Tuckahoe is designated a National Historic Landmark. The main house stands out for its unique H-shaped design, which was uncommon among colonial plantation houses. The early outbuildings are also noteworthy: together, they form a rare plantation street. Here, you can encounter different architectural styles on the same estate.
Discover History Through Buildings and Places
The Dover Slave Quarter Complex is one of the few surviving groups of slave quarters in Virginia. Its wide, sweeping layout is described as unique in Virginia. The Old Stone Jail on Court House Green offers another perspective on the past: its exhibits explore law enforcement and prison life in different periods, from 1825 through the 1950s.
A colonial-style path loops around Court House Green. Its interpretive signs share information about the Goochland courthouse. At the Central High Cultural and Educational Complex, the focus is on historical exhibits and an interactive kiosk about the institution’s history. The complex also includes a multipurpose auditorium with 170 seats.
The region’s history also extends beyond individual buildings: before the Civil War, Goochland had around 50 gold mines. Powell’s Tavern once served as a tavern, stagecoach stop, and post office; today, the property is a private residence. You should arrange an appointment in advance to visit the Second Union Rosenwald School Museum. As the process may change, check the latest information before planning your visit.
Riverfronts, Nature Trails, and Designated Routes
Tucker Park at Maidens Crossing stretches for 1,200 feet along the James River. The park has a launch ramp for non-motorized boats. Here, the focus is on the river, while at Hidden Rock Park it is on nature trails. The park is also home to Hidden Rock Bark Dog Park, which is connected by a trail system to the Goochland County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center.
Leakes Mill Park provides access to the namesake Leakes Mill. The park is also a designated site on the Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail and part of the Green Springs Trail Loop. These different connections give the park a distinct character from the river and trail offerings at Tucker Park and Hidden Rock Park.
Local Offerings and Tastings
The Goochland Farmers Market offers seasonal fruits and vegetables, poultry, beef, pork, and lamb, as well as fruit and berries, honey, baked goods, and select artisan products. The mix of vendors may vary. There are also weekly food trucks and live music.
The Goochland Craft Beverage Trail includes three breweries, six wineries, a cidery, and a distillery; participating businesses may change. Rassawek Vineyard offers several tasting experiences, and its operating days may change. Hilltop Distillery is located on a hill overlooking the James River. The region’s offerings span everything from a farmers market to wineries, breweries, and a distillery, without suggesting that these places offer the same kind of experience.
Discover more destinations: Albemarle, York County, Culpeper County, Greene County, Augusta County, King William County, Accomack County, Warren
For the main travel overview: Virginia.
