Blog

Fall is coming up quickly, and while the kids probably aren't looking forward to getting back to school, we're looking forward to cooler, less humid weather. While the summer may be the perfect time for barbecues and fireworks, fall is the perfect time for festivals. The weather's perfect and by then, we all need the break from work and school. So get out your calendars, call your friends and family, and prepare to celebrate the fall at these three festivals across Virginia. LOCKN' Festival What better way to welcome in the fall then by celebrating in the beauty of nature? Starting August 24th and running through the 27th in Arrington is the LOCKN' Festival. While this festival only started in 2013, it's quickly become a local favorite. Come here to listen to local and famous bands in a positive atmosphere and surrounded by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. But the LOCKN' Festival is much more than just music. Get your fill and expand your palate with a wide array of food and try out the nearby food trucks. more While you're at the festival, get a fresh start to every morning with Opal Yoga. Don't worry, you can still sleep in. The yoga doesn't start until 9:30 a.m. If you plan ahead, you can also reserve a spot on the shuttle taking festival goers to swim at a reserved spot in the Tye River. St. Benedict Oktoberfest Are you really celebrating the fall if you don't attend at least one Oktoberfest? On September 15 through the 17, Richmond is hosting the St. Benedict Oktoberfest, which has been entertaining residents and visitors every year since 2005. Come here to enjoy authentic German music, dancing, food, and of course, beer. Shop for things you couldn't find anywhere else at the Christkindlmarkt. Just because most people associate Oktoberfest with lots of alcohol doesn't mean there aren't kid-friendly activities. In fact, there's a kid area designated just for them, and it even has a moon bounce for hours of entertainment. Just don't leave without a commemorative stein! Paquoson Seafood Festival Take a trip to the coast and enjoy some of the best seafood in the state by coming to the Paquoson Seafood Festival in Paquoson on October 20 through the 22. While there's plenty of great seafood to enjoy, this festival is about more than eating fish, it's a salute to the hard workers of Chesapeake Bay. The festival kicks off with the famous Workboat Races followed by a party. Throughout the festival, you can get a taste of a variety of music genres and performers across the festival's two stages. Don't forget to check out the many arts and crafts vendors while you're there. These three festivals only scratch the surface of everything you'll find across Virginia during the fall. So no matter what you enjoy, there's a festival out there for you. You know how quickly this summer has slipped by, so don't let the fall be the same. You deserve to take a break, escape, and have some fun with friends and family. Image via Flickr by austinkerr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/67841086@N05/22015519988/sizes/m/

The YMCA is more than just a place to go and shoot some hoops or swim a few laps, it's a hub that seeks to improve the community around it. Whether through fostering youth development, encouraging healthy living, or nurturing social responsibility, the programs at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads have the potential to impact your neighborhood and your own life. But for that to happen, you have to get out there and participate. With the plethora of programs available at the Y, there's bound to be one that feels like it was made just for you. Here are a few programs to give a try. Amenity Parents Night Out Be honest, how long has it been since you and your sweetheart really had a stress-free date night? One where you're not wondering if the kids are still alive and if your home is still intact. Sure, you could hire a babysitter, but then you have to worry about paying them and ensuring that they're actually taking good care of your kids and not just on their phone with their boyfriend the whole time. more Fortunately for you, the Y hosts a fun night full of activities tailored to kids. When you sign up for a Parents Night Out, your kids are placed in a group with other kids of similar ages and similar interests. This way, you can enjoy a well-deserved night on the town without having to worry about the kids. Self-Defense You knew that the Y had basketball, racquetball, and other sports programs, but those just scratch the surface of all the Y has to offer. Today, you can sign up for a program to learn traditional karate. You're never too old to start learning. After all, it's not only great exercise, but you never know when you may need to defend yourself or someone you love. You won't need a weapon because you'll become the weapon. The karate program is only $45 for members and usually runs for just under a month, with lessons every Saturday. First Aid Training You've always wanted to learn proper first aid techniques, but you've never had the time or resources. Now, with