LOCATION: Forest Hill Park // 4021 Forest Hill Ave, Richmond, VA 23225 // Near the Old Stone House

FESTIVAL DATE & TIME: June 6, 2020 3-8:30 pm

PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE: TBD // Performance Applications now being accepted

FOOD TRUCKS: TBD // Vendor Applications now being accepted

KIDS ZONE: TBD // Contact Kristen Allegood

VENDORS:  TBD // Vendor Applications now being accepted

Contact Kristen Allegood, Community Partnerships Manager for the Richmond Symphony at
community@richmondsymphony.com or 804-788-4717 x141

RAIN DATE Sunday June 7th

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IMPORTANT UPDATE: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and concern for the well-being of our patrons, the Menuhin Competition Richmond 2020, has been postponed and rescheduled for May 13-23, 2021.

OPTIONS FOR TICKET HOLDERS:

OPTION 1: Keep your ticket. Keep your current ticket to use for the new date! 

OPTION 2: Support Your Richmond Symphony by Donating Your Tickets. Your ticket purchase helps fuel our ability to serve our community, in good times and in challenging times such as this. Concert cancellations and postponement will have a serious financial impact on our organization, and we hope that if you are unable to attend on the new date, you will choose to help by contributing your tickets back as a charitable gift (and receive a tax deduction for the total ticket value). Your generous tax-deductible donation today ensures that the Richmond Symphony will continue to share the joy of live music together in the future.

OPTION 3:  Receive a credit for a future performance. If you are unable to attend on the new date, you may request a credit to be used for a Richmond Symphony 20/21  Season concert or subscription.  

OPTION 4:  Receive a refund for your ticket.  Please note, if you paid by credit card and request a refund, tickets will be refunded to the credit card used for the original purchase.

Please email Patron Services (patronservices@richmondsymphony.com) and let us know which option you choose.  Be sure to include the name on the ticket order and phone number where we can reach you. Please be aware that Patron Services is responding to a high volume of emails and your inquiry may take longer than normal to answer. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

The post POSTPONED: Menuhin Competition Richmond 2020: Closing Gala Concert appeared first on Richmond Symphony.

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With the closure of restaurant dining rooms, many Virginia restaurants have switched to takeout and delivery, allowing you to enjoy some of Virginia’s finest fare while also following Governor Northam’s mandates for the COVID-19 state of emergency. 

The Bakehouse at Chelsea, Norfolk

If you are able to participate, you can support Virginia’s restaurants by ordering takeout, delivery, or curbside pickup from your favorite local dining establishments during Virginia is for Restaurant Lovers Takeout Week, happening March 30th-April 5th. Afterwards, share your takeout stories with us on social media with #VirginiaEatsLocal!

The Bee & The Biscuit, Virginia Beach

Looking for restaurants offering takeout or delivery near you? We’ve rounded up the restaurants providing these services from many Virginia cities, towns, and counties to help you find all the restaurants that are currently open near you. Be sure to check back with your local list of restaurants periodically, as these openings are changing daily! 

If you want to pair your meals with award-winning Virginia wines, craft beers, ciders, or spirits, consider ordering a few bottles from your local businesses if they are offering pickup or delivery alternatives.

Takeout, Delivery, & Curbside Pickup Information for Virginia Localities:

Arlington

Alexandria

Loudoun County

Stafford County

Fairfax County

Spotsylvania

Richmond

Charlottesville & Albemarle County

Nelson County

Harrisonburg

Lynchburg

Roanoke, Salem, & Virginia’s Blue Ridge

Hopewell

Dinwiddie County

Colonial Heights

Abingdon

Bristol 

Patrick County

Giles County

Dickenson County

Tazewell 

Wytheville

Town of Pennington Gap 

Mecklenburg County

Virginia Beach

Hampton Roads

Norfolk

Williamsburg

Smithfield

West Point

Eastern Shore of Virginia

Know of other Virginia restaurants open for takeout, delivery, or curbside pickup? Share them with us in the comments below! And don’t forget to share your takeout stories with us on social media with #VirginiaEatsLocal!

The post Support Local with Virginia is for Restaurant Lovers Takeout Week! appeared first on Virginia’s Travel Blog.

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MAY 14-24 2020

The post POSTPONED: MENUHIN COMPETITION RICHMOND 2020 appeared first on Richmond Symphony.

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IMPORTANT UPDATE: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and concern for the well-being of our patrons, the Menuhin Competition Richmond 2020, has been postponed and rescheduled for May 13-23, 2021.

OPTIONS FOR TICKET HOLDERS:

OPTION 1: Keep your ticket. Keep your current ticket to use for the new date! 

OPTION 2: Support Your Richmond Symphony by Donating Your Tickets. Your ticket purchase helps fuel our ability to serve our community, in good times and in challenging times such as this. Concert cancellations and postponement will have a serious financial impact on our organization, and we hope that if you are unable to attend on the new date, you will choose to help by contributing your tickets back as a charitable gift (and receive a tax deduction for the total ticket value). Your generous tax-deductible donation today ensures that the Richmond Symphony will continue to share the joy of live music together in the future.

OPTION 3:  Receive a credit for a future performance. If you are unable to attend on the new date, you may request a credit to be used for a Richmond Symphony 20/21  Season concert or subscription.  

OPTION 4:  Receive a refund for your ticket.  Please note, if you paid by credit card and request a refund, tickets will be refunded to the credit card used for the original purchase.

Please email Patron Services (patronservices@richmondsymphony.com) and let us know which option you choose.  Be sure to include the name on the ticket order and phone number where we can reach you. Please be aware that Patron Services is responding to a high volume of emails and your inquiry may take longer than normal to answer. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

The post POSTPONED: Competition: Senior Finals appeared first on Richmond Symphony.

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With the international crisis regarding COVID-19, also referred to as Coronavirus, live music venues have had to cancel or postpone many concerts for people to increase social distancing.

Although venues are closed, many music venues, festivals and local Virginia musicians are offering virtual options for visitors to listen and enjoy live music.

Explore some unique Virginia locations paired with local artists in the Virginia is for Lovers / Overcoast Sessions. The video series includes Dharma Bombs at the Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, Inter Arma at the Byrd Park Pumphouse in Richmond, Mighty Joshua in the NEON District in Norfolk and Sherman Holmes at the Marshall Drug Store in Urbanna.

The Floyd Country Store has become a traditional gathering place on Friday nights for musicians, dancers and visitors from all over the world. The Friday Night Jamboree is an outstanding and authentic experience shared by old-timers and new visitors alike. During this time, the Floyd Country Store will be live streaming on Facebook at 6:30 p.m. every Friday night with a link to tip the band and venue.

FloydFest will be hosting the “Virtual Road to FloydFest” series on the FloydFest and FloydFest Family Facebook pages with artists that have been such a huge part of FloydFest through the years. Performances include sets from Travers Brothership, 49 Winchester, Ashley Heath and Her Heathens and more. Every show will have options to donate directly to the musicians and every donor is automatically entered to win a 5-Day GA ticket to FloydFest 2020 – Vision Quest.

Dr. Pepper Park at the Bridges is partnering with Blue Ridge PBS to put together eight audience-free live concerts to benefit downtown Roanoke businesses and their employees. Each concert will premiere on Blue Ridge PBS’ streaming YouTube channel in the middle of the week. The concert will replay nightly at 7 p.m. until the next premiere. All concerts will be free, but viewers are encouraged to donate to the fundraiser.  The OddFellows kick off the series Wednesday, March 25 at 7 p.m.

