With the holidays around the corner, Birch Tree Bookstore in Leesburg is here to help you find the perfect gifts for your friends, co-workers, family (or yourself! you deserve a treat, too). We wanted to create a gift guide that would help you find the perfect gifts (books!) for everyone on your list. 

As a small, indie bookstore, we very carefully curate books to make sure that our shelves are stocked with relevant, meaningful titles to suit a wide audience of readers, both those who are new to reading and those who are book lovers. 

Leah Fallon started Birch Tree out of the trunk of her car in the summer of 2020. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic showed Leah that people need and want books now more than ever.

Birch Tree has grown since those days, morphing into a pop-up, then graduating into a building in Leesburg. This month, Birch Tree just celebrated moving into its one, true home: 11 W Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia. (Across the street from McEnearney Associates new Leesburg location!)

Children’s Picture Books

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Let’s start the holiday shopping spree with some books for the little ones in your life. Local author Deb Shumaker’s newest book Peculiar Primates is on the shelves! Speaking of local authors, Leesburg’s own Laura Renauld has just published her third in a series of animal stories, Squirrel’s Sweater. Pair either book with a Fair Trade toy for extra fun!

Elementary-School-Age Books

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For an elementary-school-age kid (or any kid-at-heart!) there’s nothing quite as magical as the new illustrated Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Jim Kay’s illustrations bring the story to life… like magic! These are real treasures; the kind of books anyone can pore over for hours.

As an honorable mention, the wildly popular Warriors series just welcomed its newest addition, The Starless Clan #2: Sky. 

Young Adult (YA) Books

Moving on over to the young adult shelf: The Sunbearer Trials is Aiden Thomas’s latest masterpiece. Most teenagers will have grown up reading the Greek myth retelling, Percy Jackson, in middle school, so they’ll love this South American myth retelling.

Nonfiction Books & Memoirs

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For the non-fiction lovers, Bono’s memoir Surrender: 40 Songs One Story is a must. In Bono’s own words “Surrender is the story of one pilgrim’s lack of progress… With a fair amount of fun along the way.” 

Next to the non-fiction is the memoir shelf. With our neighbors at McEnearney in mind, Joanna Gaines’s new memoir The Stories We Tell jumped off the shelf. Pair this thoughtful book with a journal so your reader can reflect and write about their own lives.

Fiction Books

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For the general fiction readers, the iconic Cormac McCarthy is back with a new release! The Passenger promises depth, heartbreak, genre-bending, and the philosophical, dreamlike prose that McCarthy readers would expect. 

Honorable mention: the exquisite Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow (and just look at that cover!).

Mystery & Suspense Books

Now things are getting a little more… mysterious. Daisy Darker offers drama and mystery that would even make Agatha Christie herself proud. 

Science Fiction & Fantasy Books

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On the next shelf over in speculative fiction, you’ll find the new historical fantasy, Babel. Comfortably chunky, just the way we fantasy readers like, this book is written by the up-and-coming R.F. Kuang. 

However, if you’re looking for more of a stocking-stuffer, see this mini, immaculate edition of Galatea by Madeline Miller (the queen of the myth retelling). 

Romance Books

For a fun, festive rom-com, look no further than local author Jean Meltzer’s The Matzah Ball. An enemies-to-lovers romance full of laughter, love, and celebration – perfect for the holidays. 

Coffee Table Books, Cookbooks, & Statement Pieces 

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Anyone (musicians and non-musicians alike) will enjoy Bob Dylan’s The Philosophy of Modern Song. Like his music, Dylan’s essays are accessible, funny, and reflective in a way that makes you feel connected to yourself and your community.

When in doubt, everyone loves a cookbook during the holidays. For a fun, sweet treat, the local bakery Red Truck has released their second cookbook, Red Truck Bakery: Sweet and Savory Comfort Food from America’s Favorite Rural Bakery. For a practical, every-day-use cookbook, go for a tried and true Smitten Kitchen publication with their new book, Smitten Kitchen Keepers.

