Category: Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Let’s Go Camping

Krystle Kitchen

Sponsored| In May 2021 I started a remodel on an almost 30-year-old Sunline Saturn. With lots of paint and patience the “Lilly Pad”, was finished and took its first journey to the OBX for Memorial Day weekend. In the first year, we went on a few trips and went on our first multi-state trip leaving Virginia and going to Gettysburg, Pa. There is so much to learn about camping and to figure out along the way. I am not an expert by any means, but have found things that help make camping easier I will share.

Camping Fort Story, Virginia Beach
Grilling and enjoying a cold beverage in Virginia Beach’s Fort Story Campground

Types of Campgrounds: National Parks, HipCamp and Resorts

I think the most important thing to remember when looking at sites is finding a camping location that works for you and your family. Make sure to figure out first what you’re looking for in a site and then match your needs/wants to the amenities offered. In our first year of camping, we camped at a National Park in the OBX, a military MWR campground in Virginia Beach, a camping resort in Williamsburg, and a Hipcamp site outside Gettysburg, Pa. All of these sites were very different and each offered some unique pros and cons to them.

Oregon Inlet Campground, Nc National Park
Hipcamping outside Gettysburg, Pa
Fort Story Virginia Beach, Va
Anvil Campground in Williamsburg, Va
Each type of camping site offers their own unique pros and cons so be sure to do your research before you decided on booking.

Camping at a National Park offers the perks of direct access to nature, clean basic bath houses, park rangers if needed, typically a dumping station, and potable water. The cons to some might be limited amenities as National Parks are basic and don’t always offer resort-type amenities.

From beach locations to mountains you can always find somewhere to park your RV, travel trailer or pitch a tent. Shown above (left) camping outside Gettysburg, Pa and (right) Fort Story Beach in Virginia Beach, Va

Camping at a resort offers all the bells and whistles with beautifully manicured grounds, fire pits, BBQ areas, gravel sites, access to pools, recreational areas, games, cable TV, wifi, laundry, full hookups (water, sewage, and electricity) and much more. The con to this type of camping for some might be the higher prices or crowded areas during peak season.

Camping on a military base is similar to a resort in my opinion. Base camping is terrific if you have access to it and is VERY discounted/cost-effective compared to other resorts. The amenities at many bases are very nice. As a con, these campgrounds aren’t available to everyone.

Hipcamp Review
Camping off the beaten path using Hipcamp

Camping using HipCamp is not your typical site and allows access to private land and individuals who choose to host outside their homes, or on their farmland or woods. Some HipCamp sites might solely give you access to a place to park or pitch a tent. The cons are there might not be any electricity, sewage, cable, or potable water on these sites.

Some HipCamp sites also, don’t allow fires or the use of generators so you’ll need propane or battery power. All details should be read thoroughly for HipCamp sites as each site and the host is different. If you’re confused about a listing contact the host. The perks of HipCamp include being cost-effective, camping in secluded areas, meeting new hosts, and going off the beaten path.

Hipcamp Review
Basic campsites might only be a flat, cleared off spot in the woods. Do your research before hand and make sure you know what you’re getting. For me I am ok with the seclusion of basic wooded sites.

Some of the Hipcamp sites require dry camping. I think the key to camping in an RV or travel trailer without typical hookups is to first make sure you have enough potable water or water in your freshwater holding tank for showers etc. to last the amount of time you’re camping. When I was looking for a site on HipCamp it was important to me to locate a site this time with electric hook-up and potable water. This might not be a necessity for others, but we were looking at multiple days and I knew we wouldn’t have enough battery power for the whole trip.

Tips for a Great Camping Trip

1992 Sunline Saturn
Camping is an amazing way to relax, unwind and connect to nature!

We always make sure to have our fresh water holding tank full when we leave home. Our refrigerator and oven both run off propane so we also, make sure to have enough of it as well. If you use propane I suggest making sure to know where you can refill it if necessary when camping.

Laundromats like this can help you pack less and to quickly get everything washed so you can get back to your vacation or business.

Mapping out things like grocery stores and even hardware stores is also, something I find that helps our camping trips go smoothly. Depending on how many days we are going to be away I also, like to locate laundry services like using Madison Heights laundromat when camping. Planning to use a laundromat can ease the load of packing. The Clothes Spin is a great option for a way to clean your clothes while camping.