The Border Bash concert series, usually held on State Street in Historic Downtown Bristol, moves its venue to online with Facebook live streaming concerts every Tuesday and Thursday throughout the month of April with options to donate directly to the musicians performing at every show.

Photo credit: Richmond Grid

Richmond Grid is hosting a Virtual Happy Hour House Show series on its Facebook and Instagram accounts with some of Richmond’s favorite local artists including Saw Black, Prabir, Marcus Tenney of Butcher Brown, Kenneka Cook, Eddie Prendergast of Mikrowaves, Regan Sprenkle, Paulo Franco, Høly River and more.

Central Virginia independent radio station WNRN is connecting listeners to Virginia musicians in a very personal way with its Home Studio Sessions. Artists will play live from home and talk about what they’re doing to stay happy, healthy, and inspired while they are off the road. The station is asking Virginia musicians to post their live streams to Facebook, tag WNRN and use the hashtag #homestudiosessionsWNRN.

The Front Porch, a Charlottesville music venue and music school, is launching a live streamed concert series that will take place Tuesdays and Fridays in April. The Front Porch will be live-streaming the concerts on their Facebook and Instagram accounts. WTJU (91.1 FM) will also be broadcasting the performances at wtju.net/fplive. All proceeds raised during each of the concerts benefit the artists and The Front Porch. The schedule can be found at frontporchcville.org/save-the-music.

Local band Kendall Street Company will be streaming performances live from The Looking Glass at IX Art Park in Charlottesville through a series called “Containment Entertainment.” The next live-streamed show will be Thursday, March 26.

The Heifetz Institute in Staunton was scheduled to present a 12-hour concert marking J.S. Bach’s birthday on March 21. With the cancellation of the event, the Institute instead presented a virtual 12-hour marathon, with Bach performances posted every hour on the hour from sunup to sundown, featuring superb string soloists, renowned organists, pianists, choirs, and brilliant ensembles consisting of Heifetz students, faculty, and special guests. Some new content which premiered exclusively for the event included and Bach 2020: Prelude & Fugue No. 15; Capriccio BWV 992 | Andrew Rosenblum, harpsichord and Bach 2020: Prelude to Cello Suite No 1 in G, BWV 1007 | Coleman Itzkoff, cello.

Parkway Brewing Company in Salem is hosting weekly live streaming concerts on its Facebook page. Artists include Jared Stout, Mark Nicholson & the Social Distance and more to be announced.

Local Stafford artist Ian Logan has created a live stream music festival called the Starving Artist Festival that will feature local and national artists that will be held on March 28. Artists will be streaming all day on the site’s “main stage” from around the world and it will also provide the opportunity for people to donate to Feeding America.

Virginia artists live streaming shows

Tyler Meacham
Sincerely, Iris
Landon Elliott
Dori Freeman
Erin Lunsford
Mike Mitchell Band
Robert McNabb and the Flying Doves
Heart of the Child Music Education
Woody Woodworth and the Piners
Paulo Franco
49 Winchester
Ryan Hearn
Good Shot Judy
Moonshine Society

What other Virginia artists or venues are hosting live streaming music events? Let us know in the comments below.

The post Where to Catch Live Music Digitally in Virginia appeared first on Virginia’s Travel Blog.

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The Opening Gala Concert kicks off the Menuhin Competition Richmond 2020 in spectacular fashion, with violin solos performed by three previous winners of the 1^stPrize including an outstanding juror, alongside celebratory orchestral works. Chloe Chua and Christian Li, joint winners of the Geneva 2018 Junior 1^st Prize, and Soyoung Yoon, 2020 juror and winner of the Boulogne 2002 Senior 1^st Prize, are conducted by guest conductor Jahja Ling and accompanied by the Richmond Symphony, which closes the concert with Rimsky-Korsakov’s effervescent and virtuosic Capriccio Espagnol.

This evening’s events are sponsored by 

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The Chesterfield LIVE! music festival will be Saturday, May 9. This free, family-friendly musical event hosted by Chesterfield County, in partnership with the Richmond Symphony and the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce, will feature premiere musical acts, all performing under the Symphony’s iconic “Big Tent.”

In addition to musical entertainment, there will be a children’s play area with inflatables, local vendors, a variety of local food trucks and local brews for purchase. Bring your family, friends and coworkers to kick off the summer in Chesterfield!

• Gates open at 2 p.m.
• No pets, outside food or drinks or glassware will be allowed.
• Blankets and lawn chairs are recommended.

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In light of the COVID-19 national emergency, experts are now recommending that Americans practice social distancing, or deliberately increase the physical space between themselves and other people during this critical time to avoid the spread of illness. While you’re doing your part to help #flattenthecurve, you may be experiencing a bit of cabin fever. We want to help you stave off the boredom and prevent stir-craziness from setting in, so try these ten activities to keep yourself entertained while you’re stuck indoors!

Binge-Watch Movies & Shows Filmed in Virginia 

From series like HOMELAND to blockbuster hits such as Harriet and Dirty Dancing, Virginia is featured in many prominent films and television shows.  Now is a great time to binge-watch these titles through your streaming services; for instance, Homeland can be found on Hulu and TURN: Washington’s Spies is available on Netflix. You can find Harriet and Dirty Dancing for rental through Amazon Prime, among other services.

Take a Virtual Tour of Virginia’s Iconic Museums & Historic Places 

Many of Virginia’s most famous sites and historic destinations are now offering virtual tours, providing online alternatives to their standard tours. You may not get in your daily steps while doing these virtual tours, but it will help to keep the boredom at bay. 

Take a Hike! (or Bike)

Photo Credit: Divergent Travelers

Even if you can’t venture out into public spaces, a quick hike or bike ride will keep you from getting too stir-crazy. Whether this means journeying through a nearby park or neighborhood or heading to a beautiful Virginia hiking trail, getting a little exercise will aid in maintaining a healthy lifestyle while you’re avoiding the gym and other active locations that draw larger crowds. Just be sure to maintain the recommended six feet distance between you and others.

Read a Book by a Virginia Author

Numerous talented writers have called Virginia home over the years, and what better time than now to discover some of their celebrated works? If local libraries are not open, consider ordering a copy through an online retailer, or check to see if your local library offers ebooks or audiobooks. For the kids, download some Virginia-inspired coloring book pages to provide a creative activity away from the television.

Follow Virginia Aquariums & Zoos on Facebook to Catch Live Stories

Photo Credit: Steven McBride

Places like the Virginia Aquarium and the Virginia Zoo are giving their Facebook followers an up-close view of some of their favorite residents on a daily basis. For instance, the aquarium introduced their resident American Crow, Russell Crow, on their Facebook live stream, while the zoo did a video featuring their giraffes, ostriches, and even a hornbill. Stay tuned to your local zoos and aquariums for virtual tours that let you learn more about these gorgeous animals! 

Shop Local

Support your favorite small local businesses, such as Virginia’s restaurants, wineries, and breweries, by ordering takeout or delivery. Buying a gift card is another great alternative; you can send them some much-needed revenue now, then come back later to cash it in. Plus, many businesses in Virginia are currently offering deals and discounts on these types of purchases, making it a win-win for all involved! 

In addition to restaurants, wineries, and breweries, check out the websites and social channels for local boutiques and artisan shops; many of these businesses offer some sort of online shopping alternatives since customers can’t shop in person.

Create a Virginia Music Playlist

From Dave Matthews Band and Jason Mraz to Pharrell and Missy Elliot, Virginia has produced some of the best music around! Spend an afternoon compiling all your favorite Virginia-born artists into one incredible playlist that you can listen to for years to come. Don’t want to make your own? We’ve put together a Virginia artist’s playlist, too!

