Best Eats in Ocean View and East Beach – Norfolk, VA July 11, 2022 Best Eats in Ocean View and East Beach Ocean View and East Beach are best known for their beaches, but the food scene in this neighborhood is equally worth the exploration. From local seafood to finger-licking bbq and all the international dishes in between, Ocean View has it all. Here are some of our local favorites in the neighborhood. A World of Good Ever wish you could eat more than one type of cuisine and not have to go to multiple restaurants to quench that desire? Lucky for you A World of Good (pictured above, @alyssaboone_) is a globally inspired street food cantina serving up dishes from multiple continents. Their menu offerings range from Bao Buns and Bibimbap to Latin American styled nachos and the classic North American Philly Cheesesteak. Bar-q @bar_q , Instagram Southern wraparound porches will catch your eye when you drive by Bar-Q’s location which is nestled inside Bold Mariner Brewery. Your attention will quickly divert to the oversized meat smoker that resides in their parking lot, leaving you to wonder just how delicious their BBQ must be. Next, the aromas of freshly smoked meat will have your mouth watering almost instantly while you debate what to order on their à la carte menu. We highly suggest filling up a platter with their moist brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, rich mac and cheese, spicy (but not too spicy) jalapeño and cheddar links, classic cornbread and the menu doesn’t end there! Pit Master, Jayme Campbell, is a barbecue pro but embraces his creative side and on occasion hosts BBQ Sushi Nights at the brewery. Captain Groovy’s Raw Bar and Grill A telltale sign a restaurant is well loved is when their parking lot is always full. Captain Groovy’s has quite the local following and attracts lots of attention around happy hour – one of the best in Norfolk! Crowds keep coming back for their fresh seafood platters, raw bar and southern seafood items including their Low Country Boil, Seafood Creole and Crab Cake entrees. They have a laid back atmosphere, plenty of outdoor seating and are a stone’s throw away from the beach. Jessy’s Tienda y Taqueria @_nomarama_, Instagram What better way to end a beach day than with homemade tortilla chips dipped in fresh diced salsa while sipping a cold cerveza or margarita? Jessy’s has been slinging out some delicious Mexican tacos for a few years now and even made their debut on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives back in 2017 – for the avid Food Network fans. Jessy’s also doubles as a tienda – a convenience shop for all your Mexican dish needs. They sell Carne Asada and Chorizo in their butcher shop section, hot peppers and Mexican spices in their grocery section and even have a fresh baked goods area where you can munch on all the Conchas y Borregas to Polvoron you could want. So, go hungry and we promise you will leave full and happy. My Mama’s Kitchen It always seems big tastes come from small kitchens, and in this case My Mama’s Kitchen is that tiny kitchen that packs a big punch. We normally recommend My Mama’s Kitchen for their barbecue or wings, but the whole menu is delicious. Try their Drip Sandwich – a warm fried chicken sandwich covered in drip sauce (their secret sauce) and topped with house slaw, pickles and remoulade on a brioche bun. Treat yourself to one of their classic southern Chicken and Waffle dishes or nibble on one of the seafood platters. Just be mindful of their 5:30 p.m. closing time! Oceanview Diner Chow down at the beach’s classic All-American coastal diner. They have delicious classics on the menu including steak and eggs and chicken and waffles. Don’t forget to also check out their specials board for daily seafood dishes for other options. Ocean View Pier @greenriotgrrrl, Instagram The Ocean View Fishing Pier Restaurant, an icon to this neighborhood, sits high in the air offering views of the Chesapeake Bay for miles. Adirondack high top seats that parallel the Chesapeake Bay invite you to sip on some sweet tea, slurp down she crab soup and relish in the fact that you just saw a dolphin!
Beat the Heat in the Mid-Atlantic July 10, 2022 (July 2022) – Summer is in full swing, and the Mid-Atlantic region has got you covered if you’re looking to cool down as summer really starts to heat up! Spend a day on the lake, splash around with the kids at a water park or enjoy a shaded picnic at a park. Add these adventures to your summer to-do list! 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 & the Brandywine Valley A stone’s throw from the historic Smith’s Bridge Covered Bridge, there is a slow-moving section of the Brandywine Creek perfect for a cooling dip. Visitors will find a rope swing to help them take the plunge. The adjacent picnic area, within the First State National Park, is the ideal spot to relax in the shade afterward. Set the GPS to Smith Bridge Picnic Area. Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau, Jennifer Boes, VisitWilmingtonDE.com, [email protected] MARYLAND Allegany Cool down this summer on the Allegany County Ice Cream Trail. Nine locations throughout Mountain Maryland range from roadside stands to diners to old-fashioned ice cream parlors. Each stop on the trail is 100% locally owned and offers such menu items as super shakes, sundaes, frozen custard, and more! Allegany County, The Mountain Side of Maryland, Mindy Bianca, MDMountainside.com/blog/allegany-county-ice-cream-trail, [email protected] Allegany County, MD Annapolis & Anne Arundel From public sails and cruises to water taxi rides, stand-up paddle boarding, and kayaking, nothing says beat the heat like exploring our 500+ miles of Chesapeake Bay shoreline. Bike or hike 54 miles of paved trails, stroll an 18th-century pleasure garden or relax in the shade at our wineries and breweries. Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, Susan Seifried, VisitAnnapolis.org, [email protected] Calvert At just under an hour’s drive from DC and Baltimore, the Chesapeake Beach Water Park is a family-friendly destination featuring pools, slides, & waterfalls, plus private cabana rentals. Voted one of Maryland’s Best Water Parks. Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Hilary Dailey, ChooseCalvert.com, [email protected] Harford Cool down along Harford’s Snowball Trail. Stroll through Ladew Gardens, one of the top topiary gardens in the country, and witness their Butterfly House. Get out on the water via jet ski, SUP, kayak, sailing, or windsurfing. Take to the skies via hot air balloon or skydiving. Visit Harford, Matthew Scales, VisitHarford.com, [email protected] Maryland (state of) Beat the summer heat with this frozen treat, first served on the continent by Maryland Governor Thomas Bladen in 1744. Check out “Ice Cream Lovers’ Guide to Maryland” and discover funky flavors, cow-to-cone-creameries, and a 275-year tradition that makes Maryland a very cool sweet (or savory!) summer paradise. Maryland Office of Tourism, Connie Spindler, VisitMaryland.org, [email protected] Talbot Visitors will see herons, egrets, osprey, turtles, and more while navigating the St. Michaels and Tilghman Island Water Trails. Kayak and canoe rentals are available throughout Talbot County including at select lodging establishments. Pick a place with a pool or swimming outlet for the ultimate way to beat the heat. Talbot County Office of Economic Development and Tourism, Krista Boothby, TourTalbot.org, [email protected] Talbot County, MD PENNSYLVANIA Bradford The Endless Mountains Heritage Region hosts kayaking sojourns on the North Branch Susquehanna River Water Trail through the beauty Bradford County scenery and at local lakes in order to promote outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship. These multi-day trips are a chance to tour the region and beat the summer heat! Bradford County Tourism Promotion Agency, Morgan Christopher, VisitBradfordCounty.com, [email protected] Columbia-Montour Boy, it’s hot outside! Escape the heat on the Falls Trail Loop at Ricketts Glen State Park, where the abundance of trees and roaring waterfalls keep temperatures bearable. Later, hit the Susquehanna River for a cooling kayak adventure. Or, visit Knoebels Crystal Pool for a cooldown between riding those coasters! Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau, Linda Sones, ITourColumbiaMontour.com, [email protected] Erie Erie is Pennsylvania’s ONLY port on the Great Lakes! Enjoy Presque Isle State Park-a National Natural Landmark nestled between Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay, featuring 7 miles of sandy beaches, boating, swimming, pontoon tours, kayaking, hiking/biking trails, Discover Presque Isle Festival, world-class sunsets, and the Tom Ridge Environmental Center. Visit Erie, Chris Temple, VisitErie.com, [email protected] Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania The waterfall trails of Ricketts Glen State Park and the beautiful recreation resources of Lake Jean make this Endless Mountains state park one of summer’s favorite attractions for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers. The cabins and campgrounds near the lakes and trails offer close proximity to the fantastic resources to cool off. Endless Mountain Visitors Bureau, Morgan Christopher, EndlessMountains.org, [email protected] Endless Mountains, PA Juniata River Valley With a waterfront location on both the serene Juniata River and the historic Pennsylvania Canal, WaterSide Campground has plenty of ways to beat the heat. Enjoy a ride on a replica canal boat down the Historic Pennsylvania Canal, fish for small-mouth bass in the river, or cool off as you float down the river. Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau, Buffie Boyer, WatersideCampground.com, [email protected] Lancaster Duke’s Lagoon waterpark at Dutch Wonderland amusement park features a multi-level waterplay platform, kid-sized slides, a variety of spray nozzles & jets, and a large tipping bucket. The area also includes a tropical paradise lounge section, which includes palm trees, thatched umbrella shading, and plenty of seating. Discover Lancaster, Joel Cliff, DiscoverLancaster.com, [email protected] Lancaster, PA Lawrence With multiple kayak and boat launches, visitors have many opportunities to enjoy the beautiful blue ways Lawrence County has to offer. Float along the Shenago River, which was voted “River of the Year” or for the experienced there is Slippery Rock Creek at McConnells Mill State Park. Visit Lawrence County, Janet Falotico, VisitLawrenceCounty.com, [email protected] Potter-Tioga Outfitters across our beautiful two counties have all the equipment you need to cool off on the waterways to enjoy kayaking, canoeing, tubing, paddle boarding, and all the other popular activities that offer you a way to beat the heat. See the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon in the morning, count stars at Dark Skies, but time in between on our area’s lakes, creeks, and streams. Visit Potter-Tioga, Morgan Christopher, VisitPotterTioga.com, [email protected] Pennsylvania (Commonwealth of) This year, The Pennsylvania Tourism Office and the Department of Agriculture launched the fifth annual Ice Cream Trail, a self-guided road trip of farm-to-scoop creameries across the commonwealth. This year, “Scooped: An Ice Cream Trail” is going digital, and visitors who complete the 2022 trail by September 10 win a special ice cream scooper. Pennsylvania Tourism Office, visitPA, Pennsylvania Tourism Office, VisitPA.com, [email protected] Raystown Region Beating the heat is easy in the Raystown Lake Region of Pennsylvania! Swim at one of the two public beaches at Raystown Lake or find your own secret swimming hole anywhere on the 118 miles of shoreline. Greenwood Furnace and Whipple Dam State Parks’ lakes are close by, full of refreshing mountain water, and lined with public beaches and playgrounds. Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau, Liza Gutshall, Raystown.org, [email protected] VIRGINIA Giles Bring your own or rent from our local outfitters to fish, float, and paddle along the New River Water Trail this summer. The New River flows 37 miles through Giles County and hosts world-class fishing, class I and II rapids, or gentle flowing waters. Boys trips, girls’ getaways, or family vacations- find it at Virginia’s Mountain Playground. Giles County, VA Tourism, Cora Gnegy, NewRiverWaterTrail.com/NRWT, [email protected] Giles County, VA Hampton Beat the heat in Hampton at Outlook Beach, located at Ft. Monroe National Monument. Experience scenic views of the Chesapeake Bay and enjoy the fort’s many historic sites. Visitors can also cool off at Buckroe Beach’s newly-renovated boardwalk or catch live music at the Docks at Downtown Hampton. Hampton Convention and Visitor Bureau, Mahogany Waldon, VisitHampton.com, [email protected] Harrisonburg Wander through cool shaded trails in Harrisonburg’s arboretum or bike through the wooded Hillandale Park, plan a picnic with a dip in a local stream at Riven Rock Park, or enjoy a visit to Virginia’s Quilt Museum, Mineral Museum or Explore More Museum all in The Friendly City, Harrisonburg, VA. Harrisonburg Tourism & Visitor Services, Jennifer Bell, VisitHarrisonburgVA.com, [email protected] Loudoun From rafting and kayaking the Potomac River to stand-up paddle boarding Beaverdam Reservoir and getting soaked at Volcano Island Waterpark, Loudoun has the wet and wild adventures to keep you and the kids cool this summer. Visit Loudoun, Jennifer Sigal, VisitLoudoun.org, [email protected] Norfolk Get on the water in Norfolk, VA. Cruise the Elizabeth River on American Rover as the sun sets or paddle the Lafayette River with Norfolk Kayak Rentals. Spend a day on the beach at Ocean View and enjoy all waterside fun in the city. Visit Norfolk, Paige Hawsey, VisitNorfolk.com, [email protected] Shenandoah County Your summertime cool down begins on the Shenandoah River where you can slip in a canoe, kayak, or tube and float the day away. Lake Laura at Bryce Resort is perfect for swimming and non-motorized sports. Enjoy shaded picnics, splash around in pools or take the River Walk in Strasburg. Visit Shenandoah County, Brenda Black, VisitShenandoahCounty.com, [email protected] Shenandoah County, VA Stafford Beat the Heat in Stafford, Virginia where the water’s calling. Take an epic paddling adventure at Widewater State Park. Spend time boating on the Potomac River, then unwind with our local Food & Spirits experience. End the day with a breathtaking sunset at Aquia Landing. Soak up the summer in Stafford. Tour Stafford Virginia, Brittany Loving, TourStaffordVA.com, [email protected] Staunton Experience Staunton’s great outdoors! Whether you’re looking for a family adventure or a getaway with friends, we’ve got you covered. Head to Walnut Hills Campground for an ideal destination for families or Sherando Lake Recreation Area which boasts two deliciously cool spring-fed lakes. Dig out the tent and camp chairs! Staunton, VA, Jessica Williams, VisitStaunton.com, [email protected] Town of Culpeper Spend the day floating down the Rappahannock River, picnic at Rockwater Park, and play all day in the splash pad and on the playground there or rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard for a little outdoor adventure at Lake Pelhem. Culpeper, VA is the perfect spot to stay cool this summer. Visit Culpeper, Virginia, Nicole Warner, VisitCulpeperVa.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.
Fun in the Sunflowers at Maple Bottom Farm July 8, 2022Vickie and Mike Baker have owned Maple Bottom Farm in Dawson for 5 years, raising chickens, milking cows, and processing cheese. The couple shares a passion to educate others on agriculture and dairy, so they do just that by providing farm tours to visitors. They also have a beautiful farmhouse bed and breakfast on site, offering a serene place for visitors to rest and wake up to the sounds of the roosters, alerting them to start their day exploring the Laurel Highlands. The property proves to be a must-visit destination in the Laurel Highlands, but the farm’s sunflower maze is the crown jewel of the farm. Spanning across 10 acres on Maple Bottom Farm, the sunflower maze is open every day besides Mondays until Labor Day. Their hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. This year, the farm planted more than 300,000 sunflower seeds across the 10 acres, including 2 acres of orange (autumn beauty) sunflowers that grow multiple blooms per stem. Throughout the maze, you will find multiple props like a 1950s gliders bench, hay bales topped with saddles, and vintage photo frames, making plenty of photo opportunities with a beautiful backdrop. After a walk through the maze, you’ll probably work up an appetite. During the week, Maple Bottom Farm sells cheese curds, ice cream, and milkshakes made from their own dairy products, and on weekends, you can find a food truck parked on the property. If you prefer to pack a lunch, you can catch some shade under the pavilion and enjoy the views while eating your meal. Sunflowers aren’t the only flowers blanketing the farmland. This year, Maple Bottom Farm planted 26 pounds of zinnia seeds, resulting in millions of zinnias blooming across two-and-a-half acres. The colorful zinnias stand at 2- to 3-feet tall and attract swarms of beautiful butterflies. On Wednesday mornings, those who pre-register can pick up a 9-quart bucket of sunflowers, zinnias, or a combination of both! There’s something romantic about a field of sunflowers, right? Plan your next date night at Maple Bottom Farm with an intimate picnic in the sunflowers, which includes admission to the sunflower field, seating, silverware, stemware, blankets, pillows, a cheese board, and a mason jar filled with fresh flowers that are yours to take home. Feel free to bring your own food and beverages to enjoy during