Tag: coastal va

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Why You Should Plan a Fall Visit to Williamsburg Virginia

Krystle Kitchen
Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

Fall is the perfect time to plan your Williamsburg, Virginia getaway. The trees in and around Williamsburg turn beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, walks, and bike rides through the colorful countryside. The weather in Williamsburg is pleasant in the fall, with mild temperatures too and lower humidity compared to the hot and humid summer months.

Williamsburg hosts several fall festivals and events, including the Williamsburg Harvest Celebration, Yorktown Wine Festival, and Virginia Beer Festival. Williamsburg is known for its history, and in the fall, visitors can enjoy exploring the Colonial Williamsburg living history museum and historic Jamestown settlement without the crowds and heat of the summer. Many families travel to Williamsburg to experience Halloween activities at Busch Garden’s Howl-O-Scream or traditional Thanksgiving celebrations, including feasts, parades, and holiday events.

Where to Stay During Your Fall Trip to Williamsburg Virginia

Anvil Campground Williamsburg, Virginia
Anvil Campground Williamsburg, Virginia
Anvil Campground Williamsburg, Virginia
Anvil Campground Williamsburg, Virginia

Whether you have your own RV or book a camping cabin one of the best places to stay during your stay in Williamsburg, Virginia is Anvil Campground. Anvil Campground is conveniently located near popular Williamsburg tourist attractions such as Busch Gardens, Water Country USA, Colonial Williamsburg, and Jamestown. This makes it an ideal location for families or groups planning to visit these attractions.

Anvil Campground Williamsburg, Virginia
Premium site #77 at Anvil Campground Williamsburg, Virginia

The campground offers affordable rates for both cabin and RV camping, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. Anvil Campground offers a wide range of amenities including a heated seasonal swimming pool, game room and playground. These amenities make it an excellent choice for families and groups seeking entertainment and activities during their stay. The premium sites are especially nice for RVers and have their own private swing, picnic table, fire pit and grill.

Anvil Campground Williamsburg, Virginia
Anvil Campground Williamsburg, Virginia
Anvil Campground Williamsburg, Virginia
Anvil Campground Williamsburg, Virginia

Anvil Campground is pet-friendly too, so travelers who enjoy traveling with their furry friends can also feel welcomed. The campground is situated in a beautiful natural setting with plenty of trees, green spaces, and wildlife. For those who enjoy spending time in nature, this can be an ideal location close to all Williamsburg, Virginia has to offer.

Anvil Campground Williamsburg, Virginia

Anvil Campground has a nice layout with full hookups available and gravel spots. We were most 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 property even 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 Williamsburg, Virginia

Going camping doesn’t just mean going out for a week at a time in the woods it can also, mean short trips or staycations. The cost of renting a spot to camp at Anvil Campground in Williamsburg, Virginia with full hookups is a fraction of the price of the local hotels and all your own personal comforts are included when you bring your RV. The option to bring and cook your own food camping can also, be a money saver especially for a larger family.

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 own bed after a long day. I would definitely recommend camping and using the Anvil Campground to others visiting the Williamsburg area.

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Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to pin this idea on your vacation board for your next trip inspiration and to check out my other travel posts. 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 .

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Why you should visit Chippokes State Park in Surry Virginia

Krystle Kitchen
Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia
Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia

If you’re looking for something fun to do in Tidewater Virginia this summer consider taking a trip to Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia. This park, located on the James River has something for everyone. Hikers, bikers, beach enthusiasts, equestrian trail riders, fossil/shark teeth hunters, camping, history and natural beauty lovers alike can find something they will enjoy at Chippokes State Park.

Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia
Chippokes was once home to fruit orchards and my guide Joel, explained that this was once the site of one of Virginia’s few legal distilleries.

Rich in early American history Chippokes is said, to be named for the Algonquian Chief, Choapoke who had befriended the settlers. The first records indicate the plantation area was once owned by Capt. William Powell who came to the area on the third resupply ship to Jamestown in 1609. Starting off as a 500 acre land grant to Capt. Powell it grew to over 1,400 acres by 1646. Now a park and museums the property opened to the public in 1971.