the help of the YMCA, you can learn how to save a life. You never know when you may need it. It could be your child, your mother, your friend, a stranger. No matter who it is, with first aid training through the Y, you'll be able to help them all. Come to the Y and learn how to do proper chest compressions, conduct rescue breathing the right way, and assess an unresponsive or responsive person. And it doesn't stop with CPR; you'll also learn how to control bleeding, stabilize potential head, neck, and back injuries, and stabilize broken limbs. At the Y, you'll not only learn, you'll also get certified! You don't have much free time, so make the most of it. Head to the YMCA of South Hampton Roads and find the program that's right for you! Image via Flickr by woodleywonderworks: https://www.flickr.com/photos/wwworks/449091218/sizes/m/

Chesapeake City Park Just off Greenbrier Parkway is the Chesapeake City Park, a lovely spot with a leashless dog park and a big playground area to keep the family busy while one parent shops. The market itself takes place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays under the Market Place covered shelter, which means it's open every week rain or shine. This market and the next two all open for the season on June 10. more Battlefield Park Battlefield Park is on Reservation Road at the south end of town by the Elizabeth River and the Albemarle Canal. This market keeps the same hours and days as the one in Chesapeake City Park, but it takes place in the open air so it may get rained out when it comes down really hard. Western Branch Community Center The Western Branch Community Center is at the west end of the city on Portsmouth Boulevard. The market is only open on Saturdays and it takes place outside the building, which means it might not take place on rainy days. On the other hand, if you feel like getting in a Saturday workout right after you shop, the center offers fitness and game areas and stays open on Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. Portsmouth Art and Cultural Center Head up to Portsmouth where High and Court Streets meet and visit the Portsmouth Olde Towne Farmers Market. The market is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. There you'll find heirloom produce and free-range eggs and chicken, but many of the vendors also offer baked goods both sweet and plain, jams, flowers, herbs, soap, meat, and seafood. You can also get lessons on gardening from experts every week. Virginia Beach Farmers Market Located where Princess Anne Road and Dam Neck Road cross, this market is open all year round and every day of the week, although the individual vendors set their own hours. Amongst the vendors, you can shop for fresh seafood, soap and body care products, crafts and jewelry, meats, organic produce, gourmet ice cream, and more. The market even has a full restaurant that serves food using the ingredients offered by the other vendors. East Virginia is full of good soil that can grow just about anything you want in the right seasons, and the Chesapeake Bay has been a good place to find seafood ever since English settlers first arrived in the area. If you want a taste of Virginia, Chesapeake has plenty of farmers markets where you can find it. Image via Pixabay

Despite the name, the Great Dismal Swamp of Virginia and North Carolina is a beautiful wetlands and wildlife refuge that covers 112,000 acres. It is the largest remaining piece of a habitat that once filled southeastern Virginia. Hampton Roads residents and vacationers from across America come to the Great Dismal Swamp to enjoy this unique ecosystem and have fun doing all kinds of activities like these. Hiking and Biking The Great Dismal Swamp has more than 80 miles of hiking and biking trails, including dirt, gravel, and boardwalk paths. The trails start at the five entry points to the refuge, but they mostly stick to the northern side of the park. If hiking is too slow or too tiring but you don't own a bicycle, you can rent one at a shop before you enter. However, you should remember that going off the paths is not allowed, for safety reasons and to keep the wildlife of the refuge safe from human activity. more Drive to Lake Drummond If you want to experience the Great Dismal Swamp from the comfort and security of your vehicle, or if you don't have enough time to hike or bike the miles of trails between the Railroad Ditch entrance and Lake Drummond, you can get a driving permit from the ranger station and go on a driving tour of the refuge. The lake's water is very brown but also surprisingly pure thanks to the way peat soil leaches its color into the lake water, making it a very unusual sight. Watch the Wildlife The wetlands of southeastern Virginia are home to hundreds of species of wildlife, and you have a good chance of seeing something even if you never stray from the beaten path. Deer, coyotes, bobcats, otters, and black bears call the Great Dismal Swamp home, and birdwatchers have identified over 200 species that either nest in the swamp full-time or move through during the annual