7 Essential Things To Do On A First-Time Visit To Williamsburg, VA

February 25, 2022

Never been to Williamsburg? Baffled by how to plan your visit? This insider’s guide to an initial visit hits all the highlights you don’t want to miss. We’re going to make sure you don’t forget your first time. Here are the essentials for what will be the first of many memories.

Live in Colonial Times – Eighteenth-century Colonial Williamsburg is not the place you visited in fourth grade. The world’s largest living history museum — with more than 40 sites and trades and two world-class art museums — is full of participatory experiences. Stop by Peyton Randolh House and take the “Freedom’s Paradox” tour examing slavery’s evolution and the reliance upon it by patriots to build a city, a colony, and eventually a nation. Take part in a dig into the past. For the adventurous, learn how to fire a flintlock musket.
Amuse Yourself – After a fascinating dose of history, time for some fun. Who doesn’t love a day at an amusement park? Head to Busch Gardens and Water Country USA where new rides and old favorites will leave you smiling — and maybe screaming with joy. Check out Finnegan’s Flyer, the swinging ride that takes your childhood playground experience to the extreme. Two-pendulum arms soar to 80 feet over the cliffs of the Celtic coast at the park’s Ireland village at 45 mph. If you can keep your eyes open, you’ll get a stunning vista of the park, annually named one of America’s most beautiful. At Water Country USA, chill with some wet thrills. The Cutback Water Coaster is the only RocketBlast coaster on the East Coast and Virginia’s first hybrid water coaster, combining a water jet propulsion system, tunnels and open-air saucers at a speed of 35 feet per second over 865 feet. Caught your breath yet? Exactly.
Quench Your Thirst – Greater Williamsburg is home to a tasty mix of breweries, distilleries, and a winery. It offers a journey through the old and the new — and the exciting — ways of making beer, wine, and spirits. Check out the fun at relative newcomers like The Virginia Beer Co. or the Precarious Beer Project and old standards like The Williamsburg Winery and Alewerks Brewing Company. Leave the driving to others by taking a Drink Williamsburg tour. Cheers!
Experience the Revolution in a Revolutionary Way – At the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, children of all ages will identify with the stories of ordinary people in an extraordinary time, a time when subjects of a king become citizens of a nation. Inside, nearly every attraction is interactive. Outside, there are old-fashioned interactive options. Drill in an Army encampment. Help fire artillery. Pick up a recipe from colonial cookbooks at the bakehouse. Tend to the crops at a colonial-era farm.
Time Travel Four Centuries in a Day – Head back in time to the beginnings of the colonies at Historic Jamestowne. There you can talk with archaeologists about their excavations on the exact site of the first permanent colony in America, experience the first democratic assembly, and visit the Archaearium, a museum that houses some of the two million artifacts uncovered since the Jamestown Rediscovery Project began in 1994. For another view of the time, drive over to the living history museum at Jamestown Settlement where you can climb aboard replicas of the three ships that made the historic voyage from England in 1607, visit the re-creation of a Powhatan village, and walk through a re-creation of the original fort, interacting with interpreters.
Find Your Outlet – You can’t return home empty-handed. Go shopping. Browse the more than 120 stores of Williamsburg Premium Outlets. You’ll find deals up to 65 percent off where that word “premium” is not an accident. These are the best of the best. Pick up bargains at Burberry, Calvin Klein, Nike, the Coach Outlet, Oakley, Ralph Lauren, L’Occitane, Swarovski, Waterford, and many others.
Take a Tour Standing in Place – Head to Yorktown and hop on a Segway with Patriot Tours for a one- or two-hour tour covering the waterfront and historic Main Street. If you’ve never tried a Segway, it’s easier than you think. Lean forward, imagine you are moving and — presto — you are.

20+ Ways To Celebrate Black History Month in the DC Area All Year Long

February 17, 2022

The African American experience is intricately entwined in the rich tapestry of Fairfax County’s history and in America’s story. As you celebrate America’s Black history this year, you’ll have the opportunity to visit sites around the region in person, or online, to reflect on an inspiring journey of hope, sacrifice, liberation, empowerment, and beauty.

