Facing Virgin River Withdrawal? 7 Other Small-Town Romances To Dive Into
See where to stream them.
It feels like Virgin River's Christmas specials aired forever ago, even though only three months have passed. The good news is that Season 6 is already in production, the bad is that we will probably have to wait a whole year before it lands on Netflix.
If you're going through Virgin River withdrawal and craving some small-town comfort, let's try to ease the pain with similar shows recommended by fans on Reddit.
Sullivan's Crossing (2023-present)
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
Where to watch: The CW, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, FuboTV
This Canadian drama is an adaptation of the novels by Robyn Carr, the same author who wrote the Virgin River series. So it is a must-see for any Mel and Jack fan. The story of a neurosurgeon in legal trouble who returns to her small hometown for a break has that familiar small town charm with a little less cheesiness and more emotional drama. Only one season has aired so far.
Sweet Magnolias (2020-present)
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Where to watch: Netflix
For a small-town setting with a heartwarming, close-knit community vibe, check out this adaptation of Sherryl Woods' book series. Sweet Magnolias is the name three South Carolina best friends give to their wine-drinking gang. The story focuses on their friendship and support through the challenges of romance, career, and family.
Chesapeake Shores (2016-2022)
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Where to watch: Hallmark Movies Now, Netflix, Prime Video, Peacock, Vudu, etc.
If you like the Hallmark-y aspect of Virgin River, why not dip your toes into an actual Hallmark show? One of the most popular is Chesapeake Shores, which just oozes that cozy atmosphere. Abby, a divorced mother, has to return to her hometown from New York after her sister cries for help. There, she will not only have to save her family's inn, but also come to terms with her first love and their abrupt break-up many years ago.
Firefly Lane (2021-2023)
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Where to watch: Netflix
Firefly Lane is the name of the street where two teenagers, Kate and Tully, became neighbors and best friends. The show, which fans call a near-perfect adaptation of Kristin Hannah's popular novel, follows the ups and downs of the girls' lives and friendship over several decades.
Hart of Dixie (2011-2015)
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Where to watch: Prime Video, Vudu, ITVX, Google Play Movies, YouTube TV
The show has the exact same premise as Virgin River. Zoe Hart, a talented surgeon, fails to win a prestigious fellowship but receives news of her biological father's death. She inherits half of his practice in a small town and moves there. As a bonus for Virgin River fans, Tim Matheson is in the show and he basically plays a slightly meaner Doc.
Everwood (2002-2006)
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Where to watch: Prime Video, Vudu, ITVX, Google Play Movies, YouTube TV
This series is an oldie but goodie, an all-time favorite for many romance fans. If you somehow missed it, it is definitely worth checking out. The protagonist is a surprisingly male, a world-renowned brain surgeon who feels his life is falling apart after the death of his wife. He decides to change scenery and moves to the idyllic town of Everwood, taking his two children with him.
When Calls the Heart (2014-present)
IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
Where to watch: Hallmark Movies Now, Netflix, Prime Video, Peacock, Vudu
Another big Hallmark hit that fans of the Virgin River ambience might find enjoyable is When Calls the Heart, set in the early decades of the 20th century. A young schoolteacher from a wealthy family moves to a small coal-mining town where life is simple but challenging.