Start your #wanderlove getaway in Hopewell. Hang your hat at the Stay-Over Suites, a locally-owned hotel offering newly refurbished rooms. Looking for something a little more romantic and secluded? Check out Edgewood Plantation Bed & Breakfast on the North side of the James River in Charles City County.
The North side of the Lower James River is full of things to do. Charles City County’s main thoroughfare is historic Route 5, a scenic Virginia byway. Along Route 5, you will pass historic homes and former grandiose plantations among them Shirley, Sherwood, Berkeley, and Westover.
If you want a more active way to experience Route 5, bring your bikes and peddle the Virginia Capitol Trail. Ideal access points are located at Upper Shirley Vineyards, the intersection of Route 5 and 156, Charles City Courthouse, and Jamestown Beach by the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry.
For dining options, consider several hidden gems located along Route 5. Upper Shirley Vineyards boasts a delicious menu, homegrown wines, and spectacular views of the James River. Cul’s Courthouse Grill is situated in an old country store, offers light fare and is a must-stop for cyclists. Indian Fields Tavern has amazing ambiance in an old farmhouse setting.
Continue your trip in Downtown Hopewell. For music lovers, check out the schedule of shows at the Historic Beacon Theatre. Or take a stroll along the new Riverwalk at City Park, perfect for sunset views, fishing, and watching the local Ospreys hunt.
History enthusiasts will appreciate Appomattox Manor and General Ulysses S. Grant’s Cabin at City Point. The surrounding waterfront is revered as prime fishing ground. City Point is also one of the best spots around to catch the sunset or sunrise.
Before you head into the countryside, enjoy a meal at the Boathouse at City Point. With a fantastic view of the Appomattox and James Rivers, The Boathouse offers a terrific menu, including locally caught oysters, craft brews, and wine.
Head to Prince George County, home to one of the oldest churches in America, Merchant’s Hope, and one of the largest Czech/Slovak populations in the country.
One of the hidden gems along Route 10 is the studio and gallery of local Plein Air artist, Ed Hatch. Inside, you can find Ed adding the finishing touches to a painting, or beginning a fresh effort. Many of the pieces in Hatch’s studio are for sale.
Next, head to the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry. Before you get to the Ferry, hop into the Edwards Ham Shop of Surry for that oh-so-delicious pork Virginia is famous for.
Take the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry to the Historic Jamestown Settlement. Here you link back up to Route 5 and the Virginia Capitol Trail where you can loop back to Hopewell.
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Last Updated: 10/06/2020
