TAPP into everything Tappahannock and Essex County has to offer from museums to marinas to wineries to golf and other area attractions.
We welcome you to Tapp into our “Rivah” town with plenty to keep you busy while you’re here. Whether you love history, fishing, the outdoors or boutique shopping, browse our listings to plan your itinerary.
Blandfield Plantation
You’ll find yourself in a place of rare beauty among 4,000 acres that includes 600 acres of pristine marsh and 700 acres of open farmland. Blandfield Plantation Mansion completed in 1773 offers an ideal setting for an intimate gathering or gala wedding. Tours available upon request. Blandfield Plantation hosts quail and waterfowl hunting and pheasant shoots with a rustic lodge and boathouse pavilion available for receptions.Essex County Museum
The Essex County Museum, founded in 1996, and the Essex County Historical Society joined forces in 2006 to celebrate the heritage of the town, county, river, and its people and is now the Essex County Museum and Historical Society (ECMHS).
Historical Walking Tour of Tappahannock
Transport yourself back in time between the years 1680 to 1850 while exploring the town’s historical buildings on a self-guided tour. The tour includes 13 buildings in and around the water. Highlights include the Old Debtors Prison and Derieux-Scots Arms Tavern, a private home, built circa 1680, making it the oldest house in town
Max Silver Memorial Courtyard
This recently completed space in the center of town is next to the Essex County Museum & Historical Society. Stroll the courtyard, relax on one of the benches and enjoy the lovely landscaping. Three outdoor exhibit highlight the history of Tappahannock, African American riverboat pilot Bill Manning and Max Silver, for whom the park is named. The courtyard hosts living history and outdoor programs and children’s events.
St. Margaret’s School
Riverfront girls Episcopal boarding and day school dates back to 1921 when students arrived by steamboat. The campus stretches over 900 feet and can be rented for weddings, camps, meetings and other events. Indoor space can accommodate both small and large groups. River lawn area, the most popular event setting, can accommodate as many as 500 guests. Residence halls offer lodging options.
Thomas Downing Bridge
Built in 1963, this bridge that is the gateway to Tappahannock along Route 360 divides Richmond and Essex County and carries more than 14,000 vehicles per day over the Rappahannock River. Prior to the original bridge being built in 1927, only ferries served the area. The bridge is named for State Sen. Thomas Downing.
Veterans Memorial
This historic marker on Cross Street honors those born in Tappahannock who served our country.
Public Canoe and Kayak Launches
Fuel Up
Chill Stop Citgo
Courthouse Exxon
Fas Mart #8
Parker
Raceway #981
Sheetz #290
Sunoco Service Station
Tappahannock Exxon
Valero