The Liz Moore Market Watch Blog

This holiday season we have some exciting events going on at our Liz Moore offices!

Northern Neck
Don’t miss out on the biggest event of the year at our Kilmarnock office - Santa Paws! Bring your furry family members by for a photo with Santa, and don’t forget to bring items to donate to local shelters, too.
December 2nd
10am - 3pm
276 N. Main Street Kilmarnock

Richmond
Bring your kids by our Richmond office for photos with Santa!
December 2nd
11am - 2pm
14061 Midlothian Turnpike Midlothian

Williamsburg
Join us on the alumni green in front of Zable stadium (look for the Liz Moore flag) for a front row seat at the Williamsburg Christmas Parade and help us cheer on our Polar Express Float.  The cost is free but you do need a ticket.  Email info@lizmoore.com or call 757-645-4106 for details.
December 3rd
5pm

Newport News
Our Peninsula office is joining forces with We Are the Echo to collect new coats for children in need.  Stop by our office to pick up a tag with a child's name, age, and size or email info@lizmoore.com for details.
Deadline to drop coats off at the office is December 10th.
11801 Canon Blvd. Newport News

We hope to see you there to help us spread some holiday cheer!

By: Lauren Cummings

Plan your weekend trip to Virginia’s Northern Neck with a thought-out itinerary from local insiders. We love sharing the beauty of our hometown, and we are so excited to show you why we love where we live!

Where to Stay

The Kilmarnock Inn is a collection of eight cottages that offer a private bath, balcony or deck, and free Wi-Fi. Three of which are pet friendly, so if you are considering bringing your fur baby along, you will be covered! The three-course breakfast is served daily and includes selections from the resort garden. This is a destination for those seeking a high-end yet homey feel for their vacation.

For a luxury stay on the Chesapeake Bay, look no further than The Tides Inn. You will be on a beautiful stretch of water, connecting you to the beautiful nature that Virginia has to offer. You can choose to stay in a Resort View or Water View room or suite. You may not want to ever leave during your stay – as this resort offers plenty to do, such as relaxing by the beach or marina or joining the inn’s art class.

Rise & Shine

Before your full day of plans, it’s important to fuel up on caffeine and a nice breakfast. We know just the spot!

The Local is the Northern Neck’s home for coffee! It not only serves a crafted cup of coffee by Richmond’s Ironclad Coffee Roasters, but it also serves as a social spot for the community. Grab a breakfast sandwich or panini when you stop by! The menu has a variety of tasty meals, and the outdoor seating is perfect to enjoy during the warmer months.

What to Do & Where to Go

Enjoy the natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant waterfront lifestyle that the Northern Neck of Virginia has to offer. Get outdoors, dive into American and local history, or have a family night of fun!

Westmoreland State Park is a beautiful and diverse natural park located in Westmoreland County. Visit the park for hiking, fishing, camping, and boating! You will have a lovely panoramic view of the Potomac River with beach access. This is a great spot for camping as a campground with 133 campsites, cabins, and a group lodge.

Head over to Irvington to discover the Steamboat Era Museum for an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. This is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and technology of steamboats, as well as the rich cultural heritage of the Chesapeake Bay region. See artifacts up close, such as engines, boilers, and more! Take a guided tour and learn even more interesting facts and details about the steamboat era.

The Reedville Fisherman’s Museum is another awesome destination for those interested in the history of boating and fishing. Located in the small fishing village of Reedville, this museum is dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of the local fishing industry. Learn about the important role of fishing in the local economy and way of life with engaging exhibits and displays!

For a family night of fun, visit the Compass Entertainment Complex is a state-of-the-art entertainment complex. The complex features a multi-screen luxury boutique movie theater and nine more attractions including an arcade, indoor adventure course, climbing walls, go-karts, mini-golf, and full-service restaurant and bar. This is a great spot for the kids to burn off some energy, making memories filled with fun and play!