Try Your Hand at Mixing Seasonal Cocktails With Your Virginia Spirits

Forgo the standard vodka tonics or bourbon & cokes for now and get creative with your cocktails! Many Virginia distilleries, including Virginia Distillery Company, Cirrus Vodka, Catoctin Creek Distilling, A. Smith Bowman Distillery, and Belle Isle Moonshine even feature recipes online! 

Attend a Virtual Tasting at a Virginia Winery

Can’t visit the tasting room in person? No problem! Some wineries, like Rosemont of Virginia Vineyards & Winery, are offering Winemaker Wednesday Virtual Tastings. You’ll hear directly from the winemaker and have the opportunity to ask questions during Facebook Live sessions.

Start a Travel Bucket List of All the Virginia Places You Want to Visit

Photo Credit: Katie Yarborough, IG account: @katiey22

Just because you can’t yet leave the house doesn’t mean you shouldn’t start thinking about your top travel destinations to visit around Virginia! Use the Virginia is for Lovers Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube channels to find inspiration for your next getaway to Virginia. 

Tell us, how are you keeping the boredom at bay during these weeks of social distancing? 

The post 10 Activities to Stave Off Boredom While You’re Practicing Social Distancing appeared first on Virginia’s Travel Blog.

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With the international crisis regarding COVID-19, also referred to as Coronavirus, visitors may be cancelling or rescheduling upcoming travel plans and staying home.

While people are self-isolating and social distancing, many museums, historic sites and other tourism destinations are offering virtual options for visitors to explore and learn.

Mount Vernon will continue its mission to educate people around the world through its robust digital presence. The historic site will provide digital tours of the mansion through mountvernon.org/virtualtour. The Washington Library has also prepared digital resources for students and their parents will be working with its network of teachers nationwide to support their educational efforts. These resources can be accessed at mountvernon.org/digital. Mount Vernon’s YouTube channel also features a livestream of the estate’s newborn lambs.

James Madison’s Montpelier has publicly accessible blog posts, websites, podcasts, and social media posts for visitors to enjoy. Access to podcasts and video series can be found on the site’s YouTube page. Those interested in the research, history, archaeology, and collecting at Montpelier can visit the Digital Doorway for a wealth of information at digitaldoorway.montpelier.org.

Colonial Williamsburg is adding content to its Explore From Home website from the people who bring history to life. Resources include guides for teachers, quizzes and puzzles for students, interactive timeline, pages for exploring art collections, and printable coloring sheets from The Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, as well as libraries, archives, and other cultural institutions around the world.

The Virginia Museum of History & Culture in Richmond will be offering free online video content, webinars, student learning resources, and virtual tours at VirginiaHistory.org/AtHome.

The National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle has a virtual tour and numerous  distance learning opportunities. The rich, interactive virtual environment will serve as the gateway for Marines and visitors to see the museum from the comfort of their homes. The museum’s online distance learning programs engage audiences with the history of the United States Marine Corps.  Programs include a plethora of virtual learning experiences and subject matter for people to learn important and interesting topics related to the Marine Corps. Take the virtual tour at virtualusmcmuseum.com and access the distance learning programs at usmcmuseum.com/distance-learning.html.

The Chrysler Museum of Art located in Norfolk’s NEON Arts District features 50 galleries, 30,000 objects and a world-renowned glass collection. Viewers can take a virtual tour through the galleries as well as explore the museum’s Digital Collections featuring European and American paintings, sculpture and decorative arts and works from African, ancient Egyptian, Pre-Columbian, Islamic and Asian cultures.

Join the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk for a Virtual Voyage every day at 2 p.m. (March 16 – 30, 2020) on its Facebook page. Visitors can go behind the scenes, tour the zoo, and check in on their favorite animals. The zoo’s Virtual Voyage website also offers augmented reality tours, printable activity sheets, a YouTube video series, and more.

Take a virtual walking tour of historic Fincastle in Botetourt County with over 50 individual “stops,” each complete with a picture and background about the location.

The Kids Square Children’s Museum in Roanoke will go live on Facebook at least once a day during the week until reopening. They’ll be doing everything from science experiments to book reading. Visitors joining the livestream have the chance to win one of the items that Kids Square is playing with that day.

The Blue Ridge Institute and Museum in Ferrum offers the following online exhibits for individuals to learn more about folk heritage in the Blue Ridge region.

• Full Throttle: Racing and Rodding in Southwest and Central Virginia
• Moonshine: Blue Ridge Style
• Deathly Lyrics: Songs of Virginia Tragedies
• Earthenware Along the Great Road in Virginia and Tennessee

<img data-attachment-id="49934" data-permalink="https://blog.virginia.org/2017/10/train-depots-part-1/virginia-museum-of-transportation/" data-orig-file="https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/04152300/roanoke.jpg" data-orig-size="984,656" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"The Virginia Museum of Transportation houses antique cars and trucks and an extensive collection of steam, diesel, and electric locomotives, rail cars and model trains.rrVirginia Tourism Corporation, www.Virginia.org","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"u00a9JeffreyGreenberg@aol.com","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"Virginia Museum of Transportation","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Virginia Museum of Transportation" data-image-description="

The Virginia Museum of Transportation houses antique cars and trucks and an extensive collection of steam, diesel, and electric locomotives, rail cars and model trains.

” data-medium-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/04152300/roanoke-300×200.jpg” data-large-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/04152300/roanoke.jpg” class=”alignright size-full wp-image-49934″ src=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/04152300/roanoke.jpg” alt=”Virginia Museum of Transportation” width=”100%” height=”100%” />The Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke has images and background information on nearly every item in the rail, road, air, and ship collections. Collections are separated by category and can be accessed here.

The William King Museum of Art in Abingdon will be broadcasting live via Facebook every Tuesday and Thursday at 2 p.m. Videos will include tours of the galleries, insider looks at collections, family-friendly art projects, and live art demos.

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center in Virginia Beach will provide entertaining, educational content to fans including live streams, video footage, crafts for kids, and behind the scenes peeks on its website and social media channels.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond is sharing  “Virtual Visits” on its Facebook page as well as putting resources for learning (including activities for kids) and ideas for relaxation and mental health on its website lewisginter.org.

Take a virtual tour around Virginia Beach’s cultural enclave by using this Google Mural Map to explore the ViBe Creative District on a virtual, self-guided mural tour. Click on the map icons to find information about the artists, artworks and locations, along with multiple images of the artwork and video links of murals created during the last two years of the ViBe Mural Festival.

The Barter Theatre in Abingdon is working to offer its patrons the ability to stream productions from home. The production of “Peter Pan” that was originally scheduled to open on April 7 will be online to patrons as well as access special bonus features. The theatre will also be providing coordinating educator resources, including lesson plans and a study guide. More information can be found here: bartertheatre.com/barter-theatre-on-demand

The City of Alexandria created a new web hub called ALX at Home, which brings residents and nearby visitors their favorite Alexandria restaurants, shops and attractions to the comfort of their own home. Features include:

• 50+ restaurant and 15 retail deals and offerings
• Attraction offerings such as virtual tours and a “Ride it Out” bike rental program from Unlimited Biking.
• Cocktail Corner for Happy Hour at home with instructional videos from The Hour boutique.
• Puppy Love, bringing a daily dose of cuteness from Alexandria’s four-legged friends.

