Tourism

Like most things in life, planning a wedding is not one size fits all. Rather, the wedding should mirror the style of the couple – the “vibe” if you will – just like your choice in fashion reflects your personality day-to-day. No matter what vibe the bride is trying to catch for her big day, Spotsylvania has just the venue to serve as the launch pad to all her dreams coming true.

Boho

If the bride feels like her most authentic self while frolicking in a field with a band of flowers in her hair, Riverside Weddings by Clore is the spot for her nuptials. A stunning pergola in front of the Rappahannock River is nestled into this 2.5-acre property, also known as the dreamiest place to say your vows. Greenery is plentiful – from mature trees to permanent and potted plants – to make her special day both down to earth and out of this world.

Classic

If the bride is dreaming of a wedding like she read about in fairy tales growing up (perhaps complete with a long-train veil), check out The Cove at Fawn Lake Country Club. While there are several indoor and outdoor options, the Grand Ballroom is a luxurious space that boasts lake views on three sides – the most picturesque landscape to watch the sun set while dancing the night away. A quick look around the grounds proves exactly why The Cove at Fawn Lake Country Club is touted “Fredericksburg’s best kept secret” and it was also voted “Best of Weddings” by The Knot for 2022! For other venues sure to host a timeless event, check out Stevenson Ridge and Ni River Manor.

Eclectic

For the bride who loves antiques and one-of-a-kind finds, try on Eden Try Winery and Events for size. Eden Try Winery and Events combines the romance of a winery with the vintage appeal of a barn for a truly unique experience. Specifically built for events, the black and white barn features cathedral ceilings and wooden beams that look positively magical with strings of lights cascading down. Guests will enjoy wines made on-site while the bride and her freshly announced husband pose amid the vines for post-nuptial pictures. For more eclectic vibes that are far from ordinary, visit The Anna Cabana.

Farmhouse

For the bride that has Pinterest boards teeming with farmhouse-esque wedding day ideas (and has maybe even picked out coordinating cowboy boots for her dress), Spotsylvania has numerous venues to choose from, like Arbor Haven. Set on 42 acres of farmland just minutes from Central Park in Fredericksburg, Arbor Haven is a welcoming place for some fresh air and expansive green space on one of the biggest days. The Rustic Barn will make getting the must-have photos (e.g., among aged wood fixtures) a breeze. A dock with a gazebo and cascading fountain also makes for flawless photos – the whole bridal party can fit on the dock! The event center, otherwise known as the Structure Tent, is a newly constructed, all-weather 5,400 square foot covering that’s primed and ready for dancing. For other venues that exude cottage vibes, visit Belle’s Pleasure, Revatone Farm, The Venue at Knicley Knoll, and Autumn’s Gate Farm.

Modern

For the modern bride who keeps it stream-lined with a capsule wardrobe, The Venue at Memorable Moments is the premier one-stop-shop event space. It is attractively all-inclusive, which even includes centerpieces and table linens. Catering, DJ services, bartenders, and even a margarita man can be added for additional flair. Lighting and draping can create as light or as moody of a space as desired! For another modern option for the bride that has champagne taste but more of a beer budget, Wilderness Presidential Resort has “unlimited venue options for a limited budget.”

Industrial

For the no-stress, minimalist bride looking for a distinct event with an industrial edge, look no further than A. Smith Bowman Distillery. The recipient of the “World’s Best Bourbon” award in 2016, this venue is sure to pleasantly surprise, whether you’re a whiskey lover or not. The Distillery has capacity to host an intimate gathering or a larger crowd, depending on the bride’s vision for the main event. Guests can even be taken on a tour of the facility on request! Soak in the character of this charming space, just like the bourbon is soaking up jamlike fruit flavors as it finishes in barrels once used to age port wine.

Your wedding day will be one in a million, just like you are. So, pick your vibe, feel it out with a visit to one (or multiple!) locations on our list, and make Spotsylvania County your backdrop to start your forever.

