7 Reasons to Visit Montross, VA This Year

There's something special about fall in Virginia's Northern Neck.

The temperatures begin to cool, the scenery starts to change, and communities across the region fill their calendars with festivals, outdoor events, live music, local food, and plenty of reasons to spend a weekend exploring.

At the center of it all is Montross, Virginia.

This small historic town offers an easygoing pace with plenty to discover nearby, from centuries of American history and beautiful outdoor spaces to local restaurants, wineries, breweries, and seasonal events. And when you're ready to call it a day, The Inn at Montross gives you a historic and welcoming place to come home to.

If you've been thinking about planning a fall getaway in Virginia, here are seven reasons to put Montross on your calendar this year.

1. Fall Is One of the Best Times to Explore the Northern Neck

Summer may get plenty of attention when it comes to Virginia travel, but there's a lot to love about the Northern Neck once September arrives.

Cooler temperatures make it easier to spend an entire day outside, whether you're walking a trail, exploring a historic property, visiting a winery, or simply taking the scenic route between destinations.

There's no need to pack every minute of your trip, either.

Part of the appeal of visiting Montross is slowing things down. Start the morning at the Inn, head out for an afternoon adventure, and leave yourself enough time to wander into a local shop or stop somewhere that catches your attention along the way.

It's a simple change of pace that can make a weekend away feel like much more.

2. You Can Step Into Centuries of Virginia History

You don't have to travel far from Montross to encounter some of the most fascinating stories in American history.

Nearby Stratford Hall was home to generations of the Lee family and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the historic property, grounds, and surrounding landscape.

You can also visit George Washington Birthplace National Monument, where the first U.S. president was born in 1732. The park preserves the landscape and history associated with Washington's early life and provides another opportunity to experience the Northern Neck's important place in American history.

History continues right in Montross, too.

The Westmoreland County Museum provides a closer look at the people, places, and events that have shaped the area over the centuries.

And your connection to local history doesn't have to end when the sightseeing does. The Inn itself has roots in Montross's long tradition of hospitality, with the property historically associated with taverns and lodging dating back centuries.

When you stay here, history isn't simply something you visit. It's part of the experience.

3. Westmoreland State Park Is Right Around the Corner

For travelers who would rather spend the day outdoors, Westmoreland State Park is one of the area's must-visit destinations.

Located along the Potomac River, the park offers scenic overlooks, wooded trails, picnic areas, fishing opportunities, and access to the river.

One of its most popular activities is fossil hunting along the shoreline. Visitors can search for ancient shark teeth and other fossils while taking in views of the Potomac—a Northern Neck experience that's particularly fun for families.

Fall brings its own character to the park. Cooler weather makes hiking more comfortable, while changing leaves add another layer to an already beautiful landscape.

Pack comfortable shoes, spend a few hours outside, and return to the Inn when you're ready to put your feet up.

4. There's Plenty to Sip and Savor

Exploring the Northern Neck can work up an appetite.

Fortunately, Montross and the surrounding region have plenty of locally owned places where you can settle in for a meal, discover something new, or raise a glass to a weekend away.

Wine lovers can visit Ingleside Vineyards, one of Virginia's longstanding wineries, for a tasting and an afternoon among the vines.

Closer to the Inn, Northern Neck Brewing Company offers craft beer right in Montross and regularly hosts live music and other events.

Throughout the surrounding communities, you'll also find local restaurants, coffee shops, seafood, markets, and other stops that make exploring the region as much about what you taste as what you see.

And because the Northern Neck isn't a place you need to rush through, there's always room in the itinerary for one more stop.

5. Fall Festival Season Is in Full Swing

If you need another excuse to plan a fall getaway, take a look at the local calendar.

Fall is one of the liveliest times of year in the Northern Neck, with communities throughout the region hosting festivals, live music, seasonal celebrations, markets, and special events. From local food and wine to arts, history, and family-friendly festivities, there’s always something new to add to your weekend plans.

One event especially close to home is the Westmoreland County Fall Festival, held right here in Montross. It’s a great opportunity to experience the community, enjoy the season, and make a full weekend out of your visit.

With events happening throughout September, October, and beyond, The Inn at Montross makes an ideal home base for exploring the Northern Neck during fall.

Want to know what’s happening while you’re here? Follow The Inn at Montross on Facebook, where we regularly share upcoming events, local happenings, and more reasons to explore the Northern Neck throughout the season.

6. There's Always Something Happening at the Inn

You don't necessarily have to leave The Inn at Montross to find something interesting.

Throughout the year, the Inn continues to grow as a gathering place for both guests and the surrounding community. Art, history, local makers, special events, and other experiences regularly find their way through our doors.

This fall, keep an eye on what's happening at the Inn during your visit. You may find a special event, exhibit, or gathering that gives you one more reason to spend some time downstairs before heading out for the day.

Even when there isn't an event on the calendar, there's plenty to enjoy.

Grab a cup of coffee, settle into one of the common spaces, spend some time on the porch, or simply explore the details of the historic property.

Sometimes the best part of a getaway isn't having another activity planned. It's finally having the time to slow down.

7. The Inn Makes the Perfect Home Base

Of course, where you stay can shape the entire experience.

The Inn at Montross puts you in the heart of town while keeping many of the Northern Neck's attractions within an easy drive. Instead of choosing a conventional hotel, you can make your accommodations part of the trip.

The Inn features five distinctive guest rooms, inviting common areas, complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast for overnight guests, and the historic character that comes from staying somewhere with a story of its own.

Wake up to a nutritious breakfast before heading out for the day. Return after a festival or afternoon of exploring and relax in the living room or on the porch. Then settle into your room and do it all again tomorrow.

There's no need to rush through the Northern Neck in a single day. Stay awhile.

Make Montross Part of Your Fall Plans

You don't need a complicated itinerary to have a memorable getaway.

Come for the history. Spend an afternoon hiking along the Potomac. Visit a winery or brewery. Browse around Montross. Plan your trip around one of the Northern Neck's fall festivals—or simply leave the calendar open and see where the weekend takes you.

However you choose to spend your time, The Inn at Montross offers a comfortable place to begin and end each day.

Fall is waiting in the Northern Neck.

Ready to experience it for yourself? Book your stay at The Inn at Montross and make Montross part of your fall plans this year.