* First Landing State Park, : 2500 Shore Drive, 757-412-2300; virginiastateparks.gov. With more than a million visitors each year, First Landing State Park is Virginia's most visited park. In 1607, 100 English settlers landed there and established the first elective government before moving on up the James River to establish Jamestown. Now there are 19 miles of hiking trails, bike trails, a boat ramp and picnic areas. Cabins are available (warning: most book up to a year in advance). Two bedroom cabins, $133 per night, $791 per week; lower rates off-season; camping $24-$30.
* False Cape State Park,: 4001 Sandpiper Road, 757-426-7128; virginiastateparks.gov. A mile-wide barrier spit between Back Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. In the 1800s, False Cape was known as a "ship's graveyard." Now, the park features an extensive environmental education program in one of the last undisturbed coastal environments on the East Coast. Access is by boat, foot, bike or tram from Little Island City Park. Primitive camping, $11 per day, is available with prior registration.
* Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge,: 757-721-2412. backbay.fws.gov. A 9,200-acre freshwater wetland with beaches, sand dunes and wildlife including migratory birds, marsh hawks, snow geese and loggerhead turtles. Annotated observation areas. Bike paths, walking trails and boardwalks. Canoe and kayak launch and electric tram rides also available.
Nightlife
* Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, : 201 Market St., Town Center, 757-385-2555, box office: 757-385-2787. sandlercenter.org. This spectacular venue is home to the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and "Broadway at the Center." Concerts, dance, Broadway plays and other cultural events are presented year-round.
* Beach Street USA, : Atlantic Avenue from 17th to 25th streets, 757-491-7866; beachstreetusa.com. The strip along Atlantic Avenue is home to free entertainment each and every evening, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Puppets, jugglers, magicians, live concerts and theatrical productions take place along the oceanfront.
* Abbey Road, : 203 22nd St., 757-425-6330. Named for the Beatles album, Abbey Road has more than 100 beers and a wine list that includes several organic selections to accompany its seafood-heavy menu. There's live music every night until 2 a.m. with no cover charge. Food service until 1 a.m.
Fun