There really is a book for everyone, and nothing says “I know you well” like a handpicked book. Whether you opt for hardcover or paperback, set up your friends and family for cozy winter evenings with a memorable, meaningful story.

Laura Seabourne is a bookseller at Birch Tree Books and a lifelong book-lover. She particularly loves science fiction and fantasy, but really, how can a reader choose just two favorite genres? In her spare time, she enjoys reading books, thinking about books, teaching books, writing about books… and knitting, of course. CR: Legends and Lattes and Bird by Bird. 

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Curling up with a good book and a warm beverage is one of our favorite ways to while away the hours on a cold night. And of course books make great gifts! As we approach peak holiday shopping season and Small Business Saturday on November 26, we are excited to share our favorite independent bookstores in the DMV. Whether you are looking for a perfect read or a place to gather and meet new people, there are great choices throughout our area. Happy reading!

WASHINGTON, DC

Photo courtesy of: Bridge Street Books

Bold Fork Books

3064 Mt Pleasant St NW, Washington, DC 20009

Bold Fork Books is a culinary bookshop located in Washington DC’s Mt. Pleasant neighborhood.

Bridge Street Books

2814 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007

Founded in 1980, Bridge Street Books stocks a wide selection of trade, university, and small press publications. Come check out well-curated fiction, poetry, philosophy, history, politics, and art.

Busboys and Poets

2004 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE, Washington, DC 20020

Busboys and Poets is a restaurant, bar, bookstore and community gathering place. First established in 2005 by Andy Shallal, Busboys and Poets now has 9 locations throughout the DC and Baltimore areas.

Capitol Hill Books

657 C Street SE, Washington, DC 20003

Capitol Hill Books is a used bookstore located on historic Capitol Hill in Washington DC, with three floors of quality used books, first editions, and rare books.

East City Bookshop

645 Pennsylvania Ave SE, Unit 100, Washington DC 20003

Since opening on April 30, 2016, East City Bookshop has become a gathering place for book lovers of all ages. It’s a place to talk about books and ideas, to learn something new, or to revisit something you once knew well.

Kramers

1517 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036

Kramers commitment is to provide patrons with access to the best books and delicious food. They also stage hundreds of book-related events each year, both in the store and elsewhere.

Loyalty Bookstore

Inside Willow on Upshur 843, Upshur St NW, Washington, DC 20011

Loyalty was founded by Hannah Oliver Depp, who has spent her career working to diversify the book industry to better serve all communities.

Politics & Prose

5015 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008

As a premier cultural hub, Politics & Prose does more than just sell books. They offer a range of programs including classes on various literary topics and 18 in-house book groups.

Potter’s House

1658 Columbia Rd NW, Washington, DC 20009

The Potter’s House is a nonprofit café, bookstore, and event space in the Adams Morgan neighborhood. Since opening in 1960, they have been a key place for deeper conversation, creative expression, and community transformation.

Sankofa Video, Books & Cafe

2714 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001

Sankofa offers a wide selection of books, films, and programming particularly generated by and about people of African descent including the largest collection of African-American and diasporic children’s literature in DC.

Solid State Books

600F H St NE, Washington, DC 20002

Solid State Books is a full-service general interest bookstore with a deep and diverse selection of fiction and non-fiction titles, as well as gifts curated to appeal to customers of all ages.

VIRGINIA

Photo courtesy of: Old Town Books

One More Page Books

2200 N Westmoreland Street #101 ​Arlington, VA 22213

Right on the border of Arlington & Falls Church, you can escape to different worlds through the books offered at One More Page Books. There is so much to learn with each book you pick up.

Old Town Books

130 S Royal Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

Old Town Books is a general interest local bookshop in the heart of historic Old Town Alexandria. They’re passionate about building a bookish community and offer book clubs and author events!

Hooray For Books

1555 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

Hooray for Books! is an independently-owned bookstore located in Old Town Alexandria. Founded in 2008, they are a specialty children’s bookstore that has expanded to include adult and YA sections, plus games, puzzle, and more.

