Monday, November 15, 2010

Honeymoon in My Hometown - Hampton Roads

You may have taken summer vacation to Williamsburg and been forced to appreciate colonial history, but the area has a ton to offer in the way of romance and activity for a honeymoon close to home.  Here are my personal suggestions if you're headed to the area for your honeymoon (or anniversary trip, or even babymoon trip?).

Where to stay:
Stay downtown and enjoy the waterviews!  Hop on the water taxi to explore downtown Portsmouth, or hop on the highway to enjoy any of the 7 cities in the area.  We stayed there on our wedding night and received excellent service. 

Stay at the Virginia Beach ocean front and enjoy waking up to the sound waves and 'gulls.  The boardwalk is just steps away, and plenty of restaurants are within walking distance.  

The Founders Inn & Spa is lovely and very hospitable.  The surrounding campus of Regent University is also beautiful and stately.  When we ate at the Founders Inn after my graduation, the food was delicious.  Sunday brunches are the talk of the town.  Head to the spa for a little extra luxury.

What to do:
Interesting bits of military history.

Well curated museum and interesting collection.

Musicals, speakers, the symphony, comedians, and military tattoos.

Virginia Aquarium
Animals and an Imax theater - satisfies your inner kid!

Old Cape Henry Lighthouse
Great views of the beach and surrounding area.

First Landing State Park
Extensive trails, camping, etc.

Naro Cinema
Great old theater, reasonably priced concessions, interesting films.

Busch Gardens
If you're a coaster lover, like me, this is a must!

Colonial Williamsburg
You just may appreciate it more this go around!

Where to Eat:

Chick's Oyster Bar
Hang out on the deck, pick shrimp, enjoy life.

The Bier Garden
No picture, just trust Palindrome Bride. Order the spatzle.

Tautogs
Start with the she crab soup, you won't be sorry.

The Williamsburg Winery
Eat at the tavern and enjoy some Virginia ham with a lovely table red.

Have you been to Hampton Roads?  Would you consider a local honeymoon?

*All photographs sourced from the accompanying links to each location.

2 comments:

BigAppleNosh said...

This is so great! Thanks for the tips!

Brianna said...

We're originally from California but we've been loving Hampton Roads. Colonial Williamsburg is a favorite spot! Highly recommend the area, especially for fall honeymoons. Hot as heck in summer! :)