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Chesapeake's Greenbrier neighborhood has some great park facilities, including a dog park and a skate park. These are some of the best ways to exercise at Greenbrier's parks and where you can enjoy each activity. Chesapeake City Park Chesapeake City Park is a 90-acre area with lots of trails and open spaces, so it's ideal for running, hiking, and more intense and focused workouts, such as doing sprints. There's lots of equipment and some courts you can use, too, to stay in shape. Look for these amenities to help you stay active at Chesapeake City Park: Dog park: You can run freely with your fur babies at the dog park, which is in the north part of the green space by the lake. Skatepark: Fans of rollerblading, skateboarding, and BMX bikes can spend a day at the skate park, which is next to the dog park. Volleyball courts: The volleyball courts are in Section B, which is in the southern part of the park along City Park Drive. The marketplace is next to this area. Basketball courts: The basketball courts are also in Section B. Outdoor fitness area: There's an outdoor fitness area along City Park Drive. If you're heading north, the exercise equipment is just before the skate park. Make a stop here during your run or just visit the park for isometric and body weight exercises. more The official walking trail goes for .75 miles, so a few laps will do for a moderate workout. You can also widen the route to include some of the paved roads around the park if you'd like to increase the distance. Greenbrier's Other Dog Parks In addition to Chesapeake City Park's space for canines, there are two other nearby dog parks that you can visit. Let your dogs stretch their legs while you play with them and exercise at either Western Branch Dog Park or Deep Creek Park. Western Branch Park is at 4437 Portsmouth Blvd. In addition to a fenced-in space for your dogs, there are some ball fields nearby. At Deep Creek Park, which is at 437 George Washington Hwy S, you can run around with your pets or go for a walk around the trial. There are ball fields at this location, too. All of these dog parks allow off-leash play. Poop-scoop bags and water for the pups are provided. Greenbrier Sports Park As the name implies, this location is great if you want to play some sports. This is a 12-acre park with lighting, making it ideal for late-night games. There are eight tennis courts, two softball fields, and space for soccer, sprints, and other activities. Oak Grove Lake Park Oak Grove Lake Park is a gorgeous green space that's fantastic for running, hiking, biking, and walking. A tree-lined trail circles the lake, offering fantastic views while you exercise. Chesapeake's Greenbrier neighborhood has parks that are excellent not only for their natural surroundings but for the amenities they provide. The next time you want to get a good workout in the fresh air, head to one of these parks in the city. Image via Flickr by Infomedmag under use of CC BY 2.0 /Cropped from original

When you're looking for comfort food that can fill you up, Chesapeake, Virginia, has plenty of restaurant options. From traditional Southern cuisine to local fare, you can enjoy a delicious meal with down-home flair and flavor when you check out some of these top restaurants in the area. Ddeb's A Taste of Home Restaurant Although owner Debbie Toth has spent most of her life in East Lyme, Connecticut, she moved to Chesapeake in 2002 and opened Ddeb's a Taste of Home Restaurant. At Ddeb's, you'll find a unique combination of New England flair and Southern charm that comes together to create a warm and welcoming place for a meal. If you stop by for lunch, popular sandwiches include the crab and artichoke melt, turkey salad croissant, and turkey and avocado BLT wrap. For dinner, consider the maple walnut chicken or crabcakes topped with shrimp. more Maggie P's Country Kitchen If you're looking for homestyle dishes that will remind you of your grandmother's cooking, you need to check out Maggie P's Country Kitchen in the Chesapeake Square Mall. The lunch and dinner specials have classic choices that include pork chops, popcorn shrimp, fried fish, and chicken tenders. You'll also find excellent options for sides, such as fried apples, mashed potatoes, and green beans. Don't forget to save room for one of the homemade desserts. The banana pudding and strawberry shortcake are always popular choices. Martin's Soul Food Martin's Soul Food has several locations in the area, including one in Chesapeake. When you stop by for lunch or dinner, you'll find popular soul food options that include pork chop with fries, meatloaf, fried chicken, country-fried steak, and pork barbecue. If you're really looking for a traditional meal, you can also order pig's feet, oxtail, chicken and liver, or chitterlings. To make your meal complete, don't forget to savor one of the sweet desserts, such as the peach cobbler, apple cobbler, or banana pudding. Supper Southern Morsels Located just north of Chesapeake in Norfolk, Supper Southern Morsels is an innovative Southern-style restaurant serving comfort food in a contemporary and minimalist atmosphere. If you