Here are a few places that should be on your “must see” list, not just during Black History Month, but any time throughout the year.

Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

Image courtesy National Museum of African American History and Culture

This gem of a museum offers a multitude of exhibitions, and collections that explore the complete African American experience here in America. The only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture, this national treasure explores the topics of history, culture, race, and social justice through thought-provoking collections, stunning exhibits, and interactive multimedia.
Where: National Mall, Washington, DC
Hot tip: Free timed-entry passes are required for entry, be sure to reserve yours to ensure you can visit on the day and time of your choosing.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon

Image courtesy George Washington’s Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon gives historical accounts of what life was like for enslaved African Americans which can give you a unique perspective on the struggle for freedom these people yearned for. The Enslaved People of Mount Vernon Tour is the best way to learn personal stories from those who worked the estate and allows you to walk in their footsteps with a guide taking you on a 60-minute history lesson. The tour is free with paid admission. You can also browse the Lives Bound Together online exhibit to learn more about the enslaved population who lived on the Mount Vernon estate.
Where: Mount Vernon, Fairfax County, Virginia
Hot tip: Immediately following this tour, accompany the guide down to participate in a moving tribute at the Slave Memorial and Cemetery. The 1983 Memorial comprises three circles, symbolizing faith, hope, and love.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Honoring Dr. King’s life and legacy, this is the first memorial on the National Mall devoted to a citizen activist for civil rights and peace. The MLK, Jr. Memorial is a tribute to a man of conscience, the freedom movement, and his message of equality, justice, and love.
Where: Tidal Basin, Washington, DC
Hot tip: Combine this stop with a visit to the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, where King gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech.

Gum Springs

Image courtesy Gum Springs

Gum Springs is a town of 2,500 residents that was established in 1833 by West Ford, a freed slave. It became a haven for former slaves, both freedmen and runaways, creating a self-sufficient community that thrived into one of the oldest African American communities in the United States. Read more about this incredible story here.
Where: near Mount Vernon, Fairfax County, Virginia
Hot tip: Visit the Gum Springs Historical Society’s Museum & Cultural Center, open Monday-Friday from 6-8pm and Tuesdays/Saturdays from 1-3pm. It’s advisable to call to confirm hours before visiting.

George Mason’s Gunston Hall

Image courtesy Gunston Hall

Located not far from Mount Vernon, Gunston Hall is the historic home of George Mason, the outspoken proponent of civil liberties and author of Virginia’s Declaration of Rights, yet also a former slave owner. This sprawling site includes restored structures and interpretative actors throughout the grounds that depict the varying contributors, including slaves, that made the 18th-century household work.
Where: Mason Neck, Fairfax County, Virginia
Hot tip: Read more about this Founding Father’s complicated relationship with slavery before you visit, to get a better understanding of his viewpoints. Purchase of a general admission ticket grants access to the grounds, museum, and limited access to the mansion. A Grounds Pass is available for you to explore the grounds on your own.

Laurel Grove School Museum

Closed in 1932 and restored by family descendants and interested citizens, Laurel Grove tells the unique story of a community’s refusal to narrow its ambitions. Of all the “colored” schools that opened in the region, only Laurel Grove exists today as a “living museum.” Read more about this incredible story in our blog feature article.
Where: Alexandria, Fairfax County, Virginia
Hot tip: The schoolhouse is currently closed due to COVID restrictions, but check their website as restrictions ease in the coming months to plan your visit.

Sully Historic Site

Image courtesy Don Sweeney/Fairfax County Park Authority

On the National Register of Historic Places, Sully Historic Site includes original outbuildings, representative slave quarters, and gardens in addition to the main house. Guided tours highlight early 19th century life of the family, their tenant farmers, and enslaved African Americans. It is also a site along the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Trail. Learn more about its connection in our feature blog article.
Where: Chantilly, Fairfax County, Virginia
Hot tip: Forgotten Road Tours of the outbuildings and representative slave quarters are offered by reservation only from December – mid-March, at 2 p.m. on Thursday through Sunday, weather permitting. You can reserve your tours online in advance.

