 | Whether you’re docking for a weekend or seeking a picturesque escape, Urbanna, Virginia, invites you to experience its colonial charm, vibrant community events, and rich maritime heritage. It's a place where history can be learned and lived, making every visit a memorable journey into the heart of Virginia’s colonial past. |
In the 1930s, Urbanna experienced significant growth when it became a refuge for 14 families from Tangier Island following the catastrophic "August Storm" that inundated their homes. The Tangier families were already familiar with Urbanna, or “Banna” as they called it, due to their seasonal work in the oyster beds when the State of Virginia’s Public Oyster Hand Tong season opened each October. This migration marked an important moment in Urbanna’s history, as these families brought with them a deep-rooted expertise in the fishing industry. By the 21st century, the town became known for its oyster packing plants and as a charming, waterside destination. |
Home to the Urbanna Oyster Festival |
The Urbanna Oyster Festival, established in 1958 as "Urbanna Days," has grown into a major annual event that draws over 50,000 visitors from Virginia and beyond. As the official oyster festival of the Commonwealth, it honors the rich oyster culture of the region.The festival features numerous highlight events, including an almost deafening display of sirens and lights during the Fireman's Parade and the Virginia State Oyster Shucking Competition, where winners advance to compete in the National Shucking Competition in Maryland. |
Dock the Boat and Explore |
Urbanna has two main marinas. Urbanna Boat Yard and Marina (Urbby) offers 160 slips with facilities for vessels up to 100ft. The Urbanna Town Marina anchors the northern section of the waterfront offering 15 transient slips for vessels up to 65 ft. Both are a short jaunt up the hill into town.
Just steps from the Urbanna Town Marina, visitors can immerse themselves in history at the Friends of Urbanna Museum and James Mills Scottish Factor Store. You can also take to the streets with Urbanna’s Museum in the Streets—a self-guided walking tour with QR-coded markers narrated by historian Larry Chowning. For paddling enthusiasts, the Urbanna Creek Kayak Trail offers a trip through history, accessible from the town marina. |
From the spring through fall, the town offers abundant dining options, such as Small Town Burger known for its signature burgers and lobster rolls, and "Something Different" that caters to many different tastes with their house-smoked meats, beignets and homemade ice cream. While you’re there, be sure to try their deliciously spicy “hot chocolate” ice cream.
The Town of Urbanna is more notably a seafood lover’s delight with local aquaculture ensuring fresh oysters are available year round and local watermen’s daily catch of Chesapeake Bay blue crabs throughout the summer.
The monthly Urbanna Farmers Market and Second Saturdays feature local produce, handmade goods, live music, and wine tasting with a festive atmosphere that celebrates the best of local culture. |
Founded in 1680 and named for Queen Anne of England, it was originally intended as a trade hub and was one of America's original colonial ports, with deep draft ships loading tobacco from area plantations. Urbanna retains its historical allure with architecture dating back to the 18th century, including one of Virginia’s surviving colonial courthouse; a delightful, hospitable, and walkable town.
To truly maximize your Urbanna experience download the Explore Middlesex app. Up to date and comprehensive information on local events, activities and all that Urbanna has to offer is at your fingertips.
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