Nestled between the scenic Rappahannock River and Chesapeake Bay (and just 1.5 hours from Richmond), this hidden gem is bursting with small-town charm, rich history, and natural beauty. Whether you're craving a peaceful getaway or looking to dive into some fun, Virginia's River Realm is the perfect escape.
*Portions of this Itinerary was initially provided to me by the lovely people at Virginia's River Realm.
After visiting these places and adding my own stops along the way, I think this is a great itinerary for the River Realm!
Day 1:
1:30pm Leave Richmond, VA (1 hour 20 minute drive)
3 p.m. Arrive in Irvington & stop at Livi's Market.
This incredible market is located inside a gas station but is not your average stop. The owners have curated an amazing list of snack items, gifts and more. Well worth the stop!
4 p.m. Check into your stay.
I'd recommend The Tides Inn. This is a waterfront hotel with two gorgeous restaurants.
This photo is from their website here.
6 p.m. Have dinner at one of the hotel restaurants: Salt & Meadow or Fish Hawk Oyster Bar. (No vegan options)
7:30pm Watch the sunset from the hotel.
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Day 2:
9am Have breakfast at the hotel.
10am Drive to Kilmarnock for a day of shopping at the Boutiques. (10 minute drive)
Shops to stop by: (in order of distance)
Salt & Sand - a coastal furniture & gifts shop.
Fin and Pearl|WATR - Coastal fashion for women.
Tiles Design - Custom tiles shop.
Calluna and The Book Shelf on Church - Antique shop with a cute indie bookstore attached. (loved this place!)
Barkley's Boutique - a boutique for dogs.
Kilmarnock Antique Gallery - A massive antique shop with tons of selection. We spent a long time in here, so much to see!
Grow NNK - Metaphysical supply store.
Special Wine Seller - Wine shop with a huge selection.
The Rivah - Boutique with coastal gifts, clothing and furniture (this was my fav shop for merch!).
Northern Neck Popcorn Bag - A huge variety of popcorn, lots of vegan options too!
1pm Lunch at Chao Phraya Thai & Sushi Grill.
This is a thai restaurant with a huge sushi menu. Tons of vegan options and very delicious.
2pm Head to Historic Christ Church Museum (5 minute drive)
This is a National Historic Landmark built in 1735 and in near-original condition.
*Tickets $10 each for tour and museum.
3 pm Drive to Urbanna to shop and eat dinner. (25 minute drive)
Shops to visit:
Urbanna Trading Company - This is a cute market and gifts shop. (lovely owners as well!)
Low Tide - Coastal clothing store for men, women & children.
Ballgown Barefoot - Boutique with vintage and gifts.
RS Bristows Store - 1876 general store that is now a shop selling clothes, home and gifts.
The Gilded Crown - Homegoods, clothing, fruniture, gifts and more.
6pm Dinner at Something Different
Offer bbq, specialty sandiwches (a vegan burger) and sides. *Note: their fried food is fried in beef tallow.
OR
Mi Jalisco Mexican - Local Mexican spot with classic like enchiladas, burritos and more. Can be modified to be made vegan. (My fav was the veggie taco salad, so good!)
7:30pm Sunset at Urbanna Town Marina
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Day 3:
10 am Breakfast and coffee in Irvington at The Local
This is a coffee shop with a big menu. They serve breakfast and lunch and have a few vegan options as well!
I got the chai turmeric latte with oat milk - so good!
11am Drive to Deltaville. (30 minute drive)
11:30pm Deltaville Maritime Museum
Here they have Holly Point Farmers Market on certain weekends. The museum is open 10am-4pm and closed on Wednesdays.
2pm Visit Cafe By the Bay for a coffee or snack
This is a cafe that serves coffee, ice cream, breakfast and lunch!
3pm Check out the beautiful and picturesque Safe Harbor Stingray Point.
I loved this marina. It had an adorable lighthouse-looking office and docks to walk on to admire the boats.
4 pm Dinner at Delta Pie
This is a hearth-fired pizza spot. They have vegan cheese and cauliflower crust options.
OR
Prime Meridian
This is a mediterranean restaurant with a modern twist. (some vegan options)
I hope you found this itinerary helpful! There are more blogs on my website about other spots around Virginia, as well as Richmond tips. You can also follow me on YouTube for my travel videos or Instagram for daily updates. Feel free to DM me with any questions! Have a great trip!
💚Lauren Z Ray