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With spring just around the corner, the beautiful weather is coming back to Chesapeake. Get the entire family out to enjoy the nice weather and some good exercise by hitting one of the following bike paths in and around Chesapeake. 1. Indian River Park Indian River Park is a 90-acre getaway in the heart of urban Chesapeake. One of the park's unique features is that Military Highway splits it. Both the northwest and southwest side of the park have biking trails that will take you through forests of large, mature pines and hardwoods. The southwest side of the park also has a bike trail with changes in elevation that are ideal for mountain biking and a series of jumps for those who like extreme adventure. more 2. Dismal Swamp Canal Trail Don't get scared away by the name; Dismal Swamp Canal Trail actually offers amazing scenery, unique history, and chances to spot some of Virginia's native wildlife. The paved canal trail is actually an old section of Virginia State Route 17. It's now an 11-mile multi-use trail that connects to Deep Creek Park and is perfect for all ages. While you're on the trail, keep your eyes open, and you might just spot turtles, lizards, snakes, frogs, squirrels, foxes, deer, beavers, river otters, and more. 3. Oak Grove Lake Park The 65-acre Oak Grove Lake Park is an excellent place to explore forests and wetlands on your bike. There's a 1.5-mile multi-use biking trail that runs the perimeter of the 65-acre lake. Along with beautiful views of the water, there are also opportunities to spot wildlife in the park. With benches and picnic tables scattered on the trail, you can pack a picnic and find the perfect spot to enjoy a lunch outside. The park also has fishing platforms, a play area, and six outdoor fitness stations. 4. Northwest River Park The 763-acre Northwest River Park offers many biking trails for a range of skill levels. Deer Island Trail is a 0.75-mile trail that starts at the campground, runs across Deer Island, and ends at the Northwest River. It's an easy trail that's good for any member of the family. For a little more challenge, try the 1.25-mile Shuttle Trail. This trail starts at the Northern Terminal and runs along the creek in the park. It eventually connects with the Deer Island Trail to end on the bank of the Northwest River. 5. False Cape State Park For some truly one-of-a-kind biking trails, head just outside of Chesapeake to False Cape State Park. Located on a barrier spit between the Atlantic Ocean and Back Bay, False Cape State Park has numerous biking trails that go from easy to difficult. For those looking for a challenge, Sand Ridge Trail is one of the more demanding trails in the park. It stretches for 6.2 miles and covers some sandy terrain that's hard to manage. Biking one of these wonderful trails in and around Chesapeake is a great way to explore the area and enjoy some time outside. https://www.flickr.com/photos/familjenhelsingborg/16072545124/sizes/l Image via Flickr by FamiljenHelsingborg

Fusion restaurants combine elements from different cuisines to create a fun and exciting menu. Chesapeake is home to many new and interesting fusion restaurants that make original dishes with influences from around the world. If you're looking to try a fusion restaurant, check out a few of these top options. 1. Lemongrass Grille Lemongrass Grille is an Asian fusion restaurant that serves organic, vegan, and vegetarian options. The restaurant uses responsibly raised, farmed, and prepared meats and fresh, local ingredients. Stop by for lunch or dinner and put together your own healthy meal. Start with a base of noodles, rice, or a wrap. Next, choose beef, chicken, pork, or tofu for your protein. After that, you pick up to three vegetables and a sauce. Finally, finish off your meal with your choice of garnish. more 2. Nouvelle Restaurant Nouvelle Restaurant combines French and American classics for a fresh take on casual dining. If you stop by for dinner, you can start your meal with seared sea scallops or a roasted beet salad from the appetizer menu. Popular main course options include beef marinated in burgundy wine with root vegetables, mushrooms, and herbs and free-range chicken marinated in a garlic and buttermilk sauce before being fried and served with garlic mash and farm greens. If you save room for dessert, be sure to try the seasonal bread pudding or another dessert special. 