Colonial Beach, Virginia: Off the Beaten Path, but Rich in History

The Town of Colonial Beach, nestled on the Potomac River in the Northern Neck of Virginia, is a family friendly town to visit. Located in Westmoreland County, Virginia, Colonial Beach is close to many historical sites of interest, including George Washington's Birthplace and Stratford Hall, the birthplace of Confederate General Robert E. Lee. In addition, Monroe Hall, the birthplace of President James Monroe, is also located just outside of town and is marked with a monument.

Situated on the shores of the Potomac River, the Town of Colonial Beach has the second longest beach front in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Summer months find the beach crowded with sunbathers and children frolicking in the Potomac to cool off. Not far off the beach is the Alexander Graham Bell House, which is now a Bed and Breakfast. The Town also has a museum where beach revelers can stop in to learn more about the history of the Town. Located just a short distance outside of town right off Route 205 is a monument marking the birthplace of James Monroe, our nation's fifth president.

The county has historic sites to offer as well. George Washington's Birthplace is located at Pope's Creek, a short drive from Colonial Beach. This historic site is managed by the National Park Service and includes a colonial style replica of a home and furnishings, an outdoor kitchen and barn. Park attendees are free to roam the site at their own pace or see the sights with a Park Ranger leading the way. Picnic pavilions are nearby and recommended as hot food is not available on site. The entrance fee is $4 per adult and children aged 15 and younger are free.

Just a few miles from George Washington's Birthplace is Stratford Hall, Robert E. Lee's ancestral home. Though General Lee may be the most famous resident of Stratford Hall, the plantation was the home of other great Americans, including two who signed the Declaration of Independence. The Georgian style plantation offers visitors a unique look into the history of the Lee family with exhibits and points of interest inside the plantation house, as well as outside on the grounds. Guest cabins are also available for those visitors wanting to stay on site for more than just one day of sightseeing. Stratford Hall has a restaurant on site, which serves meals from 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. daily. The ability to eat on site is attractive because the historic plantation is a fair distance away from fast food or other dining options.

Sources:
First hand knowledge of sites as a County and Town resident
http://www.nps.gov/gewa/
http://www.stratfordhall.org/