come for lunch, consider the seafood mac and cheese, which comes with the chef's selection of shellfish, cavatappi pasta, a house cheese blend, and sherry cream. For dinner, you can't go wrong with the blackened beef tenderloin, which comes over smoked blue cheese with a potato spinach hash and mushroom Bordelaise. Tap it Local When you're looking to combine some of your favorite comfort food with a great craft beer, you can't beat Tap it Local in Chesapeake. Whether you stop by for lunch or dinner, you'll find delicious menu options that include country-fried chicken, shrimp po'boy, and the Tapped Out Hangover Burger, which is a half-pound burger patty topped with bacon, cheddar cheese, and a fried egg. No matter what type of traditional Southern cuisine you're interested in, you're sure to find a satisfying meal when you check out these great restaurants serving up plenty of down-home flavors. Image via pixabay.com

During the summer in Chesapeake, spending time in the water is the best way to stay cool and have fun. If you're tired of the same old water activities, you should try out paddleboarding. Fun for both kids and adults, paddleboarding is a great activity to try out this summer, and in the Chesapeake area, several excellent spots are perfect for both experienced and first-time paddleboarders. Here are a few spots in the Chesapeake, Virginia, area where you can try out paddleboarding this summer. The Inn at Tabbs Creek If you're interested in trying paddleboarding for the first time, one of the best spots to visit in Chesapeake is The Inn at Tabbs Bay. Located on the Chesapeake Bay, The Inn at Tabbs Bay is both a great place for a weekend getaway and an ideal location to try your hand at paddleboarding. At this bed-and-breakfast, you can rent paddle boards through the Chesapeake Bay Paddling Company. If you've enjoyed this water activity before, you can rent your paddleboard and hit the water. On the other hand, if you're a first-timer, you can view a quick demonstration on how to paddleboard so that you can enjoy this activity safely and easily. more Rudee Inlet Stand Up Paddle When you're trying out paddleboarding for the first time, it's best to get some guidance from a professional. Fortunately, if you're a Chesapeake area resident, you can visit Rudee Inlet Stand Up Paddle. This company specializes in taking its clients on paddleboard tours of the Rudee Inlet and Owl's Creek and can teach you the ropes of this popular water activity in no time at all. The benefit of visiting Rudee Inlet Stand Up Paddle is that you can choose from a variety of paddleboard tours. For example, if you're a physical fitness enthusiast, you could participate in one of this company's Yoga Fitness Tours. If you're more interested in sightseeing, you can choose their Waterfowl and Wildlife Sightseeing Paddleboard Tour. Whatever your interests, Rudee Inlet Stand Up Paddle has a paddleboard tour that's right for you. Tula Adventure Sports Another great place where you can try out paddleboarding near Chesapeake is Tula Adventure Sports. This company offers a variety of water-based activities and has been serving customers in Virginia Beach for over nine years. For visitors who simply want to grab a paddleboard and hit the water, Tula Adventure Sports offers several rental options. If you only have a short amount of time to paddleboard, you can rent a board for an hour for $25. You can also rent a board for a full day for $65. Novice paddleboarders may want to take advantage of the lessons offered by Tula Adventure Sports. Each lesson lasts an hour, and you can book a lesson for a single person or for groups of up to six people. Once you're finished with your lesson, you'll know everything you need to know to enjoy paddleboarding to the fullest. If you live in the Chesapeake area and want to try out paddleboarding, be sure to visit one of these exciting locations.   Image via pixabay.com

When you're out and about with your family in Chesapeake this summer, you want to make sure that you can stay as cool as possible. Fortunately, there are several shady walks in the area that are perfect for a hot day. If the temperature starts to rise, you can visit one of these walking locations to cool down so that you can continue enjoying the outdoors. Here are a few of the shadiest walks in Chesapeake, Virginia, that you and your family should take this summer. Chesapeake Arboretum For families looking for a place where they can take a walk and cool down this summer, the ideal location is the Chesapeake Arboretum. If you visit this arboretum, you'll be able to enjoy a variety of amenities that will help you have a great time. more At this popular Chesapeake spot, you can find three miles of walking trails where you and your family can go for a leisurely stroll. When you want to take a break from walking, you can sit down by Lake Hughes, a beautiful three-acre body of water that provides the perfect resting spot. Before you visit Chesapeake Arboretum, make sure that you pack a lunch so that you can enjoy a meal at one of the picnic tables. The Noland Trail When you're looking for a walk where you can stay cool, it's important to pick somewhere