King George County is a hidden gem, brimming with local favorites that have earned top honors in the 2025 KG Best of the Best Awards! Whether you’re a local looking for new experiences or a visitor planning your trip, this itinerary will guide you through some of the finest establishments and attractions King George has to offer.
Caledon State Park
Caledon State Park
Day 1: Outdoor Adventures & Local Flavors
Start your King George adventure by embracing the outdoors and enjoying some local award-winning tastes.
Morning Outdoor Bliss
Head to Caledon State Park (Best Park or Outdoor Activity Space) for stunning hiking trails, nature observation, and serene waterfront views. It’s the perfect spot to connect with nature.
Lunch with a View
Pack a picnic or grab a bite on the go, perhaps from Denson’s Chesapeake Bay Farm-to-Table Food Truck (Best Food Truck) if they are in the area.
Afternoon Delight
Relax and unwind at Backporch Vineyard (Best Venue, Best Brewery or Winery). Enjoy a tasting of their exquisite wines in a picturesque setting.
Evening Italian Feast
For dinner, savor authentic Italian cuisine at Vinny’s Italian Grill & Pizzeria (Best Family-Owned Restaurant). A true King George staple!
Mary’s Cakery & Candy Kitchen
Day 2: Community Spirit & Unique Finds
Discover the heart of King George through its community hubs and unique shopping experiences.
Morning Market Buzz
Begin your day at the KG Farmer’s Market (Best Community Event). Experience the vibrant local scene, pick up fresh produce, and enjoy the community atmosphere.
Coffee Break
Grab a delicious coffee and a pastry at Gali’s Café (Best Coffee Shop), the perfect spot to recharge.
Treasure Hunting
Spend your afternoon exploring Unique Antique Mall (Best Antique Store), where you can uncover one-of-a-kind treasures and vintage finds.
Sweet Ending
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Mary’s Cakery & Candy Kitchen (Best Dessert or Snack Spot, Best Small Business) for a delightful treat.
Dinner & Convenience
For a reliable and tasty meal, stop by Chick-fil-A (Best Customer Service, Best Fast Food or Casual Dining). Then, for any essentials, visit Food Lion, King George (Best Grocery or Convenience Store).
Gardening Gays Farm
Day 3: Wellness, Arts & Farm Fresh
Dedicate a day to self-care, cultural experiences, and connecting with King George’s agricultural roots.
Wellness Start
If you’re looking for a workout or just want to explore the facilities, visit Rappahannock YMCA, King George (Best Gym or Fitness Center).
Pet Pampering (Optional)
If you’re traveling with a furry friend, consider a visit to Eagle’s Nest Animal Hospital (Best Pet Groomer, Best Veterinary Services) for top-notch care, or explore On Cloud 9 (Best Pet Boarder) for future pet care needs.
Support Local
Learn about The OPP Shop (Best Non-Profit) or King George Animal Rescue League (Best Pet Rescue or Shelter) and the great work they do in the community.
Artistic Evening
Catch a performance or see what’s happening with the KGHS Theatre Department (Best Entertainment Establishment) for a dose of local talent and entertainment.
Farm-to-Table Experience
Discover Gardening Gays Farm (Best Overall, Best Family-Owned, and Best Agricultural or Farm Business) for a truly local experience. Check their schedule for farm visits or products.
New Culinary Experience
For dinner, try Taste of Himalaya (Best New Business) for a fresh and exciting dining option in King George.
King George Animal Rescue League
Beyond the Itinerary: Essential Services & Local Heroes
King George is also home to award-winning businesses that keep the community thriving. While not typical tourist stops, they are vital to the fabric of the county:
Home & Auto
For home improvements, consider Handy Girl Home Improvement (Best Home Improvement) or Westbrooke Homes (Best Home Builder). For auto needs, Bayside (Best Auto Dealer) and Carroll’s Automotive (Best Auto Repair) are top choices, along with McDaniel’s Services (Best Towing Service). Need an electrician or plumber? R.K. Payne Heating & Air (Best Electrician or Plumber) is your go-to. And for landscaping, Green Acres (Best Landscaping) stands out.
Professional Services
Richard Cottrell, DDS & Associates (Best Dental Practice) and Mary Washington Primary Care, King George (Best Primary/Family Medical Care, Best Urgent Care) offer excellent healthcare. For financial needs, Topside Federal Credit Union (Best Bank) and Brabant’s Bookkeeping & Tax Services (Best Accountant/Tax Service) are highly rated.
Personal Care & Photography
For a refresh, visit Simple Bliss Salon & Spa (Best Barber, Hair Salon, or Nail Salon). Capture your memories with Sarah Grace Photography (Best Photographer or Videographer).
Community Support
King George Fire and Rescue Volunteers (Best Volunteer Organization) are celebrated for their dedication. For childcare, Four Seasons Daycare (Best Childcare Provider) is a top choice, and 301 Cleaners (Best Cleaning Service) for cleaning services.
Real Estate
If you’re looking to make King George your home, Exit Realty Expertise (now King George Realty) (Best Real Estate Business) is the award-winning choice.
Enjoy exploring the very best of King George County!
More about KG Best of the Best Awards
Each Small Business Saturday, help shine a spotlight on the amazing businesses that make King George unique! Nominate your favorite local spot for the KG Best of the Best awards and help us celebrate the heart and soul of our community.
Is there a restaurant that always delivers delicious meals? Maybe a store with exceptional customer service? Or a business that consistently goes above and beyond? This is your chance to show them some love!
Together, let’s recognize the outstanding businesses that make King George such a great place to live, shop, and dine.
How it works
Nominations
Accepted beginning Small Business Saturday (the Saturday after Thanksgiving) until the Sunday before Christmas
Finalists Announced
During the weeks of Christmas and New Years
Voting
Begins the first Monday in January until the last Friday in January
Winners Announced
By the end of February
Winners Recognized
Winners honored at annual Economic Development Authority Business Appreciation Reception in early May