Tickle your cultural taste buds this summer by sampling Virginia’s quaint Southern charm in historic King George. A key Potomac River site during the Civil War, King George is now home to a thriving art and wine scene, making it a popular destination for travelers on the Northern Neck Artisan and the Chesapeake Wine trails. Just an hour and a half drive outside of Northern Virginia, King George will add flavor and zest to a family day-cation that you won’t find anywhere else.
10 a.m.: Take in the beauty and serenity of Caledon State Park as you hike its many forested and marshland trails. Known for its old growth forest and large bald eagle population during the summertime, it is no wonder that this park is a national landmark. Be sure to explore the popular Boyd’s Hole Trail as it takes you on a picturesque journey through the forest directly to the shore of the Potomac River.
Noon: Treat your taste buds to lunch at Roma Pizza and order from its selection of pizzas, Italian entrees, sandwiches and burgers.
1 p.m.: Hit two birds with one stone and visit a popular landmark on both the Northern Neck Artisan Trail and the Chesapeake Wine Trail: the Oak Crest Vineyard and Winery. This family-owned business has been perfecting its fine wines since the 1950s and specializes in Bordeaux-style reds, Rhine-style whites, dry wines and wine desserts. You can try a sample for $5 if you are 21 or older and then pair your vino with the winery’s selection of cheeses and sausages. You can also bring a picnic lunch and eat it on either the rustic deck or patio.
2:30 p.m. Step back into a time of doilies, scones and tea times during Afternoon Tea in Dolley’s Tearoom at the Belle Grove Plantation Bed and Breakfast. There you can sample a variety of loose-leaf teas as well as scones, tea sandwiches and sweets served on antique china. Attire ranges from casual to formal, but tea hats are a fan favorite. The tea room can accommodate groups of up to 9 guests for $35 per person, but reservations must be made online at least 48 hours in advance.
3 p.m.: Following afternoon tea, tour the Belle Grove Plantation House and grounds. Each of the newly renovated bed and breakfast’s four rooms is named after one of the families who previously resided in the house and are decorated with antique furniture that mirrors the styles from the family’s time of occupancy. The tours last between 45 minutes to an hour and will also show off luxurious features of the house such as the esteemed Riverside Portico that boasts a scenic view of native birds. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for children under 12 and free for children under 4.
4 p.m.: Step into Mary’s Cakery and Candy Kitchen and taste the savory goodness of one of Mary’s 2,000 specialty chocolate molds at this old-fashioned candy shop. It’s the largest privately owned chocolate store in Virginia and has been making gourmet cakes for over 40 years. Try the best-selling Tiger Butter Fudge or the double-dipped chocolate-covered potato chips.
5 p.m.: Make an appointment to visit Dirty Bird Pottery and check out store owner Julie Moore’s hand-crafted pots for the home and garden. This self-taught artist operates her studio in her home in King George plus another location in Boothbay Harbor, Maine. Every pot is fully functional and can hold food, be put in the dishwasher and is microwave-safe. Appointments can be made at the Dirty Bird Pottery website.
6 p.m.: Have a memorable evening after an unforgettable day by digging into seafood like no other at Rick’s on the River. Choose from an assortment of original creations made by chef James Thompson such as bacon-wrapped scallops, beer-battered shrimp and crab nachos. All of the seafood is locally caught, and the menu also offers sandwiches and burgers.
