Summer in Virginia is a magical time. The days are longer, the evenings are more special, and there's no better place to be than outside. So why not enjoy your meals outside, too? You might argue that food actually tastes better when the atmosphere is beautiful. So when the weather calls for it, you'll definitely want to opt for the outdoor dining option in these restaurants. From oversized umbrellas, to tea lights and waterfront views, you'll have no trouble spending a few hours at these local outdoor dining spots.
Clyde's Willow Creek Farm is a New American Restaurant with an absolutely charming outdoor patio. Aside from being a great spot to enjoy a well-prepared meal, Clyde's happens to be an attraction too. The building itself is actually a composite of four buildings dating back from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries that were brought to the property, restored, and connected together. Visitors will enjoy browsing all kinds of Americana antiques. Photographed above is one of the tasty entree options, a bison burger complete with the works: fried onions, pico de gallo, and white cheddar cheese.
Petit Pois Restaurant is the perfect spot to sit back and enjoy the charming downtown mall in Charlottesville. The patio seating provides a comfortable and elegant atmosphere that pairs beautifully with the carefully selected food and drink menus. The restaurants supports local famers by using local meat and produce and creating mouthwatering French fare. Photographed above is a fresh salad frisee topped with a poached egg.
Postbellum is a fantastic dining spot in Richmond's historic Fan district for many reasons, but perhaps mostly for its incredible rooftop dining. The menu uses postbellum cooking methods and recipes to create a new spin on classic southern favorites. The dishes here are fabulous and flavorful, whether you opt for a full entree such as the potato gnocchi (above), or lighter bar fare such as the truffle fries. You won't be disappointed.
Since 1939, Steinhilber's has been a Virginia Beach favorite for the local catch. The restaurant pairs fine dining with family-style, and you can bet that the seafood here is the real deal. The outdoor seating arrangements are simply beautiful. You can choose to sit around a fire pit table, which will make for an especially cozy choice when the sun goes down and the temperature starts to drop. Looking out over the Lyhnaven River, this restaurant will provide an unforgettable dining experience, especially if you decide to order the calamari appetizer.
Aside from having absolutely fantastic coffee, Petersburg's Demolition Coffee is also well-known for tasty breakfasts and fresh lunch fares. The outdoor seating provides the perfect view of charming downtown Petersburg. Pictured above is the Sunshine Salad, which features seasonal fruit, swiss cheese, and housemade vinaigrette. If you're in need of the perfect mid-morning or early-afternoon pick-me-up, this is the place to go.
Sweet Donna's is a little neighborhood treasure in Northern Virginia. You can enjoy some of the best barbecue in the area from their charming outdoor seating area. This sidewalk patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a barbecue platter and a little people watching too. The atmosphere at Sweet Fire Donna's is relaxed and comfortable, the perfect set up for comfort food. The pulled pork platter features delicious homemade cornbread, mac and cheese, and cole slaw.
Way back in the day, sailors coming to the New World would refer to wine as "canary." This was considered an important provision to bring on board, and the Fat Canary of Williamsburg treats their wine and gourmet food with the same priority. Since its opening 11 years ago, this downtown spot has received the AAA Four Diamond award 10 times. During the warmer months, there's no better place to enjoy their impressive menu than the lovely outside patio. Photographed above is entree special of halibut and fresh vegetables.
Steamed shrimp and a sunset view? It's hard to imagine anything more heavenly. The Deadrise Seafood Restaurant is located on the Old Point Comfort Marina. This full-service seafood restaurant has traditional options as well as a little contemporary flair. This makes for a delicious menu that's sure to have a little something for everyone. The Deadrise is named for a kind of traditional fishing boat commonly used along the Chesapeake Bay. It's definitely a place to visit soon if you're looking for a nautical night out.
Brick-oven baked pizza? Check. Great selection of beer? Check. Outdoor patio dining? Check. Waterstone pizza covers all the wonderful bases for a fabulous pizza joint. When the weather's nice, there's just something about eating outside that will make these pizzas taste even better. And if you're in the mood for something else, the menu has a nice variety of other starters and entrees. One of the most popular appetizers is the fresh mozzarella and friend green tomato stack.
The By&By has been a been a staple in Staunton since 2002. A fantastic little coffee shop and beer garden, this spot is also known for its bagels, sandwiches, and other treats. What's even better is these things can be enjoyed out in their cozy, tucked away patio seating outback. This outdoor beer garden also hosts lots of fun events throughout the year, such as Monday Movie Nights and their own Octoberfest.
Have you been to any of these incredible outdoor dining spots in Virginia? Where are some of your favorite places to go that might have missed the list? We'd love to hear your thoughts!
Restaurants in Virginia come in just about every shape and size. From the chains off of highway exits to the personalized farm-to-table spots, there's no shortage of options when it comes to the dining scene. And then there are some endearingly quirky, downright bizarre spots with no rhyme or reason. Just outside of Lexington, you'll find the Pink Cadillac Diner in Natural Bridge, a local gem that's every bit as lovable as it is unique. If you've got a weakness for Elvis, delicious diner food, and the '50s, this is the place for you. Without further ado, here's everything you need to know about planning your visit to The Pink Cadillac Diner, a quirky diner in Virginia.
The food at The Pink Cadillac is great, but folks stop in at this local joint for a little something more. Walk through the doors, and you'll be taken back in time a few decades. You'll arrive in a place filled with music, chatter, malts, and more.
You'll even get a chance to visit with Elvis. He's made his way to just about every corner of the diner. Look for his photos on the walls and the menu, and if you're lucky, you might even run into the King himself (well, an impersonator). Flip through the tunes on the old-school jukebox, and choose your favorites. Perhaps an Elvis single?
While the Elvis theme is alive and well, there are plenty of other eclectic treasures in store. With themed bathroom stalls and a retro ambiance, it's safe to say you can expect the unexpected when you visit The Pink Cadillac Diner in Virginia. You can even buy Pink Cadillac t-shirts and coffee mugs to commemorate your visit.
Marvel at the decor while enjoying some of the fine cooking. Perusing The Pink Cadillac diner menu is sure to get your stomach growling. You might be craving an Elvis cheeseburger, a massive plate of spaghetti, a homemade breakfast, or a tasty combo of any of the 24 flavors of Hershey's ice cream. Pair your entree with a milkshake, topped with whipped cream and a cherry, for a real blast from the past. Ask about the day's desserts, too, which might include old-school banana splits, hot fudge sundaes, and ice cream sandwiches.
Banana Split
The Pink Cadillac is my favorite old-school diner in Virginia, and no matter what my entree, I always order a side of fries. Grilled cheese? Fries. Spaghetti? Fries. The golden fries are simply heavenly, the kind I'll go out of my way to find. But it's so much more than the food that draws me to this Rockbridge County gem. The vibe is chill, and the people are friendly. It's more than a meal; it's an experience.
And don't forget about the inspiration for the diner: the Pink Cadillac, parked right by the diner, itself. Snap selfies with this famous Cadillac before or after your visit.
Whether you're stopping by for a quick breakfast, or plan on spending a leisurely dinner here, you're sure to make some fine memories at The Pink Cadillac. Find more information on the official Facebook page of The Pink Cadillac Diner.
If you're up for a day trip, start your adventure at Virginia Safari Park, an animal park in Natural Bridge, where you can feed giraffes and get an up-close look at a variety of animals. The park is less than two miles from The Pink Cadillac Diner. Or, if you feel like a hike, head out on the Lace Falls Trail, a waterfall trail at Natural Bridge State Park. Don't forget your camera.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