with tall trees that provide plenty of shade. Fortunately, this is exactly what you'll find if you visit the Noland Trail. Located near the Chesapeake area, the Noland Trail is an extremely popular walking spot that every family will enjoy. On this five-mile trail, you'll see towering trees that offer ample shade during the hot summer season, and you'll also walk past refreshing bodies of water such as the James River and Lake Maury. Because of the length of the trail, this isn't the best walking spot for families with small children, but families with older kids will definitely enjoy taking a stroll on the Noland Trail. Crabtree Falls Trail In addition to cooling off, you want your summer walks to take you past breathtaking natural scenery, and if waterfalls are your favorite natural feature, you should take a hike on the Crabtree Falls Trail. This trail is found in the George Washington National Forest, and since it's only three miles long, most families should easily be able to complete this hike. While you're taking this walk, you'll be able to see five gorgeous waterfalls and a variety of smaller falls that will add to your enjoyment of your hike. In addition to the waterfalls themselves, this walk offers scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Tye River Valley. Both you and your children will be able to stay cool and have a great time walking the Crabtree Falls Trail. Staying cool in the summer is very difficult. Fortunately, there are several shady trails near Chesapeake, Virginia, where you and your family can take a walk while staying cool. Make sure to visit all of these trails if you want a fun, memorable summer.   Image via pixabay.com

There's nothing like a farmers market. You get to buy produce fresh from the farm and get to know small local merchants from around the area you might not otherwise see. Here are four farmers markets to visit around Chesapeake, Virginia. The Chesapeake Farmers Market The Chesapeake Farmers Market is open during the summer and stays open all the way through the fall. However, it's only open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., so going to it requires a bit of planning. But this small market is well worth the effort. It usually has 8-10 vendors at any one time. There's also plenty of parking. You'll find everything from fresh produce to pastries, flowers, eggs, chicken, and lamb here. Visitors appreciate the depth and breadth of the products offered. The prices are reasonable and there's a communal atmosphere, making it a change of pace from the traditional grocery store. more Virginia Beach Farmers Market If you're looking for a farmers market open on more days and for longer hours, the Virginia Beach Farmers Market is it. It has a mix of produce and grocery vendors, as well as gift shops. There's a creamery on site that sells fresh milk. Eggs are available at a few other vendors, and you'll also find a variety of meat, produce, and organic foods for sale. There's also a nursery on site where plants are available for sale. Since the market is open every day all year-round, it often pairs with events held on the grounds like a hoedown. Locals appreciate having a dedicated place to get unique gifts, fresh foods, and produce. Olde Towne Farmers Market Portsmouth The Olde Towne Farmers Market in Portsmouth, Virginia, has both spring/summer and winter hours. The market is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from May to October. Like the Virginia Beach Farmers Market, Olde Towne has vendors offering many different things including fresh produce, baked goods, coffee, crab soup, fresh meatballs, fresh mozzarella and other delectable items. Fresh seafood is available, too, along with fresh meat. Some vendors also sell homemade crafts and beauty products. There are even homemade dog treats. Not all vendors take credit cards, so make sure to have cash on hand, too. A list of vendors is available online. They may vary week-to-week. Hickory Ridge Farm Hickory Ridge Farm holds its own farmers market daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from May to October in Chesapeake. They sell produce grown on the farm and surrounding farms throughout the season. Fresh eggs are also available. Starting in mid-May and lasting through early August, the farm puts together produce boxes with items in season every week. The boxes come in different sizes and are available for pick up at the farm on Fridays and Saturdays. It's a good option if you don't have time to shop every week in the summer. Chesapeake and the surrounding areas have many farmers market options. It's nice to eat fresh during the summer and as this list illustrates, you can keep up eating good foods in the fall and winter, too. Consider stopping by one of the markets on your next visit to town.   Image via Pixabay.com