Get Outside and Go RVing

1992 Sunline Saturn Remodel
Inside my little beach house on wheels the Lilly Pad an almost 30 year old renovated Sunline Saturn.

Camping is an amazing way to relax, unwind, and connect to nature! Getting outside and away from the hustle and bustle of the world can be very liberating and relaxing. Each type of camping site mentioned offers its own set of pros and cons, so be sure to do your research before you decide on booking. Whatever you choose just get outside and go RVing!

Let’s go camping!

Know someone planning a camping trip please share my article with them ☺️ Check out my other fun Take A Walk in My Flip Flops travel articles too.

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Camping in Williamsburg Virginia Anvil Campground

Krystle Kitchen
Williamsburg, Virginia vacation camping at Anvil Campground.

When you choose lodging for your Williamsburg, Virginia vacation camping should be an option you consider. One of the things I most looked forward to when we started our camping journey was being able to not only camp for vacations but also, use the camper for mini trips or even staycations. Having our little home on wheels with us is convenient, cost-effective, and fun.

Why Camp in Colonail Williamsburg

Camping in the Colonial Williamsburg area allows you to fully immerse yourself in the history of the area. You can explore the restored 18th-century buildings, interact with costumed interpreters, and learn about the lives of the colonists who once lived there during the day and easily return to the area after hours when the streets are empty for a peaceful stroll.

Camping in colonial Williamsburg provides an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings of the area. You can go hiking, biking, or birdwatching in the nearby parks and forests, or simply relax in the peaceful outdoor setting of your campsite. Staying in a tent or RV in Colonial Williamsburg offers a unique and memorable accommodation experience.

You can enjoy the simplicity and charm of camping while still being close to the attractions and amenities of the historic area. Camping allows you to experience the nighttime ambiance of colonial Williamsburg in a way that you can’t when staying in a hotel. You can gather around a campfire, or stargaze, and listen to the sounds of nature as you relax after a day of exploring the historic sites.

Camping in colonial Williamsburg can be a fun and educational experience for the whole family. Camping allows for quality time spent together in a natural and historical setting. Camping in colonial Williamsburg offers a unique and immersive way to experience the history, nature, and culture of this historic area. It can be a memorable and enjoyable vacation option for those looking to connect with the past and embrace the outdoors.

Though we live just across the James River and can take the ferry over to Williamsburg, VA we decided to go camping at Anvil Campground and made a weekend trip there. We had a full day planned at Busch Gardens Williamsburg early for an early Dr. Guy Harvey meet and greet and then were going to see a concert there around 7:30, followed by fireworks at 9:30 so it was going to be a long day.

Why choose Anvil Campground for your Williamsburg, Virginia vacation?

The Anvil campground is a quick 12-15 minutes drive from Busch Gardens and is tucked away in the trees off Mooretown Rd, but still close enough to drive to plenty of restaurants and all that Williamsburg has to offer. I could see this being a perfect base hub for a trip to Colonial Williamsburg for someone who has never been. Anvil Campground has a nice layout with full hookups available and gravel spots. There are many amenities like a playground for children, children’s activities, a pool, a game room, a general store, and grilling areas.

Anvil Campground in Williamsburg, Virginia
Anvil Campground is tucked away in the trees off Mooretown Rd , but it is still close enough to all that Colonial Williamsburg has to offer

We were impressed with how friendly everyone we met at Anvil was and how helpful the staff were. From checking in, getting something we forgot at the general store, and then checking out the staff of Anvil Campground were awesome. The general store on the property has a wide variety of essential items for camping to purchase including items to make s’mores, cooking items, games, and also, a good selection of RV hook-up items. It was nice not to have to leave to go get ice or small things we wanted during our stay we didn’t bring. Their prices were also, reasonable.

Anvil Campground in Williamsburg, Virginia
Anvil Campground in Williamsburg, Virginia
Anvil Campground in Williamsburg, Virginia
Anvil Campground in Williamsburg, Virginia
Anvil Campground in Williamsburg, Virginia
Anvil Campground in Williamsburg, Virginia has a nice layout with full hookups available and gravel spots. There are many amenities like a playground for children, children’s activities, a pool, game room,
general store and grilling areas.