your date night, they’ll have a bucket of ice waiting for you! There will be no shortage of photo opportunities during your visit to Maple Bottom Farm, so they’re challenging you to a photo contest! Catch a butterfly in the zinnias or a goldfinch in the sunflowers, snap a pic and submit your photos to Maple Bottom Farm via Facebook Messenger! The deadline to enter is September 10, and the top photos in each category will be posted on Facebook for everybody to vote for their favorite! Each winner will receive a $100 gift certificate to the Farmhouse Bed and Breakfast. Although the sunflower maze will only be open until Labor Day, Maple Bottom Farm has big plans for this fall! Keep an eye on their website and Facebook to catch dates for farm-to-table dinners, trunk or treat, movie on the barn nights, and a fall festival complete with pumpkin picking and wagon rides. With new blooms popping up every two weeks and props rotating in and out of the maze, no two visits to Maple Bottom Farm are the same! Regardless of when you visit, the immense beauty of the vast farmland is something you won’t soon forget. “Sometimes we take the beauty that surrounds us for granted, and we are grateful that we can share it with other people.” – Vickie Baker All photos were provided by Maple Bottom Farm.
Let’s Celebrate! in the Mid-Atlantic June 27, 2022 Thomas Point Lighthouse (June 2022) – MATPRA is turning 20 and we’re in a celebratory mood in the Mid-Atlantic region! And what better season for a celebration than summer! From brightly colored seasonal treats, art festivals, vineyard tours, outdoor concert series, fireworks, and everything in between, there’s so much to do, see and eat this time of year. Here’s how you can celebrate summer in Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and, Virginia. 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 & the Brandywine Valley Take advantage of the fantastic weather at the Wilmington Riverfront. Dine al fresco, play some mini golf, take a tiki boat cruise, or enjoy a microbrew at Constitution Yards Beer Garden. Visitors can also rent a bike and cycle the 7.2-mile JAM Trail into Historic New Castle where more adventure awaits. End the day with some homemade ice cream from Woodside Farm Creamery. Greater Wilmington Convention & Visitors Bureau, Jennifer Boes, VisitWilmingtonDE.com, [email protected] MARYLAND Allegany All aboard! After years of meticulous restoration, the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad recently celebrated the inauguration of Locomotive No. 1309 into regular service. This historic steam-powered ambassador of Allegany County takes guests on a scenic ride on the rails between Cumberland and Frostburg … delivering unforgettable memories along the way. Allegany County, The Mountain Side of Maryland, Mindy Bianca, MDmountainSide.com/Western-Maryland-Scenic-Railroad, [email protected] Annapolis & Anne Arundel Explore the Chesapeake Bay via sail, power, stand-up paddleboard, and kayak cruises. Tour the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse. Enjoy al fresco dining at Dinner Under the Stars. Celebrate the arts at Annapolis Arts week and our First Sunday Arts Festivals. Salute our maritime heritage at weekly Tides & Tunes summer concerts. Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, Susan Seifried, VisitAnnapolis.org, [email protected] Calvert The Sea Glass & Beach Crafts Market at Annmarie Sculpture Garden will be on July 2, 2022. Join us for a celebration of summer and all things beachy! Browse 50+ booths featuring a variety of handmade, homemade, and homegrown products! If you love sun & sand, this is for you! Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Hilary Dailey, ChooseCalvert.com, [email protected] Harford Make your way to the top of the Chesapeake Bay in June for three full days of music, film and more. The Havre de Grace Jazz and Blues Festival is a citywide music festival with legendary jazz and blues performances. Visit Harford, Matthew Scales, VisitHarford.com, [email protected] Kent (MD) There’s nothing better than the sweet sounds of summer under a starry sky. Enjoy a night of free outdoor concerts at Chestertown’s Music in the Park Concert series. Bring a chair and join the fun on Saturday evenings in Fountain Park located in historic downtown Chestertown. Kent County Tourism, MD, Jana Carter, KentCounty.com, [email protected] Maryland (State of) To honor the anniversary of her 200th birthday, 2022 is the “Year of Harriet Tubman” in Maryland – Tubman’s birthplace. Take a powerful and inspiring road trip to destinations, attractions, and museums across Maryland that are celebrating her legacy through special events, curated exhibits, and driving tours. Maryland Office of Tourism, Connie Spindler, VisitMaryland.org, [email protected] Talbot Talbot County salutes MATPRA on its 20th Anniversary! Celebrate with us by enjoying a cocktail at The Antique and Classic Boat Festival; bringing home a masterpiece from Plein Air Easton, one of the country’s most prestigious art competitions; or raising a glass at the Chesapeake Bay Balloon and Wine Festival. Talbot County Office of Economic Development and Tourism, Krista Boothby, TourTalbot.org, [email protected] Wicomico Celebrate summer in Wicomico County. Each Fourth of July, enjoy fireworks and festivities during Red White and BOOM. In August, have fun with the family at the Wicomico County Fair and see all kinds of performers at the National Folk Festival. Families can also catch a Delmarva Shorebirds baseball game. Wicomico County Tourism, Vanessa Junkin, WicomicoTourism.org, [email protected] PENNSYLVANIA Allegheny National Forest Region Summer is the season to enjoy Art in the Wilds at Evergreen Park, and to sample the local farm to table cuisine of Table 105, CJ Spirits, and Flickerwood Wine Cellars in Kane, PA. Families will enjoy camping in the Allegheny National Forest (ANF), and hiking/biking miles of woodland trails. Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau, Linda Devlin, VisitANF.com, [email protected] Butler Celebrate tourism in the charming towns of Butler County like Saxonburg, Zelienople, and Harmony. Strollable sidewalks along Main Streets make these towns even more appealing as you learn about the area’s unique history while visiting museums, trendy boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. During the summer months, you’ll also discover street festivals and open-air markets. Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau, Tiffany Hernandez, VisitButlerCounty.com, [email protected] Bradford The Susquehanna Summer Solstice Fest June 17th-19th at the French Azilum celebrates the arts, music, dance, nature, and history along with environmental awareness. The fest includes plain air (out of doors) painting competition and show, food, and live music each day. Celebrate the arts and the scenic beauty of Bradford County! Bradford County Tourism Promotion Agency, Morgan Christopher, VisitBradfordCounty.com , [email protected] Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania Waterways across the Endless Mountains are the place to beat the heat each season! From a refreshing dip in a mountain creek to standing underneath a natural waterfall to a day out on the river kayaking, the freshwater resources of the region invite you to beat the heat in our own pristine natural waterpark! Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, Morgan Christopher, EndlessMountains.org, [email protected] Juniata River Valley Summer has arrived, and along with it, our favorite outdoor pastimes. Join locals at the many small-town festivals, paddle the Juniata River’s 100+ mile stretch, feel the rush of excitement at Port Royal Speedway, or sit underneath the stars to watch a movie at Midway Drive-In Theatre. Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau, Buffie Boyer, JRVVisitors.com, [email protected] Lancaster The 8th annual Lancaster Roots & Blues Festival on July 9-10 in Lancaster City features musicians from around the U.S. and beyond interpreting blues, jazz, folk, soul, rockabilly, funk, bluegrass, and more. Slate of 40 (and counting!) acts at 8 downtown venues, plus the new ArtPart exhibition for emerging artists. Discover Lancaster, Joel Cliff, DiscoverLancaster.com, [email protected] Lehigh Valley From fruits to vines, Lehigh Valley is prime for the picking! Ripe strawberries, cherries, sunflowers, and more can be picked fresh this summer. The region is also considered a paradise for wine lovers, with over 30 vineyards in the area to savor and sample, including Galen Glen Winery with panoramic views of the countryside. Discover Lehigh Valley, Alicia Quinn, DiscoverLehighValley.com, [email protected] Potter-Tioga Over a two week period in summer, the Endless Mountain Music Festival brings world-renowned musicians to perform at a wide variety of locations across northern Pennsylvania. Discover world-class performances presented at museums, outdoors, historic venues, and other spots across the region. Visit Potter-Tioga, Morgan Christopher, VisitPotterTioga.com, [email protected] Raystown Region Summertime in the Raystown Lake Region means lake days full of sunshine, swimming, sand, and playgrounds at Seven Points Beach! Lighthouse Adventures water trampolines are a blast for every age. Stock up on new floaties and snacks on your way at Seven Points Bait & Grocery. Then grab some mouthwatering BBQ ribs and brisket at Backwoods Smoke Shack on your way home. Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau, Liza Gutshall, www.raystown.org, [email protected] VIRGINIA Hampton Celebrate family, friendship, and freedom in Hampton, Virginia. Juneteenth events honoring history and heritage will take place all month including festivals, lectures, and more. Hampton is also home to several sites that commemorate Black heritage including the Emancipation Oak where the first Southern reading of the Emancipation Proclamation was held. Hampton Convention and Visitor Bureau, Mahogany Waldon, VisitHampton.com, [email protected] Harrisonburg Enjoy vibrant murals, colorful mosaics, and quaint sculptures in Downtown Harrisonburg, an original Virginia Arts and Cultural District for over 20 years. Follow the Art Walk to see Harrisonburg’s Arts Council Sculpture Garden, Oasis Art Gallery, and Virginia Quilt Museum which all also celebrated 20+ year milestones. Harrisonburg Tourism & Visitor Services, Jennifer Bell, VisitHarrisonburgVA.com, [email protected] Lexington & Rockbridge It’s all about freedom, fireworks, and fun during the WanderLOVE Rocking Rockbridge Summer Six event July 2-4 in Lexington and Rockbridge County, VA! Enjoy three days of celebrations with 10 bands, 19 hot air balloons, a tasty downtown street festival, and more. It’s excitement the whole family will enjoy! Lexington & Rockbridge Area Tourism, Patty Williams, LexingtonVirginia.com, [email protected] Loudoun Sip a crisp Viognier, picnic between the vines, or enjoy live music at many of Loudoun’s 50-plus wineries this summer. Round that out with fresh meals sourced from local farms, pro sports at Segra Field and a walk on the Appalachian Trail and you will have a trip to remember in Loudoun.Visit Loudoun, Jen Sigal, VisitLoudoun.org, [email protected] Norfolk Festival season is back in Norfolk, VA. Kick off June with Harbor Fest, America’s largest, longest-running, free maritime festival. Enjoy live music, a Parade Sail and one of the largest fireworks shows on the East Coast. Celebrate Pride Month with PrideFest, a vibrant and energetic celebration not to be missed. Visit Norfolk, Paige Hawsey, VisitNorfolk.com, [email protected] Orange Summer is the perfect time to sample a local vintage or sip a cold brew along the NEW Corks and Caps Trail. Celebrating the 7 wineries and 4 breweries that make Orange County special, Corks and Caps invites all craft beverage lovers to savor the unique flavors of Central Virginia! Visit