Virginia’s River Realm Businesses Shine in Best of Virginia Contest It’s no secret to us that Virginia’s River Realm is the best place to both live and visit. From fine dining to epic golf course views to quality shopping, we’re proud of the hundreds of businesses who make the River Realm so special.   We’re so glad you see what we see! In the latest Best of Virginia list from Virginia Living Magazine, we’re proud to see so many of our local businesses shine. Explore our list of BESTS in dining, shopping, entertainment, and beyond… Shopping The Book Nook – 1st Place Book Store Bur ..read more

Wellness at the River Want to unplug, refresh, and explore? Plan a restorative retreat to the River Realm. A car ride away will open up a world of opportunities to catch your breath and calm your mind. Invite your girlfriends for a getaway or escape on a romantic retreat with your partner. Discover romance in everyday life here by the water. Get creative with art classes, breathe in the fresh air by boat or foot, pamper yourself at a salon, and discover wellness finds at our local boutiques. You’ll return home refreshed and inspired.   Here’s how you can spend a wellness weekend ..read more

Magical Places to Enjoy the Holidays Outdoors in Virginia’s River Realm ‘Tis the season to be jolly! Bring that festive spirit with you all the way to the River Realm. Instead of the bustle and crowds of the city, come here and enjoy the holidays with a side of fresh air and small-town magic.  Cruise here for a day trip or stay for the weekend to really immerse yourself in all of our riverside charm. Walk through our streets, which are sparkling with lights and decorations. Dig into cozy winter dishes al fresco. Enjoy the open spaces during exciting events and more. While you’re at it ..read more

5 Places To Paddle In Virginia's River Realm Virginia’s River Realm’s 465 miles of shoreline make it a great destination for paddlers to launch a kayak, canoe or paddleboard! With many unique coves, creeks, and ecological treasures around every bend, you can create your own outdoor experience. Spot some wildlife, find a secluded spot, and enjoy a memorable outdoor adventure at some of our favorite paddling locations in the River Realm. The Dragon Run - Saluda (Advanced) This unique ecosystem is widely considered to be Virginia’s most pristine blackwater stream. The Dragon Run winds &a ..read more

Cool Cocktails in the River Realm Happy hour looks and tastes a little different around here. That’s because we have the river to inspire us and chefs who bring inspirations from around the world to their creations here. Like artists, bartenders take every pour and every shake personally. You reap the rewards. Below are a few of our favorite spots to enjoy a cocktail in the River Realm.  Half Shell Grill - Urbanna 250 Virginia Street, Urbanna Centrally located right in the middle of downtown Urbanna, The Half Shell is the perfect place to stop in for a drink and a bite to eat. Rel ..read more

Brunchin' in the River Realm There are few things more exciting than waking up on a Saturday morning and knowing you have a big brunch waiting for you. It’s even better when you’ve got a day of adventures to follow. If you’re headed out to shop, hunt for oysters, or follow the boots, start your day right with our best brunch finds in Virginia’s River Realm.  Big Oak Cafe Come hungry to this warm and cozy cottage style restaurant. At Big Oak Cafe, you’ll find classic items with a twist. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, start with the french toast. The bread is baked fresh at the restau ..read more

Mother's Day Getaway in Virginia's River Realm Mothers are one of the most special human beings on the planet, and they all come in many different forms with just as many different titles. Whether they gained their title when you first entered this world, or they earned it by entering your life at a later time through their love & devotion to you, we invite you to celebrate mom this Mother’s Day in Virginia’s River Realm! So, bring your mom, your grandmother, your best friend’s mom who practically raised you, or the mother of your beautiful children. The River Realm has somet ..read more

The sounds of the river have their own rhythm and magic. It draws us in as we escape from the city life and head to the River Realm. As waves hit the shore, boat engines rev, campfires crackle and laughter fills the air, you may find yourself swaying to the beat of life in our enchanted region. If you head to one of our favorite music venues, you’ll have an even harder time not tapping your feet and swinging your hips!   Local restaurants, outdoor amphitheaters, and marinas are welcoming musicians back in a big way this year. You’ll find calendars full of concerts and special events that ..read more

Pack The Perfect Picnic In The River Realm There are few things so pleasant as a picnic eaten in perfect comfort – W. Somerset Maugham   Ladiback luxury is a specialty of ours in the Virginia’s River Realm. Wherever you go, the fresh breeze, dreamy views, and local foodie finds make it easy to kick back and indulge. A mid afternoon picnic is the perfect way to do so. As you make your way from the docks, to fun excursions, and dreamy nights, load up your picnic basket at our many local farm stands, seafood markets, and eateries. Polish off the experience with chic hand towels, flowers ..read more

A Weekend Getaway To Lively The Rappahannock River is our signature landmark here in Virginia’s River Realm. It’s the heart of the region and leads many travelers, seafood, wildlife, and good times our way. Off this major river, though, are smaller creeks, coves and other rivers. One of those is the Corrotoman River, which splits off north about 8 miles from where the Rappahannock River meets the Chesapeake Bay. This river leads to the small town of Lively. Here, you’ll discover a remote and tranquil escape full of outdoor exploration, history, and views.    Known as the “The Gat ..read more