migrations. If you prefer butterflies, you can find over 80 species growing there or passing through the area during summer. Hunting and Fishing Hunting days and permits are limited in the Great Dismal Swamp, but if the population is high for white-tail deer or black bears, the rangers open hunting season for a week or two in October and November. You can also take a non-powered boat on Lake Drummond either by driving it in from the west or paddling down the canal to the east. If you have a Virginia freshwater fishing license, you can drop your line in the lake to fish for crappie, yellow perch, flier, chain pickerel, and catfish. With so much land to explore and so many animal species to discover, the Great Dismal Swamp is a fun place for the thousands of visitors who come through every year. Just make sure you know the rules before you go and stick with them during your visit, because keeping the swamp clean ensures that it will still be there when you want to bring along your kids and your grandkids. Image via Flickr by deveion acker

There are few dining options quite as romantic as a waterfront restaurant. Even in a place like Chesapeake, Virginia, there are restaurants you can go to enjoy a waterfront meal with a special someone. Whether you're celebrating your anniversary or going on a first date, a romantic view always helps. Here are four waterfront restaurants that are great for romantic meals in and around Chesapeake. Amber Lantern Restaurant The Amber Lantern Restaurant is located at 5532 Bainbridge Point. It is the quintessential romantic waterfront dining experience that overlooks the Elizabeth River. Treat yourself to delicious filet mignon, fresh seared ahi tuna, crab stuffed shrimp, or a rack of lamb. In addition to high end dinners, the Amber Lantern Restaurant is known for its decadent desserts including its tiramisu strip cake, coconut cream bomb cake, and lemon berry mascarpone cake. more Lockside Bar & Grill If your idea of a romantic meal involves less fine dining and more fresh seafood and access to a full bar, Lockside Bar & Grill is a restaurant worth checking out. It is located just off of the Elizabeth River at 200 Battlefield Boulevard West, Suite 13. In addition to dinner, Lockside Bar & Grill serves high quality breakfast and brunch favorite perfect for savoring on a lazy and romantic weekend morning with your partner. Consider choosing an order of banana pancakes or a spinach and feta omelet. The Barking Dog The Barking Dog might not be what some people consider romantic because it serves up casual American food like burgers, hot dogs, and French fries. However, the views of the waterfront from the restaurant's expansive windows are breath taking and cannot be matched by any of the other locations on this list. It's technically a short drive away in neighboring Hampton, Virginia. Since it's a more cost effective romantic dining option, you can probably make a few dates here. Passion the Restaurant At Passion the Restaurant you can enjoy an elegant and refined meal created by an award winning chef. You can try a variety of options from its extensive menu to celebrate your romantic special occasions. Start with an appetizer like the cheese plate, the truffle mac & cheese, or a mini rack of lamb. For dinner, try the Applewood Bacon & Maytag Filet Mignon or the Virginia Crab Cakes. For dessert, order the White Chocolate Bread Pudding, the Tri-Brulee, or one of the seasonal flavors of home made ice cream and sorbet. Once a week, there is half priced wine night where you can choose your favorite wine from the wine list for a great price. The restaurant is located at 1036 Volvo Parkway. These are just some of the great restaurants in Chesapeake that are worth checking out for your next romantic date. Most of these restaurants offer a great selection of food, wine, and, in some cases, locally brewed craft beer. For many couples, these restaurants become their go-to spots to celebrate romantic occasions and birthdays. Image via Flickr by Katja Hasselkus https://www.flickr.com/photos/hasselkus-pr/13560854924/sizes/l

You can find a variety of great bars in Norfolk. While there are a lot of bars, the best bars for the most fun are themed bars. Norfolk has several themed bars that stand out from the rest in terms of creativity, authenticity, and enjoyability. If you are interested in finding a great bar, here are the 3 best themed bars in Norfolk. Grace O'Malley's If you want the best themed bar in Norfolk, nothing beats an Irish pub. Irish pubs are the standard for themed bars and bars in general. They often have the liveliest atmosphere, as well as the best food and drinks. Grace O'Malley's is the best Irish pub in Norfolk. It is known for its food and high quality drinks. Customers rave about the fun that they have at Grace O'Malley's. On holidays, Grace O'Malley's goes the extra distance to make them exciting by having house specials and specialty drinks. It's also a great place to reserve for special events. Grace O'Malley's also hosts music and comedy acts nearly every night, so it is the perfect bar to spend