Wine & Dine

The northern neck is the heart of Virginia’s wine country. Don’t forget to add these spots to your trip itinerary! For even more wine stops, check out the Chesapeake Bar Wine Trail that encompasses the region: https://chesapeakebaywinetrail.com/

Good Luck Cellars

“Luck is in the WINE of the beholder” is Good Luck Cellars motto! Enjoy a wine flight, by the glass, or a full bottle in the covered outdoor seating area or the indoor tasting room. This vineyard has the perfect location for scenic views of a beautiful backdrop and getting away from the hustle and bustle of busy life. Check out which food trucks and events are going on during the date of your planned visit: https://www.goodluckcellars.com/events

Dog & Oyster Micro-Vineyard is a charming winery in Irvington – a gem in Virginia’s wine country. If you love dogs and wine, this should be on your list of stops during your stay! The owners, inspired by their love for their canine companions and the region’s famous Chesapeake Bay oysters, created a delightful combination of the two in their establishment. The vineyard is a relatively small size, allowing for a more personalized and immersive experience for visitors.

Relax at a beautiful private cove and enjoy charcuterie paired with wine, beer, or cider at Jacey Vineyards. Head over on a Friday for live music and specials. Enjoy tastings, wine by glass or bottle, and great food paired with views of wooded forests, a scenic waterfront, and lush vines. You can even arrive at the cove by boat if you’d like. For those who prefer to arrive on land, don’t fret – there’s parking!

Good Eats

This Office is a café, bistro, and bar in Irvington that offers comfortable, lively American dining. The casual atmosphere extends to the seasonal patio seating, and the impressive menu pairs with the comfortable ambiance. They incorporate the freshest local ingredients across a variety of cuisines. This is a full-service restaurant, and you are sure to have a high level of gracious, southern hospitality during your visit!

The Crazy Crab is a locally owned casual spot in Reedville. The impressive Chef has 20 years of experience under their belt cooking in the finest restaurants, so expect your meal to be carefully crafted and highly satisfactory. The Crazy Crab takes pride in providing guests with a top-notch dining experience, and therefore offer fresh ingredients from local, seasonal farmers markets. You can be sure you are receiving the best of the season!

For a unique, coastal dining experience, visit Adrift in White Stone. The menu changes each day based on locally sourced and fresh ingredients. This spot is known for its refined plates and great wine. Locals and visitors indulge in a memorable dining experience where the staff is friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. This spot is, “Virginia through and through,” providing the delicacies that the state has to offer through native wines and ingredients.

A Short Drive Away

For even more to do and see during your stay, check out more of our recommendations in Williamsburg, the Peninsula, and Richmond!

Try any of these spots, or find any worth noting? Let us know at lizmoore.com!

By: Lauren Cummings

Plan your weekend trip to Richmond, Virginia with a thought-out itinerary from local insiders. We love sharing the beauty of our hometown, and we are so excited to show you why we love where we live!

Book Your Stay

Book your stay at one of our most-trusted favorites.

The Boulevard Inn is a bed and breakfast providing luxurious and stylish arrangements that not only make you feel at home but offer next-level comfort for the duration of your stay. They offer a European-style buffet breakfast daily, so you can fuel up for your day of activities in the main dining room of the inn. It is in the historical fan district and is within walking distance of tourist attractions and various dining spots.

The Jefferson Hotel provides high standards for luxury and has an immaculate reputation, earning its place as one of our most-trusted hospitality destinations. The hotel is crafted with beautiful architecture and is known for its custom furnishings, rich fabrics, and unexpected details. The rooms provide spacious dressing areas and marble baths, and you will find the service to be of superior standards.

An artsy hotel, Quirk Hotel Richmond, is perfect for those seeking a modern feel with endless comfort. The rooms offer a light and airy aesthetic with a cheerful ambience. Guests can expect unique art from local artists upon entering their room, along with soft, white duvets and oversized pillows for a restful night’s sleep.