Do you love lacing up your sneakers for a day of walkabout adventures? Is taking it all in from high in the sky more your style? Or do you find you are happiest while near the water? No matter if you like to explore by air, land, or sea, Spotsylvania, Virginia has an adventure with your name on it.

If you prefer to adventure on the ground, check out Spotsylvania Courthouse Battlefield Trails Loop. A 4.9-mile loop mixed with trails and roads, complete with interpretive signs along the route, is easy to follow for a run, walk, or bike ride. The trail is open year-round and leashed dogs are welcome. To continue to delve into the area’s rich past, embark on a Spotsylvania Historic Courthouse District Walking Tour. Designated a Virginia Historic Landmark and listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the District is home to the Court House, where one of the most tragic meetings of the Civil War took place. Other landmarks include the Spotswood Inn, Confederate Cemetery, and Spotsylvania Jail. The Jail has even been renovated in the early 2000s to present the most intricate details of the prison in its native form from the 1850s, including the sign stating, “No talking to prisoners!”

To add a little bit of roll to your ventures, climb aboard the Little Yellow Train at the Rappahannock Railroad Museum. The Little Yellow Train has been restored from aspects of original “Maintenance of Way” equipment to depict what conditions were like 50 to 60 years ago on the tracks. Children and adults alike will marvel at the 2-mile round trip traveling at 10 miles per hour while taking in the woods, wildlife, and an occasional passing freight or passenger train.

If soaring above sea level is your jam, head to Rapp Rocks Climbing Gym, Spotsylvania’s premier indoor rock-climbing facility. Over 3,000 square feet of climbing surfaces, including walls for bouldering, top rope, and lead climbing walls, are your backdrop for achieving new heights. Instructional climbing classes, as well as yoga classes, are offered. To take your ascent outside, Wilderness Adventure Park is the place to go. A ropes course, climbing wall, and Goliath ladder provide an element of challenge while getting you a little closer to the treetops and clouds. Different packages are available to suit your skill and adventure level.

If learning more about the history of air travel while keeping your feet on the ground is more your speed, the Shannon Air Museum is a must to see what the pioneering American spirit is all about. The entire collection of planes from the Shannon Airport of the 1950s has returned from the Virginia Aviation Museum in Richmond, Virginia, to this local interactive museum with a special focus on youth. Continue the ‘50s theme with a classic lunch of a burger or chili cheese dog with a milkshake at Robin’s Nest Café on the property.

Spotsylvania County by water is just as striking. Lake Anna Outfitters, otherwise known as Central Virginia’s paddling headquarters, is your connection point for water gear. Rent a sit-on-top single kayak, tandem kayak, canoe, or pedal boat and launch into the lake with Lake Anna Outfitter’s kayak slide at the start of the Lake Anna Water Trail. While the entirety of the trail is a manageable 3.5 miles long, paddle for just around one-half mile to discover undeveloped sections of Lake Anna State Park at the peak of fall for the ultimate foliage experience. Continue along the trail as your stamina allows to attractions like Kayaker’s Beach, Skinny Dipper’s Cove, Bohemian Bay, and the Tap House. When you return your equipment, be sure to purchase a piece of LKA™ wear apparel to commemorate your trip. Reservations can be easily made online at www.lakeannaoutfitters.com.  

If you want to catch a fish but you’re not sure where to find them, look no further than McCotter’s Lake Anna Guide Service. Let C.C. McCotter’s team tailor a guided outing to your group’s specific interests so all you have to do is drop a line for bass, striper, wiper, and crappie!

Spotsylvania County is waiting for you to embark on an adventure this fall. Whether you experience the season by air, land, or sea, your chosen route will leave you seeing Spotsylvania County in a crisp, refreshing way – just like the air outside that’s so blissfully ushering in shorter days and longer nights. For comfortable accommodations and other awesome activities to get up to while you’re here, be sure to click here to plan your Spotsy escape today!