your Friday and Saturday nights in. more Elixa Elixa is another great themed bar option in Norfolk. It is themed after a rustic upscale American bar featuring a long of wood and rod iron appointments. It has the feel of being in an upscale popup bar that will be gone the next day. However, Elixa never leaves and you can always return for more fun. The atmosphere is very relaxing which makes it easy to unwind at the end of a long day. You can grab a table or take a seat at the bar for a drink. The food options are exceptional including options that you usually cannot get in a bar. The drink selection is extensive as well which is great for pairing. If you are looking for a place to unwind in either a laidback or slightly fancier atmosphere, Elixa is the place that you want to try first. The Birch The Birch reminds many people of an old neighborhood bar that you would find on the street corners. It is not fancy, but it isn't a mess either. The Birch is the appropriate level of laid back that everyone enjoys. You can find a large selection of beers including craft beers from all around. The selection and quality will have you coming back for new options for a long time. One of the best parts about The Birch is the food options. It offers a variety of options including cheese plates to pair with your drink. If you are looking for a new bar experience, the perfect bar is waiting for you in Norfolk. The themed bars are a great setting for family and friends nights, or to unwind after a stressful day. Since Norfolk is full of great themed bars, you should get out and try as many as you can find. There are great bars in Norfolk for you to discover. https://www.flickr.com/photos/stuart_spivack/3351433581/sizes/l Image via Flickr by stu_spivack

Living in Norfolk, Virginia, comes with many great perks. One of them is getting to enjoy the many events in and around the city. Here are some of the best events coming to Norfolk in May. Spring Town Point Virginia Wine Festival Located at Norfolk's downtown waterfront at Town Point Park, the Spring Town Point Virginia Wine Festival returns for the 11th year on May 6–7. Open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days, come to try some new wines and enjoy the live music. Admission with a tasting ticket is $40 on Saturday and $35 on Sunday. You can also splurge and get a VIP Tasting Ticket, which gives you access to the VIP Lounge. If you get a reserved table, you and seven other guests will get into the festival and have a table reserved just for you. Each tasting ticket includes a souvenir glass. For those that want to attend without tasting, the cost is $25 on Saturday and $20 on Sunday. more Veer Local Music Awards Festival For the past five years, Veer Magazine has celebrated the talent of local musicians with music awards. Norfolk Festevents has teamed up with Veer Magazine to bring those awards to life. The winning bands will be brought together on May 11 from 6 to 11 p.m. to show why they deserved the accolades. It will be a great night of music, dancing, and fun. Spring Street Fair On Saturday, May 13, the Smartmouth Brewing Co. is hosting a Spring Street Fair to benefit the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. From noon until 7 p.m., you can listen to live bands, grab some grub from food trucks, and try 20 taps. There will be carnival-style games and prizes to win as well. These classic games include beer bottle ring toss, dunk tank, duck pond, and beer can alley. The fair will be at 1309 Raleigh St. in Norfolk and there's no admission fee. Virginia Beer Festival On May 20–21 is the Virginia Beer Festival. Located at Town Point Park in Norfolk, this festival highlights beers from local breweries. In addition to locals, there will be breweries from all over the country, from California to Wisconsin to New York. In addition to great food and brews, enjoy live music at the venue. Saturday features Anthony Rosano and the Conqueroos, a blues group, and Sunday features Brackish Water Jamboree, a group that plays bluegrass country. Daily entry with tasting tickets cost between $25 and $40. This includes a 6-ounce souvenir glass and complimentary samples of more than 150 beers. Those 12 to 20 years old (or those not wishing to taste) can purchase a general admission ticket for $20. Anyone under 12 is free. Premium tickets can also be purchased for exclusive benefits that include a private seating area, exclusive beer tasting, light food, private bathrooms, and a culinary expert that pairs deluxe food with beer. Where will you be this May? Pick one or all of these events to liven up your spring. https://www.flickr.com/photos/shreveportbossier/6035430355/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Shreveport-Bossier: Louisiana's Other Side