Historic Pleasant Grove Church

Image courtesy Friends of Pleasant Grove

This community landmark and historic church was built in 1895 by and for African and Native Americans. On-site, you can also visit the Frances K. Moore Memorial Museum, named for a descendant of the church founders. It features a unique collection of late 19th and 20th-century household furnishings, tools, photographs, and memorabilia.
Where: McLean, Fairfax County, Virginia
Hot tip: Keep an eye out for the many cultural and community-wide programs and events held by the Friends of Pleasant Grove throughout the year, including the annual Black History Celebration which features the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices Ensemble.

Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum has a fantastic online exhibit, African American Pioneers in Aviation and Space, which showcases amazing stories of some of the greatest African American Air and Space explorers and innovators in American history. When you visit in person, be sure to look for interesting artifacts including several related to Neal V. Loving, the first African American (and the first double amputee!) to be licensed as a racing pilot. (Like the Loving WR-3 airplane, which was homebuilt!)
Where: Chantilly, Fairfax County, Virginia
Hot tip: Don’t miss the online exhibit Black Wings, which details the stories about how African Americans shared the widespread enthusiasm for flying, but they found themselves routinely denied access to training as pilots and mechanics.

Tinner Hill Historic Park & Monument

Image courtesy NOVA Parks

Tinner Hill is recognized as the location where the first rural branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was initiated in the United States. Today, a 15-foot monument constructed of pink granite honors the men and women of Tinner Hill who made this happen and nearby, visit the historic site and Zig Zag Monument, a sculpture that follows the original location of the segregation line. Learn more about Tinner Hill’s incredible story in our feature blog article.
Where: City of Falls Church and Fairfax County, Virginia border lines
Hot tip: Plan to visit the park when you can or watch the Tinner Hill Remembered video that was broadcast on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in January 2021.

African American Civil War Memorial & Museum

As the nation’s only memorial to African American Civil War soldiers, this site is inscribed with the names of more than 200,000 members of the United States Colored Troops who fought in the Union Army. Nearby, the museum tells the stories and preserves the roles these brave soldiers played in ending slavery and keeping America united under one flag.
Where: U Street Corridor, Washington, DC
Hot tip: Check out this overview of the museum on YouTube to see all the things you can expect to find.

Frederick Douglass Historical Site

Cedar Hill is open to the public to walk the grounds and is open on Fridays and Saturdays, and the hours vary by season. The Visitor Center and Historic Home remain closed. There will be no Ranger-led tours, but visitors are invited to ask questions of park staff.
Where: Anacostia, Washington, DC
Hot tip: You can take a virtual tour of Cedar Hill online.

Smithsonian National Museum of African Art

The museum is currently open and timed tickets are not required to enter. Many of the current exhibitions delve into the profound history of Black culture both domestically and abroad. This is America’s only museum dedicated to the collection, research, conservation, and exhibition of traditional and contemporary African art. Docent-led tours are available throughout the week and special events occur throughout the year. Admission is free.
Where: National Mall, Washington, DC
Hot tip: Make sure to check out their educational resources for both students and teachers.

Other notable spots:

Alexandria Black History Museum
Anacostia Community Museum (closed until further notice due to COVID restrictions)
Freedmen’s Memorial Monument
“Black Broadway” – the U Street Neighborhood
Blues Alley
The National Archives
Mary McLeod Bethune Council House
The Lincoln Memorial (“I Have a Dream” speech location)
African American Heritage Trail

Black-Owned Restaurants

Visiting all of these important sites and attractions are sure to stir up an appetite. Lucky for you, there are hundreds upon hundreds of restaurants in Fairfax County. But if you want to support local, black-owned eateries, there are many cuisine options to choose from as well. Grab a taste of the islands at Caribbean Plate in Falls Church, treat yourself to a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony at Enatye Ethiopian Cuisine in Herndon, find comfort in delicious southern home cooking at Della J’s Delectables in Springfield, or take home a mouth-watering pie from Pie Gourmet in Vienna. For an evolving list of black-owned restaurants in Fairfax County, click here.

Did we miss a spot? Share your favorite places to celebrate African American history and culture below.

