Just a few miles from Williamsburg, on a scenic drive along Route 5 are the James River Plantations. These are well worth the short drive for a wonderful day trip – how about touring the Plantations and then a lovely dinner along the James River?
- Berkeley Plantation – the birthplace of a signer of the Declaration of Independence and a U.S. President. The plantation was originally built in 1726, and though somewhat altered, still retains its historic charm and elegant gardens.
- William Byrd II’s Westover plantation – Dates to 1732; The grounds and garden are open for tours daily, but the house is not open to the public.
- Edgewood Plantation – a functioning bed and breakfast that offers elegant tea parties, and both seasonal and haunted tours.
- Hill Carter’s Shirley Plantation – The oldest plantation in Virginia (1613) and the oldest family-owned business in North America (1638). There are elegant double-decked portico (1710-1770) and the mansion is largely in its original state making this an architectural treasure.
For more information on James River Plantations, click here.