Norfolk Naval Station is a fascinating area with a long history. Whether you're visiting a loved one on base or you're just exploring the area, there's plenty to do near the Norfolk Naval Station. We've listed our top four favorite spots to visit that are sure to be a hit for residents and tourists alike. Take a look at our list and start planning your next trip today! Battleship Wisconsin The Battleship Wisconsin is a must-see location for military buffs and casual visitors alike. An Iowa-class warship, the battleship was launched in 1943 and was decommissioned in 1991 after serving in World War II, Korea, and the Gulf War. This ship is a fantastic example of American craftsmanship and is a stunning piece of history. more Visitors are welcome aboard to take a tour of the Battleship Wisconsin and learn more about its fascinating history and service. It currently serves as a museum dedicated to preserving the history of American military efforts and is still owned by the Navy. If need be, the ship can be returned to active duty, which adds an extra level of interest for visitors who want to see what an actual battleship is like. Hermitage Museum and Gardens The Hermitage Museum and Gardens is a picturesque destination in Norfolk that is a popular spot for weddings. The grounds are home to beautiful gardens and a well-preserved historic home. The home was built in the early 1900s and was home to a private family before becoming a part of the Smithsonian Affiliations program. Spanning approximately 5,000 years, the art collection housed at the Hermitage is impressive, to say the least. There is also an arts program available for those who are interested in taking art classes, plus twelve acres of gardens that visitors are welcome to wander. Norfolk Botanical Gardens These impressive botanical gardens span 175 acres and are the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon. Whether you're just looking for a bit of exercise or you're an avid gardener, the Norfolk Botanical Gardens have something for everyone. There are 52 individual gardens within the larger acreage, and the gardens are home to one of the largest collections of azaleas, camellias, roses, and rhododendrons in the United States. For little ones, the gardens recently unveiled their World of Wonders section, which includes a 3-acre children's garden where kids can learn about plants and animals. Virginia Zoo Another popular spot for the young and young at heart, the Virginia Zoo is a fun and educational destination for all. Spread over 52 acres, the zoo was opened in 1900 and continues to be a favorite spot for both residents and visitors to the area. Come learn more about fascinating animals like giraffes and lions, or learn more about local wildlife. There are more than 500 animals housed in the zoo, and the Virginia Zoo is committed to the well-being of all its residents. There's also a train on site on which you can get excellent views of the wildlife and give your feet a break. These are just a few of the fun activities near the Norfolk Naval Station. Be sure to check out each of these locations' websites for information on special events! https://www.flickr.com/photos/madmiked/229773887/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Mike Durkin

There's nothing more spectacular, soothing, and invigorating than seeing the perfect sunrise. Although there are numerous places throughout the country that claim to have the most scenic sunrise, the ones in the Norfolk area are among the best anywhere on the East Coast. The next time you're looking to get up early and catch the glowing orb in the sky emerge from its slumber, check out these places around Norfolk. On the Chesapeake Bay The easiest, most accessible, and most popular place to catch the sunrise near Norfolk is on the Chesapeake Bay. As the sun emerges over the horizon, brilliant orange, red, and pink hues blend together harmoniously. The eastern shore offers the best options for an unrestricted view that seems to go on forever. To get there from Norfolk, head northeast along U.S. Highway 13 across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. The Virginia National Wildlife Refuge is a top destination, as you can enjoy the sunrise in unison with nature. more Virginia Beach If you get up early enough, you can take the 30-minute drive which puts you right on the Atlantic Ocean. From here, you can get the dramatic view without as many people hovering around as you walk along the beach. If you're searching for another way to see it, head over to First Landing State Park. This area's dunes and semi-tropical vegetation supply an interesting backdrop to the event, and it gives you a chance to do some hiking once the sun has risen. Hospital Point Park Few people know about Hospital Point Park, which is hidden between the Elizabeth River and the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, but it's one of the best urban places to catch the sunset. Once you wander through the park, stake out a park bench to have a seat as you witness the sun creep up behind the skyline of downtown Norfolk. As it rises up through the air, the sun illuminates the skyscrapers and buildings of the city, creating a scene that's truly mesmerizing. King-Lincoln Park Situated just off Interstate 664 in Newport News, King-Lincoln Park is 18 acres of scenic bliss, especially during sunrise. It's located right along the King-Lincoln