<img data-attachment-id="58289" data-permalink="https://blog.virginia.org/2020/02/phone-free-vacations/the-omni-homestead-resort-2/" data-orig-file="https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27135130/MR19112501P_014-1.jpg" data-orig-size="1299,853" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"The Omni Homestead Resort","camera":"","caption":"Surrounded by the splendor of Virginia's Allegheny Mountains, The Omni Homestead Resort offers travelers acres of incomparable panoramic views, luxurious suites, dining outlets, shopping boutiques, and outdoor activities.rrVirginia Tourism Corporation, www.Virginia.org","created_timestamp":"1508792688","copyright":"u00a9The Omni Homestead Resort","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"The Omni Homestead Resort","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="The Omni Homestead Resort" data-image-description="

Surrounded by the splendor of Virginia’s Allegheny Mountains, The Omni Homestead Resort offers travelers acres of incomparable panoramic views, luxurious suites, dining outlets, shopping boutiques, and outdoor activities.

” data-medium-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27135130/MR19112501P_014-1-300×197.jpg” data-large-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27135130/MR19112501P_014-1-1024×672.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-full wp-image-58289″ src=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27135130/MR19112501P_014-1.jpg” alt=”The Omni Homestead Resort” width=”100%” />The Omni Homestead Resort’s podcast, Beyond the Tower offers an insider’s look into one of America’s most iconic resorts. From historical anecdotes to one-of-a-kind experiences, Beyond the Tower includes topics from the history of the resort and golf to the Garth Newel Music Center and the resort’s partnership with a local farmer. Each episode begins and ends with “Welcome to My Homestead,” an original composition from David Hill, a native of Roanoke, Virginia and one of the resort’s most popular musicians.

For those interested in historic moments of Virginia, listen to the Following Harriet podcast. Following Harriet takes a closer look at the life of one of the bravest and most extraordinary women in our country’s history. It also puts Harriet in a broader context, examining the 19th Century experience of African Americans, especially in Virginia.

Do you know of any other online options that attractions are providing? Let us know in the comments below.

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With the international crisis regarding COVID-19, also referred to as Coronavirus, you may be cancelling or rescheduling your upcoming travel plans. But if you absolutely must travel during this time, we want to help you stay healthy and safe. Here are a few tips for safeguarding yourself against COVID-19 while you travel, as well as answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the virus.

1. Increase Frequency & Duration of Handwashing

Wash your hands with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds frequently, not just after using the restroom, but after coughing, sneezing, blowing your nose, or touching things in a public space. If you aren’t able to wash your hands as frequently as you would like, carry hand sanitizer that has at least 60% alcohol to use in between washing. 

2. Avoid Crowds & Limit Close Contact in Public Spaces

While you may want to venture out of your home to stave off the boredom, try to limit your exposure to large crowds and close contact in public spaces (the CDC recommends at least six feet apart when possible, and not to gather in groups of 50 people or more until further notice). For instance, consider taking a scenic drive through Virginia  instead of going to a crowded attraction. And while it may seem rude, it’s best to opt for a friendly (albeit awkward) elbow bump or verbal greeting rather than a handshake for the time being. 

3. Skip Nonessential Travel

Cruises and airlines have been hit particularly hard with COVID-19, and many of the cases contracted were brought via cruise or airplane. During this time, opt for driving to your travel destinations rather than risking high exposure and larger crowds that come with airports and cruise lines. If your travel plans have options to postpone to a later date, consider staying at home during this crucial time and saving your vacation for later in the year.

4. Avoid Touching Your Face

We know it’s nearly impossible to stop touching your face entirely, as it is often an unconscious gesture, but start making an effort to notice when you are touching your eyes, nose, and mouth and limit those motions unless you’ve thoroughly washed your hands beforehand.  

5. Evaluate Your Health Continuously & Stay Home If You’re Sick

Another thing that is easier said than done with many employer’s sick leave policies, but staying home when you’re sick will help COVID-19 from spreading. While test kits are still not easy to come by, be on the lookout for common COVID-19 symptoms; fever, coughing, and shortness of breath are among the first symptoms of COVID-19, but these can also be signs of the flu, so upon noticing these symptoms and if you think you may have been exposed to the virus, talk to your healthcare provider on how to mitigate the risk of spreading the virus. 

6. Disinfect Surfaces

Clean and disinfect the frequently-touched surfaces in your house on a regular basis (daily is good, but the more often you can at least wipe things down, the better!), including doorknobs, light switches, countertops, phones, bathroom surfaces like toilets, faucets, and sinks, drawer handles, and tables. Clean with soap and water, then disinfect following CDC recommendations.

7. Only Wear a Face Mask If You Are Ill

Wearing a face mask when you’re sick will aid in preventing the spread of your illness, so when going out in public spaces or to your healthcare provider’s office, be sure to purchase face masks and wear them at all times while out and about. If you aren’t able to wear a face mask for any medical reasons, do your best to avoid going out in public and cover your coughs and sneezes to prevent spreading germs. If you are NOT sick, do not wear a face mask unless you’re caring for someone who is sick. Face masks are currently in short supply and as most are not airtight, they have not been proven to effectively stop the spread of COVID-19. 

Frequently-Asked Questions Regarding COVID-19

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a form of coronavirus and is a viral respiratory illness that spreads by person-to-person contact through respiratory droplets transferred in close range of an infected person, typically within six feet. 

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

The initial symptoms include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. More extreme symptoms include difficulty breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, and bluish tint to the lips or face, and if you experience any of these symptoms, get medical attention immediately.

Who are the most vulnerable when it comes to contracting the virus? 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the health risk to the average American is thought to be low at this time. Older people and people with chronic diseases such as heart and lung diseases or diabetes are at higher risk when it comes to COVID-19. These people should avoid travel whenever possible and follow all precautionary measures to prevent contracting the virus. 

What should I do if I do need to travel abroad?

Travel abroad for Americans is not currently banned, but international travel is not recommended, especially for those at high risk from COVID-19 or those traveling to and from high-risk countries. Additionally, if you do decide to keep existing travel plans, you should take every precaution to prevent exposure to the virus. Air travel and cruise travel are not suggested at this time. 

How will COVID-19 affect my existing travel plans to Virginia?

The response to COVID-19 varies widely for businesses, attractions, restaurants, hotels, and events throughout the Commonwealth, so you should check individual social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram pages, as well as websites, to get the latest news on closures, postponements, or changes in regular business hours. 

For more FAQs and information, visit the Virginia Department of Health’s COVID-19 informational webpage. 

The post Healthy Travel Tips & FAQs About COVID-19 appeared first on Virginia’s Travel Blog.

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The Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra performs masterworks of the orchestral repertoire, as students hold themselves to a high level of discipline, preparation and musicianship. Nearly all members of RSYO study with private instructors and all are leaders in their school programs.

Concert is free and open to the public. No ticket required.

Click here to learn more about our Youth Orchestra program.

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Amid growing concern about the spread of COVID-19 (also called novel coronavirus), VCU’s priority is the health and safety of each member of our community, including the ever-growing Grace Street Theater community. In following the guidance of VCU’s action plan in response to COVID-19, The Grace Street Theater will be cancelling all events scheduled between now and April 15, 2020, and closing the theater until further notice. We will resume hosting events as soon as it is safe to do so, and appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate these changes. Please visit alert.vcu.edu for University updates, and the VCUarts COVID-19 blog at blogs.vcu.edu/artsdean/. Check back here for additional Grace Street Theater operational and event updates.

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While you’ve probably started making Virginia travel plans with your family for the upcoming year, you may not have considered travel plans with those four-legged family members. Virginia has plenty of pet-friendly lodging options, but if you really want to go above and beyond for your pets, consider staying at one of these nine over-the-top, pet-loving hotels that feature extra amenities like homemade dog treats, toys for any visiting pooch, and lots of wide open spaces for you and your pup to explore!  