Harambee Books & Artworks

1132 Prince Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314

Harambee Books & Artworks, is an independent bookstore with a wide selection of best-selling books, exclusive artworks, and fashionable apparels. They also provide educational resources, reading programs, and community-based events to improve literacy skills and foster parental engagement.

Bards Alley Bookshop

110 Church Street NW, Vienna, VA 22180

Jennifer Morrow opened this small independent bookstore to create a space where individuals young and old can gather to exchange ideas, receive personalized book recommendations, and discover new titles and local authors.​

Reston’s Used Book Shop

1623 Washington Plaza North Lake Anne, Reston, VA 20190

Founded in 1978, the shop has been expanded to include a literary living room for readers of all ages.

Scrawl Books

11911 Freedom Drive, Reston, VA 20190

Scrawl Books offers a thoughtful and relevant selection of new books for children, teens, and adults where people can browse, gather, and explore new ideas. They support local literacy efforts and freedom of speech, and strive to reflect and contribute to the diversity of the surrounding area.

McKay Used Books

8345 Sudley Rd, Manassas, VA 20109

Since 1983, McKay has bought, sold, and traded books with customers throughout the northern Virginia area.

Bespoke Books and Archives

7 E Market St Suite 101, Leesburg, VA 20176

Bespoke Books and Archives is an author- and woman-owned hybrid bookstore located in historic downtown Leesburg. They offer a curated selection of new, vintage and antiquarian books, bookish gifts, ephemera, manuscripts, and historical documents.

Birch Tree Bookstore

26 N King St, Leesburg, VA 20175

Your next great read awaits at this cozy, independent bookstore that supports nonprofits, schools, and readers of all ages!

MARYLAND

Photo courtesy of: Curious Iguana

Kensington Row Bookshop

3786 Howard Ave, Kensington, MD 20895

Lots of books to choose from! Most are used, many are new, some are old, and a few are collectible.

Second Story Books

12160 Parklawn Dr, Rockville, MD 20852

Second Story Books is one of the largest used and rare bookstores in the world with physical stores in Dupont Circle and this Rockville Warehouse store with 16,000 square feet.

Curious Iguana

12 North Market St, Frederick, MD 21701

Since opening in September 2013, Curious Iguana has become a popular literary hub for locals and tourists alike. Their globally diverse collection, extensive community partnerships, and vibrant events calendar reflect the Iguana’s mission, “Get To Know Your World.” 

Charm City Books

782 Washington Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21230

Charm City Books is an independent, family owned bookstore and community gathering space located in historic Pigtown. They offer new books and locally made crafts as well as classes, workshops, and a wide range of events for the community and by the community.

The Book Escape

925 S Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21230

The Book Escape has over 40,000 books in storage in addition to everything that is on their shelves. All books in storage are searchable through their website here.

Second Edition Books

6490-H Dobbin Rd, Columbia, MD 21045

Second Edition Books always seeks the most interesting and popular books, DVDs, CDs, and vinyl. They have special sales frequently, and always offer some of their inventory for just $1.

The Last Word

8600 Foundry St, Savage, MD 20763

The Last Word is an independent bookstore that offers new and used books, stationery, literary gifts, and small helpings of wit.

Old Fox Books

35 Maryland Ave, Annapolis, MD 21401

Old Fox Books & Coffeehouse is where stories live, friends meet, and excellent coffee is served. They believe in the power of stories to inform our humanity and in the value of a third place, where unrelated people relate in healthy public life.

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Fall is officially here! Cooler weather and comfort food are the perfect reasons to gather with friends and family. Or perhaps you would like to take in some live music, theater, and art? Check out our top selections for October events around the DMV including a list of Oktoberfest celebrations.

WASHINGTON, D.C.

Photo courtesy of Rock the Park DC

DC Theatre Week – Through October 9

Various Locations

Kick off theatre season in the Washington area with dozens of shows at low prices plus free events, readings, workshops, and more. From shows for children to works by masters of comedy and drama, there is sure to be something for everyone.

Tickets | $22, $33, $44 & Free 

Rock the Park DC WKNDR – October 8 & 9, 4-10p.m.

