Things To Do Near George Washington Birthplace National Monument
History comes to life at the George Washington Birthplace National Monument; after a stop in the visitor center, walk over to the historic area to see what life was like on a farm in the 1700s. Experience George Washington's childhood stomping grounds on the park's hiking trails and sandy Potomac River beach. A variety of small communities lie within a 10-mile radius; enjoy the scenic drive through the countryside as you explore small-town shops and restaurants.
Hiking Trails
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Nature Trail
If you're looking for a lovely, short hike, check out the Nature Trail. It starts at the picnic area and travels in a loop, traveling along the shore of Pope's Creek and into the forest. There's plenty of shade, making this a popular path on steamy summer days. If you want a longer hike, take the footbridge to connect to the Dancing Marsh and the historic area. Most of the trail is easy to navigate for adults and kids, but the trail is not recommended for strollers.
Location
Picnic area
Length
1-mile round-trip
Intensity
Easy
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Dancing Marsh Loop Trail
As you're exploring the historic area at George Washington Birthplace National Monument, take a quick detour down the Dancing Marsh Loop Trail. It travels through the historic buildings and up through Dancing Marsh before connecting to the Nature Trail. When you reach Pope's Creek, enjoy the views of the water from the footbridge. The majority of the trail is flat and even, but you'll encounter two steep sections with steps.
Location
Historic area
Length
0.75 mile round-trip
Intensity
Easy
Sightseeing
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Historic Area
The historic area is the highlight of any trip to the George Washington Birthplace National Monument. A collection of Colonial-era buildings takes you back in time to Washington's childhood and teenage years in the 1700s. The original house is gone, but you can see the markers of the foundation. Elsewhere in this area, watch rangers demonstrate traditional trades in the farm workshop, check out the Colonial Revival kitchen, find out how fabric was made in the spinning and weaving shop, and visit the farm animals that live on the property. To get there, you can take the short trail from the visitor center.
Location
Visitor center
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Potomac River Beach
Experience the grand scale of the Potomac River at the Potomac River Beach. This narrow, sandy beach is a wonderful place to watch the sunset or walk along the shore. It's also a popular spot to launch kayaks and canoes as the parking area is a short walk from the shore. The strong tidal surges and unexpected riverbed drop-offs making swimming inadvisable, but you can safely walk in the shallows to cool down on hot days. Fishing is allowed as long as you have a current saltwater fishing license.
Location
George Washington Birthplace National Monument park road
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Colonial Revival Garden
If you're interested in gardening or history, don't miss a stroll through the Colonial Revival Garden. National Park Service experts have designed this space to look as it would have in Washington's time. Look out for the boxwood hedges, which came from the original plants on the site. Also in the garden, you'll find a range of plants that were common in the 1700s. During special events, historic reenactors harvest items from the garden in period costumes.
Location
Historic Area
Museums
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Memorial House Museum
Located in the historic area of the George Washington Birthplace National Monument, the Memorial House Museum provides insight into the life and times of the President. Created by Josephine Wheelwright Rust, this museum offers a sanitized, idealized look at the early days of George Washington; it's particularly interesting when paired with a visit to the farm area. The park offers tours of the house during the summer months — they're a great way to learn about the museum's controversial beginnings and the conflict between the National Park Service and Rust.
Location
1732 Popes Creek Road, Colonial Beach, VA 22443
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Westmoreland Museum
If you're ready for more history after a visit to the George Washington Birthplace National Monument, drive 12 miles to the Westmoreland Museum. It might look familiar — like the Memorial House Museum, it was also designed to resemble Washington's birthplace. Explore the collection of photos and art, including a famous portrait of William Pitt, and head outdoors to check out the gardens.
Location
43 Court Square, Montross, VA 22520
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Peddlers Market
Peddlers Market is one of the most interesting stores near George Washington Birthplace National Monument. Part antique store, part gift shop, and part art gallery, it's a fun place to find items for your home or a unique souvenir from your trip.
Location
501 Euclid Ave., Colonial Beach, VA 22443
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Everything's Beachy "Beach Shop"
Whether you're in search of sunscreen or a souvenir T-shirt, head straight to Everything's Beachy "Beach Shop." Located near the water in Colonial Beach, this small store has a wide selection and friendly staff.
Location
209 Taylor St., Colonial Beach, VA 22443
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Monroe Market
Find locally made wine and cider at Monroe Market, which carries products made at the nearby Monroe Bay Winery. Stick around and enjoy a glass at the outdoor tables, and pick up some local treats to take back to camp.
Location
10 Washington Ave., Colonial Beach, VA 22443
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Dockside Restaurant & Tiki Bar
Enjoy the sunshine and a view of the water from the outdoor dining area at the Dockside Restaurant & Tiki Bar. Sip a cool cocktail, dig into a plate of fried shrimp, and enjoy the relaxed vibe.
Location
1787 Castlewood Dr., Colonial Beach, VA 22443
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LightHouse Restaurant
The LightHouse Restaurant serves fresh seafood and colorful cocktails next to Monroe Creek. Start with edamame, and move on to the restaurant's famous crab cakes or stuffed shrimp.
Location
11 Monroe Bay Ave., Colonial Beach, VA 22443
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Ola's Country Kitchen
When you're craving a stack of pancakes or fried chicken, head to Ola's Country Kitchen. Small and casual, this classic diner is the perfect stop for breakfast or lunch.
Location
Ola's Country Kitchen