SALAMANDER RESORT—MIDDLEBURG

Set on 340 acres in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Salamander Resort is a truly dog-friendly property, catering to your dogs with the same level of personalized service that they provide to every guest staying at the resort. There are miles of trails throughout the property open to you and your pet, and their terrace-level pet-friendly rooms allow easy access to the grounds. At Salamander Resort, you’ll get in-room amenities like a comfy dog bed, food and water bowls, organic treats made daily by the resort’s pastry team, a special toy, and waste bags. Before leaving the resort, be sure to stop by their pet step-and-repeat, complete with a “dog walk”, for a photo opp to remember your visit. 

Additional Pet-Friendly Booking Details: Let Salamander Resort know you’ll be travelling with your pet ahead of time to ensure they can roll out the “turf carpet” for your pet. Learn more about the resort’s pet-friendly policies. 

CRADDOCK TERRY HOTEL—LYNCHBURG

The Craddock Terry Hotel & Conference Center is a pet-friendly hotel in historic downtown Lynchburg that actually has their own on-site pup: Penny Loafer is the hotel’s tail-wagging mascot whose official duties include greeting and cuddling with guests. The hotel has a special package for visitors traveling with their pets, Penny Loafer’s Pampered Pet Package, which includes a night of deluxe or premium accommodations, a pet spa day at nearby Fur Kidz Pet Boutique, welcome treats for your pup, two bike rentals with a pet-carry attachment to explore downtown Lynchburg, and breakfast for two delivered to your room.

Additional Pet-Friendly Booking Details: Pets are welcome in any of the guest rooms at Craddock Terry with a one-time, non-refundable pet cleaning fee of $50 per stay. 

GRADUATE HOTEL—RICHMOND & CHARLOTTESVILLE

The Graduate Hotel has two separate Virginia locations in Charlottesville and Richmond, but both are known as pet-pampering lodging options. Bring your four-legged friends along to the Graduate and at check-in, provide some basic information about your pet. Head to your room and the hotel staff will deliver a custom BarkBox to your door filled with Graduate-themed toys, treats, and bones, as well as a water bowl and blanket for you to use during your stay. If your pet happens to love the bowl or blanket, you can purchase them from the front desk before you check out. 

Additional Pet-Friendly Booking Details: Add a pet to your booking for $25 per night.

SUNSET BEACH RESORT—CAPE CHARLES

Is your pup a beach lover? Take that good boy (or girl!) to Sunset Beach Resort Hotel, located just across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. In addition to pet-friendly rooms, the hotel offers the Sandy Paws Dog Beach, where your pets can doggy paddle their hearts out! This is one of the few places in Virginia that allows dogs to be off-leash, giving them the chance to splash around in the surf and frolic in the sand. The resort grounds also include the Beach Bark Dog Park, an off-leash area with plenty of space for your dogs to run around and enjoy the great outdoors.  

Additional Pet-Friendly Booking Details: Dogs must be accompanied by their owners at all times. Guests are responsible for cleaning up after their pets on the grounds and the beach, and will be held fully responsible for their pets during their stay at Sunset Beach Resort. 

PEAKS OF OTTER LODGE—BEDFORD

Book the “Pampered Pooch” package at Peaks of Otter Lodge for a Virginia vacation that your dog will remember forever (or at least until he sees the next squirrel!). The pet-friendly package includes your overnight accommodations, a dog bowl, tasty bone, and a stylish bandana for your sidekick. Dogs are also welcome in the nearby Peaks of Otter Winery tasting room, and if you’re both outdoorsy types, take your pal for a hike up one of the three mountains comprising the Peaks of Otter: Sharp Top, Flat Top, & Harkening Hill. 

Additional Pet-Friendly Booking Details: No weight or size restrictions, but no more than two dogs per room. Dogs are not allowed in the public buildings and must be leashed at all times on the grounds. $30 per pet per night. 

FOX HILL BED & BREAKFAST—FAIRFIELD

Located on 38 acres with the Blue Ridge Mountains in the background, Fox Hill Bed & Breakfast received 5 bones on BringFido in recognition of their pet-friendly efforts. The B&B gives your dog a welcome kit upon arrival that is filled with all-natural treats, clean-up bags, and paw wipes and towels to help keep your pup clean during his or her stay. Additionally, the B&B owners are a wealth of knowledge when it comes to other pet-friendly restaurants and businesses in the area, ensuring your stay is enjoyable for all guests, whether they be two-legged of four-legged. The grounds of the bed and breakfast have a large play area for throwing the frisbee or tennis balls, and there are also well-tended trails on the property through meadows that look out onto the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Additional Pet-Friendly Booking Details: All house-trained dogs over 6 months old are welcome, regardless of size or breed, with advance notice and a fee of $24 per dog per night. The owners also have two friendly dogs onsite willing to play with other dogs their size. 

SHERATON NORFOLK WATERSIDE—NORFOLK

Norfolk’s only waterfront hotel, the Sheraton Norfolk Waterside, gives guests traveling with pets a welcome box that includes a doggie bed and food dish for their furry friends. Plus, the Sheraton Norfolk is one of the few hotels that explicitly allow both dogs AND cats, so if you prefer to bring your feline friend, you’re good to go! The hotel is walking distance to the waterfront, the Elizabeth River Trail, and nearly 20 pet-friendly restaurant patios in the downtown area. 

Additional Pet-Friendly Booking Details: Maximum of two pets per room. Dogs up to 40 pounds. Nonrefundable fee of $150 per stay. Well-behaved pets may be left in the room unattended.

THE BLACKBURN INN—STAUNTON

The Blackburn Inn in Staunton has special pet-friendly rooms located on their first floor that feature an exterior door opening directly to the grounds so that you can conveniently take your pet outside. All four-legged friends visiting the Blackburn Inn receive complimentary dog treats, waste bags, a water bowl, and a dog bed. Explore the nearly 80 acres of beautifully-maintained grounds during your stay, including numerous dog walking trails. The town of Staunton is also very pet friendly, with many attractions, restaurants, and businesses welcoming leashed pets. 

Additional Pet-Friendly Booking Details: An additional fee of $50 per stay is required for pets. 

LANSDOWNE RESORT & SPA—LEESBURG

When traveling through Northern Virginia with your furry family, stay at Lansdowne Resort and Spa, a dog friendly property surrounded by lush grounds perfect for exploring with your pup. At check-in, dogs are welcomed by the staff with a treat, and the rooms are outfitted with dog beds made locally, extra dog treats, and a water bowl. Head outside to the resort grounds to their Bark Park, where they can play and do their “business”. Follow the Heritage Trail along the Potomac River and discover the beauty of Virginia’s waterfront landscapes without ever leaving the resort.

Additional Pet-Friendly Booking Details: Dogs are the only pets permitted at Lansdowne Resort. A maximum of two pets are allowed per room, with a weight restriction of 75 pounds. Dogs must be crated if left alone in the room. $150 nonrefundable fee per room for one dog up to six nights or $225 for two dogs; additional deep-cleaning fee charged for longer stays. 

Take your dog along for some memorable adventures this year and stay at one of these nine hotels and bed & breakfasts that go above and beyond for their furry guests! 

The post 9 of Virginia’s Most Pet-Friendly Hotels appeared first on Virginia’s Travel Blog.

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Enjoy small-ensemble favorites in an intimate setting at Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, Va. Led by Music Director Candidate Farkhad Khudyev, the program includes Takemitsu’s Toward the Sea II, featuring Richmond Symphony’s Principal Harpist Lynette Wardle and Principal Flutist Mary Boodell. Also on the program are beloved Impressionist works by Debussy and Ravel, in addition to Prokofiev’s charming Summer Day.

Learn more about Farkhad Khudyev, Conductor.
Learn more about Mary Boodell, Flute.
Learn more about Lynette Wardle, Harp.

Program Notes

The post Metro 4 appeared first on Richmond Symphony.

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The Richmond Symphony will present a full screening of Star Wars: Empire Strikes Back live in concert on April 25, 2020, @ 7:30 PM at the Altria Theater. Led by Guest Conductor Keitaro Harada, the Richmond Symphony will play Oscar®-winning composer John Williams’ iconic score live as the film is projected on-screen.

Since the release of the first Star Wars movie over 40 years ago, the Star Wars saga has had a seismic impact on both cinema and culture, inspiring audiences around the world with its mythic storytelling, captivating characters, groundbreaking special effects and iconic musical scores composed by Williams.

Tickets to Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back go on sale to the public Monday, Oct. 7 @ 10 AM, with a special pre-sale on Thursday, Oct. 3 @ 10 AM for Richmond Symphony donors and subscribers. For more information please call 804.788.1212.

© 2019 & TM LUCASFILM LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © DISNEY.

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<img data-attachment-id="58284" data-permalink="https://blog.virginia.org/2020/02/phone-free-vacations/cn18082301v_484/" data-orig-file="https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27104831/CN18082301V_484.jpeg" data-orig-size="1200,800" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Sandy River Outdoor Adventure Resort Glamping Tipis" data-image-description="

Sandy River Outdoor Adventure Resort Glamping Tipis

” data-medium-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27104831/CN18082301V_484-300×200.jpeg” data-large-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27104831/CN18082301V_484-1024×683.jpeg” class=”alignright size-full wp-image-58284″ src=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27104831/CN18082301V_484.jpeg” alt=”Sandy River Outdoor Adventure Resort Glamping Tipis” width=”100%” height=”100%” />

With everyday life revolving more and more around your smartphone, the need to unplug and unwind away from the screens is at an all-time high. Families that used to bond over board games and outdoor getaways now find themselves glued to their individual devices, leaving less time for connecting in a real, authentic way. To combat this unsettling trend towards unlimited technology, Virginia is for Lovers wants to challenge you to sign out of all the social media accounts for a few days and instead focus on the ones that mean the most to you: your friends and family! Use these trip ideas to inspire your next “unplugged” vacation, then comment below to share your stories of how disconnecting helped you reconnect with each other. 

—An Outdoor Retreat in Shenandoah National Park—<img data-attachment-id="58281" data-permalink="https://blog.virginia.org/2020/02/phone-free-vacations/shenandoah-national-park-19/" data-orig-file="https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27103123/SV10111903V_185.jpg" data-orig-size="1300,863" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"5","credit":"Kelly J. Mihalcoe LLC","camera":"NIKON D300S","caption":"Shenandoah National Park","created_timestamp":"1274901367","copyright":"THE VIRGINIA TOURISM CORPORATION","focal_length":"24","iso":"320","shutter_speed":"0.01","title":"Shenandoah National Park","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="Shenandoah National Park" data-image-description="

Shenandoah National Park

” data-medium-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27103123/SV10111903V_185-300×199.jpg” data-large-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27103123/SV10111903V_185-1024×680.jpg” class=”alignright size-full wp-image-58281″ src=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27103123/SV10111903V_185.jpg” alt=”Shenandoah National Park” width=”100%” height=”100%” />

Photo Credit: Kelly J. Mihalcoe LLC

Shenandoah National Park is known as one of the most iconic National Parks in the United States, so it’s a no-brainer as a phone-free Virginia travel destination. Bordered by the Shenandoah Valley on the west, the park offers practically unlimited outdoor excursions, from 500 miles of pristine hiking and biking trails to dozens of scenic overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway. 

Venture out onto one of the popular hiking trails within the park, such as Stony Man, White Oak Canyon, or Dark Hollow Falls, a 1.5-mile hike that features a 70-foot cascading waterfall.Twilight hikes are also a popular activity within Shenandoah; offered during select dates, these guided hikes give you a rare view of the open night skies free of light pollution. <img data-attachment-id="58287" data-permalink="https://blog.virginia.org/2020/02/phone-free-vacations/big-meadows-stargazing/" data-orig-file="https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27105416/SV16092703V_328.jpg" data-orig-size="1300,1085" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"2.8","credit":"John Plashal, Virginia Tourism C","camera":"NIKON D750","caption":"Big Meadows is a recreational area of Shenandoah National Park located on the Skyline Drive. A select number of days each year are designated "Night Skies" evenings in Big Meadows where visitors can join amateur astronomers as they give presentations on controlling light pollution as you gaze at the stars through telescopes.rrVirginia Tourism Corporation, www.Virginia.org","created_timestamp":"1467417865","copyright":"u00a9John Plashal","focal_length":"14","iso":"5000","shutter_speed":"20","title":"Big Meadows Stargazing","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="Big Meadows Stargazing" data-image-description="

Big Meadows is a recreational area of Shenandoah National Park located on the Skyline Drive. A select number of days each year are designated “Night Skies” evenings in Big Meadows where visitors can join amateur astronomers as they give presentations on controlling light pollution as you gaze at the stars through telescopes.

” data-medium-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27105416/SV16092703V_328-300×250.jpg” data-large-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27105416/SV16092703V_328-1024×855.jpg” class=”alignright size-full wp-image-58287″ src=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27105416/SV16092703V_328.jpg” alt=”Big Meadows Stargazing” width=”100%” height=”100%” />

Photo Credit: John Plashal

If your family is seeking even bigger thrills, conquer the mountain bike trails at Massanutten Resort, located just a few miles west of Shenandoah National Park. For more adrenaline, Massanutten has ziplines and rock climbing adventures that will keep their hands away from the phones. 

Discover Virginia’s beautiful scenery on horseback at one of the stables in or around Shenandoah National Park, such as Fort Valley Ranch, Jordan Hollow Stables, or Skyland Stables. Your family will forget all about their cell phones as they hold the reins and learn about their natural surroundings. 

<img data-attachment-id="58285" data-permalink="https://blog.virginia.org/2020/02/phone-free-vacations/fort-valley-ranch/" data-orig-file="https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27104910/fort-valley-ranch.png" data-orig-size="6144,3240" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="fort valley ranch" data-image-description="

fort valley ranch

” data-medium-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27104910/fort-valley-ranch-300×158.png” data-large-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27104910/fort-valley-ranch-1024×540.png” class=”alignright size-full wp-image-58285″ src=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27104910/fort-valley-ranch.png” alt=”fort valley ranch” width=”100%” height=”100%” />

Another great way to lose cell service around Shenandoah National Park? Go underground! Take the family to Luray Caverns, the largest cavern system in the eastern United States. Included in admission to the caverns are three additional kid-friendly museums, all just steps away from the caverns. 

Finally, spend an afternoon with the family at a you-pick farm or orchard, where you can select your own peaches, raspberries, blackberries, apples, strawberries, and many more fruits and veggies available seasonally straight from the source. A few options near Shenandoah National Park include Marker-Miller Orchards in Winchester, White Oak Lavender Farm outside of Harrisonburg, Graves Mountain Farm in Syria, and Chiles Peach Orchard in Crozet.

STAY:

• Shenandoah National Park contains five campgrounds in season: Matthews Arm, Big Meadows, Lewis Mountain, Loft Mountain, and Dundo. 
• Skyland in Luray
• Lewis Mountain Cabins in Luray
• Shadow Mountain Escape in Luray
• Graves Mountain Farm & Lodges in Syria
• Massanutten Resort in McGaheysville

EAT:

• Circa ‘31 at the Mimslyn Inn in Luray
• Moonshadows Restaurant in Luray
• Swover Creek Farm in Edinburg
• Woodstock Cafe in Woodstock

LOCAL OUTDOOR OUTFITTERS: 

• Front Royal Outdoors
• Shenandoah River Outfitters 
• Shenandoah River Adventures
• Wild Guyde Adventures
• Outdoor Adventure Experiences
• Massanutten Adventures 

—Exploring Beautiful Bath County—

Photo Credit: Jumping Rocks Photography, IG account: @jumpingrocksphoto

Located on the western border of Virginia, Bath County is a mountainous outdoor paradise, with everything from fishing and boating to hiking and biking, all set in an undeveloped landscape that encourages visitors to keep the phones off.

For a totally off-the-grid experience, book a stay at Fort Lewis Lodge & Farm, a country escape set on a 3,365-acre property in the mountains of Virginia with 21 unique cabins, lodge rooms, and private homes. The retreat is surrounded by national forests and is far from any town or city, with miles of hiking trails, bikes and helmets available for your use, and three miles of private river access for boating, swimming, tubing, or fly fishing. In the evenings, dine on a farm-fresh meal served in the on-site Lewis Mill restaurant, then spend some time basking by a fire under a blanket of stars. The retreat is surrounded by national forests and is miles from any town or city, and while some cell phone service and WiFi are available, you’ll more than likely forget about your phone as you explore the beauty of the “Great Outdoors” at Fort Lewis Lodge & Farm. 

<img data-attachment-id="58289" data-permalink="https://blog.virginia.org/2020/02/phone-free-vacations/the-omni-homestead-resort-2/" data-orig-file="https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27135130/MR19112501P_014-1.jpg" data-orig-size="1299,853" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"The Omni Homestead Resort","camera":"","caption":"Surrounded by the splendor of Virginia's Allegheny Mountains, The Omni Homestead Resort offers travelers acres of incomparable panoramic views, luxurious suites, dining outlets, shopping boutiques, and outdoor activities.rrVirginia Tourism Corporation, www.Virginia.org","created_timestamp":"1508792688","copyright":"u00a9The Omni Homestead Resort","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"The Omni Homestead Resort","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="The Omni Homestead Resort" data-image-description="

Surrounded by the splendor of Virginia’s Allegheny Mountains, The Omni Homestead Resort offers travelers acres of incomparable panoramic views, luxurious suites, dining outlets, shopping boutiques, and outdoor activities.

” data-medium-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27135130/MR19112501P_014-1-300×197.jpg” data-large-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27135130/MR19112501P_014-1-1024×672.jpg” class=”alignright size-full wp-image-58289″ src=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27135130/MR19112501P_014-1.jpg” alt=”The Omni Homestead Resort” width=”100%” height=”100%” />

Photo Credit: The Omni Homestead

Want a more luxurious Bath County vacation sans cell phones? Opt for the Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, a National Historic Landmark that has been welcoming guests to western Virginia since 1766 (fun fact: the Homestead was the first resort in the United States, a luxury lodging option in the mountains of Virginia ten years before America even became a country!). The 23,000-acre resort has all sorts of amenities, including golf courses, a shooting range, a falconry program, horseback riding, mountain biking, fly fishing, and ziplining. An on-site spa offers ultimate relaxation options, allowing you to unwind in a soothing space without your phone. 

Lake Moomaw, close to either of these lodging options, is a well known spot for fishing and boating, and is stocked with brown and rainbow trout, bass, pan, and crappie. The lake is encircled by hiking and biking trails, offering a full day of phone-free activities. 

STAY:

• Fort Lewis Lodge Farm in Millboro
• Tuck Away Cabins in Millboro
• Natural Retreats Shepherds Cottage in Hot Springs 
• The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs 

EAT:

• Fort Lewis Restaurant in Millboro 
• Waterwheel Restaurant in Hot Springs
• Sneads 1912 Steak in Hot Springs
• The Omni Homestead Dining Room

LOCAL OUTDOOR OUTFITTERS: 

• Douthat State Park in Millboro
• The Marina at Lake Moomaw in Warm Springs
• Allegheny Outdoors in Covington (South of Bath County)

—A Rugged Mountain Escape to Breaks Interstate Park—

Discover the rugged mountains, valley landscapes, and rich culture of the Heart of Appalachia with a trip to Breaks Interstate Park in Southwest Virginia. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the South”, Breaks is one of the only interstate parks in the United States, straddling the borders of Kentucky and Virginia. Within the park, you’ll have access to hiking trails, rafting, kayaking, fishing, and boating spots on the river, and campsites that will get your family back to nature and away from their electronic devices. Book one of the park’s seasonal elk viewing tours to get a closer look at the animals in their recently restored habitat, or visit a public wildlife viewing shelter on your own for an opportunity to see these majestic animals at any time of day. Add more adrenaline to your Breaks Interstate Park vacation and get a bird’s eye view of the canyon from the park’s ziplines, which run above the Russell Fork River Gorge. <img data-attachment-id="58286" data-permalink="https://blog.virginia.org/2020/02/phone-free-vacations/spearhead-trails-10/" data-orig-file="https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27105114/HA15092103V_023.jpg" data-orig-size="1300,730" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"2.8","credit":"Sam Dean","camera":"FC300X","caption":"Spearhead Trails","created_timestamp":"1440618635","copyright":"u00a9Sam Dean","focal_length":"0","iso":"100","shutter_speed":"0.008695652173913","title":"Spearhead Trails","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="Spearhead Trails" data-image-description="

Spearhead Trails

” data-medium-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27105114/HA15092103V_023-300×168.jpg” data-large-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27105114/HA15092103V_023-1024×575.jpg” class=”alignright size-full wp-image-58286″ src=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27105114/HA15092103V_023.jpg” alt=”Spearhead Trails” width=”100%” height=”100%” />

Photo Credit: Sam Dean, IG account: @sdeanphotos

While Breaks Interstate Park has lots of outdoor activities, this part of the Commonwealth is packed with things to help your family disconnect from the phones. Nearby St. Paul is an outdoor lover’s dream, offering fishing, canoeing, and tubing on the Clinch River, as well as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and ATV riding on hundreds of miles of trails that crisscross the Appalachian Mountains. Southern Gap Outdoor Adventure rents their ATVs at the trailhead of the Spearhead Trails’ Coal Canyon route, a multi-use trail system also open to mountain bikes, dirt bikes, and hikers. With an unobstructed view of the night sky and low levels of surrounding light pollution, Southern Gap is a remarkable location from which to stargaze. Rent one of their cabins or campsites for the weekend and spend the evenings searching for your favorite constellations and other cosmic wonders as you take in the clear night skies. 

STAY:

• Breaks Interstate Park Rhododendron Lodge
• Breaks Interstate Park Luxury Cabins
• Breaks Interstate Park Campgrounds
• Southern Gap Outdoor Adventure Cabins in St. Paul
• Western Front Hotel in St. Paul
• The Inn at Wise in Wise

EAT:

• Rhododendron Restaurant at Breaks Interstate Park 
• Main Street Pizzeria & Grill in Haysi
• Western Front Hotel’s Ina+Forbes

LOCAL OUTDOOR OUTFITTERS: 

• Breaks Interstate Park
• Adventure Mendota River Outfitters 
• Pathfinders & High Knob Outfitters in Norton
• Southern Gap Outdoor Adventures in St. Paul
• Clinch Life Outfitters in St. Paul

—Waterfront Fun on the Eastern Shore’s Chincoteague & Assateague Islands—

Photo Credit: Jason Barnette

With miles of sandy shorelines, most of them federally protected from development, Virginia’s Eastern Shore is the ideal place for an “unplugged” beach vacation. Head to the northeastern town of Chincoteague on the Eastern Shore to experience the allure of Virginia’s beaches in a laid-back coastal community. 

