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- **Virginia State Capitol** - A historic building designed by Thomas Jefferson that serves as a symbol of Virginia's government and history.
- **Virginia Museum of Fine Arts** - Renowned for its comprehensive collection spanning 5,000 years of art from cultures around the world.
- **Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden** - Features beautiful themed gardens, a conservatory, and a butterfly exhibit, making it a great place for relaxation and education.
- **Richmond Folk Festival** An annual event celebrating the roots, richness, and variety of American culture through music, dance, traditional craft, and food.
- **Fourth of July Celebrations** The city hosts numerous events including fireworks over the James River and live music at Dogwood Dell.
- **Mama J's Kitchen**: Must-try item - **Fried Catfish**: Known for its crispy, flavorful crust and tender, juicy inside, served with a side of soulful collard greens.
#### **Washington D.C.**
- **U.S. Capitol and Capitol Hill** - The center of American democracy, offering guided tours that explore the legislative process and American history.
- **National Mall** - Known as "America's Front Yard," it's lined with iconic monuments and museums, providing a rich historical and cultural experience.
- **National Air and Space Museum** - Holds the largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft in the world, making it a must-visit for those interested in aviation and space exploration.
- **National Cherry Blossom Festival** Although it typically occurs in the spring, the festival's cultural presentations and activities extend into summer with various Japanese cultural events.
- **A Capitol Fourth** The nation's premier Fourth of July concert and fireworks display, held on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol.
- **Ben's Chili Bowl**: Must-try item - **Half-Smoke**: A D.C. specialty, this smoky sausage is grilled and served in a warm bun, topped with mustard, onions, and the famous spicy chili sauce.
#### **Virginia Beach**
- **Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center** - Offers engaging exhibits including a wide variety of marine species, an IMAX theater, and interactive science experiences.
- **Sandbridge Beach** - Provides a quieter, more natural beach experience compared to the bustling Virginia Beach Boardwalk, ideal for relaxation and nature walks.
- **First Landing State Park** - Historic site of the Jamestown colonists' first landing, offering a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and educational programs.
- **American Music Festival** Features national, regional, and local acts on stages along the oceanfront at the end of summer.
- **Stars & Stripes Explosion** On July Fourth, this event combines symphonic tunes and spectacular fireworks on the beach.
- **Waterman's Surfside Grille**: Must-try item - **Orange Crush**: A refreshing cocktail made with fresh orange juice, triple sec, vodka, and a splash of Sprite, perfect for sipping while overlooking the ocean.
#### **Northumberland County**
- **Stratford Hall** - The birthplace of Robert E. Lee, this well-preserved plantation offers insights into colonial life, architecture, and the Lee family's history.
- **Reedville Fishermens Museum** - Dedicated to preserving the maritime history of Reedville and the Northern Neck, focusing on the menhaden fishing industry.
- **Hughlett Point Natural Area Preserve** - Known for its pristine natural environment and diverse ecosystems, it's a great spot for bird-watching and enjoying unspoiled coastal landscapes.
#### **Events & Cultural Experiences**
- **Richmond:**
- Richmond Folk Festival: An annual event celebrating the roots, richness, and variety of American culture through music, dance, traditional craft, and food.
- Fourth of July Celebrations: The city hosts numerous events including fireworks over the James River and live music at Dogwood Dell.
- **Washington D.C.:**
- National Cherry Blossom Festival: Although it typically occurs in the spring, the festival's cultural presentations and activities extend into summer with various Japanese cultural events.
- A Capitol Fourth: The nation's premier Fourth of July concert and fireworks display, held on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol.
- **Virginia Beach:**
- American Music Festival: Features national, regional, and local acts on stages along the oceanfront at the end of summer.
- Stars & Stripes Explosion: On July Fourth, this event combines symphonic tunes and spectacular fireworks on the beach.
- **Northumberland County:**
- Reedville Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks: A charming local celebration with a parade in the morning and fireworks over the water in the evening.
- Northern Neck Seafood Festival: Held in May, but the region continues to celebrate its seafood heritage throughout the summer with various smaller events and community gatherings.
#### **Dining Recommendations**
- **Richmond:**
- **Mama J's Kitchen**: Must-try item - **Fried Catfish**: Known for its crispy, flavorful crust and tender, juicy inside, served with a side of soulful collard greens.
- **Washington D.C.:**
- **Ben's Chili Bowl**: Must-try item - **Half-Smoke**: A D.C. specialty, this smoky sausage is grilled and served in a warm bun, topped with mustard, onions, and the famous spicy chili sauce.
- **Virginia Beach:**
- **Waterman's Surfside Grille**: Must-try item - **Orange Crush**: A refreshing cocktail made with fresh orange juice, triple sec, vodka, and a splash of Sprite, perfect for sipping while overlooking the ocean.
- **Northumberland County:**
- **Crazy Crab**: Must-try item - **Steamed Blue Crabs**: Fresh from the Chesapeake Bay, these crabs are steamed with Old Bay seasoning and served with butter, capturing the essence of local seafood cuisine.
- **Reedville Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks** A charming local celebration with a parade in the morning and fireworks over the water in the evening.
- **Northern Neck Seafood Festival** Held in May, but the region continues to celebrate its seafood heritage throughout the summer with various smaller events and community gatherings.
- **Crazy Crab**: Must-try item - **Steamed Blue Crabs**: Fresh from the Chesapeake Bay, these crabs are steamed with Old Bay seasoning and served with butter, capturing the essence of local seafood cuisine.
#### **Transportation Options**
- Richmond: GRTC Transit System