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The golf courses near Woodbridge, VA are some of the best in the country and well worth the 3-hour drive from Chesapeake. The climate is perfect for playing year-round, and there are many different levels of difficulty to choose from. But with so many options, which course is exactly right for you? Below are the top courses in the area that are perfect for any occasion or skill level. 1. Lake Ridge Course Lake Ridge Course is a municipal, 9-hole facility with a par of 27. The course is surrounded by trees and has a creek running through it. Players will find fairways that are mostly flat with few bunkers, but the greens have plenty of undulation for putting challenges as well. In addition, the clubhouse offers golf cart rentals and lessons from professionals to help you improve or learn your game. more 2. The Osprey's Golf Club The Osprey's Golf Club is a public course that has been around since 1997. It features an 18-hole course, driving range, and clubhouse with food service available to guests on-site. The club prides itself on being family-friendly and welcomes young players looking to learn the sport of golf from some of its top instructors. In addition, this fantastic facility offers regular leagues as well as tournaments open to all levels of expertise, including junior programs for children who are just learning how to swing their clubs. The best part about this course is that it offers outstanding year-round playing conditions no matter what the weather might be outside. 3. Old Hickory Golf Club A must-play, Old Hickory Golf Club is an aesthetically pleasing course worth playing at least once. This course was designed by Tim Freeland and opened in 2003 and has been well maintained ever since. It features a mix of open spaces and winding trees that make up the landscape. The greens are well-manicured, and you can expect to receive good-sized putting surfaces on every hole. The layout is relatively flat with little elevation changes to speak of, and the course plays around 7130 yards in length. Also, it's a par-72, so it won't take too much effort to play through 18 holes at this place. For those looking for a place to practice their swings or brush up on their skills, there's an excellent driving range available with plenty of targets and space. 4. Montclair Country Club The Montclair Country Club was established in 1972 and boasts a rich history, having hosted many USGA events as well as multiple PGA championships throughout its time. It's an 18-hole course that stretches a little over 6000 yards with a par of 71. The scenery is a huge part of what makes this course such an incredible place to visit. Players can enjoy great views throughout their time here as well as lush green grass that’s maintained by highly experienced groundskeepers. The courses above are sure to provide a great outing. They are all close to the Woodbridge area and can accommodate a variety of skill levels and preferences, providing a delightful excursion during a weekend trip. Start making your plans for some fun today! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

With the many new restaurants that are opening their doors in the Chesapeake and Hampton Roads area, there's always something to look forward to! Start your 2020 adventure through worlds of cuisine by planning to visit any of these exciting new restaurants. The Veil One of Richmond's favorite breweries, the Veil, opened a tasting room in Norfolk where the old Chop House used to be. They just opened their doors in November, so if you haven't been there yet, make a point of visiting as soon as you can. They have a full-service kitchen that creates great food to complement their expertly brewed offerings. The atmosphere they've created is one of the most modernly chic we've seen in years. As far as food options, their sandwiches and snack are perfect for pairing with their artisan beers. more Cava Mezze Grill In early 2020, we'll be able to visit the always-tasty Cava Mezze Grill in Virginia Beach at the Columbus Village Shopping Center. This Mediterranean food destination has many locations throughout the country, and now we're getting a chance to try some of their delicious creations without having to make a trek! You create your perfect meal by choosing a base such as salad greens, pita bread, and grains, then stack it with dips and spreads, proteins, cheeses, vegetables, and dressings. If you're looking for a healthy restaurant that doesn't sacrifice flavor, Cava Mezze Grill is something to look forward to. L&L Hawaiian Barbecue The L&L Hawaiian Barbecue restaurant recently opened its doors in our very own Chesapeake. From what we've seen (and tasted) so far, this original and unique restaurant has what it