3. Yumi Yumi Yumi Yumi serves fresh Chinese and American fusion meals for lunch and dinner. Appetizers include chicken nuggets, fried cheese wonton, shrimp egg roll, and boneless ribs. Yumi Yumi also has fried rice, chow mein, lo mein, chow fun, and mai fun. The main dishes include honey chicken, eggplant chicken with garlic sauce, pork with mushrooms, curry beef with onion, beef with asparagus, kung po shrimp, sesame shrimp, and more. You can order online for delivery, pickup, or dine-in. 4. Kyoto Japanese Steakhouse Kyoto Japanese Steakhouse was the first restaurant in Chesapeake to serve hibachi and sushi together. Stop by the hibachi grill for lunch or dinner and you can order teriyaki chicken, hibachi shrimp, hibachi steak, or sukiyaki steak. There are also specialties like chicken and shrimp, steak and shrimp, and chicken and steak. Choose the sushi bar for lunch or dinner and you'll find a la cart choices like eel, crab, shrimp, scallop, tuna, salmon, conch, and more. 5. Fusion Restaurant and Lounge Head out to the beautiful shores of Virginia Beach and you'll find Fusion Restaurant and Lounge in the contemporary Sheraton hotel. This is the perfect spot to watch the waves as you relax with a specialty cocktail. When you're hungry, try one of their artisan sandwiches, like the turkey club or the fried green tomato BLT. Popular entrées include scallops with cumin and Hawaiian sea salt, lobster ravioli, and applewood smoked New York strip steak. For dessert, you can't miss the molten chocolate cake. When you're looking for a unique combination of cuisines, be sure to check out these fusion restaurants in and around Chesapeake. Image via Pixabay

If you love bird-watching, put Chesapeake, Virginia, on the top of your list of places to visit. From wetlands to forests, the area offers several natural habitats that are a haven for local bird life. To experience the best bird-watching in Chesapeake, make sure you check out these top spots. 1. Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge For some unbeatable bird-watching in the area, you must head out to Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. This 49,097-acre refuge is home to over 200 species of migratory and native birds, including waxwings, grebes, barred owls, and starlings. If you're looking to catch a glimpse of the secretive Wayne's Warbler and Swainson's Warbler, you're best chance is in the Great Dismal Swamp. These birds are more common here than in other coastal regions. The best birding spots in the refuge are the Jericho Ditch and Washington Ditch trails. more 2. Elizabeth River Park With numerous benches along the water, Elizabeth River Park is the perfect spot to sit down, relax, and watch the water birds. Enjoy the antics of the gulls, look up to see if you can spot an osprey circling above, and watch as herons and egrets move stealthily through the weeds in search of fiddler crabs and small fish. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a red-tailed hawk flying by. 3. Chesapeake Arboretum Recognized as one of Virginia's Treasures, Chesapeake Arboretum is a great place to bird-watch. Keep your eyes toward the trees along three miles of trails to see nesting birds like robins, blue birds, and tyrant flycatchers. You'll notice many of the trees have labels so you can learn their names as well. This beautiful area includes 48-acres of hardwood forest and grounds all surrounding an eighteenth century farmhouse with fragrant gardens. 4. Northwest River Park The Department of Game and Inland Fisheries has included Northwest River Park as part of the Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail. No matter what time of year you visit the park for bird-watching, you're in for a treat. In spring, look on the ground for the ovenbird. This small songbird actually makes its nest on the forest floor instead of in the trees. Head to the park in winter and you might spot a bald eagle soaring above. Walk along the riverbank for a chance to see osprey, wood ducks, mallards, and great blue herons. 5. Oak Grove Lake Park The South Chesapeake Loop is part of the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail and a section of it winds its way through Oak Grove Lake Park. With a 65-acre lake, wetlands, and a hardwood forest, this park provides an opportunity to see a unique assortment of birds. Catch a nuthatch flying through the pines or watch a great blue heron wading along the shore. Whether you're looking for forest birds or water birds, these beautiful spots around Chesapeake are the perfect place to go for an afternoon of bird-watching. https://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsnortheast/11800012685/sizes/l Image via Flickr by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Northeast Region

Whether you've been married for 50 years or you just started dating a month ago, couples always need a romantic place to enjoy an intimate meal together. Chesapeake already boasts some of the finest restaurants in the state, so if you're looking for a quiet spot to talk, dine, and laugh together, the perfect destination is just a short drive away. Passion The Restaurant With a name like "Passion," it's no wonder that this award-winning eatery tops our list. With its mellow, classy atmosphere, dim lighting, and exposed ceiling beams, Passion is a delightful place for your date night. Gourmet dishes at Passion include rack of lamb, crab soup, New York strip steak, fresh seafood, and Virginia crab cakes. Every dish is carefully assembled and presented. Desserts are a specialty here, and folks rave about the white chocolate bread pudding and homemade ice cream. more Ddeb's - A Taste of Home Restaurant Located in the downtown Great Bridge area, this restaurant more than defines "home cooking." It's actually a house that's been converted into a restaurant. You won't find a privacy-defiling open-seating configuration here. Each of the cozy rooms only holds a couple of tables. Relax in the waiting area (formerly a living room) replete with armchairs and a fireplace. Once you're seated among the tastefully chosen decor, indulge in gourmet comfort food that includes shrimp and grits, chicken and dumplings, and meatloaf. Alternately, choose from more "date-appropriate" selections such as chicken Marsala, seafood, linguine, or beef stroganoff. The dessert menu is small, but the hand-picked selections are out of this world. Amber Lantern Restaurant Take a stroll amongst the waterfront fountains to engage the appetite, and step into the Amber Lantern just as the sun hits the water. You and your partner will be treated to a gorgeous sunset outside the huge windows. Better yet, if weather permits, sit at an outside patio table and behold the sun melting into the horizon. Inside, the oversized windows aren't conducive to low, cozy lighting but do offer lovely views of the water and surrounding countryside. Decor is breezy and classy with a touch of flair. Indulge in dishes such as lobster bisque, Mediterranean chicken, and what some say are the best crab cakes in the state. End your experience with one of their signature desserts, like the lemon berry mascarpone cake. Baker's Crust With dim, romantic lighting, muted glass, the exposed brick-oven kitchen, and rich mahogany, Baker's Crust is the picture of romance. It's mostly table seating here, so call ahead to reserve a booth for intimate dining and conversation. Baker's Crust has a small bar that is tastefully tucked away in a corner of the restaurant. Some of the farm-to-table dinner specialties include Hawaiian flat-iron steak, Atlantic salmon, and Asiago chicken. You can opt for burgers or pizza, however, and still receive a beautifully presented gourmet "date-worthy" dish. They boast an extensive dessert menu with crepes, cheesecake, praline bread pudding, and more. Thanks to Chesapeake's love of fine food, a romantic dinner getaway is never far from home. Any one of these fine establishments will ensure the perfect evening for both of you. https://www.flickr.com/photos/vastateparksstaff/29413751820/sizes/l Image via Flickr by vastateparksstaff

Trying to figure out what teenagers enjoy is like figuring out a Sudoku puzzle. Teenagers often leave you struggling to put the pieces together. You can spend hours asking them to explain what they like and receive one-word responses like "yes" and "okay" — or you can check out the most popular attractions in Chesapeake, Virginia, and make them aware of the plans. Ice Skating Calling all ice skaters! The Chilled Ponds Ice Sports Complex will encourage teens to get physical and have some fun within its 90,000-square-foot NHL skating rink. Parents can plan for open skating sessions from Monday to Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:50 p.m., Friday from 8 to 11 p.m., Saturday from 10:50 a.m. to 1:50 p.m. and from 9:20 to 10:50 p.m., and Sunday from 5 to 7 p.m. Hours are subject change, but general admission is $10. The rink is located at 1416 Stephanie Way in Chesapeake, Virginia. more Bowling All families need is a properly sized bowling ball and fitted shoes to enjoy AMF Chesapeake Lanes. Teens can bring friends and avoid parents at this bowling alley, which includes 40 lanes, free Wi-Fi, an arcade, and pool tables. They also offer parties and an expansive menu to feed appetites of all sizes. The address is 112 Medical Parkway East. Weekend hours are from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. on Saturday, and 12 to 11 p.m. on Sunday. Outdoor Activities Teens can catch concerts throughout the year at the Chesapeake City Park, located at 9000 City Park Drive. This park boasts more than 90 acres for outdoor activities and memorable moments. Bring the family pet, skateboards, and roller blades for an afternoon of fun for all. Active young adults might also enjoy horseshoe games, volleyball, basketball, or a walk on the ¾ mile trail. The Chesapeake City Park is a top destination for those who enjoy the outdoors. Camping Chesapeake Campgrounds in the place to be for teens and tweens. Nothing says adventure more than a night out with nature, and the vast amenities will never grow old. Teens can enjoy camping outdoors or inside actual cabins, rent canoes, ride bikes, or plan a picnic. They can also get active in the nearby game room or on the basketball court. With over 20 acres of recreational bliss, teens in Chesapeake will meet their match at this local destination (693 South George Washington Highway). Seasonal hours run 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Labor Day through Memorial Day and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Parents — avoid the tug of war and offer a few suggestions for fun activities for your teen. You may even suggest bringing a few friends along for the fun. Chesapeake, Virginia, has many options to meet your budget and timeline. Teens can coast along the slippery slopes of the Chilled Ponds Ice Sports Complex, spend allowance money at the AMF Chesapeake Lane's game room, get physical at the city park, or plan an overnight outdoor adventure. Image Via Pixabay