Franklin Park

This two-day festival, headlined by internationally renowned DJs Kenny Dope and DJ Jazzy Jeff, will feature local performers and DJs from across the country. Enjoy jazz, Go-Go, soul, R&B, reggae, hip-hop, electronic and soulful house music.

Free Admission

Smithsonian Craft2Wear – October 20-22

National Building Museum

This curated show features limited edition, wearable art from dozens of designers. Find that unique piece for yourself or to give as a gift. Preview benefit is Thursday from 6-9p.m.  

Tickets | $10 – $100 

DC Halloween Crawl – October 29, 1-9p.m.

Dupont Circle

Bust out your best costume and get ready for a spooktacular party like no other this season. The official DC Halloween Crawl celebrates the scariest time of the year!

Tickets | $15 earlybird

MARYLAND

Photo courtesy of Bethesda Row Arts Festival

Bethesda Row Arts Festival – October 8, 11a.m.-6p.m. & October 9, 10a.m.-5p.m.

Intersection of Elm St & Woodmont Ave, Bethesda

This premier outdoor festival features 129 artists from around the country showcasing works of painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, jewelry, fiber, glass, ceramics, and more.

Free Admission

Butler’s Orchard – All of October

22222 Davis Mill Rd, Germantown, MD 20876

Butler’s Orchard Pumpkin Festival is full of fun for the whole family! Hayrides, corn mazes, giant slides, bonfire sites, corn hole, and more – all included with admission. Fall goodies such as apple cider donuts, kettle corn, and pit beef are available for purchase – don’t forget to stop by the Farm Market!

Hours and admission prices vary, click here for more info.

Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood: The Scared Scriptless Tour – October 16, 8p.m.

Strathmore Music Center

Comedy improv stars Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood bring their talents and hilarious performances to Strathmore live and in person! Come prepared to offer suggestions from the audience and maybe even join them on stage.

Tickets | $28 – $68

Taco, Beer, Tequila Festival – October 22 & 23, 11a.m.-5p.m.

802 National Harbor Boulevard

Enjoy tacos from 20+ taco trucks, unlimited beer and tequila samples, and pavilions dedicated to guacamole or churros and chocolate!

Tickets | $55 – $85

VIRGINIA

Photo courtesy of Virginia Wine Festival

Art on the Avenue Del Ray – October 1, 10a.m.-6p.m.

Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria

Jen Walker Team of McEnearney Associates is a proud sponsor of the 27th Annual Art on the Avenue. This multicultural event includes juried artists, live music, food vendors, interactive art activities, and kids’ activities. 

Free Admission

46th Annual Virginia Wine Festival – October 1 & 2, 12-6p.m.

One Loudoun, 44600 Freetown Blvd, Ashburn

Taste Virginia wines, dozens of ciders, and buy bottles and cases to take home and enjoy all year. This popular festival also celebrates fresh oysters from Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay. Enjoy live music, food trucks, and more!

Tickets | $15 – $79

City of Fairfax 46th Annual Fall Festival – October 8, 10a.m.-5p.m.

3999 University Drive, Downtown Fairfax

Still a hometown celebration, the Fall Festival has grown to include more than 400 arts, crafts, information, food & gourmet food vendors, children’s activities and three stages of music and entertainment for all ages. Stay for the After Fest Concert in Old Town Square.

Free Admission

Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour – October 7-9, 6-9p.m.

Mount Vernon Estate, Alexandria

Bring a blanket and sample wines from 20 different Virginia wineries on the East Lawn of George Washington’s beautiful estate overlooking the Potomac River. Food will be available for purchase.

Tickets | $59 – $63 General Public

Middleburg Film Festival – October 13-16

Middleburg

Over four days, this respected festival in bucolic Middleburg, includes film screenings followed by enlightening conversations with filmmakers, actors, and other special guests. Concerts, wine tastings, farm-to-table dinners, and great parties add to the magic.

Advance Ticket Packages | prices vary

OKTOBERFEST

PROST! This traditional German celebration has become very popular throughout the DMV and local breweries take it as an opportunity to show off their craft. In addition to the beer, German food, and polka music, some festivals benefit local charities while others have added crafts, vendors, and kid-friendly activities. 