Farm and Forestry Museum

The Farm and Forestry museum at Chippokes
The Farm and Forestry museum at Chippokes is an antique lovers dream.

As one of the oldest continuously farmed properties in the country Chippokes State Park has deep roots in farming and the land as well. The Farm and Forestry museum on property is an antique lovers dream. The Farm and Forestry museum contains a variety of over 600 antiques on display in a self-guided museum setting. The museum admission is included in your park fee and well worth the visit to Chippokes State Park itself.

Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia
Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia
Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia
Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia
Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia

The area across from the Farm and Forestry Museum has several live farm animals to view and a working cultural garden area. During certain times there are programs that include teaching about the livestock and animals on the farm. Visitors should check the Chippokes monthly calendar before their visit to see the list of current Interpretive Programs.

Jones-Stewart Mansion and the River House

Tour of the Mansion, grounds and gardens of Chippokes Plantation
Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia River House
The River House
Circa 1830
The Mansion at Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia
The Mansion House was constructed by Jones in 1852

Chippokes State Park is home to two historic houses. The River House Circa 1830 was occupied initially by owner Albert Carroll Jones. The second house known as the Mansion House was constructed by Jones in 1852, along with the accompanying brick kitchen. This stately structure was even built using materials from the property.

Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia
The Mansion House is available for interior and exterior tours as part of the park admission.

At the time of Jones’ ownership Chippokes was the home of fruit orchards and my guide Joel, explained that this was once the site of one of Virginia’s few legal distilleries. People even claim this plantation survived the Civil War because Jones sold brandy to both sides during the war.

The River House is only viewable from the outside at this time and is in the process of being restored. The Mansion House however, is available for interior and exterior tours as part of the park admission. Victor and Evelyn Stewart were the last owners of the property and donated Chippokes to the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1967 with the purpose of it being used as a park. The Stewarts are buried on the property as well in the Paradise Gardens.

Things to do a Chippokes

Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia
Trails at Chippokes State Park

The visitors center should be a first stop and has a plethora of information about ongoing programs at the park, trail maps, and information about the local area. Park Packs are available as well for checkout from the Visitors Center to explore the park.

Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia
Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia

Taking a fossil walk with a Park Interpreter or finding sharks teeth on the beach (that you can keep) is a unique opportunity at Chippokes State Park that visitors should definitely take advantage of when visiting. For horse lovers the park has marked equestrians areas for trailer parking and trail ride exploration. In addition to these activities picnicking areas that include rentable shelters with grills and drinking water is an option for visitors who want to relax and enjoy nature.

Camping at Chippokes

On the grounds of Chippokes State Park is a well laid out campground with tent and RV style sites. The campground is laid out in a traditional loop style consisting of two loops. If you’re interested in spending the night you can rent a yurt or bring your own RV, camper or tent. Chippokes also, has cabins for rent on the property.

Walnut Valley House at Chippokes State Park
Walnut Valley House at Chippokes State Park available for nightly rentals.

In the campground there is a bathhouse with showers and restroom facilities. The campground has a dump station, laundry, firewood and an amphitheater where welcoming campfires take place. Group sites are available as well to rent.

Bathhouse at Chippokes State Park Surry, Virginia
Bathhouse at Chippokes State Park Surry, Virginia
Camping site Chippokes State Park Surry, Virginia
Bathhouse at Chippokes State Park Surry, Virginia
Inside the showers of the bathhouse at Chippokes State Park Surry, Virginia
Bathhouse at Chippokes State Park Surry, Virginia
Inside the women’s restrooms at Chippokes State Park Surry, Virginia

The sites are mostly wooded and it was a very quiet area when I camped. Each site had a trash pole, firepit and picnic table as well as ample room to set up a tent or park a rv. The site I rented also, had a nice elevated gravel area for tent camping or sitting.