Nature lovers, take note! Chesapeake and the surrounding area are home to top-quality nature trails that offer year-round outdoor entertainment. Featuring elevated scenic overlooks and endless acres of forests, wetlands, and wilderness, you will experience something unique along each and every trail. Plus, many of these trails also feature picnic areas, playgrounds, volleyball nets, and more. Below we've compiled a list of some of our favorite trails! Read on to discover your next adventure. Deep Creek Lock Park Named after the Corps of Engineers' lock that separates the salt water of Deep Creek and the fresh water of Dismal Swamp Canal, this park encompasses 25-acres of history. Here you can walk along the pedestrian bridge and elevated walkway, hike through the woods, canoe, and play volleyball. Once you're done being active, you can grill some hotdogs and burgers and enjoy a nice picnic in the designated area. more Dismal Swamp Canal Trail Open from sunrise to sunset, Dismal Swamp Canal Trail is 8.5 miles long and accommodates horseback riders, bicyclists, walkers, joggers, and boat owners. This trail winds through some of the area's most historical and ecological habitats in the United States and features an outdoor recreational area complete with a playground for both serious and casual outdoor enthusiasts. Formerly known as US Route 17, here is a nature lover's paradise. Elizabeth River Park Elizabeth River Park is more of a park than a trail, but with the amazing amenities and scenery, you'll understand why it made our list. Having undergone construction, Elizabeth River Park is now home to a paved trail, covered pavilion, benches along the waterfront, a dog park, and much more. Elizabeth River Park is also home to newly redone boat ramps, making this park one of the most active for those boat owners. A visit here will definitely lead you to gorgeous sunsets over the river. Oak Grove Lake Park Trail This easy 1.8-mile trail loops around Oak Grove Lake. Giving way to breathtaking water views, Oak Grove Lake Park Trail is also home to a variety of other year-round outdoor activities, including fitness stops, benches, a well-kept picnic area, a family park, and a dog park. While this trail tends to be a bit on the busier side on weekends, it certainly provides a great nature-filled escape. Western Branch Park Adjacent to Western Branch Community Center, Western Branch Park is home to multipurpose fields, open spaces, and a family-friendly facility built for sports and recreation. The 80-acre park also features a two-mile nature walking trail, play areas, six tennis courts, picnic shelters, different athletic courts, and a dog park. Northwest River Park The 763-acre Northwest River Park features both natural beauty and recreational activities. From year-round boating and horse shoes to putt-putt golf and seven miles of hiking trails, this park is home to lots of outdoor adventures. While this list encompasses just a few of the amazing trails in Chesapeake and the surrounding area, we know that whatever trail you choose to walk, you'll have some great outdoor fun. Image Via Pixabay

Although Virginia doesn't have a professional football team of its own, it does have two major college programs and the nearby Washington Redskins. No matter your favorite team, Chesapeake, Virginia, has some awesome places to catch all the action. The next time you're looking to track your fantasy football team or watch the big game, check out a few of these great Chesapeake hot spots. 1. Wild Wing Cafe To some football enthusiasts, going to a chain sports bar is a blasphemous venture. However, they probably haven't been to the Wild Wing Cafe. This restaurant has 30 locations throughout the Southeast, and the Chesapeake location offers delicious food, drink specials, and plenty of televisions with all the games you want. As you might have guessed, the name of the game here is wings, which come in a variety of flavors ranging from mild to frighteningly hot. Regardless of what you choose, you can probably get out of here for under $25. You can find the Wild Wing Cafe at 1437 Sam's Drive. more 2. Kelly's Tavern With two Chesapeake area locations, Kelly's Tavern is another great choice to watch football, get some delectable pub food, and wash it down with an ice-cold beer. With an extensive menu, you'll have trouble choosing between burgers, wraps, salads, seafood, and pasta. There's also an outdoor patio at the Great Bridge joint, which is the perfect escape during halftime. If you don't head to their seaside location, you can find one off the Greenbrier Parkway. 3. AJ Gators Sports Bar & Grill For the true sports bar purist, AJ Gators Sports Bar & Grill is the quintessential choice. There are 10 locations throughout the area, with two in Chesapeake. Burgers and sandwiches are the main fare here, and the many crowd-pleasing appetizers include fried pickles, nachos, and sliders. On game day, it's in your best interest to arrive early to get a table or stake out a place at the bar. Once you're hunkered down, order a beer and food, and get ready to cheer on the Hokies, Cavaliers, Redskins, or Panthers to victory. 