Rise & Shine

We have the inside scoop on the best places to grab a coffee or have a nice brunch to fuel up before your plans for the day.

Social 52 is one of our favorite spots for a high-quality American breakfast or lunch. The build-your-own Bloody Mary menu and variety of mimosa flavors are also an enticing aspect of the menu. The breakfast dishes are southern fare inspired, but the atmosphere sticks to the urban feel that the city provides. Try one of our favorite options, the Shrimp and Grits or the Chicken and Waffles!

The Ironclad Coffee Roasters serves a specialty grade cup of joe. This isn’t your average café – Ironclad Coffee takes care in each step of the coffee brewing process. From cultivation to roasting, this coffee is made with care and expertise. The shop is also known for its outstanding customer care. This coffee shop is worth a trip to Shockoe Bottom during your stay!

What to Do & Where to Go

Richmond is known for the arts. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, or VMFA, is a popular destination to explore various exhibitions and artifacts. You can choose to tour the museum on your own, or you can book a tour with a tour guide that leads the group with expertise on the subjects throughout the museum.

Maymont Gardens and Victorian Estate is a must-see for those who appreciate strategically landscaped gardens or are curious about the Gilded Age. You can plan to have a picnic in the gardens in a secluded area or walk along the paths that take you through the formal gardens and arboretum. Take a self-guided audio tour in the Maymont Mansion to learn about the people who lived and worked there.

Kings Dominion is an action-packed theme park that is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Richmond. It’s a perfect full-day activity for a group that has a younger crowd, or those with little ones accompanying them. The coasters and thrill rides are fun for everyone! For those who love water fun, check out Soak City! There are attractions for every preference, so be sure to plan a visit during your stay in Richmond.

Richmond Beer Trail

Sometimes all you need is an ice-cold brew.

Richmond was named in USA Today as #6 in the country’s “Best Beer Scenes,” and was named the #1 Beer Destination in the World by Vinepair. With over 40 breweries, this city has what a brew-lover wants!

Check out visitRichmondVA.com to get the full beer trail and decide where you’d like to start:

https://www.visitrichmondva.com/things-to-do/trails/richmond-beer-trail/

Good Eats

Richmond has some of the best restaurants in the state. The choices may seem endless, so we have listed a few of our favorites to assist you in navigating through the possibilities.

Don’t forget to make a reservation in advance – these spots are highly sought after!

L’Opossom is a gourmet French restaurant that offers an eclectic, art-filled space for dining and with a playful yet sophisticated ambiance. With a menu that changes frequently, each visit to this restaurant will be a unique culinary experience. Try their crafted cocktails or order from their wine menu that offers local and international options.

The Roosevelt is in Richmond’s oldest neighborhood, Church Hill, and is described as a “homey” restaurant with New Southern fare in a country-chic space. The award-winning, acclaimed restaurant is known for its craft cocktails, and they offer a variety of local Virginia wines.

For Mid-Atlantic seafood and handcrafted cocktails, plan to dine at Alewife. You will be greeted with a bright and airy ambiance with sophisticated dishes influenced by the Chesapeake Bay. The menu changes weekly, however, you are guaranteed to have high quality seafood options and a variety for other dietary preferences, including vegetarian.

Nightlife

The day isn’t over yet! End the night with one of the best aspects of urban living – the lively nightlife.

The Circuit Arcade Bar is a great spot for gaming and trying different beers. The arcade bar offers pour-your-own draft beers, so you can skip the wait at the bar for a refill. Play classic arcade games, including Ms. Pac-Man and Mario Bros, multiplayer games, racing, pinball, and much more.

The speakeasy style lounge, The Jasper, offers an old-school atmosphere serving artisanal cocktails. The lounge is nestled in a beautiful part of downtown Richmond, W Cary Street. You are in for a treat with the ambiance of this bar alone, and the cocktails are as good as they get!