Check our calendar of events for Black History Month events and programs happening all month long.

5 Ways to Enjoy Your Staunton Staycation

February 10, 2022

Not ready for far-away travel just yet? You might want to skip that mid-winter trip out of the country. Why not take a Staunton staycation instead? We’ve rounded up five ways to have a blast and make new discoveries right here in Staunton. Here are our tips for seeing our beautiful city through fresh, new eyes.

Fill Your Days With Local Fun

How well do you really know Staunton? Why not find out with one of the unique tours you can take when you download the Traipse app on your phone. Combining trivia with touring, Traipse brings Staunton to life in over 12 themed tours. Level up your history game with a tour of the Frontier Culture Museum or the Woodrow Wilson Birthplace and Presidential Library, and the Camera Heritage Museum. Little ones will love the Antique Fire Engine Museum at the fire station, starring the oldest motorized fire engine in Virginia.

Try a New Outdoor Adventure

Venture a little way out of Staunton for some of the best outdoor adventures in the country. Glide downhill at one of the area’s four awesome ski resorts: Wintergreen Resort, Bryce Mountain Resort, Omni Homestead Resort, and Massanutten Resort all offer skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. Bridgewater’s Generations Park has a stellar skating rink. Shenandoah National Park and George Washington and Jefferson National Forest are packed with interesting trails in a range of difficulties, though you should check online before visiting for an area’s opening status. Head underground at Grand Caverns, the country’s oldest show cave. Another way to get underground is by exploring the Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail that follows an old railroad bed under Afton Mountain!

Skip the Souvenir and Invest in Something Unique and Meaningful

Do you sometimes waste money buying silly trinkets when you’re on vacation? Why not take all that money you’ll be saving and put it toward something you’ll really love, something that will bring your room together? Consider heirloom-quality furniture from Concepts Created, which uses reclaimed wood to create custom dining tables, hutches, benches, mantles, and more. Buy some exquisite art glass from Sunspots Studio, or make your walls pop with work from a local artist from the CoArt Gallery. If you like to personalize your space with words, check out the gorgeous custom signs from Blair Made. And if your kids are pining because they didn’t get Mickey Mouse ears, take them to Pufferbellies Toys & Books and let them pick out something they’ll love even more!

Make Take-Out a Fine Dining Experience

If you’re still hoping to wait a bit before hanging out in a crowded restaurant, why not take carry-out to the next level? Iron the fancy tablecloth and use those fancy forks you got for your wedding. Shake things up by ordering something new from your favorite restaurant. Most Staunton restaurants offer takeout, so you could even order different courses from different spots. Start with a bottle of wine from Yelping Dog Wine and a loaf of fresh bread from Newtown Baking. Enjoy entrees from Table 44, Chicano Boy Taco, or the Depot Grille. Still hungry? A decadent pie from Firkin Pie or a sundae from Wright’s will taste just right at the end of your night.

Your Home Away From Home

Clutter and day-to-day tasks overwhelming you? Leave your baggage (physical and emotional) behind and check into a Staunton lodging property. Not only will you enjoy some focused time with just the essentials, but you’ll also see your city with new eyes. Best of all, someone else will make the bed! Book a room in a luxury historic hotel, a convenient brand hotel, a well-appointed bed and breakfast, or a unique vacation rental. Stop by the front desk or the Visitor Center for some brochures and ideas about where to spend your day. Staunton has much to offer both visitors and long-time residents. Get out there and have fun like a tourist!

Date Night on Colley Avenue in Historic Norfolk, VA

February 10, 2022

Date Night on Colley Avenue

Whether this is your first date or date 100, here are some inspiring ideas for you to make it that much sweeter! Norfolk loves love so grab your special someone to have a romantic night out on Colley Avenue.

To Do

Movie

Catch a film at Colley’s iconic 1936 single screen movie theater, the Naro. Bright marquee letters light up Colley Avenue and the ever rotating movie selections are perfect for a date night with your special someone.