Reasons to Camp in Williamsburg, Virginia

It rained during the day at Busch Gardens Williamsburg and let me tell you having the camper near was essential to making things easy for our visit. Everything I needed from a change of clothes to the umbrellas was right there. It was great and go take a shower, get on some dry clothes, and have a place to relax in the AC for a snack without having to take the ferry back to our house. This is a huge perk considering Virginia’s hot summers! Camping at Anvil Campground in Williamsburg, Virginia allowed us to be comfortable when we returned to Busch Gardens Williamsburg for the concert.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg Guy Harvey Meet and Greet
Dr. Guy Harvey meet and greet
at Busch Garden’s Williamsburg

Going camping doesn’t just mean going out for a week at a time in the woods it can also, mean short staycations and the option of having the familiarity of home close by. I can’t tell you how convenient having the Lilly Pad was for this busy weekend! The cost of renting a spot to camp at Anvil Campground in Williamsburg, Virginia even with full hookups is a fraction of the price of hotels and all my comforts are included. The option to bring and cook your food camping can also, be a money saver, especially for a larger family.

For me, it’s great to be able to pack the RV with our essentials and not have to lug them in/out. I’m able to use my favorite shampoo instead of the hotel/travel-sized options, feel like everything I’m using is clean and it’s such a wonderful feeling to sleep in our bed after a long day. I would recommend camping and using the Anvil Campground to others visiting the Williamsburg area.

Know someone planning a trip to the Williamsburg please share my article with them ☺️ Check out my other fun camping articles too. If you enjoyed my review please be sure to pin it/share it.

Camping in the Outer Bank, North Carolina

Let’s Go RVing (featuring different types of campsites)

If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com . Thank you!

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Camping on the Outer Banks of North Carolina: Oregon Inlet Campground

Krystle Kitchen
Beach on the Atlantic Ocean at Oregon Inlet Campground

The Outer Banks of North Carolina has been a piece of my heart since I was a girl. As soon as I had my driver’s permit I couldn’t wait to take my SUV to the beach and drive on the sand. Many weekends growing up I spent fishing and laying in the sun on Oregon Inlet. As an adult, I’ve stayed in too many Outer Banks hotels and rentals to count. I feel like the OBX is a part of me.

Site 35B Oregon Inlet Campground
Site 35B Oregon Inlet Campground

Being able to camp at Oregon Inlet was a dream come true. For those of you interested in camping on the OBX there are many camping choices, but this blog will focus primarily on Oregon Inlet Campground. My first trip to Oregon Inlet Campground was also the Madden trip for my almost 30-year-old Sunline Saturn I’ve named the Lilly Pad and it made this vacation extra memorable.

Oregon Inlet Campground 101

campground layout at Oregon Inlet Campground
Provided campground layout at Oregon Inlet Campground

Oregon Inlet Campground is located just a stone’s throw from the inlet and this campground offers convenient access to fishing and water activities. It boasts well-maintained facilities and stunning sunset views over the sound. Oregon Inlet Campground is comprised of three sections. Section A is solely for tent camping and B/C allows for tents and RVs (some offering electric and water hookups). Generators are also, allowed to be used from 7am-10pm in B/C. The campground is across the street from the Oregon Inlet fishing area which has a dump station, fresh water hookup for getting your potable water, and a small store for necessities.

go 4x4 in the obx
Get an off road permit to drive your own 4×4 vehicle on the beach or rent one while you’re at the beach and have a unique driving experience you’ll never forget. Don’t forget to bring your GoPro!

Amidst the rugged beauty of the Outer Banks, Oregon Inlet presents a captivating blend of coastal charm and natural splendor. Whether you’re seeking a serene retreat or an action-packed outdoor adventure, this area offers a variety of camping options to suit every traveler’s preference. The Oregon Inlet Campground stands out for its proximity to both the inlet itself and the expansive Atlantic Ocean beaches. Campers can wake up to the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore and enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the sound.

The campground is well maintained, and has a ranger station and onsite host volunteers. The best part is the gorgeous Atlantic Ocean is right over the dunes of the camping area. A quick walk from the campground and you can swim in the cool green water of the island or catch your dinner. Cooking up fresh, local seafood makes a wonderful addition to any beach camping experience.

Freshly caught Wanchese, Nc shrimp from the market
Freshly caught Wanchese, Nc shrimp from the market.