• Oktoberfest Weekend at The Wharf – September 30 – October 2
  760 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC
• Wunder Garten’s 8th Annual Oktoberfest – through October 9
  1101 First St NE, Washington, DC
• Cafe Berlin – events through October 16
  322 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC
• Frederick’s Oktoberfest – September 30 & October 1
  Frederick Fairgrounds, Frederick, MD
• Vienna Oktoberfest – October 1, 11a.m. – 7p.m.
  131 Church St NE, Vienna, VA
• National Landing Oktoberfest – October 1, 12-4p.m.
  23rd Street Restaurant Row, Arlington, VA
• Senior Services of Alexandria Oktoberfest – October 6, 6-9p.m.
  Port City Brewing, 3950 Wheeler Ave, Alexandria, VA

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As easy as it is to shop for home décor and furniture online, there’s nothing like walking into a brick-and-mortar store and taking a look at pieces firsthand. It can be fun to learn the story behind a specific item or discover a new favorite brand while wandering through a store in-person, after all. Luckily, there are tons of amazing home retailers in the DC area, and we’re going to guess you haven’t scoped out all nine of the following shops! Read on for our favorite places to shop in DC, Virginia, and Maryland. 

WASHINGTON, DC 

Photo courtesy of Salt & Sundry

GoodWood 

If you love all things vintage, you won’t want to miss out on GoodWood the next time you’re in Northwest DC. Located on U Street, the store features a mix of both new and used items, and the inventory is constantly changing. This is a great place to explore if you’re in the market for a classic wooden chest to place in your living room or a beautiful hutch for your dining room. GoodWood also offers seating galore, ranging from dining chairs to sofas. Even if you don’t leave with an item in tow, the shop is always worth checking out simply to gather inspiration. 

Salt & Sundry

Located just a brief walk away from GoodWood, Salt & Sundry is a colorful shop that sells all kinds of fun pieces: pillow covers, candles, cookbooks, and more. It’s a great place to browse if you’re in need of a gift for a friend or just want to treat yourself to something fun for the home or kitchen. While you’re in the area, be sure to pop into Salt & Sundry’s sister store, Little Leaf, which is every plant parent’s dream. If you’re looking to build your collection of green friends, the store is full of fabulous picks. 

Sanabria & Co

Whether you live on the Hill or are just in Southeast DC for the day, make it a priority to scope out Sanabria & Co, a relatively new shop run by local interior designer Melissa Sanabria. If you’re looking for that perfect finishing touch for your home, this is definitely the place to go for decorative items big and small. 

VIRGINIA 

Photo courtesy of Red Barn Mercantile

Le Village Marche

Have an obsession with all things French? If so, you’re certainly not going to want to miss out on Le Village Marche, located in the Village at Shirlington. Stock up on adorable greeting cards for loved ones, swoonworthy coffee table books, art prints, and so much more. This is definitely the best place in the DC area to embrace your inner Parisian! 

Red Barn Mercantile 

Whether you’re looking for supplies for a cozy night in (cocktail mixers, puzzles, and more) or are in need of a darling vase or pillow to spruce up your living room, Red Barn Mercantile in Old Town is not to be missed. The shop contains kids’ gifts, too, so you can check that birthday party item off your to-do list while grabbing some fun things for yourself. 

MARYLAND

Photo courtesy of Serena & Lily

HomeSense 

If you’re looking for budget-friendly furnishings for your own home or your recent grad’s first place, HomeSense (which is just like HomeGoods, yet even more focused on large pieces) has recently opened up on Rockville Pike and is an excellent place to shop for stylish basics without breaking the bank. HomeSense is still not as ubiquitous as HomeGoods when it comes to locations, and this store is the most accessible within the DC area. You can find on-trend rattan pieces, oversized mirrors, entertaining supplies, and bedding galore. 

Serena & Lily

Designer favorite Serena & Lily opened on Bethesda Row a couple of years back, and it’s perfect for those who love the laid back, California cool look. Embrace your inner grandmillennial by shopping the chic blue and white picks the store has to offer. With less than 20 retail stores nationwide, this is the only SL store in the DMV region. 

