Called the Playground of the Potomac since 1892, Colonial Beach & Montross offer eclectic shops, unique restaurants, museums and relaxed beaches all with an hour’s drive of Fredericksburg and Washington D.C. Small towns hidden in coves and creeks, the Northern Neck boasts over 1,800 miles of shorelines.
Welcome to Colonial Beach! Spend the morning exploring the uncluttered lands of the Northern Neck Heritage Trail Bicycling Route. Pick up some delicious fare from The Tides Inn Market and go enjoy a tasting at Colonial Beach Brewing. Also, while exploring Colonial Beach enjoy the Dockside Restaurant & Tiki Bar, a local hangout and snap a picture of the LOVEwork which features flip flops, a beach ball, palm trees and fish – all set against the backdrop of a pontoon boat.
Enjoy the beauty of the Northern Neck by bicycle. Ride past the fishing villages and historic sites of the uncluttered land along the Northern Neck Heritage Trail Bicycling Route. Spend some time birdwatching, have a picnic, hike and paddle at Caledon State Park, a National Natural Landmark known for its old growth forest and summer home to one of the largest concentrations of American bald eagles on the East Coast.
Shop over 70 dealers with antiques, and vintage items from all over the country at Port Royal Trading Post. Experience an authentic collection of items from regional Native Americans, Colonial times, Civil War history, and Presidential memorabilia at the Port Royal Museum of American History. The Port Royal Museum of Medicine is housed in a historic doctor’s office building and houses artifacts that tell the history of the town.
Recently revitalized, Montross has turned into the premier destination in the Northern Neck of Virginia for art, antiquing, and dining, wineries, and historical sites. Left largely undiscovered, Montross offers great fishing, kayaking and biking areas for outdoor enthusiasts. While exploring, be sure to grab some coffee and pastries at The Art of Coffee (Coffeehouse & Art Gallery) and take in some of the local art including watercolors, unique jewelry, and photography. Be sure to take a photo with the beautiful LOVEwork in the Town of Montross.
Enjoy six miles of trails, boat rentals, fossil hunting, and birding at the Westmoreland State Park and then end your day at the Montross Brewery for a tasting and snap a picture in front of the LOVEwork which was made by the community for the community.
Learn about the history of Westmoreland County at the Westmoreland County Museum and Library. The museum has a replicated general store from the 1920’s called Westmoreland Mercantile General Store that sells and displays various period merchandise.
Enjoy the beautiful beaches and pool at the Coles Point Marina & Campground as well as the beautiful views and convenient access to the Potomac River.
Check out our map of places where you can add more LOVE to your vacation. Be sure to share your pictures on social media by tagging @VisitVirginia using the hashtag #LOVEVA.
