8 Ways to Enjoy the Water When Visiting Norfolk April 18, 2021 by Visit Norfolk Summertime is the perfect time to make a splash with a visit to Norfolk, one of the world’s great port cities. With 144 miles of shoreline waiting to be explored, with the Chesapeake Bay, Atlantic Ocean and countless rivers in our backyard, you’re never far from the water in Norfolk. Here are a few great things to do on the water during your visit. Go Sailing Discover sailing at Sail Nauticus, the Norfolk-based sailing school and community sailing center on the Elizabeth River. Set sail for two relaxing hours with one of the captains at the rudder or take a class from a certified instructor and learn how to tack, jibe and steer. It’s a great way to unwind or just give yourself a unique treat. @rylantuohy, Instagram Join the Party at the Water’s Edge Celebrating its 43rd year in 2019, Norfolk Harborfest® is three explosive days of tall ship visits, national, regional and local entertainment, electrifying fireworks – and the biggest outdoor dock party in Hampton Roads. The June 7-9 weekend festivities include more than 130 hours of live entertainment on multiple stages featuring national, regional and local musical acts, a Craft Beer Garden, pirates, mermaids and so much more. Hit the Beaches in Ocean View & East Beach Ready for a swim? Norfolk has three beaches in the low-key Ocean View area that are perfect for swimming. These include Sarah Constant Beach Park, just east of 4th View Street, Community Beach Park, and Ocean View Beach Park, farther east near Norfolk Avenue. @marstravelsearth, Instagram Go Fishing! No matter what your choice of the fresh catch may be, you’re sure to find it in the nearby Chesapeake Bay, Atlantic Ocean or Elizabeth River. The Chesapeake Bay is home to a host of saltwater fish, including trout, flounder, cobia, croaker, red drum, and striper. The Ocean View Fishing Pier offers a unique and enjoyable experience, with fishing license included in the cost of admission, equipment available for rent, on-site facilities and restaurant, and head boat excursions departing once or twice daily. @coopdeville_, Instagram Board and Tour a Tall Ship Want to get a lay of the land from the water? Then you’ll want to set sail aboard Norfolk’s own Tall Sailing Ship, The American Rover. This three-masted topsail schooner with its familiar red “tanbark” sails has been a signature sight along the Elizabeth River and Hampton Roads Harbor since 1986, offering 1½- and 2-hour narrated Harbor or Sunset Cruises, April through October. Experience the Spirit of Norfolk See incredible views of the Norfolk Harbor and the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet aboard the Spirit of Norfolk. Enjoy delicious new menus and specialty drinks. Then, dance to DJ entertainment or relax on the rooftop lounge. It all adds up to the perfect Norfolk experience. Cruising year-round from downtown Norfolk, Spirit offers lunch, brunch, dinner, cocktail, moonlit cruises and more. @toddimbriaco, Instagram Step off the Garden Path Norfolk Botanical Garden offers more than strolls through beautiful landscapes. This must-see attraction also offers Guided Kayak Tour-Sunset Paddles and other waterborne adventures on the adjoining Lake Whitehurst. Visit their website for details and tour schedules. Cruise by the Base The Victory Rover is your front row seat to the U.S. Navy’s Norfolk-based fleet. Departing from a berth just a short walk along the Downtown Norfolk Harbor from Nauticus, the Victory Rover offers a 2-hour narrated naval base tour, an enjoyable alternative to the bus tours offered on base. Passengers will witness the majesty of the Navy’s aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines, guided missile cruisers, and other vessels that make up the world’s most powerful sea-going armada.