One of the best ways to learn about something new is to find a place where it is on full display in your area. While there are plenty of places that you can find like that, museums are often the best way for you to learn about a specific topic. They carefully curate exhibits that give you a deeper look into each subject and can show you detailed examples from the past. If you are interested in learning about something new, exploring history, and taking in the culture of an area, check out these three museums near Chesapeake. Hampton Roads Naval Museum Naval history is expansive with a lot to cover in the past and in the present. That is why you may want to take a trip to the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, which is dedicated to the history of the U.S. Navy and the history of ships. The museum hosts social and educational events for the community including local military personnel. The museum is currently planning a Lego Ship Build to recreate the USS Maine entirely from Legos. You can get involved with any of these events by registering online over the phone. more The Hermitage Museum & Gardens You can take a deep dive into art and various crafts at the Hermitage Museum & Gardens. It is located at 7637 North Shore Road. The Hermitage focuses on providing a wide selection art exhibits as well as a collection of arts-related classes for you to learn various crafts. The museum includes a visual arts studio where you can check out a range of multimedia exhibits and facilities. If you want to learn more about crafts that involve nature, the museum grounds also house 12 acres of curated gardens. Over the summer, the museum has classes in the visual arts studio. You can learn more about photography, paper arts, painting, and ceramics among other topics. The museum also hosts summer camps for kids in the area that are interested in arts and crafts. The Children's Museum of Virginia If you have kids and you need somewhere to go for vacation, you can check out the Children's Museum of Virginia. This museum is entirely dedicated to the education of children and the exploration of child-related themes. For example, the museum is currently planning an exhibit that explores the history and development of fairy tales. It is a great exhibit for kids, since it's interactive, and can be fun for parents as well to learn more about the stories that they grew up with. Visiting museums can be a lot of fun. Going to museums gives you the opportunity to learn about things beyond our daily lives that would, otherwise, be inaccessible. Although it is an educational experience, you can have a lot of fun as well. This summer, plan to visit as many museums as you can when the driving weather is nice. Make sure that you stop by Priority Toyota of Chesapeake as well to see what new cars are available that can make your museum trips more comfortable.   Image via Flickr by Boris Dzhingarov under use of CC BY 2.0 /Cropped from original

It is nearly that time of year again, the time where the hot days of summer roll in, and there will be a lot to do in the Chesapeake area. The weather is getting better, and people want to get out of the house to enjoy themselves. There will be plenty of events planned throughout the spring and the summer that you and your whole family can attend. If you will be in the Chesapeake area this summer, here is a look at the three best summer events in the Chesapeake Area. Summer Stars by the Chesapeake Planetarium This summer, the Chesapeake Planetarium will host the “Summer Starts” exhibition, which is a great way to learn more about astronomy. Planetariums offer a unique look at the stars without the need for expensive viewing equipment. Under the guidance of skilled specialists, you can get a detailed look at the changing skies during the summer as well as some of the history, mythology, and discoveries made over the past few centuries. “Summer Stars” is presented every Thursday at 8 p.m. more Food Trucks “On the Square” Throughout the summer, you can find a local food truck rally at Courtyard Square Park in Chesapeake. They are there every first and third Wednesday of the month starting in April until mid-September. The trucks will be available from 4 p.m. until sundown, which gives you plenty of time to stop by and check them out. You'll also find activities and games for kids as well as live entertainment. The Chesapeake Parks, Recreation, and Tourism department is working with several local foundations to support the growing food truck economy in the area, and the results are great food at affordable prices. The lineup of food trucks will change throughout the summer, so you should stop by a few times to see what new options become available. Movies & More Series The Movies & More Series hosted by the city will show movies throughout the summer and fall. Every Saturday at 6 p.m., you can catch a new movie at Western Branch Park. The Astro DJ will lead the party until the sun goes down. On July 21, you can catch the first viewing of Despicable Me 3. Your whole family will have a good time hanging out on the lawn for the pre-party and the movie. You can bring a chair or a blanket to sit on, and the weather will be nice for a night outside with your family. Traveling around the Chesapeake area for fun family events this summer can be a great way to try new things with your family. You will need a vehicle that can easily transport your family and everything that you need. Toyota has plenty of options to choose from like the Toyota RAV4 and the or the 2018 Toyota Camry that give you a reliable and comfortable driving experience. If you're in the market for a new set of wheels, stop by Priority Toyota of Chesapeake. You can test drive many of the new models and see just how a new Toyota can make driving this summer more enjoyable.   Image via Flickr by Bayfordbury Observatory under use of CC BY 2.0 /Cropped from original