For food, fun, and drinks - visit Tang & Biscuit on W Moore Street. It’s known for being RVA’s premier entertainment venue, providing live music and hosting public events. Reserve a table and have a drink, play table games with your group, or play shuffleboard – a favorite among visitors!

A Short Drive Away

For even more to do and see during your stay, check out more of our recommendations in Williamsburg, the Peninsula, and the Northern Neck!

Visit any of our favorite spots during your stay? Let us know about your experience on lizmoore.com!

By: Lauren Cummings

Parades, fireworks, and community galore! The Northern Neck rallies the community together for a variety of parades and celebrations to honor our nation’s Independence Day.

Reedville Presents:
Reedville Fisherman’s Museum Independence Day Celebration July 1, 2023
Join the town of Reedville and attend the Independence Day parade on Main Street at 3:00 PM. Leading up to the parade is the Firecracker 5k, so lace up your running shoes to support the Reeville Fishing Museum! To wrap up the full day of celebratory activities, fireworks are scheduled for 9:30 PM. See the full schedule for more details and information.

Irvington Presents:
Irvington 4^th of July Parade 2023
The Irvington July 4^th parade is back for 2023! This town-sponsored event is such a blast for the whole community – bring on the golf carts and vehicles decked-out in patriotic displays! Sign up to participate in the parade, or cheer on community members as they head from King Carter Drive to Tavern Road on the Commons. You can find out more information on their website, where they have included a birds-eye view of the parade route.

Colonial Beach Presents:
2023 Independence Day Celebrations

Can you think of a cooler place to celebrate our nation’s independence than President George Washington’s birthplace? Come out to Colonial Beach for a full day of patriotic festivities: a parade, races, a picnic, kayaking, live bands, and more! After a couple of years of holding off on fireworks since 2019, the grand display of fireworks is back and scheduled for 9:00 PM at the Boardwalk. Colonial Beach is bustling with fun and celebrations on July 4^th – you won’t want to miss out this year!

Sources:

“4th of July in Colonial Beach.” Beach, www.colonial-beach-virginia-attractions.com/4th-of-july.html.

The Greater Reedville Association. “Schedule of Events.” The Greater Reedville Association, rfmuseum.org/independence-day-events.

Visit Irvington VA. “The Irvington July 4th 2023 Parade Is Back!” Visit Irvington VA, visitirvingtonva.com/4th-july-parade-info.

By: Lauren Cummings

There is something special about sharing books; the creases from where the previous reader was  gripped by the tension of the story, the dog  ear folds from where they had to mark their  place, or even the little notes they have left  behind as they jotted down their thoughts – these qualities don’t just add character to the book  itself, it creates connections between readers. We  may each experience a story differently, but it is up  to us to share them.

How It All Started

Todd Bol of Hudson, Wisconsin was inspired by the  “take a book, leave a book” projects launched by coffee  shops and community buildings. He placed a Free Little Library in front of his residence as a tribute to his mother,  who was a schoolteacher with a passion for reading. All  it took was a few people to recognize the importance of  easy access to books for everyone, and from there, a chain  of free little libraries was established across the country.  As of 2022, 150,000 mini-libraries have been registered  across 115 countries worldwide.

What is a Little Free Library?

Little free libraries are exactly as they sound, and no library card is required. Little free libraries are usually 
placed by residents of the community or by volunteers  that are passionate about spreading knowledge and 
story magic to everyone. These mini libraries symbolize community, inspiration, and support.

How Can You Start One?

Creating your little free library is easier than ever with  the help of the non-profit organization behind it all, Little  Free Library. This organization has made it possible for  people to announce their library to the public and provide  access to resources to get noticed by the community. 
1. Identify a location and steward
2. Get a library – create one yourself or buy one
on the Little Free Library’s online store.
3. Register your library – see the QR code below.
4. Set up your steward account 
5. Build community support

Building Inspiration

If you want to get creative and don’t want to purchase  a mini-library from the online store, there are plenty 
of resourceful ways to create a mini-library. We have  seen people convert old microwaves into mini-libraries,  small dog houses, storage bins, and even an old  cabinet. The one thing to consider is if the structure is 
weather-proof material so no books are ruined; a door is ideal for this requirement.

Register your library or find one near you at www.littlefreelibrary.org.

The cooler temps are here to stay (or at least so we hope!) and it's the perfect time to get out and explore the many trails on the Northern Neck of Virginia.  Here are our recommendations for a great day out:

Hughlett Point
Natural Area Preserve Hiking Trail along Chesapeake Bay
Balls Neck Road
Kilmarnock 22482
(804) 225-2303

Belle Isle State Park
Hiking, Biking, and Equestrian Trails
1632 Belle Isle Road
Lancaster 22503
(804) 462-5030

Bush Mill Stream
Natural Area Preserve By Foot or Canoe
Knights Run Road
Heathsville 22473
(804) 786-7951

Holly Point Nature Park
Walking Paths and Kayak Landing
287 Jackson Creek Road
Deltaville 23043
(804) 776-7200

Hickory Hollow Natural Preserve
254-Acre Nature Trail
Regina Road
Lancaster 22503
(804) 786-7951

The Summer Edition of our Liz Local Magazine is now available.  We've dedicated this issue to our four-legged, furry friends highlighting pet friendly places, interior design tips with pets in mind, and more!

View the digital version for your market below:

Peninsula Edition

Northern Neck Edition

Richmond Edition

Williamsburg Edition 

Spending time out on the water is part of life in Virginia's Northern Neck, whether you're a local or just visiting for the weekend.  No boat?  No problem!  Check out our recommendations for boat rentals so you want make the most of the Chesapeake Bay, and its rivers and creeks:

Allon-Z
Luxury Powerboat Private Charters
Reedville, VA
703-731-4071

Sail & Surf Adventures
Private Sailing Cruises
Weems, VA
804-361-9945

Sail Away Charters
Private Sailing Cruises
Kilmarnock, VA
434-218-0273

Tangier Island Cruises
The Chesapeake Breeze
Reedville, VA
804-453-2628

Belle Island State Park
Canoe & Kayak Rentals
Lancaster, VA
804-462-5030

Yankee Point Marina
Sunfish, Deck Boat, & Paddleboard Rental
Lancaster, VA
(804) 462-7635

Ingram Bay Marina &
Captain Billy’s Charters
Private Party Cruises
Heathsville, VA
804-580-7892

As the holiday weekend approaches and you make your plans to celebrate, check out our favorite events happening in Virginia's Northern Neck this year.

IKLMARNOCK
Music on the Half Shell
Good Shot Judy
July 1 | 7–9:30pm

Kilmarnock Town Center Park
Fireworks
July 2 rain date July 3
Dream Fields
1385 Irvington Road 22482

REEDVILLE
Reedville Fishermen’s Museum
July 2 | 504 Main Street 22539
Firecracker 5K | 8am begins at Festival Halle
Kids’ Activities | 10am
plus, FVFD will be behind Bethany United
Methodist Church to spray kids with water

Parade | 3pm

Fireworks | 9:15pm

IRVINGTON
Farmers’ Market
July 2 | 9am – 1pm

USA Air Force Band Concert
July 2 | 7pm

Steamboat Era Museum
156 King Carter Drive 22480
Parade

July 3 | 3pm starting at King Carter Road

The Spring Edition of our Liz Local Magazine is now available.  We've included real estate predictions, ways to help your kids get on the path to wealth building, local restaurant spotlights, and more!

View the digital version for your market below:

Peninsula Edition

Northern Neck Edition

Richmond Edition

Williamsburg Edition 

With the arrival of Spring comes the opening of farmers' markets and Virginia's Northern Neck has many great local spots to choose from.  Support a farmer and enjoy fresh, local produce at our recommended markets:

Irvington Farmers’ Market 
1st Saturday of the Month
May-November 9:00am-1:00pm
Irvington Commons, 98 King Carter Drive
Irvington, VA 22480

Kellum Farms
Produce & Seafood
Open Daily 9:00am-5:30pm
3413 Irvington Road
Irvington, VA 22480

Old Farm Truck Market
Wed & Sat: 9:00am-3:00pm
Thu & Fri: 9:00am-5:00pm
453 Rappahannock Drive
White Stone, VA 22578

Dug In Farms
Open Daily 9:00am-5:00pm
155 Fleets Bay Road
White Stone, VA 22578

Garner’s Farm & Market
Open Daily April through Thanksgiving
9:00am-6:00pm
22645 Kings Highway
Warsaw, VA 22572

Heathsville Farmers’ Market
3rd Saturday of the Month
April-October, 9:00am-1:00pm
Rice’s Hotel/Hughlett’s Tavern
73 Monument Place, Heathsville, VA 22473

The past 15 months has been a roller coaster in our real estate world. It’s hard to imagine that in spite of being in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic, we also experienced the hottest real estate market in US history. The perfect storm of low listing inventory and historic low interest rates converged to cause buyer demand to spike to all-time highs.

Clearly, it’s a great time to be a seller. But… what about the other side of that equation? Sellers are asking themselves, “I may get peak pricing for my home right now, but then I’ll have to turn around and pay peak pricing on the other end. Does that make sense for me?” Every situation is different, and the answer really depends on a lot of different factors. One thing that definitely makes sense, though, is that now is a great time for an in-depth look at values with your favorite REALTOR. If you’re not currently living in your dream home, now just may be the perfect time to explore alternatives.

Other drivers that are causing people to re-think their current space are the possibilities created by new opportunities to work remotely. Many people have realized that they can hang up their commute, and work from home…and that home can be anywhere they want. That freedom extends beyond location – it also means new and different features are important in a home: home offices and outdoor spaces have become all the buzz in recent months.

We’ve devoted this month’s edition of Liz Local to exploring a few of those features.

Check out a digital version of our Summer Liz Local Magazine:

Peninsula Edition

Williamsburg Edition

Richmond Edition

Northern Neck Edition

Visit www.lizmoore.com/love to enter.  If you don't live in the Northern Neck, what a great reason to take a day trip and enjoy the beautiful water views!

Staying safe and enjoying the water this Summer can go hand in hand! Check out these tips for keeping yourself and your family safe.

We love where we live and we know you do, too!  Join us for our photo contest throughout Northern Neck and be entered to win some great prizes.  Don't live in the Northern Neck but you've visited?  All participants welcomed!  Visit www.lizmoore.com/love before September 10, 2021 to enter your favorites photos of Virginia's Northern Neck.

By Susan McFadden

For visitors looking for a more bed and breakfast lodging and dining experience, the Kilmarnock Inn is the port of call. Located on a side street in the charming, walkable Town of Kilmarnock, the inn reflects Virginia’s rich presidential history.

Each of the Kilmarnock Inn’s eight guest cottages is named for a Virginia-born president, such as the Wilson House named for the 28th president Woodrow Wilson.

A classic Southern-style comfort foods menu is served in the Jefferson Gathering Room, or guests can enjoy al fresco dining on the back deck during warm-weather months. The dining facilities are open to the public. Kilmarnock Inn guests enjoy a complimentary full breakfast during each morning of their stay.

By Susan McFadden

Many visitors first discovered the Northern Neck when they moored their boat at one of the many marinas that inhabit the 1,100 miles of coastline or cruised into the marina at the Tides Inn in Irvington, the region’s premier resort, which opened its doors in 1947. The 47-room resort was the brainchild of local residents E.A. Stephens and his wife, Ann. They purchased a 25-acre farm with extraordinary water views and, through a leap of faith, built an inn that welcomed families and couples with room rates starting at $14 per night.

Today, the Tides Inn is still the regional premier resort drawing guests from across the world, the USA, and the Mid-Atlantic. According to their website, the Tides Inn “…continues to introduce new guest experiences, inviting visitors to create their own All-American traditions along the Chesapeake Bay.

Under the management of Enchantment Group, refreshed public and meeting spaces were unveiled in 2019.”
Although the nightly rates are considerably higher than in 1947, the accommodations and resort amenities rival those located in more well-known destinations.

One of many notable perks for Tides Inn guests is the Premier Sailing School that operates from the resort during the summer months. Premier Sailing’s owner Arabella Denvir and her husband Phil
founded the school in 1998 after a long and accomplished sailing history that included years of cruising and racing in Ireland and England’s waters. They also founded the Malta Sailing School and Malta Young Sailors Club before bringing their business model to the lower Northern Neck. Phil passed away
in 2011, but Arabella and her seasonal staff of experienced sailors continue to introduce children, couples, and families to the joy of sailing through personalized instruction.

Classes are not limited to Tides Inn guests but are open to the public. Premier Sailing also offers its Junior Sailing Program to non-members through the Rappahannock River Yacht Club.

Your pets are beloved members of your family and you want to make sure they receive the very best medical care. But how do you choose the right vet for your pet? We've outlined some important considerations below when selecting a veterinary practice for your fur baby.

Communication is Key
Ask your friends, family, and neighbors who they recommend. People with first-hand experience are great sources of information and someone who has had a great experience is eager to sing the praises of their veterinarian.

Responsive
Call potential veterinary practices: Do they answer the phone, or if not, do they return your call promptly? Is someone available to answer your questions? Can you easily get an appointment? Are you able to call and check on your pet frequently if they are having a procedure? You want to choose an office that communicates well with their clients.

Philosophies
Ask the veterinarian about their philosophies on pet health care. A few topics to discuss are euthanasia, cancer care, chronic disease planning, and spaying and neutering. Do they mesh with your own? Having a care giver with like­minded philosophies will help when faced with difficult decisions. Observe how they react and respond to your specific questions. Does this seem like someone with whom you'll be able to communicate and trust?

Take a Tour
A good office or hospital is proud of their facility and should be willing to give prospective clients a tour of their facility. Check the cleanliness of exam rooms, check out their medical equipment, do they have access to x-ray, ultrasound, dentistry, labs, and the like? Also, be sure to inquire about health care specific to your pet and any special care they might require. 

Interaction
Introduce your pet to your potential veterinarian and their staff long before your first appointment. Observe how everyone interacts with you and your pet. Are they welcoming, calm, and attentive to you both? Observe how your pet responds to them as well. Choosing a warm and caring practice can soothe a stressful situation for your pet.

Location and Hours
This isn't as important as good, solid care, but convenience is a factor to consider. Choose a vet you can access in a reasonable amount of time, and with hours chat work with your schedule. Choosing a wonderful practice that you can never get to won't do anyone any good.

Busier Can Mean Better
Don't be put off by a busy waiting area. A crowded, fast paced waiting area can be signs of a great, well-liked, hardworking practice.

Money Matters
Vet bills can add up quickly. Be sure to ask about costs of routine care like office visits and vaccines and ask about emergency services like x-ray.

Virginia Beach has all the elements of a classic seaside resort town all within a short drive making it the perfect day trip beach destination.  Just an hour or two away, you will find gorgeous beaches, a bustling boardwalk, a variety of excellent restaurants, and fun activities sure to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and kids. Virginia Beach is a year-round destination with beach fun and water play in the summer and many attractions to explore in the less crowded, cooler months.  Let’s head east and explore! 

Virginia Beach first and foremost offers miles of wide, gorgeous sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. People near and far flock to Virginia Beach to sun bathe on the shore, splash in the waves, and enjoy the boardwalk.

If you like adventure, Virginia Beach has exciting waves that attract boogey boarders and surfers daily, especially around the south end of the beach.  The locals usually surf around 1^st Street at the oceanfront if you want an authentic surfing experience.  Still a grommet on the waves?  No problem, several outfits offer surfing lessons and board rentals including VB Surf Sessions, Seth Broudy School of Surf, and Pungo Board House.  You can find more information on lessons and rentals on their websites at www.vbsurfsessions.com, www.sethbroudyschoolofsurf.com and www.pungoboardhouse.com.

Those wanting to enjoy the water at a slower pace might enjoy stand up paddle boarding, or SUP as seasoned paddlers call it.  Companies offer lessons, rentals, guided eco tours, and even SUP yoga on the calmer waters around Virginia Beach including First Landing State Park, Rudee Inlet, and Back Bay.  SUP is great exercise and offers beautiful nature views that often include pods of dolphin, osprey, bald eagles, great blue herons, and more.  A few tour companies to check out are Beach Eco Tours, Rudee Inlet Stand Up Paddle, and Tula Adventure Sports Stand up Paddleboard & Kayaking.  You can learn more on their websites at www.beachecotours.com, www.paddleboardvb.com, and www.tulasports.com.

For those looking to just sit back and enjoy the view, a boat tour might be more your speed.  Many tours are offered including fishing, dolphin watching, and there is even a Craft Brews Cruise offered by the Virginia Aquarium!  Capt. Jack’s Pirate Ship Adventures are very popular with tourists of all ages.  Aboard Capt. Jack’s Black Pearl, a bright red ship flying iconic Jolly Rogers, passengers sing and dance along with the crew, enjoying the show as much as the view.  More information on boat tours is available at www.rudeetours.com, www.virginiaaquarium.com, and www.virginiabeachpirateship.com. 

When exploring Virginia Beach’s land-based attractions, the VB Wave, a trolley-inspired bus, makes getting around fun, easy, and affordable.  The VB Wave transports passengers around the oceanfront, Rudee Inlet, and First Landing State Park.  Just hop aboard at one of the many stops and sit back and enjoy the ride!  Fares are due in cash and cost $2.00 per adult and children 17 and under are free with a paying adult!  Day passes are available for $4.50 each.

All of the fun in the sun is sure to make you hungry and Virginia Beach has many delicious and unique dining options.  A couple of our favorites include Citrus, breakfast here is a must!  Located at 2265 W Great Neck Road and made famous by appearing on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, locals and tourists alike stand in line for citrus orange glazed pancakes and innovative benedicts.  And what’s a trip to the beach without enjoying a raw bar?  Local favorite, Big Sam’s Grill and Raw Bar located at 300 Winston Salem Ave. in Rudee Inlet serves up fresh, locally caught seafood dishes and raw bar items in a comfortable setting with views of the marina. 

Thirsty for an adult beverage? Quench your thirst with an Orange Crush, the unofficial drink of Virginia Beach, made famous by Waterman’s Surfside Grille, a great oceanfront restaurant at the south end of the beach.  The recipe is a blend of the juice of one whole fresh orange with flavored vodka, orange liqueur and a splash of Sprite served over crushed ice.

If you decide to turn your day trip into an overnight, there are numerous hotels and motels for every budget.  One of our favorites is the Hilton Garden Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront located at 3315 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach.  This hotel is at the northern, quieter end of the beach and features an indoor/outdoor pool and their onsite restaurant, Lagerheads. 

There is so much to see and do in Virginia Beach, enough to fill up many, many day trips.  It’s a good thing this jewel is just a short drive away! Other day trip options include a visit to the Virginia Aquarium and their Adventure Park, seeing a concert at the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater, visiting the Military Aviation Museum, touring an oyster farm, visiting the Cape Henry Lighthouse, playing at Top Golf, and so much more.  Plan your trip today!

Virginia Beach...just another reason why we love where we live!