From 249fdc68af3a9b4522135052e9a41e65cf6d2c37 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: medusa Date: Sat, 27 Apr 2024 16:50:13 +0000 Subject: [PATCH] Update docs/travel/VA_July_2024.md --- docs/travel/VA_July_2024.md | 42 +++++++++++-------------------------- 1 file changed, 12 insertions(+), 30 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/travel/VA_July_2024.md b/docs/travel/VA_July_2024.md index cfa6f81..515a859 100644 --- a/docs/travel/VA_July_2024.md +++ b/docs/travel/VA_July_2024.md @@ -41,51 +41,33 @@ - **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 Fishermen’s 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