The U.S. may not be as ancient as some of the other places in the world, but we still have a rich and fascinating history. If you're a history buff who loves wandering through museums, old buildings, and significant cultural places, you're going to dig Chesapeake, Virginia. We at Priority Toyota Chesapeake are proud of our unique heritage and look forward to sharing it with you. These are three historic places near Chesapeake that are definitely worth a visit. Fort Monroe Casemate Museum Fort Monroe is the biggest and one of the oldest stone forts in the U.S. Originally, it was used to protect the Hampton Roads Waterway from possible attacks from the enemy. Inside the fort is the popular Casemate Museum, which pays tribute to the fort's military history. more Completed in 1834, the museum is home to the room where Jefferson Davis was briefly held as prisoner after the Civil War. One of the most intriguing aspects of the museum is how it honors the “Contraband of War,” which was a military act that granted slaves sanctuary at the fort. This is how Fort Monroe got the nickname of the “Freedom's Fortress.” Suffolk Seaboard Station Railroad Museum If you enjoy trains, then the Suffolk Seaboard Station Railroad Museum is a must-see attraction for you. It has an extensive collection of artifacts from the Seaboard Airline Railroad along with items from the Norfolk Railroad, Virginian Railway, and the Western Railroad. It also contains some fascinating items from the Danville and Atlantic Railroad. You'll see intriguing antiques such as railroad lanterns, bells, tools, dishes and silver items from the fancier dining cars of days gone by, and even old marketing signs and collectibles. Kids of all ages enjoy the many cool model trains on display. Virginia War Museum The importance of our American military history is clear when you visit the Virginia War Museum. Established back in 1923 by the American Legion Post #25, this museum showcases an incredible array of war memorabilia, including uniforms, recruiting posters, guns and other weapons, soldiers' personal items, military vehicles, and more. It covers the years of 1775 all the way to modern times. Have you ever laid eyes on the Berlin Wall? You can see a piece of it at the Virginia War Museum as well as a portion taken from the outer wall of the Dachau Concentration Camp. Not to be forgotten, there is an art gallery that pays tribute to Women at War and highlights the roles of many important women who contributed to American wars. Museums are a great way to learn about our history. They also tend to put our present and future into a different perspective. They remind of where we've been and how we got here. Reminiscing about important aspects of our history makes us feel more grateful for the things we have and the things we've accomplished as a nation. It brings us all closer somehow. That is why we recommend visiting these three historic places near Chesapeake.   Image via Pixabay by tevyaw

The small town of Chincoteague is only seven miles long and three miles wide. That's why its visitors are always amazed at the abundance of activities that this place offers to them. With plenty of fun activities on land and on the water, Chincoteague seems to have it all. The Island City On the Eastern Shore of Virginia is a small island of such beauty that they call it a paradise island. Over a million of people from all over the country travel thousands of miles just for a glimpse of its pristine bountiful nature. Ponies run free here, and dolphins jump on the ocean waves and play with seagulls. Miles and miles of fine white sand cover the island's gorgeous and award-winning beaches. With its unbelievable sunsets, the island is the most tranquil and beautiful escape from a busy life. It is a dream place for all nature-loving and outdoorsy people. more The Wildlife Refuge The island is the gateway to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, one of the most visited nature preserves in the United States. The refuge was established in 1943 as a habitat for migratory birds. Today, it covers over 14,000 acres of beach, dunes, marsh, and maritime forest and offers a habitat for many wildlife species, like waterfowl, wading birds, shorebirds, song birds, and plants. The refuge management works tirelessly to protect endangered species and to conserve local wildlife and plants. The Chincoteague Refuge is popular for birdwatching, fishing, hunting, and exploring the wilderness and wildlife. The refuge offers wildlife tours and miles of hiking and biking trails. The Ponies Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is home to the world-famous Chincoteague ponies. To this day, it remains a mystery how the ponies arrived on the island. Most popular and romantic legend of the ponies' origin