takes to become a crowd favorite in the Hampton Roads area! If you want to try something new, or you're a barbecue aficionado looking to expand your horizons, you'll be able to find great food experiences here. Go for their namesake Hawaiian-style barbecued chicken, beef, or pork, or try one of their Hawaiian bowls, sushi-like musubi, or the ramen for lunch. The Happy Cafe One of Virginia Beach's newest restaurants, the Happy Cafe, opened its doors for the first time in November of 2019 and is already establishing itself as one of the area's favorite breakfast and lunch spots. They offer great home-baked goods, bagel and croissant sandwiches, build-your-own salads, soups, and lunch sandwiches, among other things. Their varied menu lends itself well to groups with different palates. MOOYAH If you're looking for a great burger, check out MOOYAH. Their enlightened approach to the classic burger and shake joint makes this one of our favorite new spots in town. The Virginia Beach location opened in October of 2019 to bring Hampton Roads a tastier, and often healthier, selection of burgers. MOOYAH is famous for lettuce-wrapped burgers and they specialize in offering options for gluten-free, Keto, and Paleo food seekers. With these new additions to our local flavor, exploring Hampton Road's world of cuisine is an even more exciting adventure! Take time to explore each and let us know what you think about these new restaurants. Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

When you want to stay in Chesapeake, Virginia, whether for business or pleasure, you have a great selection of accommodations to choose from! Here are four of the top hotel choices. Hyatt Place Chesapeake/Greenbrier Conveniently located on Eden Way North, the Hyatt Place Chesapeake/Greenbrier features a clean, modern design and pleasing aesthetics in the rooms and common areas. The rooms have very comfortable beds and offer state-of-the-art work and media centers with free Wi-Fi and a 42-inch HDTV, bathrooms with granite countertops, and a “Cozy Corner” seating area. more The hotel offers 24/7 dining, a bakery with sweets and pastries, and a market with pre-packaged salads and snacks to grab on the go. You can take advantage of the bright and airy indoor pool or give yourself a workout in the 24-hour fitness center. The hotel is pet-friendly, although conditions apply. On-site parking is free. Hampton Inn & Suites Chesapeake Hampton Inn & Suites on North Battlefield Boulevard offers rooms and suites with King or Queen beds. The rooms have a workspace with free Wi-Fi, a 32-inch HDTV, a comfortable seating area, a mini-refrigerator, a microwave, a coffee maker, an iron and ironing board, and a hairdryer. Mobility and hearing accessible rooms are also available. Every stay includes a complimentary hot breakfast and use of the indoor pool, whirlpool, and fitness center. The business center offers a printing facility, fax, and more, and well-appointed meeting rooms are available. Parking is free and pets are allowed with certain conditions and fees. Aloft Chesapeake Situated on Crossways Boulevard, Aloft Chesapeake is designed, furnished, and decorated in a vibrant modern style. The re:mix(SM) lounge features a pool table; colorful, contemporary seating: TVs; mood lighting; and a full-service bar that offers a snack menu. The lobby hosts regular live music and DJ sets. The king or queen rooms have a flat-screen TV, an ergonomic workstation, and mini-fridge, as well as free bottled water, coffee, and tea. In the bathrooms, you'll find Bliss spa amenities. The hotel's indoor pool is heated and towels are provided. The well-equipped gym is open 24/7. Parking is free, and pets are welcome. Staybridge Suites Chesapeake As well as overnights, Staybridge Suites on Woodlake Drive is great for stays of longer durations. The suites offer home-like comforts with a fully-equipped kitchen including a dishwasher, full-size refrigerator, stove, and dining table. Free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV with cable and satellite channels, a DVD player, a stereo and radio, and a work desk are standard. Fully accessible suites are also available. When you need to get work done, the business center is open 24 hours and has printing and copying facilities. There’s an on-site guest self-laundry facility, and dry-cleaning service is offered. Use of the fitness center, pool, and whirlpool tub is complimentary, as is the hot breakfast each morning. Monday through Wednesday evenings, you can enjoy hot meals and complimentary drinks. Each of these hotels is conveniently located with easy access to the business districts, the Greenbrier Mall, and the Virginia Beach oceanfront. Enjoy your next stay in Chesapeake in comfort! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