Best Outdoor Things to Do in Norfolk, VA April 16, 2021 by Visit Norfolk With an abundance of outdoor activities, Norfolk is the perfect destination to enjoy some sunshine. From exploring our gardens to setting sail along the Chesapeake Bay, there is a variety for you to explore. You won’t want to miss these unique ways to get outside! Photo above, @anastasiau , Instagram Parks and Gardens Elizabeth River Trail The Elizabeth River Trail or as locals call it, the ERT, is a 10.5-mile biking and pedestrian urban trail that will satisfy the highly active. Rental bikes (Pedego) are located downtown so you don’t even have to worry about having a bike! Poplar Hall Park Poplar Hall Park Disc Golf Course is one of Norfolk’s several public parks. Friends and family can enjoy the park with a picnic and toss the frisbee, but if you’re ready to get competitive the frisbee course awaits. Botanical Garden @shaundanecole, Instagram The beautiful Norfolk Botanical Garden has over 60 themed gardens on the property and there is always something to explore. Most blooms can be spotted during the spring and summer months, but make sure to check out their year-round gardens too. The Sensory Garden is year-round and filled with plants that will please all of your senses. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the sights, textures and smells of this space. Hermitage Museum and Gardens The Hermitage Museum and Gardens offer visitors a dose of history, art and horticulture all in one spot. With the Hermitage sitting right on the Lafayette River it’s a perfect backdrop for a day spent outdoors! During the warmer months, be sure to check out their “Sunsets on the River” (postponed due to COVID) event, for an evening of outdoor entertainment including local music, food trucks, art, local craft beer and wine. Best part yet, they allow your well- behaved dog to join in on the fun! Eat and Drink @cheersto757, Instagram The mild weather in Norfolk allows foodies to enjoy patios and rooftops from March to November. Breweries are equipped with patios and beer gardens that make for the perfect afternoon outing. On the Water Norfolk has 144 miles of shoreline! Needless to say, there is no shortage of water access. Sailing With the Elizabeth River and the Chesapeake Bay running along its west and north borders, Norfolk is the ideal home for a Nauticus’ sailing school and its informative boating excursions. Sign up for a weekend course emphasizing on the water instruction and earn a US Sailing Basic Keelboat certification. Fishing The Chesapeake Bay is home to a whole host of saltwater fish including trout, flounder, cobia, croaker, red drum and striper. Norfolk has two fishing piers – the Ocean View Fishing Pier and Willoughby Fishing Pier – both are open around the clock. So, drop your line in the water and see what’s biting! Self-Guided Tours and Guides Cannonball Trail @erikdeseanbarrett, Instagram This self-guided tour marks 400 years of Norfolk and American history. The Cannonball Trail winds along the shoreline of the Elizabeth River and through the districts of downtown Norfolk. Pay attention to the historic sites noted on this tour for bonus history lessons on this walking trail adventure! Must-See Outdoor Public Art Norfolk’s public art not only distinguishes us from other cities, but also brings great awareness to our community’s values. Giant sculptures, iron statues and a life-size kaleidoscope are all pieces that are scattered throughout our city for your enjoyment. While there are more than 50 pieces of public art (and counting), we’ve rounded up the must-see pieces for you.
10 Fun Things To Do in Hampton, VA Over 3-Day Weekend April 16, 2021 by Visit Hampton VA As the weather warms up, take time to slow down and enjoy it in Hampton, Virginia. Spend time relaxing at the beach, rent a canoe at Sandy Bottom Nature Park, and enjoy a delicious meal outdoors. Even when summer ends you will always have the memories that were created during your time in Hampton. Enjoy a long weekend with these 10 outdoor activities: 1. Visit the animals at Bluebird Gap Farm Goats, cows, and turtles, oh my! The animals at Bluebird Gap Farm are patiently waiting to greet you. With a large variety of animals, and beautiful landscaping, Bluebird Gap Farm is perfect for a family outing and spending time outdoors while the weather is still nice. 2. Rent a boat at Sandy Bottom Nature Park Rent a canoe, kayak, paddle boat, or jon boat from Sandy Bottom Nature Park to paddle around their lakes. Just $4 and hour to rent, this is a great activity if you are looking for fun on a budget! After you paddle, and hopefully stay dry, go for a hike on their 11 different trail systems. The trails include soft surfaces, wild life, water views, and beautiful scenery. 