Tips for Camping at Oregon Inlet

When preparing for a camping trip at Oregon Inlet, it’s essential to pack wisely. Bring along camping essentials such as cooking utensils, and sufficient food and water supplies, as nearby stores can be limited. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and sturdy hiking shoes are also crucial, especially for those planning to explore the rugged terrain and sandy trails.

Before embarking on your journey, be sure to check the weather forecast and consider seasonal conditions, particularly during hurricane season. Making campground reservations in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel times, to secure your spot amidst the Outer Banks’ natural wonders. The campground can be booked on recreation.gov and the online booking process was very easy as was the check-in and out at the location.

Things to do in the Outer Banks, North Carolina

If you’re looking for some of the freshest seafood in the OBX give Captain George’s a try. This is a local favorite for all you can eat seafood and includes crab legs on the buffet.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do around Oregon Inlet. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines from the shore or venture out on chartered fishing expeditions in the rich waters of the inlet. Nature lovers can explore the diverse ecosystems that thrive in this coastal environment, from marshlands teeming with wildlife to sandy dunes dotted with sea oats.

The towns of Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills are a quick drive North and have many grocery stores and restaurants to choose from as well as plenty of shopping. The Bodie Lighthouse is also, a few miles up the street from the OI campground as well as one of my favorite NC beaches Coquina Beach. A further drive North for a day trip and one can visit the quaint town of Duck, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, or even go see the wild horses of Corolla on a horse adventure or hop on an ATV and ride the dunes.

Bodie Lighthouse
Bodie Lighthouse, a short drive from the Oregon Inlet Campground

If you’re looking to explore I highly suggest booking a flight over the islands through OBX Airplanes. You’ll get a better appreciation for how the beautiful outer banks are laid out and if you’re lucky you’ll be able to see a few shipwrecks and maybe even some dolphins. There is just something extra special about flying over the Wright Brother’s memorial area knowing it is the site of the birth of flight itself!

Flying over the OBX in a small plane
Flying over the OBX in a small plane with just your family is a vacation memory you’ll be sure to treasure!

If flying isn’t your thing you can also, choose to drive to the Wright Brothers Memorial and walk the grounds on foot or consider a visit to the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island to see some cool ocean life by foot too, and a shipwreck. An immersed model of the SS Monitor is in one of their exhibits. Roanoke Island is also, home to many restaurants and shops.

Scuppernong Vineyards in the shops of Downtown Manteo
I recommend a stop at Vineyards on the Scuppernong in the shops of Downtown Manteo. The scuppernong grape is native to NC and has a delicious sweet taste and fragrance. If you love wine do yourself a favor and go try some scuppernong wine 🍷 💕

If you’re a nature lover visit the beautiful Elizabethan Gardens on the picturesque sound of Roanoke Island. There is plenty for the history buffs too like seeing the wonderful outdoor drama of the Lost Colony, visiting Festival Park to see a replica of Elizabeth II ship, and historical artifacts from the area.

H2OBX
H2OBX has so much to offer no matter your preference for water fun. From sitting back in a lounge chair and watching everyone else, to speeding down tubes into the warm blue water or eating fish tacos and enjoying a watermelon milkshake you’ll find it all at H2OBX.

If you’re into fishing you can book a fishing charter right out of Oregon Inlet across from the campground! Not that you will, but if you get tired of the beach and like water fun you can drive north to check out the new H2OBX water park too while you’re in town. H2OBX has plenty to offer for the whole family from a huge lazy river, water rides the whole family can fit on, single and double tubing rides, delicious food, and fun apparel shopping. Spending a day at H2OBX is a great addition to any trip to the beach.

The OBX will always have a piece of my heart and I love sharing all my fun experiences and finds so you too will fall in love with the OBX!

From wild horses, the birth of flight, fresh seafood, and breathtaking beaches the the area surrounding the Oregon Inlet Campground doesn’t disappoint. Camping among the dunes and opening the windows to hear the ocean were a big perk of this campground and a highlight of this adventure for me. Camping near the Outer Banks promises an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. From lounging on pristine beaches, hiking through maritime forests, or simply soaking in the tranquility of this coastal paradise, each moment spent in this captivating environment is sure to leave a lasting impression. Plan your adventure today and discover the untamed beauty of camping on the Outer Banks’ shores.

Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed my article please share/pin it and if you know someone planning a trip to the OBX please share my article with them too☺️

Visit a North Carolina Aquarium

Camping at Beechland Campground in Manteo

Camping at Refuge Campground Roanoke Island

Camping at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground

If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like me to visit and write a blog for you please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com . Thank you!

Camping on the Outer Banks

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧’𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲…𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐩𝐢𝐳𝐳𝐚!

Krystle Kitchen

The saying, “You can’t make everyone happy; you’re not pizza,” resonates deeply, especially when planning a trip. Just like pizza, with its vast array of toppings, our travel preferences can vary significantly. Trying to create an itinerary that caters to everyone’s tastes and desires can quickly become overwhelming and often leads to frustration. It’s essential to recognize that while striving for universal satisfaction is admirable, it can sometimes feel impossible.

In my experience, the challenge of accommodating different tastes and perspectives can lead to stress and conflict among friends or family. When you’re tasked with planning a group trip, each person may have their unique must-see destinations, desired activities, and expectations. The reality is that you cannot please everyone all the time, and attempting to do so can often leave you feeling exhausted and unfulfilled.

To create a trip that feels rewarding for all, here are some tips to help you balance everyone’s desires and make the planning process smoother:

Involve Everyone in the Planning

Start by gathering input from all participants right at the beginning. A simple survey or a group discussion can help capture everyone’s interests and priorities. This ensures that everyone has a voice in the planning process, making it easier to find common ground.

Prioritize Key Activities

Identify a few non-negotiable activities or destinations that excite everyone in the group. These shared goals can serve as the foundation of your itinerary, helping to create a sense of shared purpose. By focusing on these highlights, you can build a framework that satisfies the group’s core interests.

Build a Flexible Itinerary

Structure your trip with a mix of group activities and individual free time. Include scheduled events but also allow for opportunities to explore independently. This way, everyone can enjoy what they love most without feeling constrained by the group.

Consider Everyone’s Preferences

Balance the itinerary by including a variety of activities. Some individuals may crave adventure while others prefer relaxation or cultural experiences. By incorporating different types of activities, you can cater to diverse interests within the group.

Communicate Clearly

Keep communication open throughout both the planning phase and the trip. Encourage group discussions where everyone can express their thoughts or suggest changes. Address any concerns promptly to maintain a harmonious atmosphere.

Be Ready to Compromise

Remember that not everyone will be able to get their way all the time. Be prepared to make compromises and adjust plans as needed. Sometimes the best moments come from unexpected detours or changes in plans that allow the group to discover new experiences together.

Celebrate Togetherness

Remind everyone that the primary goal of the trip is to enjoy each other’s company. Focusing on shared experiences, such as group meals or evenings around a campfire, can help strengthen bonds and create lasting memories, even if everyone doesn’t get their first choice of activities.

While planning a successful group trip requires patience and flexibility, the connections and experiences shared along the way are what truly matter. While you may never fully satisfy everyone, keeping lines of communication open, embracing compromises, and maintaining a focus on shared goals can create a win-win situation. By understanding that the journey is more about the relationships built and moments shared rather than the specific itinerary, you can foster deeper connections and unforgettable experiences for everyone involved. Ultimately, the joy of travel lies in the blend of diverse perspectives coming together, creating a richer tapestry of memories that everyone can cherish.

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Visiting the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, Va

Krystle Kitchen
𝐄 𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐩𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 🐘❤️

Updated: 2024

The Virginia Zoo offers a unique opportunity to see wild animals up close that most people would never get to experience otherwise. For many, a visit to the Virginia Zoo is a chance to get a firsthand look at exotic creatures from around the world that they have only read about or seen pictures of before.

Being able to observe these animals in person provides a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diversity of wildlife on our planet. At the Virginia Zoo, the animals live in enclosures designed to closely mimic their natural habitats, allowing visitors to see how they truly live in the wild. Watching the animals move, play, interact, and go about their daily activities is an unforgettable experience, especially for children.

One of the cheetahs inside their enclosure at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, Va.

Beyond seeing the animals themselves, the Virginia Zoo also provides educational opportunities through informative signs, exhibits, and presentations from zookeepers. People can learn about the behaviors, characteristics, and conservation needs of each species. Some zoos have unfortunately become infamous for animal treatment, but good ones like the Virginia Zoo, have programs for animal conservation, educational, and preservation efforts. Accredited zoos play an important role in protecting endangered species through breeding programs to maintain genetic diversity. A visit to the Virginia Zoo is a fun, exciting, and inspiring family activity.

