City Guides: Things to do While Boating Along Virginia's Rappahannock River
Virginia’s Rappahannock River, stretching more than 195 miles, is a vital waterway with a rich historical and ecological significance. Originating in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it flows eastward, carving through picturesque landscapes before emptying into the Chesapeake Bay.
The river has been a lifeline for centuries, from providing sustenance to Native American tribes to serving as a crucial battleground during the Civil War. Today, it’s a haven for boaters and outdoor enthusiasts sailing from marinas or private boat slips for rent.
Offering activities such as kayaking, fishing and birdwatching, its waters and surrounding habitats are home to diverse wildlife, making it an essential natural resource for conservation efforts. While there are several towns in this region, we're going to concentrate on Irvington, Deltaville and Urbanna today.
Urbanna
Urbanna, Virginia, founded in 1680, is home to the regionally famous Urbanna Oyster Festival. This charming port town on the Rappahannock River offers a mix of historical, cultural and recreational attractions for boaters to check out from private boat dock rentals. Here are some highlights of this Middle Peninsula region.
Urbanna Creek
At 3.5 miles long, Urbanna Creek is a picturesque spot perfect for boating, kayaking and fishing. It's a serene location, a no-wake zone, for water activities and offers beautiful views of the river.
You'll find marinas (including Urbby Boat Yard and Marina and Urbanna Town Marina) with annual and transient slips and gas docks as well as a public boat ramp, private boat slip rentals and restaurants.
Historic Christ Church and Museum
Built in 1735, Christ Church is a beautifully preserved colonial church with original furnishings and Georgian architecture. It's an excellent spot for history enthusiasts to explore and learn about colonial architecture and local history.
The James Mills Scottish Factor Store
One of the oldest surviving Scottish merchant stores in America, the James Mills Scottish Factor Store was built in 1766. The store now serves as a museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits about Urbanna's trading history, oyster industry and colonial life. It serves as the Urbanna Visitor Center.
Deltaville
The small coastal town of Deltaville, Virginia is known as the "Boating Capital of the Chesapeake Bay." It has a rich maritime heritage and plenty of marinas, docks and attractions for visitors and boaters to enjoy from private boat slips for rent.
It is located in the Middle Peninsula region of the Rappahannock River, where the river flows out to meet the Chesapeake Bay. Here are some key highlights of this region.
Deltaville Maritime Museum
The Deltaville Maritime Museum celebrates the boating and maritime history of the Chesapeake Bay area. It features a variety of exhibits, including boat building demonstrations, historical artifacts and beautiful gardens, walking trails and picnic areas at the 36-acre Holly Point Nature Park. The museum also hosts events like the annual Holly Point Art & Seafood Festival. Come by boat from private boat lifts for rent or marinas around the region.
Fishing and Boating
Given its reputation as a boating hub, Deltaville offers numerous opportunities for fishing and boating. Charter a fishing trip, rent a boat or simply enjoy the scenic views from one of the many marinas or private boat dock rentals.
Irvington
The charming small town of Irvington is located along Virginia's Northern Neck region, the northernmost of Virginia’s three peninsulas (which includes the Middle Peninsula and the Peninsula). It sits between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers and is bordered by the Chesapeake Bay,
The Tides Inn
The Tides Inn is a luxurious resort that has been a centerpiece of Irvington since 1947. It offers a range of amenities, including a golf course, a marina, fine dining and a spa. The Inn's scenic waterfront location on Carters Creek makes it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of the area from private boat lifts for rent.
The Steamboat Era Museum
The Steamboat Era Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of the steamboat era, which played a crucial role in the development of the Northern Neck region. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs and models that tell the story of how steamboats impacted commerce and daily life in the area.
Irvington Farmers Market
Held on the first Saturday of each month from April to November, the Irvington Farmers Market is a popular event that features local produce, crafts, and artisanal goods. It's a great place to experience the community spirit of Irvington and support local vendors, whether traveling from a marina or a private boat dock rental.
Hope and Glory Inn
The Hope and Glory Inn, a boutique inn located in a former schoolhouse, offers unique accommodations and the on-site Dog and Oyster Vineyard where you can enjoy oyster pairings and wine tastings. It’s renowned for its charming atmosphere and excellent service. Guests can enjoy wine tastings, spa services and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Belle Isle State Park
Just a short drive from Irvington, Belle Isle State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, boating and bird-watching. The park's diverse habitats and scenic beauty make it a great destination for nature lovers to visit from ramps, marinas and private boat lifts for rent.