3. Walk around Air Power Park Free to all visitors, history buffs can walk around vintage aircraft and experimental space launch vehicles from the 1950s and 60s. Each aircraft is also accompanied by historical markers to explain the history and importance of each plane and space vehicle. If you are looking to stay cool, make sure to visit Air Power Park’s air conditioned museum open daily from 9 am – 4:30 pm. 4. Set Sail on Miss Hampton II Miss Hampton II Harbor cruises take you on a 3 hour ride to Norfolk Naval Base and back. Pass by locations only accessible by water, and learn fun and interesting facts about Hampton and the Naval Base. Cruises set sail Tuesday-Saturday at 11:00 am and Sundays at 2pm. For Labor Day, they will have special hours on Monday, with a cruise leaving the dock at 11:00 am! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride! 5. Paddle along the Chesapeake Bay Hampton Water Sports, located at Buckroe Beach has Paddle Boards, kayaks, and Jet Ski’s for you to rent. With 4 square miles to paddle and ride, it is a safe and fun activity for the whole family. Reservations are recommended! 6. Explore Historical Fort Monroe As the largest stone fort in America, visitors can walk around and explore Fort Monroe‘s 63 acres at their leisure. Learn about the fort’s history from its completion in 1834 to 2011 when it became an official National Monument. After your exploration you can soak up the sun and cool off in the water at Outlook Beach! 7. Spend the day at the beach Beach lovers can spend Labor Day weekend soaking up the sun on Hampton’s public beaches. Cool off in the Chesapeake Bay, build a sand castle, or throw a football around with friends. Beaches at Buckroe, Fort Monroe, Salt Ponds and Grandview are ready to welcome you for a day of fun in the sun! 8. Watch the sunset or sunrise Whether you are at Buckroe Beach, Downtown Hampton, or Sandy Bottom Nature Park, take time to watch the sunset light up the night sky. Surrounded by water, Hampton is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature. Early risers can watch a beautiful view of the sunrise over the Chesapeake Bay at Buckroe Beach and Fort Monroe. 9. Hit the Links The Hamptons Golf Course and Woodlands Golf Course are both open for the public to “hit the links”. Maintained by the city, these two courses are perfect for any golf lover. Grab your golf clubs, and spend a quiet day among these fun courses. 10. Dine Outdoors With many outdoor dining options, there is a restaurant for everyone to enjoy. After a long day of soaking up the sun, exploring the trails at Sandy Bottom, or playing a round of golf, refuel with a delicious meal. Discover everything Hampton has to offer as you create lasting memories over Labor Day weekend. As summer winds down, take time to relax and enjoy the outdoors with those you love most.
Learn About Explore Hampton’s Historic Black Churches April 16, 2021 by Visit Hampton VA Following the Civil War, many African Americans in Hampton received their education in concert with religious studies through the programs of the American Missionary Association, a philanthropic society dedicated to teaching people of color. But while the presence of the association brought new religious ideas to their communities, Hampton’s African American population soon broke away. Forming their own congregations, they were able to worship more inclusively. The churches were also the source of moral and social advancement, initiating and sustaining temperance organizations, fraternal groups, a YMCA, and a host of social gatherings. The following churches are significant because they represent some of Hampton’s first African American sanctuaries. Learn more about these historic Hampton churches: St. John’s Episcopal Church 100 West Queens Way Hampton, Va 23669 The Elizabeth City Parish was formed in 1610, the same year the first English – speaking settlement was established in Hampton. This parish would become that of St. John’s Episcopal Church in 1728. It helped other Episcopal parishes organize, including the first Black Episcopal congregation in Hampton, St. Cyprian Episcopal Church. Little England Chapel 4100 Kecoughtan Road Hampton, Va 23669 Built in 1879, Little England Chapel is Virginia’s only known African American missionary chapel. Exhibits interpret the religious lives of post-Civil War African Americans in Virginia and include handwritten Sunday school lessons, photographs, a 12-minute video, and 19th-century religious books. Call ahead, (757) 660-8646, to tour this State and National Historic Landmark. St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church 1242 West Queen Street Hampton, Va 23669 Formed in 1905, The St. Cyprian group was small at first, numbering just 10, and moved from location to location until a permanent sanctuary could be raised. For a short time the Black congregation met in the parish hall at St. John’s. In 1907, the first Cyprian’s Church was built on Lincoln Street and remained there until 1963, when it moved to a new church on the campus of Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute. The congregation now resides at 1242 West Queen St. First Baptist Church 229 North King Street Hampton, Va 23669 First Baptist Church grew out of Hampton Baptist Church, the city’s oldest congregation. Before the Civil War, White and Black people shared the same worship space, with White parishioners utilizing the main sanctuary while Black parishioners worshiped from the balcony. In 1863, Black churchgoers separated from the parent body to establish their own place of worship. First Baptist found its permanent home in 1889 on North King Street. Zion Baptist Church 125 West County Street Hampton, Va 23663 Established in 1863, the congregation held house-to-house prayer meetings and open-air assemblies. The Reverend William Thornton, who was formerly enslaved, was its first and only pastor for 39 years. Drawn by his powerful sermons, membership soon grew and a large structure was raised on County Road in 1869. Zion Baptist Church was instrumental in organizing several other churches in Hampton. Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church 2521 N Armistead Ave Hampton, VA 23666 Historic Bethel AME was organized in August 1864, at Camp Hamilton, New Tabb’s Field by Father Peter Sheppard. After many years of persistent labor, the first brick church was erected on Lincoln Street in 1887. After 85 years of service, and numerous repairs and additions, the present sanctuary was completed in 1972 under the leadership of the late Reverend R. W. Wisner. In 2020, Bethel AME parish moved to its present location on Armistead Avenue. Queen Street Baptist Church 190 W Queen St Hampton, VA 23669 First known as Second Baptist, Queen Street Church was established in 1865 by African Americans from Williamsburg. The group worshiped at various locations including the Hampton Court House and at Butler School near the site of Emancipation Oak. Eventually land was purchased and the church was raised “in town”before eventually moving to its present address on West Queens Way in 1893. Memorial Church Hampton University Campus Located on the campus of Hampton University, Memorial Church is an Italian-Romanesque structure that features an 150-foot tower and four-faced illuminated clock. Built in 1886, the elaborate building was designed by New York architect J.C. Cady. One of six National Historic Landmarks on campus, the chapel is still used for services when the campus is open. Tour the chapel virtually with the Hampton University Virtual Tours! Antioch Baptist Church 1563 Old Buckroe Rd. Hampton, Va 23664 Antioch Baptist Church was organized on September 1, 1895 when the Herbert Family donated land for a school, lodge, and church to be constructed in Buckroe. The church founders originated from Zion Baptist Church in Phoebus and Queen Street Baptist Church. Services were held in the lodge until plans were formulated for the church.
Roanoke in Virginia’s Blue Ridge is a Top Adventure Town Winner February 3, 2021 by Virginias Blue Ridge Roanoke in Virginia’s Blue Ridge is a winner of the Blue Ridge Outdoors Top Adventure Towns contest! Thanks to the support of the many who cast their votes over the four rounds of the competition, Roanoke is the winner of the Large Adventure Town category, edging out Chattanooga, TN and Asheville, NC in the finals. The 2020 victory marks back-to-back Top Adventure Town titles for Roanoke in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, which also won the Large Town category in the 2019 Top Adventure Towns contest. It’s the 5th Top Town title in the past 9 years of the competition for Roanoke! With over 1,000 miles of trails, Virginia’s Blue Ridge has established itself as a premier destination for outdoor recreation and adventure. Roanoke is the largest city on the iconic Appalachian Trail, one of the best hiking trails in the world, and the region is the only IMBA Silver-Level Ride Center on the East Coast, establishing Virginia’s Blue Ridge as America’s East Coast Mountain Biking Capital. Many visitors from around the country plan vacations to Roanoke for experiences like hiking the Virginia Triple Crown or mountain biking at Carvins Cove. You’ll also find multiple access points for the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the most visited units in the National Park System and “America’s Favorite Drive,” and thousands of acres to explore in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests. In addition to the trails for hiking and biking, you can get on the water in Virginia’s Blue Ridge with paddling trips along the Roanoke River Blueway and Upper James River Water Trail, two amazing local blueways, or boating and fishing at Smith Mountain Lake and Philpott Lake in Franklin County. Roanoke in Virginia’s Blue Ridge is the perfect location to be a #Trailsetter and find all kinds of unique adventures. We’re thrilled to be named a Top Adventure Town by Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine and so appreciative of everyone who cast a vote in support of Roanoke! We’d also like to congratulate our fellow Virginia destinations that won their respective categories – Floyd, VA (Tiny Town), Bedford, VA (Small Town), and Charlottesville, VA (Medium Town). Check out our Top Adventure Towns Itinerary for an epic road trip featuring all the winning destinations. View Itinerary. We invite you to plan your next metro mountain adventure in Roanoke in Virginia’s Blue Ridge! Plan a Visit today.