4. Hank's Pub If you're searching for a more fan-friendly spot for your watch party, head over to Hank's Pub. As soon as you sit down at the bar, you're greeted by Hank himself, who has slung up drinks behind the bar since the restaurant's opening. During commercial breaks and halftime, make sure you stay nearby to hear some of Hank's crazy tales of working in the U.S. Coast Guard. There are televisions everywhere, so there's no bad seat in the house, and the food is better than most for a sports bar. The burgers and chicken wings are the most popular entrées, and the bar stocks local, domestic, and foreign brews. Hank's Pub is located at 2138 South Military Highway. This fall and winter, don't miss out on the fun and exciting atmosphere that defines football season. You'll get some great food, thirst-quenching drinks, and maybe even meet a few of your football brethren. https://www.flickr.com/photos/8136496@N05/1425804862/sizes/o/ Image via Flickr by terren in Virginia

The western part of Virginia is flanked by the Allegheny Mountains and Blue Ridge Mountains, making skiing and snowboarding obvious winter pastimes. If you live near Chesapeake, most of these ski fields are within a short drive. The next time you feel the urge to hit the slopes, don't miss out on these amazing ski resorts and all they have to offer. 1. Snowshoe Mountain Resort Located 300 miles from Chesapeake, Snowshoe Mountain Resort is an excellent choice for a weekend or week long trip. Several nearby towns offer a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget to extravagant. There's also an on-site hotel that provides you with top-notch amenities. When you're ready to hit the mountain, all you have to do is strap on your skis and let gravity do the rest. If you're looking for a challenge, Snowshoe Mountain has five extreme terrain parks, as well as some of the best downhill skiing in the state. Beginners will love the bunny hills, and ski lessons are always a great option to get you started. Lift passes start at $38 on weekdays. more 2. Wintergreen Resort If you're looking for something a bit closer to home, Wintergreen Resort is 200 miles away from Chesapeake by way of Interstate 64. Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Wintergreen Resort offers world-class skiing at an affordable price. The terrain park is the crown jewel here, with more than 40 obstacles, rails, and ramps on which to catch some air. Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine voted it the best terrain park. For beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders, the resort has dozens of runs that are sure to delight. After a long day on the mountain, head back to your on-site accommodation, complete with a restaurant, spa, and nightlife activities. Eight-hour lift passes start at $59. 3. Bryce Resort Situated on the edge of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, Bryce Resort is about a four-hour drive from Chesapeake, but when you arrive, you'll find the journey was well worth your time. Day passes start at $42, but for a real treat, try the nighttime skiing, which is not only thrilling but also a bargain at just $25 per session. There's an on-site restaurant and hotel, allowing you to stay on the mountain for the duration of your trip. If you're a bit apprehensive about hitting the slopes, snow tubing is another popular choice. 4. Massanutten Resort Nestled at the foothills of Shenandoah National Park, Massanutten Resort's terrific skiing is matched only by its majestic views. For more than 40 years, this resort has offered exceptional lodging and exciting nightlife, and it now has a 5,000-square-foot restaurant and café. Here, you can test your slalom and downhill skills on 11 runs of varying difficulty or try your hand at the two terrain parks. Passes are $50 on weekends and $70 on the weekend. With so many great options, Virginia is certainly one of the undiscovered gems of the American ski world. This winter, don't miss out on your chance to ski to your heart's content. https://www.flickr.com/photos/bfsminid/5283222501/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Mini D

Fall is a breathtaking time of year—the leaves grow ripe with color, the air becomes crisp, and the world seems poised for a long winter rest. You can enjoy the season in many ways, but spending time in Chesapeake, VA at this time of year is an experience unlike any other. The entire region feels like it was made just for this time of year. We at Priority Toyota want you to make the most out of the autumn beauty, so we've compiled a list of activities occurring in Chesapeake. Begin Your Fall with the Sounds of Music In early September, enjoy a special event at the Bagley Stage. The Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department hosts the Virginia Symphony Orchestra at an event called Symphony Under the Stars. Come and listen to expert musicians creating powerful music while you relax in the cool grass. There will also be food trucks with a variety of menu offerings, wine tasting, and a raffle if you'd like to try your luck for added enjoyment. The symphony begins at 7 p.m. on Sept. 4, but you can arrive at 6 p.m. if you'd like to start picnicking early. more Do You Love Food? Buy your tickets now for the Great American Food Fest. The Sheriff's Office of Chesapeake is holding this food extravaganza on Oct. 5. Starting