Orange Virginia, Julie Perry, CorksAndCapsVA.com, [email protected] Shenandoah Get closer to nature and celebrate family! No-frills Not fancy, just make some old fashion summertime memories. Hike in the woods, feed llamas, go horseback riding, pick berries, explore caverns, tube down the river, and marvel at the views; while enjoying farm-fresh foods, sweet ice cream, and local craft beverages. Visit Shenandoah County, Brenda Black, VisitShenandoahCounty.com, [email protected] Stafford Celebrate and sip your way through summer in Stafford, Virginia. Stafford’s local breweries & wineries offer entertainment for all. Feeling competitive? Play 6B&G’s disc golf putting course or bocce ball at Potomac Point Winery. Enjoy live music nights, festivals, and even a Renaissance Faire this summer in Stafford’s breweries & wineries. Tour Stafford Virginia, Courtney Swenson, TourStaffordVA.com, [email protected] Staunton We have your guide to Staunton’s summer soundtrack! Kick back on a blanket under the stars and listen to the best area music at SummerStage. Celebrate Independence Day with live music and fireworks at Happy Birthday America. Relish the sounds of chamber, vocal, & symphonic music at Staunton Music Festival. Staunton, VA, Jessica Williams, VisitStaunton.com, [email protected] Town of Culpeper Get outside in Culpeper, VA this summer. Spend an afternoon floating down the river, celebrating the 160th commemoration of the Battle of Cedar Mountain with living history, or enjoy live local music in the historic downtown district every 1st Friday and 3rd Thursday throughout the summer. Rich History, Modern Charm. Culpeper Tourism and Visitors Center, Nicole Warner, VisitCulpeperVa.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.
Shenandoah County’s Wine and Art Scene June 16, 2022 Shenandoah County’s Wine and Art Scene Shenandoah County is lauded for its beauty and wealth of outdoor entertainment options. But Virginia is also known as the “birthplace of American wine,” and residents have been growing and pressing grapes here for 400 years. Shenandoah County is home to nine vineyards that produce tasty and complex wines and take advantage of some of the area’s most impressive views. And while you might think the wine and natural landscapes are all you need to be happy, Shenandoah County also has a thriving art culture. From a historical pottery exhibit to world-class street art to workshops in pastel painting, we have plenty to feed your art-loving soul. Read on to learn how to connect to Shenandoah County’s wine scene and art scene. Festivals & Events In June, the Shenandoah Valley ArtFest and Vintage Woodstock will bring downtown Woodstock’s Court Square to life with local and regional art, community spirit and dancing in the street. This annual event helps the public connect with emerging and established artists in a variety of mediums. Plus, there will be live music, games for all ages, lots of tasty food-truck food, and wine and beer. Keep an eye on the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley’s calendar for quality art programming like Strasburg photo walks and presentations on Strasburg and Shenandoah County’s 250-year history of fine, decorative, and folk art. Wineries and Vineyards North Mountain Vineyard and Brewery (Maurertown) uses estate-grown grapes to “present a unique array of elegant wines exclusive to [the] vineyard’s terroir.” Toast your party by the fire in the elegant tasting room, or bring your kids and spread your blanket on the picture-perfect grounds. Check the schedule for live music and events, and stop in at the gift shop for unique gifts by local artists. Nearby Star in the Valley Estate Winery (Strasburg) produces small-batch wines with flavors unique to the Shenandoah Valley. Enjoy the wine by glass, bottle, or flight in the tasting room or from your picnic space on the patio. A trip to the winery will afford you with tremendous views from Little North Mountain. Muse Vineyards (Woodstock) is a wonderful place to taste some of the best wine around. Hungry? They serve lunch and snacks. They also host rotating monthly art shows and artist receptions in the tasting room. Nearby Shenandoah Vineyards (Edinburg) is the oldest winery in the Shenandoah Valley and the tasting room is in a Civil-War-era barn. The vineyard takes advantage of the “viticultural potential of the limestone soils and drier growing conditions” to produce a variety of award-winning whites, reds, and rosés. Check the calendar for events like live music and wine dinners. Family-owned Cave Ridge Vineyard and Winery (Mt. Jackson) won the 2021 Virginia Governor’s Cup Gold Medal and more for its excellent estate-grown wines. The vineyard is also known for its wide views of the Shenandoah Valley. Visit for a tasting and lite fare, and consider reserving an igloo on a cold night. Check the calendar for art exhibits, live music, and events like wine dinners. Also located in Mt. Jackson, the tasting room at the Winery at Kindred Pointe features lots of comfy seating and large doors that can be opened to let in the balmy spring air. The winery sells flights, glasses, and bottles of site-made wine, hard cider, sangria, and hot mulled wine. You can also book a private tasting in the new tasting room space. Nearby Wolf Gap Vineyard and Winery boasts picture-perfect views of Wolf Gap and the Great North Mountain from the wine-tasting deck. Stop in for a tasting or a bottle of your favorite red, red blend, white, or rosé. If you’d like to learn more about the wines or wine-making process, schedule a tour. Finally, Third Hill at De Mello Vineyards (Quicksburg) can help you unwind with a glass of Virginia wine, a view, and live music most Saturdays. Relax by the fire in the cozy tasting room or kick back in a chair on the deck. Check the website for a list of the wines they’re currently serving. Shenandoah Valley Wine Tours If you want to enjoy your wine tastings and not worry about a designated