Trail News

What to Do and See in West Point, Virginia

West Point, Virginia Downtown
March 8, 2020

There’s plenty of paddling and river fun options throughout West Point on the Middle Peninsula of Virginia, that is for sure.

Just visit the Middle Peninsula Virginia Water Trails page here and explore for yourself.

But what if you want to make a weekend out of a visit to West Point and take in some history and special events, too?

We’ve rounded up a few options for you to explore the next time you find yourself in West Point, Virginia.

West Point Downtown Walking Tour

Historic Walking Tour

For those interested in the general history of West Point, look no further than the historic walking tour. This tour will take you up and down West Point’s historic streets and will give you a perfect glimpse of some of the beautiful architecture that has remained for decades. The tour will also provide excellent views of the Pamunkey and Mattaponi Rivers as they join into the York.

The sun rises over the Pamunkey River near West Point, Virginia Wednesday morning March 4, 2020.

Pamunkey Indian Museum

Route 1, Box 2011
King William, VA 23086
Phone: 804-843-4792

Just a short drive away from West Point sits the Pamunkey Reservation and the Pamunkey Indian Museum. The reservation itself is one of the first native American reservations in the country and also houses a pottery barn, school, and fish hatchery. The museum contains numerous artifacts spanning the Pamunkey’s many years in the region, even predating the arrival of the first colonists.

Chelsea Plantation

874 Chelsea Plantation Lane
West Point, VA 23181
Main Number: 804- 843-2386

Overlooking the Mattaponi River is the historic Chelsea Plantation, one of the best and closest examples of Georgian architecture in Virginia. With acres of fields and gardens, as well as the mansion house itself, Chelsea Plantation is a great spot for any history buff.

The sun rises over the Pamunkey River near West Point, Virginia Wednesday morning March 4, 2020.

Glass Island Landing

If fishing and picnicking is more your style, be sure to visit Glass Island Landing. An easy left turn before the Lord Delaware bridge will get you to the landing where you can find fishing access, picnic grounds, and a boat ramp.

Kayaking and Canoeing

West Point offers four launch points for any paddlers. These can be found at Glass Island Landing and West Point Creek. While paddling, look for blue crabs, herons, osprey and more beautiful waterfowl.

The Pamunkey River Bridge heads into West Point, Virginia Wednesday morning March 4, 2020.

Riverwalk Trail

This route follows along the Mattaponi River and goes past numerous sites of historical importance as well as scenic overlooks of West Point’s local natural sites. Everyone can always use a little exercise, right?

Crab Carnival

The annual Crab Carnival is a celebration of West Point culture and delicious seafood. Every October the streets close off for vendors food, music, and more. Plus, there’s a children’s bike race, fireworks, and a parade.

Downtown West Point, Virginia Wednesday morning March 4, 2020.

West Point Farmers Market

The West Point Farmer’s Market is home to some of the area’s most unique local artists and vendors. You’ll find the market every Saturday morning from June to September.

Jammin’ On the Point

The Jammin’ On the Point concert series happens every Friday night from May to August on the streets of West Point. The series hosts a variety of different musical acts and the proceeds benefit the town.

Chesty Puller 10k

This 10 kilometer run takes runners in and around town in support of the Wounded Warrior Project with each entry fee. The race is named in honor of Lieutenant General Lewis “Chesty” Puller, one of the most decorated servicemen in US history and who hailed from West Point!