No matter the season, Virginia has a lot to offer. While the state's motto is "Virginia is for Lovers", there are numerous day trip and weekend destinations with fun activities for people of all ages. Virginia Beach A half-hour away, sea breezes, sand, and sunshine await at Virginia Beach where you can spend the day sunbathing, building sandcastles, floating in the ocean, or just relaxing. Favorite activities include walks along the beach, riding bicycles, or rollerblading along the 3-mile boardwalk lining the oceanfront. You'll find plenty of restaurants offering everything from a full-service dinner to ice cream cones and shops to pick up souvenirs and necessities. During the summer, sit back and watch the sunset and listen to live music from four stages at select locations. more Williamsburg Let your wild side run free when you spend the day at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. The fun-filled theme park features exciting rides and rollercoasters, exciting live performances on stage, along with interesting and informative tours. While visiting, you'll have the privilege of viewing our wildlife family which includes birds of prey, wolves, foxes, Scottish highland cattle, reptiles, small mammals, border collies, and the park's famous Clydesdale horses! Enjoy multiple dining options and pick up a souvenir at one of many themed shops. Another fun destination just an hour's drive from Chesapeake is Colonial Williamsburg. Touted as one of the 52 places to visit in 2019 according to The New York Times, the attraction affords the opportunity to step back to another time and experience 18th-century American history. From living museums and historic taverns to art museums and hands-on activities, Colonial Williamsburg is a piece of Virginia you won't want to miss! Norfolk Just 11 minutes from Chesapeake, you'll find a plethora of things to do in Norfolk. Take a relaxing stroll through the Norfolk Botanical Gardens or the Virginia Zoological Park. As home to the Norfolk Naval Station, plan to spend time at the Nauticus maritime-themed museum where you can tour the Wisconsin, a WWII battleship. The Chrysler Museum of Art is a visually appealing destination where sculpture, paintings, and glasswork from around the world are on display. Blue Ridge Parkway For an extended adventure, a four hours' drive will take you to some of the most scenic views that Virginia and North Carolina have to offer via Blue Ridge Parkway. With over 450 miles of unsurpassed beauty, you'll weave your way through forested landscapes with the Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop all along the way. If you bring along your tent or RV you can make a reservation at one of the eight campgrounds along the parkway or the several additional sites just beyond it. Activities are plentiful and focus around engaging with the natural environment. Enjoy hiking, waterfalls, wildlife observation, and more. Whether you hope to get away from Chesapeake for an hour, a day, or a weekend, Virginia offers a variety of destinations, each boasting an array of activities that will satisfy your craving for fun and adventure as well as opportunities to relax! Image via tvanhoosear | Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

For history buffs, there's almost no city more exciting to visit than Norfolk, Virginia. Virtually everywhere you look in this city you'll see a historical site or world-class museum, making it easy to learn something new. Here are a few of the countless historical locations that you should be sure to visit the next time you find yourself in the Norfolk area. Hampton Roads Naval Museum If you've always been fascinated with naval history, then there's no better place to visit near Norfolk than the Hampton Roads Naval Museum. At this museum, you'll find a number of exhibits dedicated to the more than 200-year history of the United States Navy, and you can easily spend an entire day touring their collections. more The museum features a number of permanent exhibits that fans of naval history will appreciate. For example, you can examine 18-pound cannons that were once fixtures on the decks of historic military ships, and you can also explore an interesting collection of photographs and paintings. Fort Norfolk Fort Norfolk is another interesting historic site that you should be sure to visit the next time you're in Norfolk. The fort, authorized by George Washington in 1794 while he was serving as president, has overlooked the Elizabeth River for more than 200 years. Fort Norfolk was restored in 1991, and if you visit today, you can tour the grounds and get an accurate representation of what the fort looked like when it was still an active military installation. In addition to stone barracks and ramparts, you can check out the earthen embankments that protected the exterior of the fort and the numerous guard towers. Hunter House Victorian Museum If you enjoy exploring historic homes, you'll want to stop by the Hunter House Victorian Museum. A classic example of the Victorian architecture style that you can find on many historical homes in Norfolk, the Hunter House Victorian Museum is an excellent place to visit if you want to learn more about the heritage and history of this city. The interior of the museum features a collection of decorations and furnishings that are reflective of the time period in which the house was built. The museum hosts regular tours, as well as frequent educational events that you're sure to enjoy. Chrysler Museum of Art For art lovers, the Chrysler Museum of Art is by far the top museum in Norfolk. The museum sprawls over 7,000 square feet and includes a collection of more than 30,000 pieces, which means you may need to visit multiple times so that you can see it all! In addition to breathtaking paintings, the Chrysler Museum of Art also works to support local glassblowers. When you visit, you may be able to see a live glass-blowing exhibition, which is definitely an experience you'll never forget. If you're a fan of history, then you're absolutely going to want to plan a day to explore Norfolk as soon as you can. The city features a number of historical sites where you'll feel like you've stepped back in time, and there are a variety of excellent museums you'll want to visit! Image via Ron Cogswell | Licensed under CC BY 2.0

For a full day of exciting and educational fun, plan a visit to the Nauticus Museum in Norfolk, Virginia. There's so much to do at the museum that you'll need to put aside a large chunk of time to really be able to explore everything it has to offer. Here's a quick guide of what to expect from this one-of-a-kind museum. Sea Exhibits If you're a fan of history or natural science, you'll love everything there is to see at the Nauticus Museum. You'll learn about maritime commerce and the American Navy, explore the sea floor, experience what it's like to be in a hurricane and tsunami, and so much more through the many exhibits you'll find. more For young children, nothing is more exciting than meeting new animals. Let them see and touch exotic sea creatures at the Horseshoe Crab Cove, come face-to-face with sharks, and learn about Chesapeake Bay's rich animal and plant life. Battleship Wisconsin The Battleship Wisconsin is one of the largest battleships the United States ever made — a military marvel. The Wisconsin was launched for the first time on Dec. 7, 1943, and from that day, it was an integral part of American history. It earned five battle stars during World War II and then went on to play a part during the Korean War and Operation Desert Storm. Now, the Battleship Wisconsin calls the Nauticus Museum home. Its current duty is to give visitors the chance to explore one of the largest and most successful military ships in U.S. history. Explore several exhibits within the Wisconsin to see what life was like aboard the ship, its history, and more. Special Features While exploring the Nauticus Museum, you'll find more than simple exhibits. The brand-new Escape Ship: To Catch A Spy attraction is the nation's only escape room that's housed on a battleship. You'll also get a chance to see fantastic movies in exciting 3-D in the museum's theater. Take one of the fun scavenger hunts to get kids more immersed in the experience. If you want a more educational and hands-on experience for your kids, sign them up for one of the great outreaches and camps the museum offers. Let them explore the world around them while developing new skills. There's so much to do at the Nauticus Museum that every visit is a new experience. Hours and Pricing From Memorial Day to Labor, the Nauticus museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the rest of the year, the museum is closed Mondays, open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. A standard ticket to the museum is $15.95 for adults and $11.50 for children 4-12. It includes admission to the museum, the Battleship Wisconsin, and the 3D movie. An upgraded ticket is also available that includes a guided tour of the Battleship Wisconsin. This ticket costs $35.95 for adults and $31.50 for children. Take the whole family to the museum and have a fantastic time learning about the sea and American history at the Nauticus Museum. If you've never been there, this museum should be at the top of your to-do list. Image via Missy_Schmidt | Licensed under CC BY 2.0

If you love hiking and photography, you're in luck. The Chesapeake Bay area is near some great opportunities to do both, thanks to the protected parks, natural areas, and wildlife preserves in the area. Here are a few of our top choices for the best hiking locations where you'll find abundant landscape photography opportunities. Lake Smith/Lake Lawson Natural Area For fabulous lake photography shots, head to the Lake Smith/Lake Lawson Natural Area. This 42-acre park boasts more than 12,000 feet of shoreline and is home to abundant animal life. Take a boat out or take a hike around the lake to get shots you won't be able to find in many other places. For a chance to capture Virginia before humans shaped it, this natural area is the place to be. more Elizabeth River Trail - Atlantic City Spur If you want to get a good hike in while you snap photos, try the Elizabeth River Trail. It's in Norfolk county and runs between Harbor Park Stadium and the Norfolk International Terminals. This is a great spot to get photos of seascapes full of seabirds such as ducks, seagulls, cormorants, and skimmers. Though this trail runs through a lot of city, you'll still be able to find ample opportunities for natural scenery to shoot. Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve The Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve is one of our top choices for landscape photography opportunities. The wildlife that calls Hoffler Creek home is protected so they can flourish in the beautiful and natural Virginia landscape. There are multiple hiking trails that take you past beautiful and notable landmarks around the area, so explore and see what you can find! Cape Henry Trail First Landing State Park is a 2,888-acre park that fronts the Chesapeake Bay and features 1.25 miles of beach and more than 19 miles of interpretive hiking trails through protected salt marsh habitat, freshwater ponds, beach, dunes, forest, tidal marsh, and cypress swamp. A registered Natural Landmark, First Landing is the most visited state park in Virginia and contains one of the most endangered habitat types in the world, the maritime forest community. On April 26, 1607, some 100 English settlers landed here and established the first elective government in English America before pushing up the James River to establish Jamestown. This historic event is reflected in the name of Virginia's most visited state park. Along with its historical significance, the park offers opportunities to explore a unique habitat featuring lagoons, large cypress trees, and rare plants. More than 19 miles of hiking trails wind through the natural area, guided kayak ecological tours allow exploration of the marshes and bays, and the visitor center exhibits explain much about this coastal environment. Cabins, campsites, picnic areas, a swimming beach, boat ramps, kayak rentals and tours, and a bicycle trail are offered in the park. In the First Landing State Park, you'll find the Cape Henry Trail, which is one of the best hiking trails in the area. It's 7.5 miles long and alternates between asphalt, gravel, and sand. You may see some great flora and fauna here, including foxes, waterfowl, and great blue herons. The park has a lot of Broad Bay's shoreline, so if you want the best of both worlds when it comes to waterscapes and beautiful forest shots, this is the park for you. Norfolk Botanical Garden If you want an easy hike that has some of the best photo ops you can find, head to Norfolk Botanical Garden. The gardens feature a 3.7-mile loop trail that wraps around a lake so you can enjoy the beautifully maintained gardens while you get in a hike. Thanks to the caretakers of this place, it's always ready for photographers. According to their website, there have been over 175 bird species documented at the botanical garden, and it's also home to many butterfly species. If you're trying to get shots of some avian wildlife, this place definitely warrants a visit! Take some time to explore everything our slice of Virginia has to offer and enjoy our state's natural beauty. If you're an amateur or professional photographer, you're in one of the best spots in the country to get some great shots of natural beauty! Image via vastateparkstaff | Licensed under CC BY 2.0