Stroll

Just before the sun begins to set, discover Norfolk’s oldest independent coffee shop, Elliot’s Fair Grounds. You can grab a latte to go or savor the comfort of a hot cup of tea. With liquid warmth in hand, stroll the quaint neighborhoods of Ghent where houses date back to the 1800s with beautiful landscaping and architecture.

ghent - crowdriff photo

@michellezil, Instagram

Create

Looking for a more hands-on activity? Check out the upcoming classes atPendulum Fine Meats for you and your loved one to partake in. One of our favorites is the Charcuterie class where you get to taste charcuterie and create your own charcuterie board. They also have a sausage making class where you can then take the sausage home and cook a romantic dinner together.

Pendulum

To Eat

The Green Onion

A dining favorite in Ghent, the Green Onion, is an unpretentious bistro that locally sources food for their French-inspired menu. One of their most beloved dishes is the Prince Edward Island mussels, spinach, garlic and butter broth that is perfect for dipping a toasted French baguette into. Sip on some French wine, indulge in their Steak Au Poivre (pepper encrusted rib eye, pommels frites, spinach topped with a rosemary Demi glacé) and enjoy the company of your sweetheart.

LeGrand Kitchen

This 28-seater intimate “finer-diner” restaurant is nestled at the northern end of Colley Avenue and has an ever-changing menu due to sourcing the freshest ingredients for your taste buds. We love their unique dishes like beef tongue with creamed chanterelles or their decadent sea scallops with grilled cauliflower, Asian pear, smoked peanut and nuoc Cham. A must-try is LeGrand’s burger which has made a name for itself in Norfolk and is absolutely mouthwatering.

Le Grand

Fellini’s

Italians are romancers so what better way to treat your loved one than to an Italian dinner! This family run business has had their home in Norfolk for over 20 years and continues serving tasty plates of fresh pesto and slices of warm pizza. Get cozy inside while sipping fine wine and devouring delicious Italian cuisine!

To Drink

Elation Brewing Company

Their big leather sofas make for a cozy spot to cuddle up with a local brew, but they are also offering local Virginia wines and ciders for you to enjoy. If you are looking for entertainment, they also have live bands and acoustic players on the weekends.

Elation Brewery

Evening Night Cap at Press 626

With the cozy house atmosphere and lit fireplace, Press 626 is arguably one of the most romantic places along Colley for a night cap. Their wine list is very extensive, but with an extremely knowledgeable team it instantly feels less intimidating. Although Press 626 is known for wine, their cocktails are equally as delicious. Whether you like a smooth whiskey or old-world red wine, Press 626 will set the mood for a loving evening.

Press 626

Comfort Foods in the Mid-Atlantic

February 4, 2022

(Mid-Atlantic Region, February 4, 2022)- There is a time and place for healthy foods, but sometimes carbs and comfort just hit the spot. Destinations across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia boast an impressive variety of restaurants that offer the most indulgent and comforting dishes. Dig into this list of hearty offerings across the Mid-Atlantic Region.

For more information on any of the following, contact the destination marketing organization listed below. For general information on the Mid-Atlantic, visit MATPRA.org

DELAWARE

Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley
Though it may be cold outside, romance abounds inside the cozily warm oasis of Longwood Gardens’ grand Conservatory. Follow the garden visit up with a Provence-influenced meal at the equally romantic Le Cavalier in the historic HOTEL DU PONT. Then, see a show at the just-refurbished Playhouse on Rodney Square, the oldest theater continually on the Broadway touring circuit. There’s nothing like a steaming bowl of chicken soup. Some of the best around is at Rosenfeld’s Delicatessen. Craving the comfort foods of turkey day? The Bobbie at Capriotti’s is Thanksgiving on a sub roll. Retro diner Sterling Grille has a menu full of comfort-centric dishes. Or pick up some Walt’s Flavor Crisp Chicken, and try to guess the secret ingredients.Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau, Jennifer Boes, VisitWilmingtonDE.com, [email protected]

MARYLAND

Allegany
Top-notch bakers and baristas have come together on the Mountain Side of Maryland to introduce a new gourmet food and beverage trail in the destination. Stops along the new Donut and Coffee Trail will have you falling in love with both the sweet and bold sides of Allegany County! Allegany County, The Mountain Side of Maryland, Mindy Bianca, MDMountainSide.com, [email protected]