Things to note if you’re interested in camping at Chippokes:

•the bathhouse is a little dated, but it was always very clean and well maintained during my stay

•the park is rustic and isn’t a KOA or privately owned campground

•campsites fees included 6 people and 2 vehicles

•the campground allows pets if registered prior and this campground does not allow generator use.

•from the campground it is a quick free (car) ferry ride across the James River to Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens and Yorktown.

•the swimming pool was closed during my visit July 2023 and will be closed through the year

•I would recommend coming with a cooler or refrigerator of food if you’re planning to stay as there aren’t many places close by for grocery or food service.

Fossils, Beaches and History

Bathhouse at Chippokes State Park Surry, Virginia

If you’re looking for a fun day trip, something to add to your Historical Triangle vacation or a stop to setup camp that’s outside the bustle of the city Chippokes State Park has a lot to offer. From fossil/ shark tooth hunting, picnicking, beautiful beaches and history you’re bound to find something for everyone to enjoy at Chippokes. The park is very peaceful and even when the campground is fully occupied the spots are roomy enough to still feel connected to nature.

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Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to pin this idea on your vacation board for your next trip inspiration and to check out my other travel posts. 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 .

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Visit Chincoteague Island Virginia

Krystle Kitchen

I would describe Chincoteague Island, Virginia as a peaceful and a quiet piece of paradise. The island is know for its wild horses and a slower pace of life. The town itself is very charming and has many unique shops, delicious restaurants and prestine shores. In this blog post I’m going to tell you three reasons you need to book a trip to Chincoteague Island, Virginia for yourself.

What is so unique about Chincoteague Island?

Chincoteague Island, Virginia Theater
In front of the Island Theater in Chincoteague Island, Va you can see Misty’s hoof prints 🐴

If you’re not familiar with the book Misty by Marguerite Henry (written on the island) or seen the 1961 movie you might not know about Chincoteague Island’s unique tradition. The local fire department on the island is know for its annual pony auction fundraiser where the saltwater cowboys go onto Assateague Island and head up the wild horses that roam there.

Statue of Misty on Main Street in Chincoteague Island, Va
Statue of Misty on Main Street in Chincoteague Island, Va

The horses are vet checked and swam across the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague Island where foals from the herd are auctioned off to the highest bidder. The proceeds go to future wild horse care and to the fire department. Afterwards the adult ponies and a buy back foal (one bought to return to the island) are then swam back to the island.

This unique tradition is known worldwide and if you’re a horse enthusiast seeing the wild ponies is quite exhilarating. It is worth the visit to Chincoteague Island in itself to be able to see the untouched beauty of these animals. You can learn more about Pony Pinning ,as well as experience the island’s rich history and local culture on your trip to Chincoteague Island, Virginia.

Where to stay on Chincoteague Island

Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Pool at Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Pool at Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia

There are a lot of choices from traditional hotels and motels to Bed and Breakfasts, rentals and Air B&B when you’re looking at lodging in Chincoteague Island. The newest and one of the most unique choice for lodging in Chincoteague is the Key West Cottages. From the pastel hues and bay-front accommodations this new resort will bring a tropical vibe to your Chincoteague Island, Virginia vacation. During my trip I stayed in one of their Conch Cottages which was very roomy and had a stocked kitchen equipped with a microwave, dishwasher, blender, coffee maker, full refrigerator/freezer and small table.

The views of the Chincoteague Bay from the cottage and the sunset was spectacular.

In addition, this cottage had a sitting area with tv, separate bedroom with a queen bed and wall mounted tv along with a walk- in shower and ample storage space. The views of the Chincoteague Bay from the cottage and the sunset was spectacular. Key West Cottages was close to many local attractions and dinning. The resort has so many fun amenities though you don’t even have to leave.

Grilling up dinner at the Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Grilling up dinner at the Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Bring your drink mix and Key West Cottages will supply the blender for your visit to Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Fresh tuna, grilled lobster and shrimp all from a local store and cooked on the grill at Key West Cottages in Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Weber grill for use at Key West Cottages in Chincoteague Island, Virginia

One of my favorite things about staying at the Key West Cottages was the ability to grill and dine in. The area outside the cottages had several Weber grills and grilling utensils for use. While staying I was able to go to the local grocery store for fresh fish and to grill for dinner. Furthermore there are several places nearby to launch your boat and charters available too if you want to catch your dinner. The cottage had a nice kitchen area for food preparation.

Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia
The kitchen at Key West Cottages even has a blender
for your enjoyment
Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia
The kitchen at Key West Cottage is full stocked
Key West Cottages Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Imagine sitting and enjoying a tropical drink while lounging in the pool at Key West Cottages in Chincoteague Island, Virginia

Being able to stay in after a day of exploring or enjoying the private beach or pool was an added bonus of this beautiful location. In addition to all the essential plates, cups and silverware needed the cottage even had a blender. Making drinks to enjoy on the Key West Cottage private beach or Bayside cottage porch definitely made this trip feel like a tropical vacation. Key West Cottages thought of everything, including a camping lantern in the room that could be used outside and an umbrella incase it rained.

Things to do and see on Virginia’s Eastern Shore

Eastern Shore, Virginia
The wildlife refuge on Virginia’s Eastern Shore has plenty of nature to see and beautiful photo opportunities.

There are so many beautiful overlooks and wildlife areas around Chincoteague Island, Virginia and on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. The area it’s truly an outdoor lover’s dream. On the drive north after coming across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel there is a refuge that has a visitor’s center, butterfly trail, a marsh overlook, boat launch and lots of information on the area. I would recommend stopping here. Though the weather was a bit gloomy and it did rain when I was there it was still a pretty area to visit. Plenty of signs are visible after crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel to direct to parks and overlooks.

The ghost fleet at Kiptopeke State Park on Virginia’s Eastern Shore
The ghost fleet at Kiptopeke State Park on Virginia’s Eastern Shore

Another stop to make is at Kiptopeke State Park. This park has some cool views and from the shore one can also, see the ghost fleet of Kiptopeke. The ghost fleet is comprised of old cement ships used during WWII to transport commodities. When no longer needed they were moored off the coast to stand as a jetty. On a clear day more details can be seen, but in the mist they looked quite eerie. Both of these areas are an easy stop on the way up north to Chincoteague.

Diasy Island Cruises Chincoteague, Virginia
Diasy Island Cruises Chincoteague, Virginia
Diasy Island Cruises Chincoteague, Virginia
Diasy Island Cruises Chincoteague, Virginia

While you’re visiting Chincoteague Island I would highly suggesting booking a cruise with Daisey Island Cruises. Their cruises are very affordable and offer views of the island you can’t get while on land. They offer Dolphin cruise, wildlife boat cruises and they can also, customize special cruise to fit you or your groups needs. Imagine being able to get up close to the wild horses of Chincoteague and Assateague Island. This certainly is a once and a lifetime experience that you will treasure for years to come.

Dining in Chincoteague

After all the exploring you’re sure to have an appetite and if you love fresh seafood you’re going to especially enjoy many of the restaurants on Chincoteague Island. You’ll find multiple choices that specialize in fresh and local seafood. I would definitely suggest checking out Don’s Seafood while you’re visiting. This hotspot has been serving up local favorites since 1973! The food at Don’s was very flavorful and there were ample choices of fish and seafood on the menu plus other items. The crab legs were especially delicious and the portions were huge.

Peach Melba and French Toast brunch at Bill’s Prime Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Peach Melba and French Toast brunch at Bill’s Prime Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Cracking crabs at Don’s Seafood Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Cracking crabs at Don’s Seafood Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Made to order donut at the Sandy Pony Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Made to order donut at the Sandy Pony Chincoteague Island, Virginia

While visiting Chincoteague Island, Virginia I also, enjoyed brunch at a cute little place called Bill’s Prime on Main St and I recommend them. The staff were very friendly and the food was delicious. Tourist and locals alike were standing out the door waiting to be served. If you’re not looking for a sit down and more of a quick bite there are choices for quick service too. I would suggest ordering some delicious made to order donuts while you’re in town from the Sandy Pony.

