Gaber, Joe

Norfolk's connection to the United States Navy is quite obvious when you visit the city. But nowhere is it more vividly brought to life than at the site of the USS Wisconsin. This is the last U.S. Battleship to be built. The impressive vessel has enjoyed a colorful career that includes being employed in three wars over 50 years. Relive the details and see some fascinating attractions when you visit the ship's museum.

Kelly's Tavern is one of those rare places where you feel instantly comfortable the moment you walk in the door. This nightlife venue is located in the city's trendy Ghent area and offers a great lunch menu that includes burgers, fries, and chicken sandwiches. When the day winds down, though, Kelly's draws in a wide variety of patrons that range from young professionals to students to college professors, and more. The mood is always so inviting that no matter where you come from, you'll fit right in!

York River State Park offers beautiful scenery as well as several recreation trails that offer a chance to get a unique view of the park's lush surroundings. Two of the most popular are the Majestic Oak Trail that is used more by bikers and horseback riders than hikers, and the Mataponi Trail that offers a great view of the York River and the 7-acre Woodstock Pond.

The two of you feel like escaping, but don't really have the time to get away for long. Perhaps just getting off dry land will make you both feel like you've gotten away from it all. A fun way to do that is to hop aboard the Carrie B Showboat for an unforgettable romantic date. You'll travel on the Carrie B, a 19th century Mississippi Riverboat as you take in the sights of the Norfolk waterfront. You'll be both informed and entertained by the riverboat's captain as he points out areas of interest along the way.