Annapolis & Anne Arundel
Nothing says love like comfort foods and the warm satisfying feeling they can add to any day! Enjoy your favorites at a host of restaurants including Iron Rooster, Miss Shirley’s, Galway Bay, Luna Blu, Willy’s Kitchen, Ashling Kitchen and Bar, Evelyn’s, Vin 909, and Davis’ Pub, to name a few. Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, Susan Seifried, VisitAnnapolis.org, [email protected]

Baltimore
Nothing beats the comfort of a big bowl of soup. And in Baltimore we do soup with our favorite versatile crustacean: crab. Whether it’s the tomato-based Maryland Crab Soup or a luscious Cream of Crab (both spiced with local specialty Old Bay Seasoning), each spoonful is like a warm hug. Visit Baltimore, Tracey Johnson, Baltimore.org, [email protected]

Calvert
Whatever your go-to comfort food is, there’s surely a food truck in Calvert County, Maryland to satisfy all your cravings! From hot, fresh beignets, to thick and rich cream of crab soup topped with fresh crab right out of the bay, to an icy snowball that reminds you of your childhood! Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Hilary Dailey, ChooseCalvert.com, [email protected]

Charles
If comfort food is what you crave, look no further than the variety of offerings in Charles County. From Chicken Fried Steak with mashed potatoes and Braised Pork Shank with sweet potato risotto to Fried Seafood Platters and French fries and sweet treats galore, there are tons of hearty home cooking inspired dishes waiting to be explored! Charles County Government, Department of Recreation, Parks, & Tourism, Maggie Boyden, ExploreCharlesCounty.com, [email protected]

Hagerstown
In the mood for comfort food? The Schmankerl Stube Bavarian Restaurant in Hagerstown will not disappoint with their Knusperige Schweinshaxe – Pork Shank served with Rahmsauce. Served with homemade sunflower bread and authentic German brews. It doesn’t get more comforting than this, and must be ordered 24 hours in advance. Visit Hagerstown, Betsy DeVore, VisitHagerstown.com, [email protected]

Harford
From juicy burgers to Italian dishes, Harford County knows comfort food. The Abbey Burger offers exotic meats like camel or kangaroo to locally farmed Roseda dry aged black angus. Add a spiked shake! Not your average pizza joint, Acapella Italian Restaurant cooks up fresh Italian dishes like Penne con Pesto. Visit Harford, Mindy Schneider, VisitHarford.com, [email protected]

Kent
When temperatures dip, nothing satisfies like a good, home-cooked meal made with locally sourced ingredients. Relish grass-fed beef over hearty mash, sample oyster stew filled with local veggies, or delight in a mounding bowl of gumbo. You’ll find a family-friendly atmosphere paired with hometown hospitality. Start your culinary journey in Kent County, MD! Kent County Tourism, MD, Jana Carter, KentCounty.com, [email protected]

Maryland (State)
Maryland’s ultimate comfort food consists of 7-10 pancake-thin layers of yellow cake lovingly wrapped in rich chocolate icing. Declared our Official State Dessert in 2008, Smith Island Cake went from a hyper-local confection to an international sensation and is now found on restaurant menus across Maryland. Pass the fork please! Maryland Office of Tourism, Connie Spindler, VisitMaryland.org, [email protected]

Talbot
The cold weather signals oyster season in Talbot County! Whether Rockefeller-style, in an Oyster Pot Pie, or raw with a dash of hot sauce, this Eastern Shore comfort food comes fresh from the Chesapeake Bay. Plan your own oyster-based culinary tour by clicking “Oyster Trail” on our website’s “Eat” page. Talbot County Office of Economic Development and Tourism, Krista Boothby, TourTalbot.org, [email protected]

PENNSYLVANIA

Allegheny National Forest Region
Warm up with the offerings of Table 105, Taproom & Eatery. Sink your teeth into the comfort of an Artisan Flatbread Grilled Cheese with a cup of Tomato Bisque or a Battered Haddock Sammie with a local craft IPW. Dessert-a dreamy chocolate mousse. Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau, Linda Devlin, VisitANF.com, [email protected]