With so many small businesses struggling in the post-COVID era, support from the local area is now more important than ever. You can make your hard-earned dollars go even further in the fight against racism by supporting local, Black-owned businesses in Spotsylvania County. Whether you’re in the market for a new outfit, a spot for dinner tonight, or a place to host your next gathering, consider these Black-owned businesses of excellence to encourage community while also creating a beautiful memory for you and your loved ones.

Chic Shopping

For the woman that has seemingly “nothing to wear,” look no further than Boutique Chel. Located inside the Spotsylvania Town Centre, this Black-owned and women-owned shop has numerous clothing options, from rompers to dresses and tops with pizazz. By providing your email, you can sign up for exclusive store discounts and alerts for when new arrivals are stocked.

Cajun Flavors

Craving Cajun cuisine, like a shrimp po’boy or seafood gumbo? Orleans Bistro and Grill serves up traditional Cajun fare with a Southern twist. Owner and Executive Chef Tisha Johnson has created not only exceptional food, but also a delightfully light atmosphere with resounding music and laughter. You can now “get a taste of Bourbon Street” right here in Spotsylvania – complete with traditional cornbread or beignets with every order. 

Caribbean Cravings 

Jerks of the Caribbean offers Caribbean dishes with hospitality that’s hard to beat. All meats, including their world-famous rotisserie jerk chicken and signature stewed oxtails, are marinated in a proprietary mixture of imported spices and subsequently slow roasted to perfection. After just one visit, it will be nearly impossible to not crave another visit sometime soon.

A Space to Commemorate 

When it comes to throwing a celebratory event, The Venue at Memorable Moments should be top on your list. With space to host up to 100 guests, The Venue at Memorable Moments is the place to host small receptions, baby showers, birthday parties, reunions—essentially any event that brings people together! Don’t worry about cost getting out of hand, either; each reservation is all-inclusive, meaning that tables, table linens, centerpieces, dinnerware, chairs, lighting, draping, and even the dance floor are provided at no additional cost! Talk about a space perfect for celebrating!

A Stunning, Spacious Venue

To take your event outside, Ni River Manor is a premier location in Spotsylvania County. Set on eight acres, Ni River Manor is well-known in the area for hosting weddings, family gatherings, and retreats. An outdoor pool, firepit, two swimming pools, and horseshoe pit are just a few of the outdoor amenities to take advantage of (in addition to parking for hundreds of vehicles). The on-property bed and breakfast would be the perfect way to turn an event into a weekend getaway, too!

Getting Around in Style

When you want to enjoy yourself at your destination, but also want to get there and back worry-free, reach out to the 540 Party Bus. The 540 Party Bus is your answer for safe, reliable transportation for a night out – without assigning a designated driver from your crew. Whether you’re going to an event, a distillery, a brewery, or a winery, 540 Party Bus is ready to provide a luxurious yet affordable experience that you can book online.

Doing Good by Dining Out

New, Black-owned businesses are springing up in the Spotsylvania area that support the greater good of the community. While the Hub of HOPE (Helping Other People Eat) is an established nonprofit that provides nourishment to food-insecure families in the Greater Fredericksburg region, the organization has recently broken ground on their own restaurant, Hope Heroes. Hope Heroes is the first non-profit restaurant in Virginia, and just one of the few on the East Coast. Simply by eating at Hope Heroes, you will be helping those in need when you “buy a bowl, give a bowl.” The Southern-style “kitchen on a local mission” is scheduled to open in October or November 2022. Catering will also be offered with the same philanthropic goals. There is little more fulfilling than enjoying a delicious meal while knowing you’re also helping to feed those in need!

Celebrating Black Excellence in Spotsylvania 

There are numerous Black-owned businesses to stand behind in Spotsylvania County. The more important question is…which one will you support first? For more information about what to get up to while you’re here, check out our list of recommended itineraries by clicking here today.