8 “Not To Miss” Hikes In Prince William, VA October 27, 2020 by Visit Prince William Whether you’re new to hiking or an avid trailblazer, Prince William, VA has a wide variety of scenic hikes to enjoy. Hike through hallowed grounds, challenge your stamina, or enjoy a family-friendly excursion – here are 8 hikes that you won’t want to miss. 1. Deep Cut Loop Trail Head over to Manassas National Battlefield Park for a 1.2-mile historic hike along Deep Cut Loop Trail. This awesome trail follows the line of the unfinished Manassas gap railroad that was occupied by Stonewall Jackson’s troops during the Battle of Second Manassas in August 1862. The trail is well marked with historical markers showing the points of view of the participants of both sides during the battle. The trail has a couple of moderate hills however it is still a relatively easy hike. View the Manassas National Battlefield Park Trail Map. 2. Conway Robinson State Forest Open daily from 7 am to 7 pm, Conway Robinson State Forest is easily accessible, with plenty of beautiful forest scenery to enthrall you during your hike. With a variety of trails to enjoy, your hike can last anywhere between 1 to 3 miles, depending on which trail you choose. For the most part, the trails are easy to hike and fairly flat – an ideal hike to do with your family. View the Conway Robinson State Forest Trail Map. 3. Locust Shade Park Located just minutes from I-95, next to the National Museum of the Marine Corps, you will find Locust Shade Park. Open year-round, this 400-acre park has some lovely, picturesque trails waiting to be explored. There are 3.2 miles of scenic nature trails and a 15-station fitness trail – for those looking to work-out or to improve their stamina. The fitness trail goes through some hilly and wooded terrain, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear. View Locust Shade Park Trail Map 4. Matthews Hill Another trail set at historical Manassas National Battlefield Park is the Matthews Hill one-mile loop. Begin your hike at the Matthews Hill parking lot where the trail leads upwards. At the top of the hill, you’ll be able to enjoy the view of the historic Stone House on Henry Hill in the distance. The trail then descends down the hill and enter the woods. Historical markers along the trail reference the Battle of First Manassas (Bull Run). Explore additional trails telling the story of Battle of First Manassas (Bull Run). 5. Silver Lake Regional Park If you’re looking for a hike with plenty of scenic beauty, then take a trip to Silver Lake Regional Park. This 230-acres park offers pine forests, rolling meadows, and a 23-acre lake. There are four miles of hiking and equestrian trails, picnic areas and public restrooms available – making it a perfect spot for a family hike. View Silver Lake Park Trail Map. 6. James Long Park The trails at James Long Park run along natural surfaces, including some terrain which is both hilly and wooded. The trail is approximately 4 miles long and is often shared between hikers and equestrians. This is another good family-friendly location, with plenty of activities on offer, including a playground. The trail also allows for some lovely views of the Catharpin Creek. View James Long Park Trail Map. 7. George Hellwig Memorial Park The main attraction here is the one-mile stonedust looped trail through the woods. The George Hellwig Memorial Park trail is perfect for beginners or experienced hikers looking for a place to train. The trail also features a variety of fitness stations. Bringing the kids? Enjoy a picnic lunch in the pavilion next to the playground. View George Hellwig Memorial Park Trail Map 8. Nokesville Park At Nokesville Park, you will find 2 miles worth of natural surface trails as well as additional trail routes that take you around the edges of the park. The trails are shared between hikers, cyclists and equestrians, so be sure to remain attentive whilst enjoying the wonderful scenery. View Nokesville Park Trail Map