Visiting the Virginia Zoo Norfolk is an exciting, educational adventure for the whole family. Tickets for the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, Va are sold in advance and at the gate. As you walk through the zoo’s winding pathways, you’ll encounter a diverse array of animals from all around the world. The zoo is divided into geographical regions, with animals from Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. Make your way through each section and observe the animals in habitats designed to mimic their natural environments.

Tiger Trail at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, Va

The zoo’s African exhibit features magnificent lions lounging on rocks and tall giraffes grazing on tree leaves. Over in the Asia exhibit, you’ll see majestic tigers pacing in their enclosures and red pandas climbing in trees. The reptile house has a vast collection of snakes, lizards, and crocodilians. Don’t miss the daily animal feedings, where zookeepers provide enrichment and interact with creatures like giraffes and parrots.

The petting zoo allows kids to get up close with gentle barnyard animals. With new baby animals being born each season, every visit offers something new to discover. The Virginia Zoo Norfolk provides an immersive glimpse into the amazing world of wildlife.

Giraffes at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, Va.

Going during the week I feel there were fewer people than during the weekend. This may be something you want to consider when planning a visit. The Virginia Zoo offers a wide variety of fun and educational activities for visitors of all ages. As soon as you arrive, be sure to pick up a map at the front entrance so you can easily navigate the different exhibits.

Food Options at the Zoo

Dining at the Virginia Zoo is a unique and exciting experience that allows guests to enjoy delicious food alongside incredible animal exhibits. Guests can sip coffee and nibble on pastries for breakfast while watching the zoo’s diurnal animals begin their day. For lunch, the grill offers burgers, sandwiches, salads, and cold drinks perfect for picnicking. Breathtaking views of zebras on the adjoining savanna make for a memorable meal.

Families appreciate the kid-friendly options, efficient service, and choices like chicken tenders and mac and cheese. There are plenty of snack options too. I enjoyed a gluten and dairy-free chocolate-covered banana which comes in plain, sprinkles, strawberry/vanilla, or cookies and cream flavors. Whether enjoying a casual lunch or a snack, the Virginia Zoo’s dining options allow guests to satisfy their appetites while surrounded by amazing wildlife.

Zoo Activities

After refueling, head over to the reptile house to see snakes, lizards, frogs, and more. Don’t miss the daily keeper chats where zoo staff provide insider info about different species. Be sure during your visit to take a ride on the zoo train for a quick overview of all the exhibits.

The train is an extra $2 per person and isn’t included with zoo admission. The train goes around the outside area of the animals and a few can be seen if they are in certain areas of their pens. Be sure to check online before you visit for special events happening at the zoo. With so many animals to visit and activities to enjoy, you’ll make lasting memories during a fun-filled day at the Virginia Zoo.

Be sure to visit the Virginia Zoo gift shop

The gift shop at the Virginia zoo is a fun place for guests to browse and purchase souvenirs to commemorate their visit. Upon entering, you are greeted with displays of stuffed animals modeled after zoo residents like tigers, giraffes, and monkeys. These plush toys come in all sizes, from tiny keychains to jumbo versions big enough to cuddle.

Along the back wall are racks of apparel including t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hats featuring the zoo’s logo and images of animals. Brightly-colored shirts with whimsical graphics of elephants, zebras, and lions make fun mementos for kids and adults alike. Postcard racks showcase scenic photos taken around the zoo so guests can send virtual postcards to friends and family.

The shop also sells reusable water bottles, backpacks, and other practical items branded with the zoo’s name and motifs. At the counter, you’ll also find packaged snacks. The gift shop is conveniently located near the exit so guests can browse for souvenirs on the way out after a memorable day at the zoo. With its wide selection of keepsakes, apparel, and novelties, the Virginia Zoo gift shop offers the perfect opportunity for visitors to take home a piece of their experience.

Flowers on display while riding the train at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk,Va

Overall this was a wonderful way to get outside on a beautiful day and to enjoy nature. I would highly recommend a trip to the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, VA if you live in Virginia or are visiting. My tip is to look at the zoo’s website to confirm what you want to see is open when planning your visit. I know I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the zoo!