Virginia Attractions in the upper Northern Neck & Colonial Beach

What are your favorite Commonwealth of Virginia attractions? I bet you'll find some of them here in the upper Northern Neck and Colonial Beach region. There are plenty to choose from, whether you're interested in History, Nature, Sports or Recreation. Plan a trip soon, you're bound to have a good time here in "the 'neck."

For quick reference, the specific places to visit are grouped by theme, with a "More" category for all the other interesting sights to see.

If you're seeking an attraction not listed here, please see the Events page, or the Sitemap.

Beach & Boardwalk | Food & Drink | Historical Sites | Nature Sites | Motorsports | Sports | More

Beach & Boardwalk:

Beachfront and Boardwalk Area

This is probably one of the most popular Colonial Beach, Virginia Attractions. Stroll along the beautiful Boardwalk in Colonial Beach and take in the sights and sounds of the beach area, like the newly painted mural.

The proposed teen Gaming Lounge/Beach Clubhouse was to have opened on the boardwalk. Currently it is a police substation for special events.

Be sure to continue onto the Riverwalk once you reach the end of the boardwalk.

The Boardwalk in Colonial Beach

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Food and Drink:

Area Restaurants

Over twenty-five area eateries, with more being added all the time, there's an eating establishment to serve up whatever you're craving.

Ingleside Vineyards and Plantation

One of the largest in Virginia attractions like this wonderful winery are a must-see for your visit to the area.

Monroe Bay Winery

This could also fall under the "nature" category due to their waterfront location and a tasting barn made of strawbales!

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Historical Sites:

Museum of Colonial Beach

The Museum houses many treasures from the Town's past in what was once referred to as the Hoffman Building. (photo at right)

John Wilkes Booth Capture Site

Blink and you'll miss it, this site is just down Route 301. There's a tour you can take that retraces the escape route of President Lincoln's assassin.

President James Monroe Birthplace Site

Featuring a handful of markers and monuments, there's also a top-notch Visitor Center here where you can learn more about the 5th President of the United States.

President George Washington Birthplace Site

A working farm exists at the site of the first President's birth. My favorite part is the outline of the foundation of the house he was born in.

Colonial Beach Train Junction shop on Colonial Ave.

Here you can learn the history of trains as well as the nearby Dahlgren Railroad which operated during WWII and afterwards.

Alexander Graham Bell's summer residence

A gorgeous waterfront structure on the National Register of Historic Places, this home is currently a private residence after having served as a Bed & Breakfast Inn.

"Miss Ann" 1926 Fantail Yacht

One of my favorite Virginia attractions, this stunning Pusey & Jones creation returned here from D.C.'s Gangplank Marina in the Spring of 2013. She's currently on the other side of Monroe Bay at Evans Island.

Veterans War Memorial

The site of gatherings every Memorial Day and Veterans Day, this monument pays tribute to those who served.

Stratford Hall, home of the Lees is one of the more impressive Virginia attractions. You'll find it just down Route 3 a bit, near Montross. 483 Great House Road, Stratford, VA 22558.

James Adams Floating Theatre

The craft that inspired the novel, and later the stage production and films, "Show Boat" is planned for rebuild, to once again bring live performances to the waters in Colonial Beach.

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Nature Sites:

Voorhees Nature Preserve

This area is adjacent to the Westmoreland Berry Farm and offers scenic views of the Rappahannock River, trails for hiking and more.

Westmoreland State Park

A beautiful riverfront state park with high cliffs that offer tremendous views. Camping, fishing, hiking, swimming, kayaking are some of the activities available. You can hunt for fossils here too.

Local Area Campgrounds

Plenty of places to park the RV, pitch the tent and enjoy some well-deserved R&R.

Hot-spots for Bird Watching

There are over 425 species of birds in Virginia. Lots of them can be found (especially bald eagles!) in Colonial Beach and the Northern Neck.

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Motorsports:

Colonial Beach Dragway

Watch cars, trucks, motorcycles and ATV's race here. Just about anything with wheels.

Northern Neck ATV Park

(temporarily closed) Load up the family and the dirtbikes and ATV's, and enjoy a fun day of riding. Woods trails as well as a motocross track. Special events like mud bogs and drag racing take place here too.

1954 Ford Museum The only thing in this museum are 1954 Fords, every model that was produced that year.

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Sports:

Northern Neck Rivermen semi-pro football.

A relatively new team, the Rivermen consistently earn top honors. You can see them play home games at a local High School in their summer league.
Pump some iron at River Gym.

Boating and Marinas

Lots of places to park the boat and enjoy a visit to the Northern Neck and Colonial Beach.

Pier Fishing

Many area piers to choose from for a great day of fishing.

Charter, Headboat Fishing

Board "The Big Dipper" for a fishing trip up and down the Potomac River.
The "Reel-Em-N" at Monroe Bay Campground offers bottom fishing, trolling aboard the 22-ft "Flying Frog" with license, equipment, bait and a mate provided. Capt. Foster can be reached at 703-971-1669, 703-966-3363 or 571-329-8109.

Kayak Rentals at various locations

Kayaking on the Potomac and other area waters is a great way to spend the day.

Golf at Cameron Hills

An award-winning public facility in a spectacular location. 18 holes, regulation-length. Closed. Putt-putt mini golf is available at Washington Ave. Park

Shoot bows & arrows at Rock Springs Archery

Hone your skills at their wooded course and open target practice field. On-site store, snack bar and trophy room. Closed

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