The Lake Smith Reservoir in nearby Norfolk offers outdoor lovers an excellent chance to make a big splash! Lake Smith is an impressively large body of water that takes up nearly 193 acres, but offers safe aquatic fun as it is only five feet deep all the way around. In addition to fishing and sunbathing, anglers can enjoy catching some highly desirable largemouth bass.
Travel back to a time when the only mode of mass transportation was the railroad. A slice of that history is still very much alive in Portsmouth with the Pokey Smokey. Efforts to raise funds to complete the repair of an impressive scale replica of this 19th century steam locomotive are underway. For 41 years, the Pokey Smokey traveled through Portsmouth City Park and offered the opportunity for visitors to ride through and see the area from a truly unique perspective. Soon, that tradition will be continued again. Until then, history buffs and train enthusiasts can still flock to see the Pokey Smokey for a closer look and for many excellent photo opportunities.
Enjoying a superb concert outdoors is always a treat for the senses. Thanks to the nTelos Wireless Pavilion, it is an experience that you can enjoy on regular basis. This 6,500 capacity outdoor venue is expansive enough to allow you to stretch out but also intimate enough to allow you to get lost in the music being created on stage. The entertainment venue has hosted an impressive roster of performers that include Tony Bennett, Vince Gill, BB King, Tom Petty and Anita Baker. Performances are always being added, so check the website regularly to stay informed of upcoming shows.
Fans of biking have to travel a bit, but the experience of the the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail in nearby King George is well worth the travel time. This is a 32 mile loop trail located near King George and is suitable for all kinds of skill levels. While you may see the occasional walker or runner, the recreation trail is primarily used for road biking and is accessible year-round.