tells how ponies escaped a sinking Spanish ship, swam to the island, and made the island their home Every summer, thousands of people come to the island to for the annual Pony Swim. This island tradition is accompanied by various activities that last all week long. During this time, the island is busy with festivals, farmer's markets, carnivals, cinema and theater performances, and pony auctions. Dining With the Atlantic Ocean right there, it is no wonder that Chincoteague Island is famous for its fresh seafood. Here, you can even harvest your seafood fare with your own hands. Many restaurants are family-owned and offer elegant waterfront dining along the Chincoteague Bay. Etta's Channel Side Restaurant, for example, overlooks the Assateague Channel and Lighthouse. Most menus feature clams, oysters, scallops, crabs, and fish. For such popular indulgences like finger-picking crab feasts and all-you-can-eat seafood, try Steamers restaurant. Non-seafood entrées feature hand-cut fine steaks and poultry dishes. After dinner, it is highly recommended to go for a real treat at one of Chincoteague Island's fine ice cream parlors like Island Creamery, which bakes its own waffle cones. A full day on Chincoteague Island might prove to be not enough for this small but rich place. After your first glimpse, you might realize how much more you still have to see and do here.   Image via Flickr by grelock under use of CC BY-SA 2.0 /Cropped from original

Who doesn't love spending time in the great outdoors? The fresh air, cool breeze, and songs of nature seem to refresh our spirit. A tranquil day in the woods, surrounded by majestic trees, or a nice hike through the mountains, leaves us feeling relaxed. Fortunately, Chesapeake is a perfect place for nature lovers. From hiking, biking, fishing, and golfing, it's a recreational wonderland. We at Priority Toyota like to see our customers healthy and happy. So, grab a friend, pack some snacks, and get outdoors in Chesapeake. Bird Watching Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a top spot for nature lovers. It's home to over 200 species of birds that nest in the wooded swamplands of the refuge and enjoy the 111+ protected acres. The 8.5 mile Dismal Swamp Canal Trail is the perfect spot for bird watchers. If you're lucky, you might spot the illusive Swanson's Warbler, or the Wayne's Warbler, two of the rarest observed birds in North America. You might also catch a glimpse of a White-throated Sparrow, Egret, or our beloved Bald Eagle. more Fishing Chesapeake is an ideal place for fishing. Talk to any old-timer and he'll tell you entertaining fishing tales of days gone by. The region is world renown as a go-to destination for the best of both fly and sports fishing. With over 20 miles of freshwater and saltwater canals and streams, you're bound to catch the fish of your dreams. The Northwest River Park and Campgrounds' is a beautiful freshwater lake stocked with bass and catfish. You might also explore Lake Drummond. It's the state's second largest natural lake and a great place for Bowfin anglers to try their luck. The low pH levels of the lake is an ideal home for not only bowfin but also crappie and longnose gar. Golf If golf is your sport of choice, then you might never want to leave Chesapeake. With stunning landscapes and perfectly groomed courses, it's a golfer's paradise. Regardless of your skill level, it's a wonderful way to spend the day and enjoy nature. Chesapeake Golf Club is one of the favorite greens in the Tidewater region, nestled in the quiet scenery of gorgeous woodlands. The Club has over 18,000 feet of rolling fairways and feels like a day at a members-only country club, but with the fee schedule of a public course. Seasoned veterans of the game will want to tee-off at the immaculate Battlefield Golf Club. The popular course, designed by Bobby Holcomb, is a par 70, 18-hole experience that you won't soon forget. They say the worst day in the great outdoors, still beats the best day indoors, and we agree. If you're starting to feel like part of your family room furniture, and like the television is a constant companion, switch it up and spend a day outside. The cool breeze and sweet aroma of grasslands and waterways will leave you feeling relaxed but invigorated. So, dust off your favorite sporting gear and get outdoors in Chesapeake.   Image " Fishing Trip Album " by Phillip Pessar under use of CC BY 2.0 /Cropped from original

