides a different urban aesthetic.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting. Daytime offers vibrant street scenes, while evenings can capture the lively nightlife.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of private businesses and individuals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🎶 Music Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of UVA Student Life
This area is known for its affordable dining options, making it a go-to for students on a budget. From iconic bagel shops to classic diners, there's a variety of choices to satisfy diverse cravings. Beyond food, you'll find shops selling UVA merchandise, making it easy for students and fans to show their school spirit. The energy here is palpable, especially during peak hours, reflecting the vibrant student community it serves.
While The Corner is a lively and convenient spot, it's worth noting that parking can be a challenge, and some visitors have expressed concerns about the homeless population in the evenings. Despite these considerations, its role as a central gathering place and a provider of essential services and entertainment for UVA students remains undeniable.
A Taste of Charlottesville: Culinary Delights on The Corner
For those seeking a lively atmosphere and good deals, Ellie's is a popular choice, especially for its 'Survivor Hour' happy hour every Thursday, offering significant discounts on drinks. The area also features various pubs and cafes, catering to different tastes and times of day. While many options are student-focused, they provide a genuine taste of Charlottesville's casual dining scene.
Some visitors have noted a desire for more late-night dining options, with a longing for establishments that could fill the void left by places like the former Corner Sheetz. Coffee enthusiasts can find options like Corner Juice, though reviews suggest varying experiences with their offerings, particularly their matcha. Overall, The Corner provides a convenient and tasty culinary experience, deeply intertwined with the student culture of UVA.
Live Music and Local Vibes
While not a dedicated music venue, the spirit of live performance is present. Visitors can catch acoustic sets and other musical acts, contributing to the energetic atmosphere of the district. The presence of such platforms highlights The Corner's role in supporting and promoting local talent, making it a destination for those who appreciate live music and a connection to the community's artistic pulse.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit