Virginia Group Tour Guide 2023/2024 Edition

VIRGINIA 2023/2024 EDITION

GROUP TOUR GUIDE INSIDE:

Explore Picture-Perfect Natural Beauty From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic coastline, your group will be awestruck by the views

Eat Your Way Through Virginia Virginia Botanical Gardens are Blooming Dinner Theaters

Photo courtesy of Gretchen Henninger

Welcome to Virginia!

Dark Hollow Falls cascades 70 feet over greenstone in the Shenandoah National Park.

Photo courtesy of Todd Wright

T

he Virginia Tourism Corporation and our statewide tourism partners invite you and your groups to tour Virginia!

We are excited to share with you, in this guide, a few of the many reasons your groups will love touring in Virginia. April is a wonderful time of year to start planning a tour of our botanical gardens; to whet your appetite on a culinary trail; to explore nature and view wildlife and to learn about the many new attractions.

Virginia is easily accessible, no matter your chosen mode of transportation. Travel along major highway systems or scenic byways.

Tour via the passenger rail services of Amtrak, Virginia Railway Express or Metrorail from Washington, D.C. to Northern Virginia and now including the Washington Dulles International Airport. Or perhaps a flydrive combination. Virginia offers nine commercial airports with major and low-cost carrier service.

Once you arrive, Virginia offers unparalleled history and heritage, cultural and performing arts, outdoor adventures and scenic vistas, music and artesian trails, an exciting culinary scene and craft beverages to customize an unforgettable tour experience! Our commitment to customer service, safe travel, quality tours and partners with years of experience are a few reasons why groups come back year after year.

Visit Virginia.org/groups for more information, resources and inspiration to plan unforgettable group tour experiences. We look forward to welcoming your groups to Virginia. For personal assistance, contact me at jjohnson@virginia.org.

Merroir, a gourmet oyster tasting house, features oysters from Rappahannock Oyster Company.

Joni Johnson, Director of Domestic Sales & Marketing Virginia Tourism Corporation

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Learn more about Virginia group travel opportunities!

Photo courtesy of Aaron Sutten

Safe travels,

Barefoot in the Park at Virginia Repertory Theatre

VIRGINIA 2023/2024 EDITION

GROUP TOUR GUIDE

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden offers year-round beauty on a historic property with more than 40 acres of spectacular gardens, dining and shopping. Photo by Matt Long

CONTENTS FEATURES Virginia Botanical Gardens Abloom for Tour Groups 4

By Heather Dale

Springtime is blossoming at Virginia gardens and arboretums, offering radiant horticultural displays and year-round outdoor group activities

VIRGINIA 2023/2024 EDITION

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Eat Your Way Through Virginia

By Dave Bodle

From luscious country ham and Chesapeake Bay blue crab to oysters like no other, Virginia is a food-lover’s paradise

GROUP TOUR GUIDE INSIDE:

Explore Picture-Perfect Natural Beauty

Eat Your Way Through Virginia Virginia Botanical Gardens are Blooming Dinner Theaters

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic coastline, your group will be awestruck by the views

Fine Dining And Fun Entertainment At These 12 Enjoy 5 Dinner Theaters

By Lisa Shames

Experience the magic that happens when live theater meets up with delicious food

16 Explore Picture-Perfect Natural Beauty in Virginia

ON THE COVER: Big Meadows Photo courtesy of Gordon Lau

By Isabella Wilkes

Groups can visit this hidden gem in the Appalachian Mountains

20 T he Best-tasting Dishes Are Made in Virginia

By Randy Mink

Specialty food businesses give travelers a chance to indulge in, learn about and even make mouthwatering treats

Has Much For Groups To Love 22 Virginia

By Lisa Shames

From a scenic railway to a lush 250-acre botanical garden, Virginia is feeling the love — and you will too

ITINERARIES 14 CHARLOTTESVILLE 24 LYNCHBURG 26 STAUNTON

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VIRGINIA BOTANICAL GARDENS ABLOOM FOR TOUR GROUPS Springtime is blossoming at Virginia gardens and arboretums, offering radiant horticultural displays and year-round outdoor group activities

Edith J. Carrier Arboretum

By Heather Dale

V

irginia botanical gardens provide expansive greenspaces for group gatherings and school field trips, perfect for a naturally unique experience. Learn about horticulture and conservation through diverse flowers, cacti, shrubs and trees on your group garden tour.

History is blooming at the Gunston Hall Riverside Garden Restoration

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in Mason Neck, Virginia. Considered The Home of American Rights, George Mason’s exquisite estate welcomes groups to tour the historic Virginia garden and grounds.

The Riverside Garden Restoration combines history and horticulture to create a vintage Virginia botanical garden designed with fruit trees, historical plants and perennials to

reflect the 18th century period.

This Virginia garden offers a Gardens Pass for self-guided tours of the flourishing grounds. General admission covers access to the museum, the Mason grounds, and a guided tour of the mansion for an especially spectacular view of the Riverside Garden Restoration.

Stop into the Gunston Hall Museum Shop on your way out and peruse

artisanal souvenirs, local artwork, exhibit merchandise and plant-themed gifts.

Education and research-driven, The National Botanic Garden in Chantilly is a unique 250-acre Virginia botanical garden constructed of mostly reclaimed materials. Rocky waterfalls and gorgeous vegetation fill the Kyoto Sculpture Gardens, which can be booked for private events of up to 100 people. Although not yet open to the public, they will offer several indoor and outdoor spaces for group gatherings.

Private bookings for group tours will be available.

Island-hop through the 50-island bamboo maze at the lake or take a family photo at the impressive mountain overlook area. The beautifully manicured landscape also showcases an arboretum, expansive views and five miles of lake coastline teeming with waterfowl and other native species.

The botanical garden also boasts the Stone Barn, which can accommodate groups of up to 250 people in a charming and rustic setting. See the most extensive water-wise garden on the East Coast at the Xenic Gardens.

This desert botanical garden features glorious cactus blooms and an array of unusual spikey specimens.

At the Norfolk Botanical Garden explore 175 acres of extraordinary plant species among new innovative surroundings. The mission of this Virginia garden is to connect people with nature and bring awareness to conservation efforts.

Tour the 26,000-square-foot Perry Conservatory with four separate biomes.

Groups can discover plant life from the rainforest to the desert in a space dedicated to housing some of the world’s most endangered plant species. Take the elevated skywalk for an aerial photo op of one of the most extensive rose gardens in the East.

Slated to open in 2024, The Garden of Tomorrow will welcome guests with a new entry pavilion and parking garden. The unique parking garden sets the standard for sustainability with new pervious pavement. The 26,000-square-foot conservatory will focus on conservation, including some of the world’s most threatened plants.

Sitting along the waterfront near the new entrance, the garden is both an education center and rowing events hub.

The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond features a whopping eight vibrantly one-off gardens, two arbor walks, an Asian Valley and a classical glass-domed conservatory unlike any in the eastern U.S. World-class flowering displays welcome visitors, and themed gardens amaze groups with dynamic plant

collections bursting with color. Grab a bite with your group at the Garden Café and pick out a few souvenirs at the oneof-a-kind Garden Shop before you leave.

This spectacular Virginia botanical garden boasts a children’s group tour and an adults group tour for an exceptional and engaging time.

At the center of the 172-acre Blandy Experimental Farm in Boyce stands the Virginia State Arboretum. Groups are invited to freely roam the diverse forestry, where you’ll feel transported to faraway lands.

In this Virginia garden, witness the brilliant yellow display of some 300 Ginko trees every fall. Immerse in the lush greenery through the Conifer Forest, the largest of its kind in the Southeast. Many of the labeled tree and shrub collections date back to

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VIRGINIA BOTANICAL GARDENS the 1930s. Discover specimens like the Virginia State Champion, Cedar, Lebanon and boxwood trees.

The Virginia arboretum offers 1-to-2 hour guided group tours for parties of six or more. Four seasonal tours include Blandy’s History and Arboretum Collection, Garden Tour, Native Plant Trail and Conifer Collection.

Located on the James Madison University campus in Harrisonburg, the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is an urban garden and forest sanctuary free and open to the public. This Virginia arboretum is open from dawn until dusk, providing outdoor space for learning opportunities and those seeking time with nature.

ONE DESTINATION.

COUNTLESS ADVENTURES.

Visit FXVA.com to plan your trip.

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They welcome youth groups for educational field trips and others for guided and self-guided tours. Docent-led tours include Woodlands Wildflowers, Notable Arboretum Trees, Stream Riparian Plantings and a General Guided Tour for modest fees.

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is an ornamental plant and animal wonderland in Vienna. At this Virginia garden, youth groups can enjoy a colorful outdoor classroom abundant with koi fish, frogs, birds and more.

In support of the International Agenda for Botanic Gardens in Conservation, Meadowlark showcases three diverse horticultural exhibits: Potomac Valley Collection (PVC), Virginia Native Wetland Collection (VNW) and Virginia Native Trees Collection (VNT). Glimpse creative garden sculptures, part of the continuing Art Naturally Exhibit, with artists from around the country featured throughout the grounds.

Absorb the floral fragrances as your group meanders through various blooming species, depending on the season. Have your next family reunion among the delicate aroma at the Lilac Pavilion or schedule your school field trip or group gathering for a memorable guided Virginia garden tour. 1

The National Botanic Garden in Chantilly features lovely natural scenery.

EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH VIRGINIA From luscious country ham and Chesapeake Bay blue crab to oysters like no other, Virginia is a food-lovers’ paradise

W

hen it comes to U.S. history, it’s hard to top the state of Virginia.

There’s a reason after all it’s known as “the birthplace of a nation.” But this southeastern state is much more than its historical landmarks. Virginia’s food scene is equally noteworthy with everything from Southern-style fare — think country ham, barbecue and homemade biscuits — to a seafood bonanza courtesy of its location on the Eastern Seaboard. Then there are the many celebrated wineries and breweries that add their own unique spirit (literally!) to this iconic state from deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic Coast. Here, we spotlight 7 delicious ways to explore Virginia’s culinary scene with options as varied as the state itself.

FIELDS OF GOLD FARM TRAIL The Central Shenandoah Valley, once known as the breadbasket of the Confederacy, has deep agricultural roots. No matter if you’re visiting for

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a week or a just a day, your trip should include stops on the Fields of Gold Farm Trail. What began in 2010 as a way to promote the Shenandoah Valley’s agritourism sites and activities, the Fields of Gold Farm Trail now includes more than 230 locations on the trail as it winds through eight counties and their communities.

There is fruit to be picked, tours of working farms to experience, trout fishing to be done and countless farm festivals. Additionally, there are a number of restaurants specializing in locally sourced food as well as on-farm lodging should the need arise. Don’t forget to save time for visits to the many farms stands you’ll encounter on the trail.

VIRGINIA OYSTER TRAIL Oysters are a big deal in Virginia. So much so that in early 2011 a group of eight oyster lovers gathered 18 times to taste the beloved bivalves from Virginia’s different waters.

Their results identified eight regions,

Photo courtesy of Virginia Tourism

By Lisa Shames

Sample some fabulous oysters on the Virginia Oyster Trail.

each with slightly different levels of saltiness and sweetness. (Insider tip: To best taste each flavor, chew your oyster a few times.) The Virginia Oyster Trail, situated in the area surrounding the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the country, offers visitors a taste of each at restaurants, seafood companies, oyster farms and tours. Notable stops include Rappahannock Oyster Company, the Virginia Oyster Academy at Tides Inn and Dog & Oyster Vineyard, the latter combining two of the most beloved terroir- and merroircentric products, wine and oysters.

VIRGINIA BBQ TRAIL With cooking methods that date back to the earliest settlers, Virginia barbecue is an historic food culture like no other. Smoked meats are still prepared with traditional open-fire cooking methods, continuing in the style of cooking that has endured for hundreds of years. From Appalachia to Coastal Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley to Southern Virginia there are hundreds of barbecue restaurants and a festival almost every weekend in Virginia’s 10 regions. In its simplest terms, the Virginia BBQ Trail connects pitmasters whose passion is making

barbecue with barbecue lovers and includes more than 250 listings.

Looking for a tasty souvenir? Virginia is well known for its four signature barbecue sauces: Southside (slightly tangy with a vinegar/tomato base), Central (slightly sweet and zesty from the sweet spices in it), Shenandoah Valley (herbaceous with a vinegar base) and Northern (sweet tomato base).

THE SALTY SOUTHERN ROUTE Head to the southeast region of Virginia and you’ll be rewarded with some of the best salt-cured ham, pork products and peanuts in the U.S. The Salty Southern

Route allows you to experience these culturally significant products first-hand.

In Smithfield, you’ll find Smithfield Foods, the world’s largest pork producer and creator of the legendary Smithfield Ham. Only ham from peanut-fed pigs that are cured and smoked within the city limits can be labeled genuine Smithfield hams. In nearby Suffolk is the world headquarters of Planter’s Peanuts and the birthplace of the dapper Mr. Peanut.

In the surrounding areas, you’ll discover a number of other peanut-focused places, such as the Virginia Peanut Company Gourmet Market, Plantation Peanuts and Wakefield Peanut Company. Additionally,

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VIRGINIA CULINARY TRAILS there are dozens of restaurants in which to experience a true taste of the region.

THE VIRGINIA FARMERS MARKET LOVERS TRAIL As any food lover knows, one of the best ways to experience the true, of-the-moment flavors of a place is by visiting farmers markets. The Virginia Farmers Market Lovers Trail, a collaboration between the Virginia Farmers Market Association, Virginia Tourism Corporation and Virginia State University, lets you eat like a local, whether it’s Hanover tomatoes, Virginia peanuts or apples from the Shenandoah Valley. Added to the tasty experience is the opportunity to meet with the farmers, chefs, bakers, cheese makers and more who unite at the markets.

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BREW RIDGE TRAIL Virginia’s original beer trail, the Brew Ridge Trail is a self-guided tour that features some of the nation’s best craft breweries and cideries with plenty of awards to prove it. Combine that with the stunning sights and sounds of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains and it’s truly an experience not to be missed. For first-time visitors as well as long-time locals, the trail offers a range of activities and entertainment, from foods trucks and live music to special events. In Nelson County, be sure to visit Blue Mountain Brewery, Devils Backbone Brewing Company and Blue Mountain Barrel House. Newest on the scene breweries include Brewing Tree Bear Company and Wild Man Dan’s Beer Centric Brewery in Lovingston and

Afton, respectively. Hard-cider lovers will appreciate the current American cider revival in Virginia, with many styles of the beloved beverage available at places such as Bryant’s Cider and Bold Rock Hard Cider.

VIRGINIA WINE TRAILS With nearly 300 wineries and dozens of scenic wine trails Virginia truly is a wine destination. Conveniently, if you plan a stop along any of the food trails, you’ll inevitably find a wine trail stop overlapping. Even the Brew Ridge Trail runs past wineries on the Nelson 151 and the Monticello Wine Trails. Live music and festivals are important parts of Virginia’s wine culture and there are multiple events taking place almost every weekend. 1

Discover

TIMELESS MOMENTS

AT THE WORLD'S LARGEST AMERICAN HISTORY MUSEUM.

Bring the past to life with a Colonial Williamsburg experience.

Take a tour. Enjoy an interactive evening program. Dine at an 18th-century tavern. Visit our two world-class art museums.

Relax and play at our award-winning spa, golf club, tennis club, and four pools. At the end of the day, retire to one of our five hotels, just steps away from the Historic Area. Spending time together has never been easier.

Discounts available for groups of 15 or more.

BOOK YOUR GETAWAY TODAY For more information, please call 1.800.228.8878 or email groupsales@cwf.org.

ENJOY FINE DINING AND FUN ENTERTAINMENT AT THESE 5 DINNER THEATERS Experience the magic that happens when live theater meets up with delicious food

By Lisa Shames

W

Here, we celebrate five places in Virginia that let your group have their cake, er dinner, and theater too.

WOHLFAHRT HAUS DINNER THEATRE, WYTHEVILLE Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of southwest Virginia, Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre offers Broadway-style musicals paired with traditional German dishes and classic American fare.

Audiences are seated in comfy lounge-

Swift Creek Mill Theatre in South Chesterfield.

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style chairs and are served a four-course meal prepared by their in-house chef.

Following dinner, guests can take in a lively musical featuring large production numbers and intricately choregraphed dance routines. Upcoming shows include Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Coat, Million Dollar Quartet and Fiddler on the Roof.

SWIFT CREEK MILL THEATRE, SOUTH CHESTERFIELD

Photo courtesy of Kieran Rundle

hether we like it or not, we live in a world where multitasking has become the norm. The practice of doing multiple things simultaneously, however, can have benefits beyond the inevitable saving of time.

Take, for example, dinner theater, where two wonderful forms of entertainment converge in one glorious and delicious evening. The dinner-and-ashow twofer has come a long way since its early beginnings in the Middle Ages.

Since 1965, Swift Creek Mill Theatre has been offering its unique take on dinner theater in a historic grist mill turned distillery turned playhouse.

The Mill, a not-for-profit organization, has become an important member of the community through its youth theater, educational programs, utilization of local talent and engaging entertainment. Upcoming shows include musical Keep It on the Sunny Side and The Sweet Delilah Swim Club.

Head to the Cabaret for a variety of live musical performances. Swift Creek Mill is celebrated for its soul-soothing comfort food as well as menus inspired by their corresponding performances.

Pre-show dining is offered in the Mill Room or Granite Room.

RIVERSIDE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, FREDERICKSBURG Since it opened in 1998 with a performance of Oklahoma!, Riverside Center for the Performing Arts has featured more than 100 mainstage musical and dramatic productions and more than 120 musical adaptations of popular children’s stories for their Children’s Theater. The space offers 36,000 square feet of dinner theater and conference center and has attracted performers from Broadway stages and national tour casts, earning multiple awards in the process. In 2023, look for lively, professional performances of Ragtime The Musical, 42nd Street, The Bridges of Madison County and Miracle on 34th Street.

VIRGINIA REPERTORY THEATRE AT HANOVER TAVERN, HANOVER Part pub, restaurant, historic center and home of the 155-seat Bradley Theater, there’s a lot going on at Hanover Tavern. Licensed in 1733, Hanover Tavern has since led many lives, including as part of a plantation and lodging to several big-name visitors.

In 1953, six New York actors founded Central Virginia’s first professional theater, Barksdale Theatre, and went on to present plays from the era’s most progressive writers. In its current iteration, Hanover Tavern is home to a merger between Barksdale Theater and Theatre IV becoming Virginia Repertory Theatre. Enjoy Southern-style cooking and a quaint setting in the pub before heading to the theater.

THE DINNER DETECTIVE MURDER MYSTERY DINNER SHOW, VIRGINIA BEACH At America’s largest interactive comedy murder mystery dinner theater anyone, and that includes guests, are part of the show and fun. From the start of the evening at The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show, actors are hidden in the audience adding to the mystery part of the evening’s events.

Throughout the night, a crime occurs, hidden clues will be revealed, and the “detectives” will help everyone try and crack the case. Solve the case and win a prize.

All that sleuthing is accompanied by a stellar three-course meal with a wide selection of beer, wine and cocktails available for additional purchase. 1

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ITINERARY

Charlottesville & Albemarle County, Virginia

SCAN FOR INFO

Immerse yourself in the history of Charlottesville and Albemarle County, including homes of three Founding Fathers and a colonial era tavern, a wide variety of cuisine and top wineries. Add stops at amazing museums, cultural centers and art exhibitions for a memorable visit.

CHARLOTTESVILLE ALBEMARLE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Teresa Lamb sales@visitcharlottesville.org (434) 972-4138 www.visitcharlottesville.org

Experience History, Food & Wine in Charlottesville & Albemarle County Day 1

Charlottesville and Albemarle County are home to world-renowned historic sites, including the homes of three of the country’s Founding Fathers.

Visit Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s home, and the University of Virginia, both of which are a single UNESCO World Heritage site. Jefferson was the third president of the United States, author of the Declaration of Independence and the founder of the University of Virginia. Hundreds of thousands of visitors tour Monticello each year and learn about Jefferson’s legacy and complicated history.

Michie Tavern is a great spot to enjoy lunch and a tour on your way to or from Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. Located just half a mile from Monticello, this historic tavern dates to 1784, giving visitors a glimpse into the past and the chance to enjoy an 18th Century, Southern dining experience. Michie Tavern’s popular lunch buffet features southern fried chicken, hickory-smoked pork barbecue, mashed potatoes, black-eyed peas, buttermilk biscuits, cornbread and more. Lunch is served daily from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. If you save room for dessert, don’t miss out on the delicious peach cobbler.

Not far from Monticello and Michie Tavern is James Monroe’s Highland, the home of another U.S. President and Founding Father. Highland was purchased by Monroe in 1793 and home to the Monroe family for nearly 25 years. This historical site was acquired by the College of William and Mary (Monroe’s alma mater) in 1974 and today they host events, offer daily tours, and have a great museum shop.

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Enjoy dinner at the Dairy Market, a new group food destination located in the historic Monticello Dairy Building. Located in Downtown Charlottesville, not far from the University of Virginia, the space is home to 18 merchant stalls of varying cuisines, a brewery, restaurant, bar, and several retail shops.

Day 2 Your group will start the day with a walking tour of the historic Grounds of the University of Virginia.

See and learn more about the Lawn, the Rotunda and UVA’s Memorial to Enslaved Laborers. This memorial honors the 4,000 to 5,000 enslaved people who lived and worked at UVA between 1817 and 1865.

The Jefferson School African American Heritage Center is an important place where your group can explore a permanent art exhibit, a rotating contemporary art gallery, and a robust calendar of events. These exhibitions and events highlight Charlottesville and Albemarle County’s African American history and culture of the African diaspora.

The nearby Downtown Mall is a historic, pedestrian mall that is a great spot to enjoy lunch, shop and stroll.

Many restaurants offer outdoor dining and groups will be able to choose from a variety of cuisines and price points.

A visit to the Charlottesville area isn’t complete without a stop at one of the 40+ wineries on the Monticello Wine Trail. Experts at one of our regional wine tour companies will plan a customized route suited to your group’s interests and safely transport you from winery to winery.

EXPLORE PICTURE-PERFECT NATURAL BEAUTY IN VIRGINIA Groups can visit this hidden gem in the Appalachian Mountains

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Photos courtesy of Kyle LaFerriere

Waterfalls can be found throughout the heart of Appalachia.

By Isabella Wilkes

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he natural beauty of Virginia is hard to compare to any other region in America. Driving along Blue Ridge Parkway, every turn around the winding bends will open up to picture-perfect views of rolling hills, lush forests, calm estuaries, or stunning coastline, all enveloped by the aweinspiring Blue Ridge Mountains. If your group is looking for an unforgettable opportunity to immerse yourselves in scenic experiences, you’ve definitely come to the right place.

VIRGINIA’S DARK SKY PARKS OFFER CRYSTAL-CLEAR VIEWS OF THE NIGHT SKY

a glimpse of migrating whales as they make their way north. Many whaling tours can easily accommodate large groups on their tour boats. Groups will be taken off the coast to try and catch a glimpse of whales feeding or breaching, all while keeping a safe distance from these endangered creatures. Dolphins are in the coastal

waters from the spring through Fall.

For groups looking to take part in Virginia’s legendary fishing scene, there are a multitude of fishing boat charters located along the coast that can accommodate groups.

Another costal staple in Virginia is the state’s fabulous oysters. Groups will have no problem locating a

Big Meadows is a recreational area of Shenandoah National Park located on the Skyline Drive.

Dark Sky Parks are few and far inbetween, with about 60 located across America. The state of Virginia alone has four parks as designated locations where light pollution is so low, visitors can view much of the galaxy’s wonders with a naked eye. Staunton River State Park, James River State Park, Natural Bridge State Park, and Sky Meadows State Park are all located in different regions of the state. Groups can participate in guided stargazing and planet viewing nights, led by local astronomers who come equipped with high-power telescopes, at any one of these parks throughout the year. Or, plan your group trip around a peak day for observing meteor showers, as designated by park astronomers.

Virginia’s 70-mile Atlantic coastline is the backbone of the state, providing much of the cuisine, culture, and biodiversity that makes this state a must-visit. During the winter months, Virginia is the peak location to catch

Photo by John Plashal

THERE’S A SEA OF POSSIBILITIES FOR GROUP EXPERIENCES ALONG VIRGINIA’S COAST

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Photo by Bill Crabtree Jr.

EXPLORE NATURAL BEAUTY

Wild ponies from Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge on Assateague Island on Virginia’s Eastern Shore has captured the hearts and minds of visitors for years.

VIRGINIA

ARTSFESTIVAL

VIRGINIA

INTERNATIONAL

TATTOO

APRIL 20-23, 2023 / APRIL 18-21, 2024 / SCOPE ARENA, NORFOLK, VA

AWE-INSPIRING SPECTACLE OF MUSIC AND MIGHT!

restaurant to slurp up these delicacies throughout the state, but for a more immersive experience, groups have to head to the tributaries where these oysters are harvested. Pleasure House Oyster Farm Tours allows groups to see the inner workings of oyster farming. Groups can choose from three experiences of various interaction. The least interactive will have you taking a brief tour with a tasting. Another tour has your group standing in waders, knee-deep in the Lynnhaven River at a table set up in the water at the oyster farm. The most interactive group experience allows groups learning from the farmers to pick their own oysters, ending with a tasting.

WATERFALLS VIEWS TO TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY Virginia’s rolling hills and mountainous landscape have created the conditions to host an array of breathtaking waterfalls. However, hiking to these cascades doesn’t have to entail a challenging multi-mile trek into the deep forest. In Virginia, waterfalls are so abundant that there are plenty of easilyaccessible waterfalls for groups of all ages and abilities.

Waterfalls designated as easy access by Virginia state parks - with hikes under one-mile round trip with relatively flat terrain - include Statons Creek Falls, Falling Spring Falls and Dismal Falls. For groups with more extensive ability, there are, of course, a multitude of waterfalls in Virginia with challenging hikes and equally rewarding views.

SPOT RARE WILDLIFE IN VIRGINIA’S NATURAL PARKS

TICKETS: VAFEST.ORG OR CALL 877-741-2787

GROUPS 10+ SAVE! CALL 757-282-2819 FOR INFORMATION.

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Virginia is home to more than 4.18 million acres of protected land, and many have been developed with walking trails and other amenities

to increase accessibility to the state’s most scenic views. Many of these trails are designated as ideal locations to view an array of the state’s protected species. Groups can increase their chances of seeing a bald eagle at Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, or Caledon State Park.

For avid birders, there are multiple state parks located along the Atlantic flyway, including Matthews Birding & Wildlife Trails and the Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve. At the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, visitors will get incredible coastal views alongside wild pony sightings.

For a guided group experience, Breaks State Park offers elk tours, where groups can hope to spot

these majestic creatures, hear their powerful and haunting bugle calls, and learn about the state’s tireless efforts to restore the elk’s natural population levels. For active groups, there are an abundance of guided kayak tours to choose from in natural parks across the state.

UNWIND WITH A GLASS OF WINE AND AMAZING VIEWS AT VIRGINIA’S VINEYARDS Virginia’s vineyards are located across the state, no longer confined to the well-known and historic wine regions of Shenandoah Valley and Central Virginia. Groups can book a private vineyard bus tours that are available in every region of the state.

Tour leaders will guide your group to

a number of vineyards in the area, leading to a relaxing afternoon of taking in the breathtaking views while enjoying world-class wine.

For groups looking for self-guided tours of Virginia’s wine country, there are a few vineyards in particular that go above and beyond to deliver an experience that immerses you in the natural beauty of the region.

Chatham Vineyard offers a relaxing 45-minute paddle tour that includes a wine tasting as you float down Church Creek. Greenhill Winery offers carriage rides through their vineyard and often hosts polo matches. Glass House Winery hosts a stunning tropical conservatory on their vineyard, which transports visitors from Virginia to a tropic oasis during their tasting. 1

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THE BEST-TASTING DISHES ARE MADE IN VIRGINIA Specialty food businesses give travelers a chance to indulge in, learn about and even make mouthwatering treats

By Randy Mink

C

ulinary experiences are often among the highlights of a group trip, and when tour members can get a peek at how things are made, the experience becomes extra-special. Some makers offer classes in the kitchen, providing hands-on fun with fresh insights on crafting the final product.

Here are some places that will add a tasty twist to your next tour in Virginia:

Taste some of the finest chocolates at River-Sea Chocolate Factory.

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RIVER-SEA CHOCOLATE FACTORY CHANTILLY Krissee and Mariano D’Aguiar started making chocolate in 2017 in northern Brazil and today operate a thriving beanto-bar business.

Mariano grew up in a cacao-growing region of Brazil where the Amazon River meets the Atlantic Ocean, and is passionate about preserving the rainforest and its ecosystem. Ecofriendly practices and sourcing product from small cocoa farmers drive the couple’s business ethics. They work with producers from countries around the world, including Brazil, Nicaragua, Tanzania, India, Colombia, Vietnam, Thailand and Peru.

On the 60-minute Private Tasting Flight and Tour, group members get to sample five pieces of chocolate (milk, dark, white), observe the chocolate making process and learn how to do a proper tasting. In the Chocolate Bomb Making class (up to 10 persons), everyone gets to make four bombs using ingredients like marshmallow, fruit powders, sprinkles and spices. Another session involves pairing chocolates with wines. (riverseachocolates.com)

fame as being the home of the original waffle cone. The cones are made right before your eyes on the original four-iron waffle machine built in 1904.

Besides ice cream treats, Doumar’s sells hamburgers, hot dogs and North Carolina-style barbecue, offering both dine-in and curbside service. Limeades and orange freezes are other popular items.

Now in the fourth-generation of family ownership, Doumar’s has been at the same location since 1934. But its story starts with the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair when traveling salesman Abe Doumar, an immigrant from Syria, conceived the idea of putting ice cream in cones when an ice cream vendor there ran out of paper dishes, the primary way of selling ice cream to go. He bought a waffle from a waffle maker at the fair, rolled it into a cone and topped it with ice cream. Abe diplomatically proposed that the ice cream vendor and waffle salesman collaborate. For the rest of the fair, Abe sold ice cream in the world’s first waffle cones. He then built the four-iron machine and in 1905 started a string of ice cream shops on the East Coast, opening up in Norfolk in 1907. (doumars.com)

DOUMAR’S BARBECUE AND CONES NORFOLK

LEBANESE TAVERNA MARKET ARLINGTON

A beloved local institution in downtown Norfolk, Doumar’s stakes its claim to

This Lebanese-owned food and gift store offers cooking classes that include

four or five recipe demonstrations and hands-on instruction. While learning about Eastern Mediterranean cuisine, participants enjoy tastings and Middle Eastern wines.

Featured foods might include chicken shawarma, artichoke and lamb stew, and tabbouleh (bulgur wheat, tomato, finely chopped parsley and other herbs). Guests likely will start with a typical Middle Eastern appetizer like hommus (ground chickpeas) or the creamier baba ganoush (made of roasted eggplant) with pita. The dessert could be baklava or Lebanese rice pudding with a hint of rose water.

The Lebanese Taverna Group, started by a Lebanese immigrant family in 1979, operates 12 locations in the Washington, D.C. area. (lebanesetaverna.com)

The Lebanese Taverna Group was started by a Lebanese immigrant family in 1979 and features incredible dishes and offers cooking classes.

BALLERINO CREAMERY STAUNTON In an old creamery building that had not been used for milk processing in half a century, owner and head cheesemaker Louella Hill crafts a variety of fresh and ripened cheeses with milk from grass-fed cows. The stream running alongside the creamery is called Buttermilk Creek.

Tasting sessions encourage participants to discover how and why

cheeses are so different from one another. The final tasting is accompanied by wines from Ox-Eye Vineyards.

Hill has taught hundreds of cheesemaking classes and has worked on dairy farms and in cheese factories in the U.S. and abroad. Her book on home cheese making, Kitchen Creamery, describes the process of transforming milk into cheese, yogurt and butter. (ballerinocreamery.com) 1

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Enjoy a peaceful ride aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway.

VIRGINIA HAS MUCH FOR GROUPS TO LOVE

By Lisa Shames

O

f all the state slogans over the years, “Virginia is for Lovers” is perhaps the most iconic with a 50-year track record (and still going strong) and, in fitting with its sentiment, the most beloved.

While Virginia has always had plenty to offer visitors, it’s upped its game even more with a slew of openings that appeal to a variety of tastes. And this year shows no signs of slowing down with a bounty of exciting endeavors on the horizon throughout the state.

From a scenic railway that calls a modernized 1940s passenger home to a lush 250-acre botanical garden, Virginia is feeling the love — and you will too.

LEGO lovers and their parents have reason to celebrate with the midsummer opening of LEGO Discovery Center at Springfield Town Center, the first Virginia location of the iconic brand. The 32,000-square-foot indoor attraction, billed as the ultimate LEGO playground, will feature millions of LEGO bricks as well as multiple attractions.

Spring 2023 on the Alexandria Waterfront is the opening of the

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Senator John Warner Maritime Heritage Center, Home of Tall Ship Providence. Student STEM programs are offered and adult visitors will experience the floating museum and education center.

What’s the best way to take in some of Virginia’s prettiest scenery, including the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains? From a beautiful 1940s passenger car of a leisurely rolling train that also includes a modernized ambiance.

Virginia’s newest tourist rail excursion from Virginia Scenic Railway debuted last fall and quickly became a hit. Departing from the Amtrak Staunton station, the 3-hour round-trip excursion includes a meal, dessert and beverage served in a complimentary souvenir glass.

The American Revolution has always been felt more deeply by Virginians, whose inspired ancestors brought to a fledgling nation the thoughtful words that helped guide leaders to declare liberty as the right of Americans. To commemorate the

Photo courtesy of Katie Simon

From a scenic railway to a lush 250-acre botanical garden, Virginia is feeling the love — and you will too.

250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and the independence of the United States in the Commonwealth of Virginia, The Virginia American Revolution Commission will host a variety of events starting in 2023 and continuing through 2026, ranging from a 4th of July celebration like no other in Yorktown to an afternoon tea in Dublin to learn about love stories of local Revolutionary War soldiers.

North America’s first all-indoor straddle coaster makes its debut this year at Busch Gardens Williamsburg.

On DarKoaster, riders travel on snowmobiles across 2,454 feet of track in total darkness with King Ludwig’s abandoned fortress looming in the background. Founded to celebrate the African American journey to freedom,

The Black Heritage Museum of Arlington recently marked the grand opening of its new home along Columbia Pike.

The new facility provides a focal point exhibit on Arlington’s Freedman’s Village and contributions made by its residents and their descendants to local and national history.

While the lineup had yet to be finalized at press time, the announcement of the dates of the multi-day Something in the Water Festival led by Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams is still exciting news. To be held April 23-30, the event includes art and cultural experiences in addition to what will be a star-studded mix of musicians.

Opened in January of this year, Rivers Casino in Portsmouth is a big deal — literally. At 400,000 square feet and with a price tag of $340 million, the complex

includes 1,448 slot machines, 57 tables games, 24 poker tables, 10 restaurants, a 25,000-square-foot event center, movie theater, retail stores and a hotel.

After a two-year renovation, the all-new Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) Museum re-opened. A new innovative learning environment includes interactives, artifacts and displays that engage visitors in the science and history of drug misuse prevention.

With more than 5,000 objects, 40,000 photographs and an online video archive, the Museum’s collection brings the history of drug law enforcement to life.

Ever dream of sitting at a bar with a “water wall” underneath? Head to the revamped Crystal City Water Park when it opens this year to experience that as well as other treats. Located in Arlington, the park will include

new restaurant kiosks, a full-service restaurant, a stage and plenty of public art installations.

If you still haven’t gotten your fill of water-centric adventures, visit Williamsburg’s Water Country USA, which is debuting Virginia’s first dueling pipeline this summer. Riptide Race water slide pits teams against each other as they take off from the 54foot tower and race through 520 feet of slide. Hanging out in Richmond’s Diamond area recently became a lot more fun with the opening of The Park RVA, new entertainment and food venue. The $8 million project features a 55,000-square-foot entertainment space that includes indoor mini golf, virtual golf, 18 lanes of duckpin bowling, karaoke, a comedy club and a sixrestaurant food hall. 1

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ITINERARY

Lynchburg, Virginia

The Ultimate LYH Experience SCAN FOR INFO

Also known as the Hill City, our view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the James River makes LYH a unique destination for travelers seeking new adventures while being immersed in a historic downtown setting, and surrounded by natural beauty. Here are just a few of our must-see experiences in LYH, we can’t wait to host you!

Day 1

Begin your experience as you arrive in Lynchburg with lunch at the Depot Grille in Historic Downtown. This railroad-themed restaurant overlooking Riverfront Park and the James River is housed in a former freight station and a local favorite.

Next, get introduced to and explore the rich history of Lynchburg and Central Virginia at the Lynchburg Museum at the Old Courthouse. The museum shares stories about the people and fascinating events that shaped the region through exhibits including antique toys, military items from all wars, furniture & silver made here, and much more. Curious about the history of Lynchburg? Join Lynchburg’s own Curious History Walking Tours for a stroll down Main Street to discover comedic stories about Lynchburg’s interesting past dating back to the 18th century.

After checking in to your hotel of choice for the next two nights, journey downtown for your Lynchburg Dining Experience, a foodie’s paradise.

Day 2 CITY OF LYNCHBURG, VIRGINIA

Andrew Marks, Sales Manager Office of Economic Development & Tourism Andrew.Marks@Lynchburgva.gov (434) 485-7298 (o) www.lynchburgvirginia.org

Day two begins after a nice breakfast at your hotel by visiting the home of the internationally acclaimed poet who was part of the Harlem Renaissance, the Anne Spencer House & Garden Museum. Anne Spencer was the only Black woman and the only Virginian included in the Norton Anthology of Modern American and British Poetry. Established in 1806, the restored Old City Cemetery and Arboretum is a Virginia Historic Landmark on the National Register of Historic places. Walk through the

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cemetery that features a Civil War section, significant African-American history, and four small museums equipped with push-button audio. Next, visit Seaquest, an interactive petting zoo aquarium where you can experience earth’s majestic wonders while interacting with the innumerable species with which we share this planet. Enjoy lunch at Charley’s Restaurant, which has grown into one of Lynchburg’s favorite restaurants with steaks, seafood, salads and more. A short drive from the restaurant, walk the grounds and take in the secluded retreat of Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, now a National Historic Landmark.

Head back to your hotel to freshen up for your evening on the town. Offering fine cuisine in an upscale industrial setting, Shoemakers American Grille is located in the Craddock Terry Hotel and treats guests to big city dining in the heart of downtown Lynchburg. Next, enjoy an evening of entertainment at The Historic Academy of Music Theatre before calling it a night.

Day 3 Your final day begins after breakfast with a visit to Point of Honor. Discover the charm and surroundings of life in the early 1800’s as you explore the house and grounds of the original owner and builder, Dr. George Cabell, whose patients included American patriot Patrick Henry. A tour of this remarkable Federal-style home, with its classic architecture and rich furnishings, echoes true grace and southern hospitality. Visit the Lynchburg Community Market, the third-oldest farmer’s market in the country or dip in to one of the many local shops that feature local artisans and craftspersons, where you’ll find special reminders of your trip to Lynchburg.

Anne Spencer House & Garden Museum

LYH WELCOMES YOU We invite you to get a feel for the Hill City, a unique destination for travelers seeking new adventures, surrounded by natural beauty.

LYNCHBURGVIRGINIA.ORG

ITINERARY

Staunton, Virginia

SCAN FOR INFO

Teeming with art galleries, live performance venues, and a notto-be-missed dining scene, this creative community is a feast for the senses.

Staunton’s celebrated Main Street appears to have sprung to life from a Norman Rockwell painting with its striking variety of architectural styles.

VISIT STAUNTON

Jessica B. Williams Sales & Marketing Manager williamsjb@ci.staunton.va.us 540-332-3865 www.visitstaunton.com

Staunton Shines Bright With Arts, Culture & Cocktails Day 1

Staunton is one of the oldest cities west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Step back in time at the livinghistory Frontier Culture Museum to learn about the daily life of the region’s earliest settlers.

Next, discover the life and legacy of the country’s 28th president in the city where he was born at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum. An exclusive ‘Behind-the-Scenes” guide tour provides a fuller picture of his complex life and legacy.

Love nostalgic rail journeys? Set aside three hours to relax and sightsee aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway, round-trip excursions depart twice daily (Thursday-Sunday).

Day 2 Shakespeare is serious fun at the American Shakespeare Center. So is the Blackfriars Playhouse Tour, where you’ll go on-stage, behind the stage, and even under the stage as guides tell the story of England’s first indoor theater and describe how the staging conditions of 17th-century London shaped the works of Shakespeare and his fellow playwrights.

Art enthusiasts are invited to step inside GothicRevival Trinity Episcopal Church and marvel at 12 Tiffany stained glass windows, which date from 18981936. Contemporary artworks are produced daily via live glass-blowing demonstrations at Sunspots Studios. Interested in acquiring original works from

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regional artists? The CoArt Gallery and the R.R. Smith Center for History & Art display some of the best.

The Shenandoah Valley is known for its agricultural bounty, and farm-to-table restaurants are the norm. Chef Boden of The Shack is a two-time James Beard Award semifinalist. Zynodoa offers inspired Southern cuisine with a menu that emphasizes local ingredients.

Day 3 For something truly memorable, opt for a masterclass in cheese and wine in a beautifully restored tasting room. Ballerino Creamery’s head cheesemaker Louella Hill and master vintner John Kiers of Ox-Eye Vineyards join forces to help you taste your way through the Valley’s freshest flavors.

Pick up a copy of the self-guided walking tour and get acquainted with Staunton’s preservation success; six historic districts are independently listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Refresh yourself at the Ciders From Mars taproom, where you can enjoy a full flight or a single glass of their flagship Hellas Dry Cider. It’s made with a blend of modern and heirloom apples, grown locally.

BLU Point Seafood Co. showcases lobster rolls and seafood baskets, as well as catches straight from the Chesapeake Bay such as rockfish, blue crab, and oysters. Private dining areas can accommodate groups of up to 80 people. Gorgeous mountain scenery surrounds Staunton. Two national parks, Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway are close by and make an easy destination for sunset views.

Love,

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Celebrate the gifts of land and sea with epic Virginia Beach adventures the entire group can enjoy safely. With 400 square miles of wide open space, revel in hands-on experiences and unique access to a group tour that’s as safe as it is memorable.

VISITVIRGINIABEACH.COM/GROUPTOUR

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