With the weather starting to turn nice, it is the perfect time to plan a long weekend getaway and have some fun. Here are some great getaway spots to visit around the Norfolk, Virginia, area on your next three-day weekend. Virginia Beach Sitting about 45 minutes east of Norfolk, Virginia Beach is a beautiful little ocean city packed with enough attractions, activities, and events to keep you busy for far more than a weekend getaway. The biggest attraction they have is the miles of sandy beaches stretching up and down the eastern seaboard. Here you can do everything water related like swimming, boating, and fishing, or you can just throw down a towel and soak up the sun for a few hours. more When you're not relaxing at the beach, there are a ton of things to do in the city regardless of what you're into. A quick list of just a few of Virginia Beach's attractions includes the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center, Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum, Freedom Shooting Center, Lynnhaven Mall, and taking a tour of the Thoroughgood House. There are also a bunch of great restaurants and bars in addition to all the hotels to choose from. Norfolk Botanical Gardens With a history that dates back 80 years, the Norfolk Botanical Gardens has been wowing visitors with lush gardens and vibrant flora for nearly a century. There are more than 60 themed gardens on display across 175-acres of land that can be explored on foot, by boat, or by tram. In addition to the various collections of flowers and beautiful statues dotting the garden, both children and adults can sign up for classes to learn about horticulture, cooking, art, floral design, crafts, and more. The Norfolk Botanical Garden is open all year and offers scheduled guided tours for individuals as well as groups. For more information, including ticket prices and how to become a member, visit their website or give them a call at 757-441-5830. Spirit Cruises Looking to see the city of Norfolk from a unique angle while having an amazing dinner with close family and friends? Then you'll want to buy a ticket and hop on board the Spirit of Norfolk for a two-hour cruise along the Elizabeth River. On the Spirit of Norfolk, guests will have the chance to dine, dance, and play games as they take in amazing sights like the entire skyline of the city and the Naval Shipyards. They offer an assortment of lunches, brunches, dinners, and special holiday menus devised by top-rated chefs and paired perfectly with wines and other spirits. The Spirit of Norfolk leaves dock throughout the year and has special rates for large groups and private bookings. For more information, including ticket prices, specials, and boating guidelines, visit their website or give them a call at 757-625-1748. Nothing is better for relaxing and recharging your batteries than taking a long weekend vacation. Check out these great spots and go have a fun time! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge spans a massive 45,000 acres across an area south of Chesapeake, Virginia, into North Carolina. Despite its unappealing name, the refuge is filled with activities that make the Great Dismal Swamp worth a visit. Hiking and Biking The Great Dismal Swamp offers multiple trails you can either use for hiking or biking. The Washington Ditch Trail is the most popular trail for hiking and biking. It is a 4.5-mile dirt road that goes to Lake Drummond where it then switches to a 0.75-mile boardwalk by the water. The Railroad Ditch Trail also runs to Lake Drummond, but from a different entrance point. This gravel road is 6 miles long and connects to a different set of boardwalks. There is also the Headquarters/Pine Trail, which loops around the headquarters building through a pine forest. more Auto Touring The Lake Drummond Wildlife Drive Auto Tour is a self-guided driving tour that starts at the Railroad Ditch entrance and ends at Lake Drummond. The tour costs $5 and requires a self-obtained permit you can get at the entrance gate. The drive takes you through the park and gives you the opportunity to spot wildlife and sites along the way. One site is the Lateral West Fire Scar, which is a scar left from a fire in 2011 that scorched 6,300 acres. The Lake Drummond area is the most popular section for bird watching, so have your binoculars ready. Wildlife Viewing The Great Dismal Swamp Wildlife Refuge is filled with wildlife that you may get a chance to see during your visit. While birding is usually easier, the mammals you can catch a glimpse of are deer, black bear, coyotes, or river otters. There are over 200 species of birds that inhabit the refuge and around 80 different types of butterflies. Fishing and Boating Lake Drummond is a popular area in the swamp for fishing and boating on this 3,000-acre lake. Boaters are required to get a self-serve permit for their boat at the entrance gate, and the lake has a 25-horsepower limit. Lake Drummond has a limited selection of fish species due to its pH levels. Fishermen can catch crappie, chain pickerel, yellow perch, and catfish, but the most populous species in the lake are longnose gar and bowfin. The lake is also a popular spot to kayak and canoe due to its shallow depth and picturesque tree-filled views. Hunting For those that enjoy hunting, the refuge has a select few days every year where hunting takes place. There is a whitetail deer hunt that spans 12 days and a six-day long American black bear hunt, both of which overlap. In order to hunt, you need a special refuge hunt permit and your normal state hunting license and tags. The Great Dismal Swamp is a great place for a day trip for outdoor enthusiasts of any kind. You will be able to enjoy nature while taking in the sights of wildlife at this refuge — just don't let the name dissuade you! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