The Blue House

Longtime downtown Bethesda boutique The Blue House is a favorite for whimsical gifts, like local-themed home decor items, cookbooks, coffee table books, SCOUT bags, and more. Note that the shop recently moved locations and is no longer located across from Tastee Diner but is further up Woodmont Avenue. It’s a great place to shop year round, but definitely don’t miss the holiday decorations!

Sarah Lyon is a New York City-based freelance writer, originally from Bethesda, MD. She contributes to a number of national design and lifestyle publications like Architectural Digest, Apartment Therapy, MyDomaine, the Washington Post, and more. Sarah also works with designers to help them style spaces for photo shoots. Find more shelfies on her Instagram page, @sarahlyon9 

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With fall approaching, many families in the DC area are saying goodbye to their children as they move to their college town. Some near, and others far, we want to highlight, in no particular order, some great college towns that our local co-eds call their home away from home. 

Oxford, Mississippi

Photo courtesy of: Southern Living

School: The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)

About: Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South,” creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in the rich history, small town charm and creative community. Over the years Oxford has also been known for its excellent culinary scene. We invite you to experience all Oxford has to offer! (www.VisitOxfordms.com)

Where to stay: The Graduate, Oxford

Where to Eat: St. Leo

Where to shop: JANE for the ladies or Hinton & Hinton for the whole family

What to do: Tour William Faulkner’s Home, Rowan Oak

Catch an Ole Miss Game & tailgate in The Grove

Come in the spring for the Double Decker Arts Festival

Charlottesville, Virginia

Photo courtesy of: VisitCharlottesville.com

School: The University of Virginia (UVA)

About: Charlottesville is centrally located in the eastern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Rich in history, culture, natural beauty, and a thriving arts community you can easily fill a weekend. Options throughout the area include first-rate museums and historic sites, galleries, wineries, shops, restaurants, and a variety of outdoor recreation. (Virginia.org)

Where to stay: The Draftsman

Where to eat: Farm Bell Kitchen

Where to shop: Quattro Tizi

What to do: Hike Humpback Rock

Tour Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello 

Athens, Georgia

School: The University of Georgia (UGA)

About: Just 60 miles northeast of Atlanta, Athens is an edgy college town filled with creative energy. You’ll find plenty of ATHventures in their gardens, museums, forward-thinking restaurants, plus the live music that made the town famous. (visitathensga.com)

Where to stay: The Graduate, Athens

Where to eat: Porterhouse Grill

Where to shop: Heery’s Closet

What to do: The State Botanical Garden of Georgia

Blacksburg, Virginia

Photo courtesy of: New River Valley

School: Virginia Tech

About: Blacksburg is located in the northern Blue Ridge Highlands region of Virginia. Home to Virginia’s second largest public university, Virginia Tech, visitors can walk the campus and visit the popular Moss Arts Center, home to the Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech. Galleries and performances will create a night of splendor when coupled with a leisurely stroll through Downtown Blacksburg to window shop. Enjoy beautiful vistas and the artisanal touch of this cultural crossroad and go to town! (Virginia.org)

Where to stay: Main Street Inn

Where to eat: Cabo Fish Taco

Where to shop: 310 Rosemont

What to do: Moss Art Center

Tour Smithfield Plantation, home of Revolutionary War patriot William Preston

Bloomington, Indiana

Photo courtesy of: Indiana Public Media

School: Indiana University

About: Bloomington is nestled in the rolling hills of southern Indiana and home to 85,000 residents and tens of thousands of university students and alumni. You’ll cherish the city’s dynamic energy, spectacular scenery, outdoor activities, and world-class educational opportunities, Big Ten sporting events, thriving local businesses, vibrant arts scene and unique shopping and dining experiences. Whether you come for school, business, pleasure, or would like to make this your home, you will be welcome.