Just east of Chincoteague Island, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge provides sanctuary to a wide array of wildlife and native species, with 15,000 acres of protected land stretching along the coastline. Visitors can bike and hike along the refuge trails, or purchase passes at the Visitor’s Center for a guided tour that takes you through the refuge to catch a glimpse of the famous wild ponies. To see the ponies from the water, consider booking a pony watching wildlife cruise through Assateague Explorer. Before leaving the refuge, stop by the Assateague Lighthouse, an historic lighthouse that was built on Assateague Island in 1867. The beachfront section of Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, Assateague Island National Seashore, has designated kayak and canoe launch points where you can set out on the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Biking trails are also found within Assateague Island National Seashore, allowing you to ride along sandy beaches, maritime forests, and quiet bay waterways. <img data-attachment-id="58283" data-permalink="https://blog.virginia.org/2020/02/phone-free-vacations/chincoteague-pony-swim-7/" data-orig-file="https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27104330/ES15082809V_170.jpg" data-orig-size="1300,867" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"6.3","credit":"Todd Wright","camera":"NIKON D810","caption":"Chincoteague Pony Swim","created_timestamp":"1438128000","copyright":"Todd Wright Photo 2015","focal_length":"220","iso":"1000","shutter_speed":"0.001","title":"Chincoteague Pony Swim","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="Chincoteague Pony Swim" data-image-description="

Chincoteague Pony Swim

” data-medium-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27104330/ES15082809V_170-300×200.jpg” data-large-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27104330/ES15082809V_170-1024×683.jpg” class=”alignright size-full wp-image-58283″ src=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27104330/ES15082809V_170.jpg” alt=”Chincoteague Pony Swim” width=”100%” height=”100%” />

Photo Credit: Todd Wright, IG account: @toddwrightphoto

Back on Chincoteague Island, opt to leave the four-wheeled, fast-paced life behind and rent bikes or scooters to get around town. If you’re bringing along the kids on this phone-less vacation, don’t miss a visit to Maui Jack’s Waterpark, a family-friendly waterpark complete with epic slides, several pool areas, and a lazy river. 

STAY: 

• Marina Bay Hotel & Suites on Chincoteague Island 
• Refuge Inn on Chincoteague Island
• Snug Harbor Waterfront Cottages in Chincoteague 

EAT:

• AJ’s on the Creek on Chincoteague Island 
• Bill’s Prime Seafood & Steaks on Chincoteague Island 
• Island Creamery on Chincoteague Island 

LOCAL OUTDOOR OUTFITTERS: 

• Assateague Explorer Cruise & Kayaking in Chincoteague 
• Bay Country Kayaking in Onancock 
• Burnham Guides Paddling Adventures in Onancock
• The Bike Depot & Beach Outfitters on Chincoteague Island
• Broadwater Bay EcoTours in Exmore
• Chincoteague Island Adventures on Chincoteague Island
• Queen Hive Farm in Assawoman

—Outdoor Adventures in Farmville—<img data-attachment-id="58282" data-permalink="https://blog.virginia.org/2020/02/phone-free-vacations/high-bridge-trail-state-park-7/" data-orig-file="https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27103907/CN19071203V_285-scaled.jpg" data-orig-size="2560,1440" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"2.8","credit":"Big Orange Frame","camera":"FC300X","caption":"High Bridge Trail State Park is a multi-use trail ideally suited for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. Its centerpiece is the majestic High Bridge, which is more than 2,400 feet long and 160 feet above the Appomattox River. The majestic bridge was built in 1853 as part of the South Side Railroad.rrVirginia Tourism Corporation, www.Virginia.org","created_timestamp":"1508804517","copyright":"u00a9Virginia Tourism Corporation","focal_length":"3.61","iso":"146","shutter_speed":"0.04","title":"High Bridge Trail State Park","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="High Bridge Trail State Park" data-image-description="

High Bridge Trail State Park is a multi-use trail ideally suited for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. Its centerpiece is the majestic High Bridge, which is more than 2,400 feet long and 160 feet above the Appomattox River. The majestic bridge was built in 1853 as part of the South Side Railroad.

” data-medium-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27103907/CN19071203V_285-300×169.jpg” data-large-file=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27103907/CN19071203V_285-1024×576.jpg” class=”alignright size-full wp-image-58282″ src=”https://d2y0su6ixv655t.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/27103907/CN19071203V_285-scaled.jpg” alt=”High Bridge Trail State Park” width=”100%” height=”100%” />

Photo Credit: Big Orange Frame

About an hour southwest of Richmond, Farmville is one of Central Virginia’s most charming small towns. Stay at the Hotel Weyanoke, just across the street from the Longwood University campus in downtown Farmville, for a vacation that puts you steps away from countless technology-free activities. Rent bikes from The Outdoor Adventure Store and set out on High Bridge Trail, a multi-use trail that runs 31 miles from downtown Farmville. The highlight of the trail is the high bridge for which it is named; the bridge is the longest recreational bridge in Virginia (and one of the longest in the U.S.) and sit 125 feet about the Appomattox River, affording picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. Book kayaks or canoes from a local outfitter and explore Farmville’s outdoor beauty from the water. Adults looking for some home decor should stop by a few of Green Front Furniture Company’s twelve massive warehouses, which total almost a million square feet of sales space and showcase everything from Oriental rugs and one-of-a-kind home accents to leather couches and dining room sets. If you’re looking for historic sites in Farmville, visit the Robert Russa Moton Museum to learn about Prince Edward County’s significant role in the nationwide fight for Civil Rights in Education.

If you’re looking to stay outside of town, check out Sandy River Outdoor Adventure Resort. In addition to a challenging treetop obstacle and zipline course that will guarantee phones stay on the ground, the 23-acre resort has a family-owned and operated farm where you can greet the animals, pick veggies from their garden, and collect eggs from the resident hens, all without leaving the grounds. The on-site accommodations include log cabins and luxury glamping tipis that sleep up to seven people and feature private bathrooms, air conditioning, and a full kitchen. Just outside the tipis are fire pits where you can relax at the end of the day and roast hot dogs and s’mores with your friends and family. With minimal light pollution, the resort also offers prime stargazing on clear nights, ending your days with incredibly vivid and uninterrupted views of the stars. 

STAY:

• Sandy River Retreat Log Cabins or Glamping Tipis in Rice
• Hotel Weyanoke in Farmville
• Appomattox Inn & Suites in Appomattox 

EAT:

• Charley’s Waterfront Cafe in Farmville
• Macado’s in Farmville
• The Babcock House in Appomattox
• Hotel Weyanokes’ Effingham’s Restaurant in Farmville
• The Fishin’ Pig in Farmville
• Uptown Coffee Cafe in Farmville

LOCAL OUTDOOR OUTFITTERS: 

• The Outdoor Adventure Store in Farmville
• The Adventure Park at Sandy River Retreat in Rice
• Appomattox River Company in Farmville
• Sailor’s Creek Outfitters in Rice

Tell us, where in Virginia do you like to “unplug” from technology and enjoy the natural beauty of the Commonwealth? Share your phone-free vacation suggestions with us in the comments below!

The post Disconnect to Reconnect: 5 Phone-Free Virginia Vacation Ideas appeared first on Virginia’s Travel Blog.

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