Fishing Pier, and as the sun rises you'll see fisherman casting their lines, which is a magical scene in itself. Like Hospital Point Park, you can catch the sunrise over downtown Norfolk, and there's something about the park that's unlike any other in the area. York River State Park If you're willing to trek the 60 miles north to visit York River State Park, you'll get a secluded yet spectacular view of the sun as it rises over the York River. When the sun creeps over the horizon it illuminates the river, causing a reflection off of the water that's simply amazing. Catching the sunrise in Norfolk isn't difficult if you know where to look. With these spots, you never have to worry about finding the perfect spot. All you have to do is set the alarm, find the right person, and get there right on time. Image via Pixabay

Virginia is for lovers, or at least that's the slogan that defines the state's tourism bureau. While it's true there are many things to love about Virginia, the numerous coastal state parks are perhaps the best attribute. With awesome views and a bevy of entertaining outdoor activities, these state parks are almost guaranteed to give you an unforgettable experience. First Landing State Park Located on Cape Henry in North Virginia Beach, First Landing State Park is nearly 2,900 acres of pristine coastal wilderness. Opened in 1936, the park is a prime example of forested dunes and semi-tropical vegetation. Activities include hiking, boating, swimming, fishing, and picnicking. If you aren't an avid outdoorsman, the park also has a historic district that's famous for its architecture, which dates back to the beginning of the park. The grounds are open from 8 a.m. until dusk 365 days a year, and admission is $4 per vehicle on weekdays and $5 per vehicle on weekends. If you want to stay overnight, the park also has 200 campsites and 20 cabins available for a fee. more False Cape State Park Nestled in the southeastern corner of Virginia between Back Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, False Cape State Park is one of Virginia's most hidden yet breathtaking state parks. It remains one of the few undeveloped areas on the East Coast, and only those who love truly primitive camping and uninhabited places should trek here. Some of the most popular activities here include boating, hiking, kayaking, biking, or strolling along the six miles of white sand beaches. The best way to get here is by booking a ticket on the beach's transport called the Terra-Gator. There's also a tram that travels through portions of the wilderness, enabling you to take in the beautiful foliage and see the animals that live throughout the park. The park is open from dawn until dusk every day of the year. York River State Park Although it's miles from Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, York River State Park is still one of the state's most remarkable coastal parks. Known for its estuarine ecosystem, York River's water combines both freshwater and saltwater, giving it a diverse and rare mix of plants and animals. If you're into history, the visitor's center has exhibits that explain the rich history of the area from Native Americans to colonial times. For a more active approach, strap on your hiking boots and hit the 30 miles of trails throughout the park. Other activities include mountain biking, kayaking, boating, picnicking, and horseback riding. While the park is most popular with visitors during spring and summer, the fall is the best time to go as the foliage changes colors, offering a spectacular time for some prime leaf peeping. When it comes to enjoying the outdoors in a coastal setting, there's no better place to visit than these Virginia state parks. All you need to do is pack up the car with your gear and a few of your friends or family members, and set off for some fun that you won't soon forget. https://www.flickr.com/photos/vastateparksstaff/32684962761/sizes/l Image via Flickr by vastateparksstaff

Anyone living in or near Chesapeake has a bounty of seafood restaurants around them and the question is where to start. To help narrow down your choices, consider these top-rated seafood restaurants and markets in the Chesapeake area. Shaking Creole As the name might suggest, Shaking Creole is a Cajun cuisine restaurant and naturally offers plenty of seafood by the pound or in steamed and seasoned platters. Give Shaking Creole a visit if you're looking to share an extra-large platter of crawfish, shrimp, crab legs, corn cobs, potatoes, hush puppies, and more. There are some TVs with sports channels going, but the interior is a bit nicer than the common sports bar vibe and great for families. more Wicker's Crab Pot Wicker's is a popular casual seafood restaurant known for its oysters, crab cakes, and hush puppies, along with deviled and fried crabs. Family owned and run for over 60 years, Wicker's was originally in Portsmouth but has moved and settled in Chesapeake since 1999. On top of the diverse seafood lunch and dinner menu, there is also a brunch menu with southern breakfast items like hoe cakes and