Bradford
With a fantastic menu brimming with popular American favorites like Cheesesteaks, Fish Fry, Burgers, Steaks and Wraps, the historic Wyalusing Hotel is a place to indulge your taste buds! The elegant dining room and rustic country barn-style bar serve a diverse menu seven days a week. Bradford County Tourism Promotion Agency, Morgan Christopher, VisitBradfordCounty.com, [email protected]

Columbia-Montour
Let’s be honest – comfort food can really be any type of food that makes you feel good! Whether you’re looking for a hearty Pennsylvania Dutch meal or a warm, spicy curry, you’ll find plenty of options in Columbia & Montour Counties: Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Thai, Indian, American, and more. Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau, Linda Sones, ITourColumbiaMontour.com, [email protected]

Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania
After hiking nearby trails or a day on the slopes, head to nearby Bingham’s Restaurant for the area’s premier homemade pies and bakers, and authentic freshly made American favorites like pot pies. This family restaurant known for their incredible desserts has served everyone from tour groups to Presidents at their restaurant! Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, Morgan Christopher, EndlessMountains.org, [email protected]

Lancaster
When it comes to comfort food staples of Lancaster County’s PA Dutch heritage, you can’t go wrong with a delicious bowl of chicken corn soup at the iconic Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord. Discover Lancaster, Joel Cliff, DiscoverLancaster.com, [email protected]

Laurel Highlands
Brought to the Laurel Highlands by Eastern European immigrants, pierogies have become a staple on tables throughout the region. These dumplings can be bought ready-made or enjoyed at local restaurants where they’re fried fresh to order. Variations include potato and cheese, sweet cabbage, sweet potato, sauerkraut, cheddar and jalapeno pierogies. GO Laurel Highlands, Anna Weltz, GOLaurelHighlands.com, [email protected]

Lawrence
Visit Lawrence County is excited to announce the 2022 Craft Burger Trail. Fifteen local restaurants all with unique burgers – you have one goal, devour your way through the trail! Experience unique and delicious burgers and there is a vegetarian version that defies the taste buds. Visit Lawrence County, Ginny Jacob, VisitLawrenceCounty.com, [email protected]

Lehigh Valley
Hand-dipped chocolates, pastries, local wine, burritos, and more can be found at the Easton Public Market which is open year-round. Mark your calendars for PA Bacon Fest (11/5-11/6) where 100+ vendors line Easton with delicious unique bacon treats, live music, and family-fun activities all weekend long. Discover Lehigh Valley, Alicia Quinn, DiscoverLehighValley.com, [email protected]

Potter-Tioga
Pretzel pieces and other ingredients go into the delicious bark that is the signature creation of Highland Chocolates. Throughout the year the delectable confections made by the differently-abled workers draw visitors from far and wide to learn about this wonderful business and delight in the sweet creations the team creates. Visit Potter-Tioga, Morgan Christopher, VisitPotterTioga.com, [email protected]

Raystown
Allow us to direct your taste buds on a delicious excursion through the unique dining delights of the Raystown Lake Region of Pennsylvania! From casual fare in an upscale setting to down home diners, taverns, quaint cafes & food trucks – you’re sure to enjoy a culinary cruise through Huntingdon County. Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau, Liza Gutshall, Raystown.org, [email protected]

VIRGINIA

Giles
Perched on a hilltop, tucked into Giles County, one finds the most special hidden treasure, The Bad Apple. This sheep barn turned speakeasy destination dining experience is the place for craft Virginia cocktails and lively atmosphere. To indulge in the utmost comfort, order the Shrimp and Grits with a Gimlet. Giles County, VA Tourism, Cora Gnegy, VirginiasMtnPlayground.com, [email protected]

Hampton
Follow the flavor to Charlotte’s Cafeteria! The cafeteria-style restaurant is the perfect place to visit when you’re craving delicious Southern comfort cuisine. It features a carving station, specialty salads, enjoyable entrees, signature sides, and delectable desserts. Welcome to Charlotte’s! Leave as friends, return as family. Hampton Convention and Visitor Bureau, Leslie Baker, VisitHampton.com, [email protected]