driver, Shenandoah Valley Wine Tours is your answer. They’ll pick you up in Woodstock and then head either north or south and provide safe transportation to four vineyards. You can even complement your wine with an optional snack box. Seven Bends Spirits Tours is another great option to tour the vineyards and breweries too without having to drive yourself. They offer private customized tours for groups of up to 12. Museums and Exhibits For over a hundred years, Strasburg was famous for commercial manufacturing of stone and earthenware pottery. In fact, the Strasburg Museum was originally a steam pottery. Now it’s a museum where you can find a large collection of antique pottery and photographs, learn about more than 250 years of Shenandoah Valley history, and much more. Since 2015, Strasburg has been making a name for itself in the street art scene with the Staufferstadt street murals. Located on and just off King Street, the 10 large-scale paintings grace the sides of buildings and were created by artists like Gilf! Alice Mizrachi, NDA, and Over Under. While you’re scoping out the murals, stop at the Stasburg Pavilion’s exterior display cases to see ShenMOCA’s American Masters of the 20th Century Temporary Contemporary exhibit that will feature a new artist each month in 2022. Another place to see art outside is Mount Jackson’s Apple Basket Water Tower, which rises 150 feet in the air. The design features a basket of red Gala apples to celebrate the area’s identity. It was painted freehand by mural artist Eric Henn. Shoppers looking for art can find the work of talented local artists in a variety of media showcased at Woodstock’s Valley Educational Center for Creative Arts (VECCA). VECCA sponsors six juried shows each year as well as exhibition artists in the 7 East Gallery space. Exhibition artists offer regular demo days to the public to demonstrate their art. Classes and Workshops The Art Spot is a DIY art studio that lets you try your hand at canvas and pottery painting, sign making, and hand-built clay projects. Check the calender for special ladies’ night events like 80s Trivia Paint and Play or Wine & Shine. You’ll bond with the gals over crafts, refreshments, and prizes.
Shenandoah County’s Wine and Art Scene Shenandoah County is lauded for its beauty and wealth of outdoor entertainment options. But Virginia is also known as the “birthplace of American wine,” and residents have been growing and pressing grapes here for 400 years. Shenandoah County is home to nine vineyards that produce tasty and complex wines and take advantage of some of the area’s most impressive views. And while you might think the wine and natural landscapes are all you need to be happy, Shenandoah County also has a thriving art culture. From a historical pottery exhibit to world-class street art to workshops in pastel painting, we have plenty to feed your art-loving soul. Read on to learn how to connect to Shenandoah County’s wine scene and art scene. Festivals & Events In June, the Shenandoah Valley ArtFest and Vintage Woodstock will bring downtown Woodstock’s Court Square to life with local and regional art, community spirit and dancing in the street. This annual event helps the public connect with emerging and established artists in a variety of mediums. Plus, there will be live music, games for all ages, lots of tasty food-truck food, and wine and beer. Keep an eye on the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley’s calendar for quality art programming like Strasburg photo walks and presentations on Strasburg and Shenandoah County’s 250-year history of fine, decorative, and folk art. Wineries and Vineyards North Mountain Vineyard and Brewery (Maurertown) uses estate-grown grapes to “present a unique array of elegant wines exclusive to [the] vineyard’s terroir.” Toast your party by the fire in the elegant tasting room, or bring your kids and spread your blanket on the picture-perfect grounds. Check the schedule for live music and events, and stop in at the gift shop for unique gifts by local artists. Nearby Star in the Valley Estate Winery (Strasburg) produces small-batch wines with flavors unique to the Shenandoah Valley. Enjoy the wine by glass, bottle, or flight in the tasting room or from your picnic space on the patio. A trip to the winery will afford you with tremendous views from Little North Mountain. Muse Vineyards (Woodstock) is a wonderful place to taste some of the best wine around. Hungry? They serve lunch and snacks. They also host rotating monthly art shows and artist receptions in the tasting room. Nearby Shenandoah Vineyards (Edinburg) is the oldest winery in the Shenandoah Valley and the tasting room is in a Civil-War-era barn. The vineyard takes advantage of the “viticultural potential of the limestone soils and drier growing conditions” to produce a variety of award-winning whites, reds, and rosés. Check the calendar for events like live music and wine dinners. Family-owned Cave Ridge Vineyard and Winery (Mt. Jackson) won the 2021 Virginia Governor’s Cup Gold Medal and more for its excellent estate-grown wines. The vineyard is also known for its wide views of the Shenandoah Valley. Visit for a tasting and lite fare, and consider reserving an igloo on a cold night. Check the calendar for art exhibits, live music, and events like wine dinners. Also located in Mt. Jackson, the tasting room at the Winery at Kindred Pointe features lots of comfy seating and large doors that can be opened to let in the balmy spring air. The winery sells flights, glasses, and bottles of site-made wine, hard cider, sangria, and hot mulled wine. You can also book a private tasting in the new tasting room space. Nearby Wolf Gap Vineyard and Winery boasts picture-perfect views of Wolf Gap and the Great North Mountain from the wine-tasting deck. Stop in for a tasting or a bottle of your favorite red, red blend, white, or rosé. If you’d like to learn more about the wines or wine-making process, schedule a