common favorites like eggs Benedict. If you love Wicker's Crab Pot they also have a special catering menu to serve boatloads of delectable seafood for special events. Off the Hook Off the Hook Seafood Market Steamer & Raw Bar is one of the best places to get simple, fresh seafood made in uncomplicated recipes and platters. The actual restaurant area is nicely decorated and some of the dishes are as attractive as they are tasty, especially the lobster mac and cheese and oysters Rockefeller. As one of the best markets for fresh-caught fish and seafood, Off the Hook is also perfect if you'd like to take something home to cook in your own recipe. Take note that if you do plan to dine at this popular local spot, it might be a good idea to call in first. D-Deb's: A Taste of Home At D-Deb's, the building, interior design, cooking style, and presentation all evoke the feeling of dinner with the neighbors. The menu combined the best of both New England and southern cooking, offering everything from shrimp salad sandwiches to filet mignon. This is undoubtedly one of the most unique restaurants in Chesapeake, and while not a seafood restaurant specifically it has popular items like crab and artichoke dip, she crab soup, scallops, crab-stuffed rockfish, and more. Red Bone Raw Bar This pub and seafood joint has regular live music and fun events, and is a terrific place to enjoy a meal with happy hour. Get a basket of fried seafood in checkered baskets, visit on fish taco Tuesday, or try one of their many rotating specials. There's seating outside if you'd like to enjoy the sun, and a wide selection of local and import beers. If you have a craving for crab, shrimp, oysters, and other seafood, then you can't go wrong with these five restaurants. Each one is popular and raved about for good reason and no two restaurants are alike. https://www.flickr.com/photos/nationalmuseumofamericanhistory/19670086520/sizes/l Image via Flickr by national museum of american history

Once winter ends, spring brings a breath of fresh air and rebirth. While there are numerous ways to spend this time, the best way is to take some spring drives around the Chesapeake, Virginia area. With beautiful scenery and several great stops along the way, a fun weekend jaunt is only a short drive away. Here are just some of the best ways to view the scenic portions of Chesapeake and the surrounding area while enjoying some excellent company behind the wheel. 1. Colonial Parkway Stretching from the York River to the James River, the 23-mile long Colonial Parkway, also known as Virginia State Route 90003, is one of the most picturesque and historic drives in the state. It winds its way through the Colonial National Historic Park, offering glimpses of the pristine wildlife and foliage of the area. During spring, it's easy to see the wildlife and fresh greenery of the local ecosystem. The speed limit is only 45 mph, allowing for a less hectic trip and more time to take in the scenery. The road ends in either Yorktown or Jamestown, which are perfect places to see some historical sites from America's past. more 2. Virginia State Route 5 Running between Williamsburg and Richmond, Virginia State Route 5 is another spring driving gem. Most of the road runs adjacent to the James River, offering breathtaking views. This road is also just one of four Virginia Scenic Byways, and it's often regarded as the most amazing of the bunch. Along the way, you can stop off at one of the historic plantations that offer some insight into the history of the area, as well as examples of interesting Virginia architecture from 150 years ago. At the end of the drive, you'll arrive in the cosmopolitan city of Richmond, where you can dine, visit a museum, or attend a Richmond Flying Squirrels baseball game. 3. U.S. Route 13 Running from Fayetteville, North Carolina, to the southern suburbs of Philadelphia, U.S. Route 13 is one of the most interesting roads on the East Coast, going from rural areas to one of the biggest cities in the country. However, its stretch from Virginia Beach to Virginia's Eastern Shore is perhaps the best portion of the highway. The most amazing section of the drive is the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, which stretches 23 miles across the mouth of Chesapeake Bay. During spring, you can see for miles in every direction, providing panoramic views of the ocean. Once you arrive on the eastern shore, you can enjoy several of Virginia's quaint, small, yet fun towns. 4. Virginia State Route 10 Like Virginia State Route 5, State Route 10 runs along the James River, but on the south side rather than the north. The two routes are markedly similar, offering views of the countryside and river, as well as running past several historic plantations. If you take Route 5 up to Virginia, take Route 10 back to get the full experience. No matter where you decide to drive this spring, you're guaranteed to have a great time on these amazing Chesapeake area roadways. https://www.flickr.com/photos/mobili/12686268945/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Mobilus In Mobili