at 3 p.m. and continuing until 7:15 p.m., eat all the food you like and enjoy a variety of beverages (alcohol included), all while being entertained by the local police force. Check out the Sheriff Department's website for more information on ticket purchasing. Your Dog Can Enjoy the Season, Too The Chesapeake Humane Society teams up with the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department for an event appealing to canines and humans alike. On Oct. 15, bring your pup(s) to the 5K Doggy Dash at 5 p.m. As the name suggests, you'll be running, jogging, or walking a 5K with your beloved companion. It's a great chance for everyone to get some exercise and enjoy the fall evening. After you finish your run, be ready for some entertainment accompanied by food vendors and some local craft beer. Follow the Humane Society's website to learn more about this event benefitting animals in need. Bring the Folks Out for the Blue Ridge Folklife Festival Ever been curious about how the people of Chesapeake lived a century ago? Here's your chance to experience history on a first-hand basis. Ferrum College is throwing a Blue Ridge Folklife Festival on Oct. 22. Come enjoy the sights and sounds of folk culture. The festival will have four different music and storytelling stages, more than 50 craft events, a huge variety of folk food, and an atmosphere of fun, education, and friendship. Fuse Some Knowledge into Your Thanksgiving The Williamsburg Harvest Celebration is held from Nov. 5 through Nov. 12. Nearly half a century of culinary history is presented to attendees. Sample food from the past while learning about how the earliest Virginians cultivated their harvest. Image Via Pixabay

Finding activities for you and your family that are both fun and educational is a tall order, especially these days. However, if you live in or near Chesapeake, VA then you have easy access to some of the best attractions that the state has to offer. Chesapeake offers families many opportunities to learn in an exciting, engaging way that is hard to find anywhere else. Keep reading to learn about educational activities that create family memories to last a lifetime. Bird Watching One of the most memorable educational experiences you can give your children is seeing wild animals up close and personal, and the great thing about living in Chesapeake is the access to some of the best bird watching in the entire country. Take a stroll through one of the many parks in the area and you'll see a variety of feathered friends! Bring along one of the many available bird guides and turn this outdoor activity into a memorable experience. more Parks and Trails Although modern life has its distinct advantages, the biggest drawback is our increasing disconnectedness from the wondrous world around us.  However, spending time in the beautiful natural parks and trails in Chesapeake gives your children an unforgettable experience and shows them just how much nature really has to offer. Being outdoors is a learning experience in and of itself, and the value of your time spent together is immeasurable! Make a game of your outdoor experiences by having your kids name various plants and animals they see along the way. Immerse Your Children in Art There is a proven link between creativity and learning, which means that art is a great way to have fun while educating your little ones. In the Chesapeake area, you and your family can expand your horizons and learn about interesting and unique art forms by visiting the Chrysler Art Museum, The American Theatre, and the Harrison Opera House. Whether you're taking in music, sculpture, or a live performance, after a trip to any of these institutions, your children will be bursting with questions and eager to learn more about what they've just seen. Experience History for Yourself Virginia is possibly the most history-rich state in the entire country, providing you and your children with a valuable learning opportunity. The best way to learn about history is to experience it, and you can do exactly that by spending a day at the Battleship Wisconsin, the Chesapeake Veterans' Memorial, or the Jamestown Settlement. A day at any of these locations gives your children an experience that can't be found in a classroom. When you're planning a day out for you and your family, find something to do that is both fun and educational. Fortunately, Chesapeake, VA activities are endless, providing you and your family with opportunities to expand your knowledge while also enjoying the time together. Spending a day at any of these locations gifts your family with an experience you'll treasure for years to come. Image Via Pixabay

