The jewel of the Northern Neck, Colonial Beach, VA has been home to inventors, fishermen, writers, gamblers and statesmen since its incorporation in 1892. It began its existence as a bathing and fishing resort in the nineteenth century. The town’s location on the Potomac River was an asset in an era, prior to the introduction of the automobile, when travel was slow and restrictive. Most visitors arrived by boat from Washington , D.C. Recreation activities included bathing at the mile-long sandy beach, fishing and boating. It was in this era, the latter part of the 19th century, that Colonial Beach became known as the “Playground on the Potomac.”
Today, the Museum at Colonial Beach shares this local history, featuring experiences and artifacts of the people who have inhabited Colonial Beach over the years, with stories involving the Potomac River, the Oyster Wars, gambling and much more.
The Museum is open to visitors early April until mid-December. Regular hours of operation are Saturdays and Sundays, 1-4 pm
Admission is free, but your generous donations help keep our doors open
Amenities
- Family Friendly
- LGBTQ+ Friendly
Region
Last Updated: 10/16/2019
