Here in the River Realm, we keep time by the tides, sunsets, and dinner plans. It’s no different in the small town of Irvington. Here, we specialize in laidback luxury by the river. In Irvington, you’ll discover chic boutiques, scrumptious dining, and loads of unique fun you can’t find anywhere else. Many of these special spots are owned by local women.
Take a day away from the city just for you. Bring along some friends and family to enjoy the fresh air and friendly people here.
Where To Stay
Hope & Glory Inn: Few places capture the laid back luxury of the River Realm like the Hope & Glory Inn. Owned by Peggy and Dudley Patteson, the chic boutique hotel features world class amenities and dining, yet is full of character that nods to its schoolhouse past. Come and stay in the main house or reserve your own cottage for the weekend. There are many other lodging options in the area including quaint AirBnb’s with a view and the stunning Tides Inn resort. Click here to see all of our local lodging options.
Where to Shop
The Dandelion: Jeannie Ward-Smith and Sheila Broderick Brown pack this house with fine women’s clothing, jewelry and gifts. Find just about everything ready to wear to the resort or to the home office.
Objects Art and More: Discover art, pottery, and jewelry from more than 200 artists who showcase their items here in Irvington. A truly special find: a sterling silver oyster necklace shaped from local oysters.
Village Needle Point: Susan Hill stocks this full-service needlepoint boutique with everything you need to create your own needlepoint masterpieces: threads, fabric, accessories, and tools. You can also pick up hand-painted canvases and stitched pillows ready to take home!
Cathi’s Gardens: Bring home a freshly designed floral arrangement to remember your time at the river. You can also discover other gifts and silk flower arrangements!
Sewlovelee: Create a wonderful homemade gift for your loved ones or find the perfect fabric for that accent pillow at Sewlovelee fabric store. Lee Taylor keeps this lovely shop fully stocked with choices and is always happy to provide ideas for your next project, as well as individual classes on garment making, basic sewing, and more!
Pillar and Peacock: Making some upgrades at home? This women-owned interior design firm is well loved and experienced in all kinds of projects, large or small. Stop into ask questions and get inspired!
Where to Play
Compass Entertainment Complex: We’ve got a new kid on the block here in Irvington! This multifaceted playhouse has it all to get you moving, laughing, and smiling: a full-service restaurant, six-screen cinema, arcade, indoor high adventure course, climbing walls, and go-karts!
Steamboat Era Museum: Travel back in time at our local museum. Learn about revival camps, canneries, country stores, and of course, steamboats! The latest sight to see is the restored pilot house.
Where to Eat
The Local: Joanna Marchetti has made this adorable building feel like home for the Northern Neck community. Order up craft coffee from Richmond-based Ironclad Roasters, yummy breakfast sandwiches, pastries, paninis, wraps, salads, ice cream and more.
The Office: Owned by Terri Wesselman and Julien Patterson, this former dentist office now serves up fresh and modern bites. The reminders of the former dentist office are fun amidst the relaxed and refined dining experience.
Where to Drink
Vine: The open patio outside or cute tasting room are both chic and relaxed for a hangout. The helpful staff can answer all of your wine questions. If you bring the pup, the patio is pet friendly!
Share Your Shopping Finds!
We know you’ll have fun in the River Realm shopping, wining and dining. With views, bites, and shops like ours, we know you’ll want to snap a photo or maybe dozens. Help us show off all the fun to be had here. Tag us in your small town adventure photos on Instagram at @virginiasriverrealm.