The lighthouse at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
The lighthouse at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

Wild horses, fresh seafood and nature are calling

From the foodie looking to explore new restaurants, the fresh seafood lover or someone that enjoys fishing for your own dinner Chincoteague Island, Virginia has you covered. The location makes it easy to get outdoors too and visitors can find a slower pace of life by walking or bike around breathing in the fresh sea breeze. Chincoteague Island, Virginia and Virginia’s Eastern Shore truly has something for everyone! Book your own stay today wild horses, fresh seafood and nature are calling.

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Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to pin this idea on your vacation board for your next trip inspiration and to check out my other travel posts. If you are a hotel, campground, or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com .

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Virginia Holiday Pop Up Bars

Krystle Kitchen

(UPDATED 2025) The holiday season is the perfect time to embrace festive cheer, and what better way to do that than by visiting a holiday pop-up bar? I recently enjoyed two incredible experiences in Virginia that truly captured the magic of the season. First, I explored the Miracle Pop-Up at Waterside in Norfolk, part of an exciting national themed pop up collection, and then I delighted in the tropical charm of Rum and Reindeer at Island Shrimp Company in Rockett’s Landing, Richmond. Both venues offered vibrant décor, unique cocktails, and an atmosphere brimming with joyful celebration and ideal for creating unforgettable memories this holiday season!

Miracle at Waterside Drive Pop Up Holiday Bar

Miracle on Waterside Drive Pop Up Bar

Miracle on Waterside Dr. Holiday Pop Up bar is located in the Waterside District in Norfolk, Virginia and is packed with festive decor. They had a whole menu of speciality holiday themed cocktails (mocktails) and small bites. I liked the photo opps that were offered too. During the experience I chose to prepay to building a gingerbread house. The gingerbread house was in a kit and had everything I needed to build it during my visit.

Miracle on Waterside Holiday Pop Up Bar
Miracle on Waterside Holiday Pop Up Bar
Miracle on Waterside Holiday Pop Up Bar
Miracle on Waterside Holiday Pop Up Bar
Miracle on Waterside Dr Pop Up Norfolk, Va

This Pop Up experience would make for the perfect girls night out or a date night. If you’re local to or visiting Virginia and want to go you’ll need reservations to check this out at Waterside in Norfolk, Virginia before it ends Jan 1. If you’re not local check online because there may be a Miracle Popup bar near you.

Reindeer and Rum Bar+ Igloo Experience Island Shrimp Co.

Rum and Reindeer Bar and Igloo Experience is located at Island Shrimp Co. Rockett’s Landing in Richmond, Virginia. During my experience we enjoyed tropical drinks with holiday themed names at the holiday decorated bar and then were led outside on the restaurant’s deck to our private igloo.

Inside Rum and Reindeer Bar + Igloo Dinning Richmond, Va

The igloo is reserved for two hours and seats four people. The igloo included a personal faux fireplace heater, blankets, a faux fur loveseat and a table. We enjoyed drinks and a delicious dinner with dessert followed by adult milk and cookies. All this while being cozy inside our igloo and looking at views of the illuminated Richmond, Virginia skyline. This experience was very unique and memorable!

5 Reasons You Should Visit a Holiday Pop Up Bar this Season

1. Festive atmosphere: Holiday pop-up bars are often decorated with cheerful and festive themes, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere. This can help people get into the holiday spirit and feel the joy and excitement of the season.

2. Novelty and experience: Pop-up bars offer a temporary and limited-time experience that adds an element of novelty. People enjoy the idea of visiting a place that is only available for a short period, making it a special and memorable occasion.

3. Socializing and gathering: Holiday pop-up bars attract friends, families, and even strangers who come together to enjoy the festivities. It provides a communal space for people to connect, socialize, and celebrate the holidays with loved ones or meet new people who share similar interests.

4. Unique drinks and offerings: Many holiday pop-up bars feature specialty cocktails, seasonal beverages, and creative menu items that are not typically found in regular bars. These unique offerings can be a draw for people seeking new flavors and experiences.