Outdoor enthusiasts are invited to find inner peace in Chesapeake, Virginia. With some of the nation's best natural resources and recreational opportunities, find that special outdoor enchantment that will ease the urban grind within this mid-Atlantic paradise. Find your perfect outdoor outlet with a variety of ways to enjoy the area. From sailing to birdwatching, enjoy Mother Nature's playground in Chesapeake. Go Sailing on the Chesapeake Bay The Chesapeake Bay is extraordinarily beautiful, stretching across six states and the District of Columbia. Rich with maritime history, it's a famous destination for endless possibilities. Charter a crewed boat, and explore the easy-to-sail coves and anchorages, where a new adventure awaits around every corner. more Drop anchor at a classic bayside town such as Havre de Grace, and come ashore for lunch. Situated at the mouth of the Susquehanna River, at the head of the Bay, discover French and Creole-inspired dishes at Backfin Blues. With 11,600 miles of glorious coastline, Chesapeake Bay is America's largest estuary and offers cruisers so much to see and do. If you love fresh seafood, head from Baltimore to Rock Hall, a fisherman's landing where you can order up the day's catch, then float calm waters and secluded coves of Gray's Inn Creek. Explore Chesapeake Arboretum Located in the heart of Chesapeake, this 48-acre nature reserve is home to many varieties of trees and plants. The arboretum boasts one of the state's most scenic trail systems that rambles 3 miles through a mature hardwood forest. Discover eight bridges, the three-acre Lake Hughes, and the greenhouse where the Master Gardener works his magic. Tour the Caleb Williamson Farmhouse and the family's ancient cemetery across the street. Bring the kids along and explore the Nature Academy. Discover a variety of hands-on opportunities to learn about flora and fauna found in the area. Play forest games, make a craft, and Bug Out or Track Trees with one of the arboretum's immersive educational programs. Discover the Great Dismal Swamp If you've ever wondered where the wild things are, they're awaiting your visit in Chesapeake's Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. These forested wetlands in southeastern Virginia cover 112,684 acres and are one of the best-kept secrets of the East Coast. Home to a seemingly endless number of creatures, spot black bears, barred owls, and flying squirrels. The refuge is a favorite spot for fishing, birding, and hunting. Journey to the center of the swamp and launch your rented canoe on Lake Drummond or hit the trails, open daily from sunrise to sunset for hiking and biking. The Great Dismal Swamp is an ideal location for year-round exploration, with 65 species of resident butterflies in the summer and visiting snow geese in the winter. Nestled in the heart of coastal Virginia, the city of Chesapeake is home to some of the country's most beautiful natural spots. Take your love of the outdoors to Chesapeake's vast number of waterways, parklands, and local outdoor treasures for a wilderness adventure you won't soon forget. Image via naturenps | Public Domain Mark 1.0

There are few things that you could do that would be as good for you as spending some time in nature. City planners understand this and promote the preservation of natural wildlife areas and parks. Virginia is full of parks and forested areas where you can get out and spend some time in the natural Virginia environment. It is a great way to improve your health and add some excitement to your life. Here's a look at how you can walk on the wild side at one of these parks. Dismal Swamp State Park With a name like Dismal Swamp State Park, you would think that it would be a horrible place to spend your time. However, it is anything but dismal. You can explore the park while looking for wildlife or hiking, but the most popular activity is to go canoeing or kayaking on the Dismal Swamp Canal. You will find that you are rarely alone on the canal as most people use canoeing or kayaking as a way to relax and explore the area with relative ease. more You can rent your equipment at the park or bring your own. In the visitor center, you can find exhibits and tours that will teach you more about the area. Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge If you want to spend more time checking out the wildlife in the area, then stop in at the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. It is one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in the area and is nearly 112,000 acres in size. The park is home to many species that would be endangered in the area. You can explore the wildlife refuge by boat or on foot to get a good look at the animals that live there. Oak Grove Lake Park Near the Volvo Parkway, you can find the Oak Grove Lake Park. The park contains a lake and an ampleopen space that is perfect for outdoor activities and parties. It is about 65 acres and has tables and benches for picnics. There is a large trail that stretches about 1.5 miles and loops back to the beginning so that you can get back to where you started easily. Along the trail, you can get a good look at the foliage or stop at any of the six workout stations. Exercising like running, walking, and biking are encouraged on the trail, and many people use it as a means of staying in shape when the weather is nice. Spending time outside can be a lot of fun if you know where to go. Visiting these parks can be more enjoyable when you have a vehicle that can take everything that you need with you. You should visit Priority Toyota of Chesapeake to see if a new vehicle can make a big difference in how you enjoy the great outdoors. There are many 2018 and 2017 models to choose from that are made just for people who like to explore nature.   Image via Pixabay.com

There's no better way to rekindle the love in your life than with an escape to a new place for your romantic pursuits. Besides, your home may not include a walk-in steam shower, Victorian furniture, or gourmet breakfasts made to order. If you're looking for a titillating getaway without springing for an airplane ticket, look no further than the wide selection of romantic inns found in the Norfolk area. Beach Spa Bed & Breakfast Located three blocks from the sand in nearby Virginia Beach, this award-winning inn offers eight tasteful and luxurious guest rooms. Some of the amenities include a 24-hour coffee and tea bar, a two-course breakfast with Bloody Mary or mimosa, complimentary afternoon snacks and beverages, and an outside spa pool with heated waterfall massage. If you're a vegan, gluten-free, eating Atkins or Paleo, or have any allergies, they're happy to accommodate special breakfast requests. Spa services feature Dr. Hauschka products and include massage techniques such as hot stone, sports, Reiki, aromatherapy, Swedish, and deep-tissue. Their most popular offering is their couples massage, perhaps the most intimate way to connect with your partner without actually touching one another. Spa services at Beach are exclusively for registered guests, ensuring a private and intimate experience. more Freemason Inn Bed & Breakfast This bed and breakfast is located in a gorgeous Victorian home that's been fully renovated. The quaint neighborhood is home to quiet, tree-lined cobblestone streets. Freemason is mere steps away from downtown Norfolk and destinations like the Chrysler Museum of Art, Pagoda Garden, and Town Point Park. Freemason offers four guest suites, each with its own look and tasteful appointments. Depending on your choice, you'll have access to romantic amenities such as gas fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs, and in-room sitting areas. Their scrumptious meals are enjoyed in either the elegant dining room or the lovely garden patio. Freemason's garden is a perfect place for weddings, celebrations, and special events of all kinds. Even if you're not getting married during your stay, book the Wishing Oak Bridal Suite and pretend! Page House Inn This historic four-star bed and breakfast is right next door to the Chrysler Museum of Art and its romantic collection of Tiffany glass. Complete your getaway with a visit to the Virginia Opera, Virginia Symphony, or Broadway Theatre at Chrysler Hall, all within walking distance to Page House. Relax in the rockers on the expansive front porch, enjoy 24-hour complimentary fresh fruit, candy, beverages, and snacks, and sample fresh-baked cookies, iced tea, and lemonade every afternoon in the parlor. Select from seven rooms and suites, each with its own distinctive style. Canopy beds, gas fireplaces, fully stocked in-room wet bars, bay window seating, whirlpool and steam baths, bidets, claw-foot tubs, and bright skylights are all found among their accommodations. For a truly special evening (and morning), try one of these lovely bed and breakfasts. It's a perfect way to rejuvenate your minds, bodies, and relationship. Both you and your partner will walk away relaxed and joyful. Perhaps you'll decide to move in permanently! https://www.flickr.com/photos/matt-davis/1461738820/sizes/l Image via Flickr by matt.davis