History & Heritage

Explore the history of Virginia’s River Realm, where museums, trails and historical sites bring the region’s past to life. Whether you’re a dedicated historian or a casual visitor, these historical treasures provide a deeper connection to the past and a greater appreciation for the region’s enduring legacy.

Museums

Historic Sites

Historic Trails

Timeless Retreats

Explore Our Museums

Discover the museums of Virginia’s River Realm, where a variety of exhibits showcase the region’s maritime history, colonial past, and cultural heritage. Each museum offers a unique window into the lives and stories that have defined our area, featuring everything from nautical artifacts to historical documents and photographs.

Museums of Middlesex

Deltaville

James Mills Scottish Factor Store

Urbanna

Middlesex County Museum & Visitor Center

Saluda

Historic Christ Church Carter Reception Center and Museum

Irvington

John Smith Shallop Explorer at the Deltaville Maritime Museum

Deltaville

Deltaville Maritime Museum & Holly Point Nature Park

Deltaville

Colonial Seaport Foundation

Deltaville

Kilmarnock Museum

Kilmarnock

F.D. Crockett at the Deltaville Maritime Museum

Deltaville

Urbanna Museum & Visitor Center

Urbanna

Morratico Waterfront Museum

Lively

Lancaster Virginia Historical Society

Historic Sites & Buildings

Visit preserved homes, colonial churches, and landmark buildings that offer a tangible connection to the region’s rich heritage and pivotal moments in history.

St. Paul Baptist Church

Saluda

First Baptist Church of Harmony Village

Topping

Christ Church Parish Episcopal – Christ Church School

Saluda

Clarksbury United Methodist Church

Deltaville

Grafton Baptist Church

Topping

The Marble House

Urbanna

Historic Rosegill

Urbanna

All Saints Anglican Church – Old Centenary Methodist Church

Saluda

Historic Christ Church Carter Reception Center and Museum

Irvington

Urbanna Baptist Church

Urbanna

St. Mary’s White Chapel

Lively

Philippi Christian Church

Deltaville

Museum in the Streets

Urbanna

Northern Neck Hidden History Trail

Lansdowne

Urbanna

History Trails

Embark on a journey through time with the History Trails of Virginia’s River Realm. These paths guide you to pivotal sites where history was made, blending scenic beauty with educational insights.

Middlesex County Historical Marker Trail

Trail/Tour

Urbanna Kayak Trail

Trail/Tour

Timeless Retreats

Experience a blend of history and comfort by staying in one of Virginia’s River Realm’s historic vacation homes or unique boutique hotels. Each property tells its own story, offering guests a chance to immerse themselves in the past while enjoying modern amenities and distinctive charm.