The life-giving elixir known as coffee is essential for your early mornings. Whether you are looking to grab a cup to go or wrap your hands around a mug as you settle into a day of remote working, here are the best places to grab coffee in and around Norfolk. Elliot's Fair Grounds Located at 806 Baldwin Ave., Elliot's Fair Grounds is Norfolk's oldest independent coffee shop. Stop in to try delicious drip coffees brewed all day long. Each and every variety is organic and fair trade, so you do not need to feel guilty about where it comes from. Choose from a wide selection of medium dark roasts from Costa Rica, Rwanda, Tanzania, and more. If you prefer dark roasts, you will love the Mocha Java, Espresso Ghent, Sumatra Sriwijaya, and more. Elliot's opens at 6 a.m. each weekday and 7 a.m. on the weekends, so it is the perfect place to stop before work for a reviving brew. more Cure Cure bills itself as both a coffeehouse and a brasserie, meaning you will be able to get quality bites with your cup of joe. Stop by 503 Botetourt St. to enjoy an espresso, drip, pour over, or pressed coffee. The Americano, Macchiato, and Cortado are all specialties for a burst of energy. Cure also specializes in a number of lattes, such as the Scout, which includes dark chocolate, caramel, and coconut; the Raspberry Truffle, which includes dark chocolate and raspberry; and the Mint Condition, which comes with vanilla and peppermint. They open at 8 a.m. Saturday through Wednesday and 7 a.m. on Thursday and Friday so you can make a quick morning stop. aLatte Cafe The coffee is brewed early at aLatte Cafe, as the doors at 321 Granby St. open at 7 a.m. every weekday, so you can get the drink you need to make it through the day. Walk in to this casual atmosphere and enjoy a number of different coffees and lattes, as well as an unusual addition – ice cream. That is right. This cafe also offers at least 16 flavors of this delicacy that pair nicely with your coffee. Naturally, drink specials vary depending on the season, but recent lattes have included the Aloha, which features white chocolate macadamia, and the Bee, made with lavender and honey. Coaster Coffee Enjoy the brew of Coaster Coffee, located at 8418 Tidewater Dr. This location opens the earliest out of these four choices, with the first cups being poured at 5:30 a.m. every weekday. They do not open until 7 a.m. on Saturdays and are closed on Sundays. Here, you can choose from light, medium, and dark roasts as well as flavored blends. Some of the flavor choices available include coconut, hazelnut, strawberry, kiwi, toasted marshmallow, and more. Naturally, the coffee shop also has a number of frappes in an array of flavors, as well as several espresso options. When you are craving a cup of coffee, these four Norfolk coffee shops are the place to go. Stop by to satisfy your urge and prepare for the day ahead.   image via pixabay

Having a date night with your loved one is a great way to deepen your connection and reinvigorate your love for one another. If you are looking for some inspiration, check out the following date night locations in the Norfolk area. Freemason Abbey Restaurant No date night is complete without a bite to eat, so start off your evening at the Freemason Abbey Restaurant at 209 W. Freemason St. This fine dining establishment is located inside a 144-year-old converted church, creating an expansive atmosphere that will help you feel closer. The low lighting, brick interior, and wooden furnishings only enhance the romantic feel. more Dinner service starts at 4 p.m. and is elegant yet casual. Choose from a number of soups, salads, and starters to begin your meal. Then, select a vegetarian, seafood, steak, pork, or pasta entree. Finish things off with a glass of red, white, or sparkling wine. Chrysler Museum of Art Who says you cannot learn something on date night? Head to the Chrysler Museum of Art to see a dazzling array of glass art, as well as modern and contemporary pieces. Some current exhibits on display include "René Lalique: Enchanted by Glass," which shows off the finest of French glass and jewelry created by Lalique; "Root and Flower: The Natural World of Joey Kirkpatrick and Flora C. Mace," which offers realistic drawings of fauna; and "A New Deal Near Here," a photographic display featuring the Depression era in coastal Virginia. Virginia Stage Company Catching a show at the Virginia Stage Company is a good way to snuggle up with your partner while enjoying highly skilled performances. The 2017–2018 show season has a number of lovely stories to see. Of particular note is the show Pride and Prejudice, a take on the popular romance novel by Jane Austen. This show runs until Feb. 4. You might also appreciate The Hound of the Baskervilles, which runs from Feb. 21 to March 11, or Disgraced, which runs from April 4–22. Tickets generally range between $20 to $25, making it an affordable night out. Saltine For another dining option, consider Saltine. This seafood restaurant focuses on seasonal and locally sourced options for the freshest taste possible. You will love the restaurant's interior, from the old-world detailing in the décor to the mosaic tile floors to the modern and elegant bar in the center of things. Even the pendant globe lights convey that mystical air of romance you need on a date night. Start your meal off with oysters, clams, or shrimp from the raw bar, or choose something from the ceviche and poke cart. When it comes time to choose your main meal, consider the fresh catch of the day, wild caught salmon, or the Virginia blue crab cake dinner. Simply being by your partner's side while out on the town is enough to make any excursion worthy of being a date night. However, choosing one of these romantic and cozy locations can elevate your typical night out into a much more enticing experience.   " A couple drinking wine " by freestocks.org under use of CC0 1.0 /cropped from original