5. Escape from everyday life: Holiday pop-up bars allow individuals to escape the daily routine and immerse themselves in a whimsical and magical setting. It can provide a temporary reprieve from the usual stresses and responsibilities, offering a chance to relax and have fun.

Ultimately, visiting a holiday pop-up bar can be a delightful way to embrace the holiday season, create lasting memories, and enjoy a festive and joyful atmosphere with others.

Experiencing a Pop Up Bar

Overall I think these themed pop up bar experiences are really cool. Both of the pop up bars I visited added to my celebration of the holidays and making new memories. For someone that loves taking pictures both of these locations offered plenty of photo opportunities too. If you’re looking for something unique to do this holiday season I would recommend checking out a pop up bar near you!

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Christmas at Gaylord National

Krystle Kitchen

There is something magical about holiday decorations and this time of the year. The twinkling lights, the smell of cookies baking, and the cozy feelings that come with the holidays. Not everyone wants to put up an elaborate display of their own though and going to visit a holiday light display is a great way to enjoy beautiful decorations without the stress.

A list of some of the holiday activities this year at Gaylord National. This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of them, and make a purchase I’ll receive a commission at no charge to you.

The Gaylord National is one of my favorite holiday displays to visit. Not only is the atrium always beautifully decorated and full of Christmas lights, but the hotel also, has many themed activities. Some of the holiday activities for purchase this year include the I Love Christmas Movies walk-through, holiday Build-A-Bear popup, Sweet Shoppe, Tree Lot bar, a rendition of the Christmas Story, and a holiday light show in the atrium (free).

I Love Christmas Movies Experience

Some of my favorite Christmas movie props

One of the new activities this year is the I Love Christmas Movies features a unique walk-through. This experience emerges the visitor in some of the classic Christmas Movies sets such as Year Without a Santa Clause, Christmas Vacation, Christmas Story, The Polar Express, and Elf. In the experience, one can walk into areas with backdrops and props from these movies. Santa’s workshop from Elf, the train from Polar Express, the house from Christmas Vacation, and the town from Year Without a Santa Clause were my favorites of the experience.

Outside the Snow Factory the Build-A-Bear popup shop has many holiday plush to choose from.

Outside the walk-through is a gift shop featuring many products from classic Christmas movies and the Snow Factory area which has many fun holiday-themed activities. Some of the activities this year include an ice hill for tubing, snowball fight games, a Build-A-Bear popup shop, Gingerbread house decorating, a scavenger hunt, and other activities like ice bumper cars. There is enough to keep young and young at heart entertained for the day.

Sweet Treats and Food Options

The Holiday Sweet Shoppe had Hot Cocoa and Eggnog plus the choice of additional alcohol for that extra kick and lots of yummy treats.

The hotel restaurant Old Hickory Steakhouse is a great option if you have time to sit down and enjoy a meal during your visit. I would suggest making reservations in advance if you want to dine there though. Other food options include a marketplace for quick service eats and a popup pizza place in the atrium. There are plenty of options for festive holiday drinks and treats as well in the atrium.

The Tree Lot bar had lots of choices for seasonal holiday drinks.

At the popup Holiday Sweet Shoppe, I tried eggnog with a choice of fireball for an extra kick. The Shoppe also, contained gingerbread houses, holiday treats, Yule log cakes, and desserts to tempt. There was a popup-themed Tree Lot bar in the atrium that had some delicious seasonal drink options as well. I tried the Home for the Holidays cocktail there featuring rum and clove. Both drinks and the macaroon cookies I had at these locations were delicious.

The light show inside the atrium is a must see!

Visiting Gaylord National kicks off our Christmas season and I can highly recommend going to the Gaylord National to celebrate the holiday season. We have made coming to Gaylord National part of our holiday traditions and our first Christmas activity each year. My favorite part of the night is grabbing a drink and watching the light show inside the atrium each year. If you’re local to the National Harbor area the Gaylord National is perfect for a day trip and if you’re a few hours away like me booking an overnight stay extends the fun of this wonderful holiday experience. This would be the perfect place to start a holiday tradition.