Where to stay: The Graduate Bloomington

Where to eat: Janko’s Little Zagreb

Where to shop: Pitaya

What to do: Catch a Hoosier Basketball Game

Walk around the limestone campus of IUl

Dayton, Ohio

Photo courtesy of: The University of Dayton

School: The University of Dayton

About: In Dayton and the surrounding area, you will find big-city amenities with Midwestern charm and affordability. Dayton, known as “The Birthplace of Aviation,” was the home of the Wright Brothers and features two excellent museums. Check out the Destination Dayton Visitors Guide for more information. (Daytoncvb.com)

Where to stay: Marriott at the University of Dayton

Where to eat: The Pine Club

Where to shop: Leeli + Lou

What to do: Visit the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park and the National Museum of the United States Air Force 

Take in a Dayton Basketball game

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Photo courtesy of: Our State

School: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)

About: In a place that’s been awarded almost every “Best Places” award, you’re not going to have trouble finding fun things to do. Music? Check! Performing Arts? Check! Restaurants? Check! Kid-Friendly? Check! Outdoor Recreation? Check! No matter your age or interest, Chapel Hill and the surrounding communities of Carrboro (right next door, West side) and Hillsborough (just about 13 miles to the North) have lots to offer. (visitchapelhill.org)

Where to stay: The Carolina Inn

Where to eat: Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery

Where to shop: Uniquities and Shrunken Head

What to do: Walk through The North Carolina Botanical Gardens 

Catch a basketball game

Eugene, Oregon

Photo courtesy of: LOHR Real Estate

School: The University of Oregon

About: Eugene, Oregon is at the south end of the Willamette Valley where two large rivers and many smaller ones meet. It is also a place of converging ideas, artists, innovators, and visionaries. Alongside the new, Eugene embraces the history of the native peoples of the Cascades and Coast region. This destination strives to be welcoming by designing accessibility into growth plans and taking leaps toward a more sustainable future. (eugenecascadescoast.org)

Where to stay: The Inn at 5th

Where to eat: Placido’s Pasta Shop

Where to shop: The shops at 5th Street Market

What to do: Go to the Saturday Market

Hike Spencer Butte Trail 

Catch a game at Oregon’s stadium

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Photo courtesy of: Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources

If it feels like everyone you know is on vacation this August, and you are itching to dip your toes in the water but don’t have time for a long trip, we are fortunate to have some great getaways not far from the DMV. You can spend a day in Annapolis or perhaps a full weekend in Talbot County, but Maryland isn’t the only place to enjoy an abundance of rivers and the Chesapeake Bay. The Northern Neck (NNK), nestled between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers in Virginia, is also a favorite for day or weekend trips.

Steeped in history and known for excellent fish, crabs, and oysters, the Northern Neck is broken up into 5 counties: King George, Westmoreland, Richmond, Northumberland, and Lancaster. Each county is bordered by at least the Potomac River, Chesapeake Bay, or Rappahannock River. Popular with cyclists, birders, and of course boaters, there is so much to do and see in this beautiful region. We hope you will take the time to explore and support the area’s communities and savor nature’s bounty so close to the DMV.

King George County

Photo courtesy of: King George County

If you are traveling from the DC metro area, King George County bordered by both the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, is the first you will reach by car and the furthest west in the Northern Neck. 

Ricks on the River

6338 Riverview Dr, King George, VA 22485

Riverfront restaurant and bar, celebrating summer since 2011. Enjoy good food on the river with breathtaking views.  

 Tim’s II at Fairview

5411 Pavilion Dr. King George, VA 22485

For over two decades, Tim’s II at Fairview has been a top riverfront destination in King George County for its time-honored seafood recipes and unique mixed drinks.

Unique Antiques and Home Decor Mall

9600 James Madison Pkwy, King George, VA 22485

Unique Antiques is the area’s largest home décor mall, featuring over 140 dealers specializing in exquisite antique furniture and collectibles, as well as French Country, primitive, farm style, nautical, mid-century modern and retro home décor.