Harrisonburg
On a chilly winter’s day curl up with a grilled cheese sandwich from Grilled Cheese Mania. This Harrisonburg, VA restaurant started as a very popular food truck. Select from over two dozen mouth-watering grilled cheese varieties including gluten free and vegan options and 6 dipping sauces for the perfect indulgence. Harrisonburg Tourism & Visitors Services, Jennifer Bell, VisitHarrisonburgVA.com, [email protected]

Loudoun
Loudoun is famous for farm-to-fork dining, but we love our comfort fare too. BBQ crowd pleasers Monk’s, Schmidt’s and Carolina Bros deliver succulent smoked ribs, brisket and mac ‘n’ cheese, while trendy Senor Ramon Taqueria brings a hearty Virginia twist to burritos and tacos. Don’t miss burgers and fries at popular roadside market Roots 657. Visit Loudoun, Jen Sigal, VisitLoudoun.org, [email protected]

Norfolk
Spend your chilly days at our comfort food restaurants! Indulge in authentic ramen at Alkaline, made-from-scratch soups and rosemary biscuits at The Stockpot Norfolk. Warm up with the spices of Indian Chaat street food at Tamarind or enjoy a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich at Grilled Cheese Bistro. Visit Norfolk, Nicole Nussbaum, VisitNorfolk.com, [email protected]

Richmond
The Richmond region’s brand new Buttermilk and Honey is the place for fried chicken sandwiches! Chef Mike Lindsey’s menu features a variety of chicken sandwiches, Southern sides and decadent desserts. A Buttermilk and Honey outpost will be at the brand new Hatch Local Food Hall in early 2022. Visit Richmond VA, Meghan Gearino, VisitRichmondVA.com, [email protected]

Shenandoah
Family owned & operated Southern Kitchen has been serving home-style recipes for over 65 years. Step back in time and get comfy with your family in a corner booth. Friendly staff will serve up the best fried chicken, hand-cut steaks, barbeque and homemade pies in the region. Visit Shenandoah, Brenda Black, VisitShenandoahCounty.com, [email protected]

Stafford
Experience southern comfort and scratch-made delights in Northern Virginia with Stafford’s local restaurants. Indulge yourself with a beer at 6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Company, or experience Mediterranean flavors at Potomac Point Winery by savoring bites in their unique dining experiences. No matter the meal, get comfortable in Stafford. Tour Stafford Virginia, Courtney Swenson, TourStaffordVA.com, [email protected]

Staunton
Staunton’s restaurant scene is lively with an eclectic vibe. All kinds of dining establishments co-exist cheerfully. Whether it’s southern-style comfort food from Kathy’s Restaurant, grilled cheese goodness from Yelping Dog or warm savory and sweet croissants from Reunion Bakery; you’ll find it right here in Staunton, VA. Staunton, VA, Jessica Williams, VisitStaunton.com, [email protected]

Virginia’s Blue Ridge
Located minutes from I-81 in Salem, Virginia, Gina’s Food with Flavor is located in a historic home that is the perfect setting for a restaurant featuring comfort food. The menu includes Southern classics like fried chicken, catfish, pork chops, salisbury steak and other daily specials. Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, Taylor Spellman, VisitVBR.com, [email protected]

Williamsburg
Parallel to Williamsburg’s reputation as a colonial town, you’ll find restaurateurs who are passionate about their craft and boosting the city’s profile as an East Coast destination for food. Williamsburg is home to a new wave of culinary types dreaming up dishes that will excite serious gourmands and foodies alike. Visit Williamsburg, VA, Miranda Jarrell, VisitWilliamsburg.com, [email protected]

Take a look at even more images from across the Mid-Atlantic. Please be sure to provide photo credit to the appropriate DMO.

ABOUT THE MID-ATLANTIC TOURISM PUBLIC RELATIONS ALLIANCE

The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The group serves travel journalists by creating a regional resource that ignores geographical boundaries to better promote common threads, offering story ideas about the Mid-Atlantic region as a whole. For more information, visit MATPRA.org.

Date Night on Colley Avenue