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a unique window into the lives and stories that have defined our area, featuring everything from nautical artifacts to historical documents and photographs.

John Smith Shallop Explorer at the Deltaville Maritime Museum

Deltaville

Morratico Waterfront Museum

Lively

Colonial Seaport Foundation

Deltaville

Kilmarnock Museum

Kilmarnock

Urbanna Museum & Visitor Center

Urbanna

James Mills Scottish Factor Store

Urbanna

F.D. Crockett at the Deltaville Maritime Museum

Deltaville

Essex County Museum

Tappahannock

Historic Christ Church Carter Reception Center and Museum

Irvington

Middlesex County Museum & Visitor Center

Saluda

Museums of Middlesex

Deltaville

Deltaville Maritime Museum & Holly Point Nature Park

Deltaville

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

Museum in the Streets

Urbanna

White Marsh Church

Historical Walking Tour of Tappahannock

Tappahannock

Lansdowne

Urbanna

Christ Church Parish Episcopal – Christ Church School

Saluda

Antioch Baptist Church

Saluda

Union Shiloh Baptist Church

Saluda

James Mills Scottish Factor Store

Urbanna

Zion Branch Baptist Church

Saluda

The Marble House

Urbanna

Historic Rosegill

Saluda

Urbanna Museum & Visitor Center

Urbanna

Lt. General Lewis Burwell “Chesty” Puller House

Saluda

Steamboat Era Museum

Irvington

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.