You and your significant other have worked hard lately—it's time to treat yourselves to a little fun and romance. Or maybe you've been waiting to ask out that special someone. Now is the perfect time because you have some great options. Whether you're aiming to celebrate a long-term relationship or you're trying to spark a new romance, Priority Toyota has developed a list of exciting date night ideas for the Chesapeake area. The Tried and True: Cinema Café at Greenbrier Mall Most people have been to the movies on a date, but fewer can claim to have enjoyed a full-course meal served by a professional wait staff while enjoying their cinematic experience. At the Cinema Café in Greenbrier Mall, you and your date select from a full menu, including alcoholic beverages. Tell your date to bring an appetite and you can both sit back, relax, and chow down while a new release flashes before your eyes. more A Walk through the Park Is Always Memorable Great Bridge Locks Park is actually an island, so you have plenty of alone time together. Walk about the island and relish the fresh, cool air flowing off the water. This is part of the National Parks Service's network of "Chesapeake Bay Getaways". You and your date can also learn how the park is of historical significance to the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Best of all, you can go for free! Who Doesn't Love a Good Boat Ride? If you want to sweep your date off his or her feet, then put those feet firmly on a boat deck. There are several professional agencies that would be happy to help you plan an unforgettable boating adventure. Charter vessels take you out to Chesapeake Bay and into the Atlantic Ocean where you and your partner enjoy the swell of the water and the lap of the waves. If you're looking for something more adventurous, arrange for a fishing excursion, all equipment included. Toss out a line, pour a drink, and wait for those fish to bite as you snuggle into a seat with your date. Show Your Cultured Side at the Theater The New Theater of Chesapeake hosts a variety of shows performed by a top-class professional theater troupe. If your date is a fan of musicals, you're in luck. The Theater mostly puts on music-based productions. If musicals aren't your preference, catch a comedy or drama. New Theater aims to spread the love of performance, so they keep their prices low and affordable, making your date night less strenuous on the pocketbook. Go Far Out If you and your date are inclined towards brainier activities, try spending an afternoon at the Chesapeake Planetarium. They take you on a journey through the mysteries and beauty of space. Get behind one of the high-powered telescopes and watch the stars come alive. This is a great option no matter what the weather outside is doing. It's always a beautiful night inside the planetarium. Image Via Pixabay

While many people often say a visit to Paris, a pizza in Rome, or swimming with dolphins are some of the must-do events before you die, don't neglect things in your own backyard. If you're a Virginia resident, you might not even know about the delicious food, beautiful landscapes, and other things that exist in the Old Dominion. Creating a bucket list is a hard thing to do, but make sure you don't skip out on these places throughout Virginia. 1. Yorktown Battlefield Even if you aren't a history buff, there's something remarkable about seeing where your country finally forged its independence. At the Yorktown Battlefield, you'll get to see where so many brave soldiers fought for the right to live free of British oppression. A museum and plaques provide additional information about the battle, and there's something magical about standing right where the Revolutionary War ended. more 2. Breaks Interstate Park The Grand Canyon is almost certainly on your list of things to see, but don't forget about Breaks Interstate Park, also known as the Grand Canyon of the East. Located within the majestic confines of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, this canyon stretches over 5 miles and features stunning views into a 1,600-foot-deep canyon. If you visit in the fall, the area becomes illuminated with vibrant foliage. With more than 25 miles of hiking trails, you'll won't ever have to settle for a subpar view. 3. The Island Creamery If you have a soft spot for ice cream, you simply can't perish from the Earth without trying one of the Island Creamery's 36 flavors. Rated the No. 1 ice cream parlor in the country by Tripadvisor, this shop features classic flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, yet it also has adventurous tastes for the curious. Signature scoops include Marsh Mud, Snickers Cheesecake, and Iced Nirvana. You might have to fight the lines during the summer tourist season, but it's well worth the wait, even if it means you have to hit the gym for an extra hour. Plus, you can enjoy the superb views from Chincoteague Island. 4. Arlington National Cemetery Walking through Arlington National Cemetery is a humbling experience. You can walk among the tombstones of some of the servicemen and women who gave their lives to protect the country they loved, as well as visit more than 30 monuments commemorating their ultimate sacrifice. Other life-changing sights include the graves of John F. Kennedy and his brother Robert and the Tomb of the Unknowns. It's also well worth it to see the Changing of the Guards. With so many sites to visit in Virginia, you might need several lifetimes to see it all. However, with some planning and a bit of motivation, it's definitely possible to see these four places within the course of a few months. They'll stick with you forever, and you'll have no qualms or regrets when your time is up.   Image via Flickr by Ken Lund