tour. Finally, Third Hill at De Mello Vineyards (Quicksburg) can help you unwind with a glass of Virginia wine, a view, and live music most Saturdays. Relax by the fire in the cozy tasting room or kick back in a chair on the deck. Check the website for a list of the wines they’re currently serving. Shenandoah Valley Wine Tours If you want to enjoy your wine tastings and not worry about a designated driver, Shenandoah Valley Wine Tours is your answer. They’ll pick you up in Woodstock and then head either north or south and provide safe transportation to four vineyards. You can even complement your wine with an optional snack box. Seven Bends Spirits Tours is another great option to tour the vineyards and breweries too without having to drive yourself. They offer private customized tours for groups of up to 12. Museums and Exhibits For over a hundred years, Strasburg was famous for commercial manufacturing of stone and earthenware pottery. In fact, the Strasburg Museum was originally a steam pottery. Now it’s a museum where you can find a large collection of antique pottery and photographs, learn about more than 250 years of Shenandoah Valley history, and much more. Since 2015, Strasburg has been making a name for itself in the street art scene with the Staufferstadt street murals. Located on and just off King Street, the 10 large-scale paintings grace the sides of buildings and were created by artists like Gilf! Alice Mizrachi, NDA, and Over Under. While you’re scoping out the murals, stop at the Stasburg Pavilion’s exterior display cases to see ShenMOCA’s American Masters of the 20th Century Temporary Contemporary exhibit that will feature a new artist each month in 2022. Another place to see art outside is Mount Jackson’s Apple Basket Water Tower, which rises 150 feet in the air. The design features a basket of red Gala apples to celebrate the area’s identity. It was painted freehand by mural artist Eric Henn. Shoppers looking for art can find the work of talented local artists in a variety of media showcased at Woodstock’s Valley Educational Center for Creative Arts (VECCA). VECCA sponsors six juried shows each year as well as exhibition artists in the 7 East Gallery space. Exhibition artists offer regular demo days to the public to demonstrate their art. Classes and Workshops The Art Spot is a DIY art studio that lets you try your hand at canvas and pottery painting, sign making, and hand-built clay projects. Check the calender for special ladies’ night events like 80s Trivia Paint and Play or Wine & Shine. You’ll bond with the gals over crafts, refreshments, and prizes.
7 Favorite Summer Activities at Presque Isle State Park May 31, 2022 Designated as a National Natural Landmark and Erie’s top attraction, Presque Isle State Park is a 3,200 acre peninsula that reaches out into Lake Erie. There is always something fun to do at Presque Isle State Park, where you can easily spend an entire day enjoying the park’s many outdoor adventures. Bring your family and friends and make your escape to Presque Isle! Here are a few of our favorite summertime activities. Visit Presque Isle Beaches Presque Isle State Park features seven miles of sandy surf beaches, providing visitors with the only surf swimming within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The beaches of Presque Isle are great for sunbathing, swimming, picnicking and sunset gazing. Presque Isle beaches are open daily from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day, unless otherwise posted. The regular hours are Noon – 7:30 p.m. Parking and admission to the park is free. Go Biking or Rollerblading Presque Isle has miles of hiking trails, both paved and unpaved. The most popular and heavily used trail is the 13.5-mile Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose paved trail. Unpaved trails are located throughout the Park and include the Gull Point Trail, Graveyard Pond Trail and Dead Pond Trail. Rental equipment is available near the Water Works Beach area and includes one person bicycles, tandem bicycles, surreys, rollerblades and more. Explore the Presque Isle Lighthouse Built in 1873, the Presque Isle Lighthouse offers visitors the chance to climb its tower for panoramic views of Lake Erie, all while learning its vast history and function. Public tours of the Presque Isle Lighthouse are available May through September. Enjoy the Picnic Areas Numerous picnic tables can be found throughout Presque Isle and are perfect for a casual day at the beach or a gathering. If you prefer to reserve a table in a specific spot, there is a small fee, however there is no charge if a table is not in use. If you have a larger group such as a birthday party or reunion, there are various size pavilions available for rent. To inquire about picnic or pavilion rentals click here. Take a Ride Aboard the Lady Kate Enjoy a leisurely 14-mile, 90 minute tour of Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie aboard the Lady Kate. This fully narrated sightseeing boat tour includes Erie’s lighthouses, Gull Point Nature Preserve, Presque Isle’s shores, Erie’s skyline, beaches, wildlife and more. Sunset tours are also offered. The Lady Kate is docked at Perry Monument. Tours are available May 22 – September 26. Learn about the Perry Monument Located next to Misery Bay, the Perry Monument is dedicated to Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, who was a prominent naval squadron leader during the War of 1812. Perry, along with Presque Isle, played a vital role in the victory over the British in the War. Interpretive panels detailing the story of the War of 1812 and The Battle of Lake Erie line the sidewalks surrounding the monument. Explore the Lagoons The lagoons of Presque Isle are perfect for exploring by canoe, kayak, paddle board or row boat. You can bring your own equipment or the park offers rentals for various watercraft. Throughout the summer, the park offers free guided lagoon by pontoon educational boat tours.