Westmoreland County

Photo courtesy of: Our Community Now

Westmoreland County, just east of King George, is also bordered by both the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, although the Potomac coastline is the majority. Colonial Beach (CBVA) is one of the most popular towns for dining and overnight accommodations in the NNK. There are five beaches in the area including the downtown Ferry Landing District with a boardwalk, municipal fishing pier, and bathhouse facility. 

Dockside Restaurant & Tiki Bar

1787 Castlewood Dr, Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Fun and enjoyable for all, whether you dine in the Bourbon Bar by the fireplace, on the screened-in porch, in the sand at our picnic tables or at our tiki bar.

Wilkerson’s Seafood Restaurant

3900 McKinney Blvd, Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Overlooking the Potomac River, Wilkerson’s has been serving you since 1946. From delicious seafood to mouthwatering steaks, there is something for everyone and for every budget.

George Washington Birthplace National Monument

1732 Popes Creek Rd, Colonial Beach, VA 22443

George Washington Birthplace National Monument encompasses 550 acres of the former Popes Creek Plantation, the American ancestral home of the Washington Family.

Miss Lora’s Flowers and Gifts

15764 Kings Hwy, Montross, VA 22520

Miss Lora’s Flowers and Gifts proudly serves Montross, Virginia and surrounding areas. Family owned and operated, they are committed to offering the finest floral arrangements and gifts.

Richmond County

Photo courtesy of: Richmond County

If you continue southeast on Route 3, the next county is Richmond which is bordered by the Rappahannock River on the south. In 1996, the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge was established to protect and conserve wildlife habitats along the river. Five areas are open to the public. 

Relish Restaurant and Wine Bar

115 Main St, Warsaw, VA 22572

Relish serves contemporary southern cuisine that is locally sourced and fresh from the farm.

Old Rapp Taphouse

130 Main St, Warsaw, VA 22572

Old Rapp Taphouse loves the Northern Neck lifestyle; play hard and work harder (or vice versa some days). They pay tribute to that daily by sourcing locally produced ingredients whenever possible, focusing on leaving a small footprint on this beautiful land, and by lending a hand in the community.

Northern Neck Popcorn Bag

132 Main St, Warsaw, VA 22572

Fresh, handcrafted gourmet popcorn. Come on in and pick your flavor or order online.

Northumberland County

Photo courtesy of: Northumberland County

Northumberland County, east of Westmoreland and Richmond counties, is bordered by the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay with popular marina’s for recreational and commercial boating. You can even book a boat cruise to Tangier Island out of Reedville.

Horn Harbor Restaurant

836 Horn Harbor Rd, Burgess, VA 22432

Great spot to come with friends and family to enjoy American style food in their classic dining room or out on the patio. Horn Harbor even has access for those who want to pull up by boat. 

The Crazy Crab

902 Main St, Reedville, VA 22539

The Crazy Crab is a Reedville tradition where family and friends meet by land or by boat to enjoy delicious food and spirits while enjoying the sights and sounds of the Chesapeake Bay! 

Ye Olde Book Shoppe

7202 Northumberland Hwy, Heathsville, VA 22473

If you can’t live without books, and you love to get lost in stories, then this is the place for you!

Lancaster County

Photo courtesy of: Lancaster County

Lancaster County, the southeastern tip of the NNK, is bordered by the Rappahannock River and the Chesapeake Bay. If you find yourself looking for an overnight stay, The Tides Inn is a relaxing resort in Irvington with golf and spa services.

Willaby’s Cafe

327 Old Ferry Rd, White Stone, VA 22578

Willaby’s is all about bringing people together with great food and delicious beverages. You can eat in the dining room, outside on their deck or beach, or call for a curbside pickup!

KC’s Crabs & Cues

10428 Jessie Dupont Memorial Hwy, Kilmarnock, VA 22482

KC’S Crabs & Cues is locally owned, offering a great place to relax and unwind in a friendly atmosphere with great service, wonderful food and drinks, and a top-notch billiards room.

Rocks To Gems and Crystals

8794 Mary Ball Rd, Lancaster, VA 22503

Rocks to Gems and Crystals has been prospecting for gems and minerals for over ten years from Maine to Arizona. Check out their custom jewelry, gifts, and more.

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