As I exit off of I-64, I am immediately surrounded by open fields and tall trees that seem to stretch out for miles. While homes and small businesses are sprinkled about, I get the feeling most of the land here is untouched. There is a hidden history here that if you listen hard enough, you’ll hear stories from long ago. And I’m excited about what I might learn about this place – both new and old.
New Kent is a county located about 30 minutes east of Richmond, and they have three official LOVE signs – one at the East Coast Gateway Virginia Welcome Center, one at the New Kent Visitor and Welcome Center, and one at Colonial Downs + Rosie’s Gaming Center. While I’ve driven to New Kent for various reasons (who remembers Strawberry Hill here?), this was going to be my first time spending any real time in the area.
Two of New Kent’s LOVE signs are located at Welcome Centers. At the East Coast Gateway, located on I-64 E at mile marker 213, you’ll find a wealth of brochures and magazines on things to do, see and experience in Virginia. You might also be greeted by a travel counselor who can help with your next VA trip. Inside the New Kent Center (featured blog pic at the top) you’ll have access to specific county travel information and a brief outline of New Kent’s history outlined on wall plaques. Both centers provide a great way to learn about the area and places to visit while you’re here.
I wanted time to read the materials from the centers, so I stopped at the Daily Fix, a shop that offers coffee, donuts, breakfast and brunch items. When I asked what the local’s favorite was, I was given a delicious caramel macchiato with a shot of espresso over ice. I also snagged two Boston Kreme donuts for the boys to enjoy the next day. This seemed like a place where residents would enjoy a break from the day
Only a few minutes down the road, I made my way to Colonial Downs + Rosie’s Gaming Center. For anyone that lived close to the area in the early 2000’s, you likely attended the annual Strawberry Hill Races. I have so many fun memories being with friends, setting up huge tailgates and partying the day away while the horses raced the course. Now, the facility offers some of the largest jackpots and gaming in Virginia, local entertainment, whiskey bar and restaurant as well as the Virginia Derby. Being here puts a smile on my face thinking of my younger years and all of the good times with close friends.
While Virginia is known as the “Mother of Presidents”, did you know that five First Ladies are also from the commonwealth? This includes our very First Lady, Martha Dandridge who was born in New Kent County. It is believed that Martha and the first President George Washington got married at St. Peter’s Parish Church in New Kent. The original portion of the church is one of the few Jacobean structures remaining in America today. It was amazing to walk around the structure and picture these historical figures saying “I do” on this very land.
Another historical landmark is the New Kent Ordinary and Bassett’s Tavern, which is also rich in first lady and president history. This newly renovated location has bedrooms with kitchens to reserve and access to an authentic tavern once visited by George Washington. Speaking of presidents and first ladies, “The tavern journal shows the tavern was visited a number of times by John Tyler, the 10th President.” Latitia Christian First Lady and wife to President Tyler was also from New Kent. It looked like a lovely place to stay, close to wineries, breweries, golf, and various walking trails.
Across the street from the ordinary is Martha’s Kitchen, a charming restaurant with a name that gives a nod to our first First Lady. It is set in an old farmhouse, the earliest part of the house being built in 1810. There was a lot of open space and it still felt comfy and cozy. I ordered the shrimp and grits (which were delicious), but I was also super tempted by the Trio Salad platter). Also on location is Whiskey Bar where you can “Sip and savor the spirit of tradition at Martha’s Kitchen.” I loved the atmosphere and the food – I can’t wait to visit again.
Behind the restaurant is a small building which served as the historic home’s kitchen built in 1837. What makes the structure really interesting is the smokestack is inside the building under the roof – “one of only two surviving buildings in the US with remains of its original smoke hood or smoke bay in the attic”. It made the restaurant that more interesting (and special) in my mind.
After a late lunch, I made my way to New Kent Winery and Talleysville Brewing Company. It had been many years since I’ve been here so I was excited to see the place and enjoy some vino. There is plenty of space if you want to bring a large group, or just a few of your close friends (to include furry ones). I ordered a flight of their reds with a chocolate flourless torte (yummy).
It was also great to see they serve beers as well (which my husband would enjoy). Their website said it best – “Where wine enthusiasts and beer lovers come together.” If you’re looking for your next winery/ brewery combo, make sure New Kent is on your list.
New Kent is a place to love…
New Kent is another one of those Virginia locations that many may overlook or drive past. But when you make the time to stop and explore, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by all of the things the county has. And the hidden history here is truly amazing – to think I was on the land where our First President and First lady were married (wow!). If you’re ever on I-64 and looking for a reprieve from the road, consider stopping at New Kent, you’ll LOVE what you discover here.
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| VA ♥️ Signs Now Visited | Official VA ♥️ Signs |
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Need more info on New Kent? Here you go.
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Important note: I always do my best to ensure everything I include in my blogs are factual and that I also give credit and use quotations when pulling information from sources. If you believe there is something included here that needs to be addressed, please email me directly as I want to be sure it is fixed. Thank you and happy LOVE sign hunting.
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