R U a History Buff?

If you want to stay near the hotel, check out Fort Norfolk, the last remaining of 19 harbor-front forts authorized in 1794 by President George Washington. The fort's 4-acre site overlooks the Elizabeth River. It includes earthwork embankments, ramparts, a dungeon, officers' quarters, powder magazine, barracks, and guardhouse.

The fort helped protect Norfolk during the War of 1812. In 1862 the fort was recaptured by the Union Army and used as a prison. In 1923 the fort was occupied by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which still owns the Fort.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Come on in...the water's fine!

You'll find over 700,000 gallons of one of the best aquariums and live animal habitats in the country at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center located in Virginia Beach. The journey of water introduces you to the many aquatic animals and plants that are native to the state. You'll see sharks and stingrays, as well as river otters, seahorses, snakes and other marsh dwellers. There is also a half-acre bird aviary and you'll see 55 different species of native birds.
You can walk along a nature trail through salt marsh and woodland preserve between the Aquarium's buildings. If you aren't afraid of heights, then climb the 30-foot observation tower to get a view of Owls Creek.

Does a stingray really feel like wet bologna? What do a horseshoe crab's mouth and a toothbrush have in common? Find out for yourself! Where else can you examine skulls, shells, and shark jaws? There are 300 interactive exhibits to learn more about marshes, the Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

For more information and to plan your trip, go to http://www.virginiaaquarium.com.

See you in Norfolk!

Life's a Beach!

Come to Norfolk a few days before the conference and relax at the beach! Picture it ... sun, sand, and rolling waves. Virginia Beach has long been considered a "classic American beach vacation" spot. The Chesapeake Bay, Resort area and Sandbridge are three of the distinct beaches within the city where you can enjoy a calm, peaceful beach setting or be right in the middle of all the action. Whatever it is you desire in a beach, this stretch of the Virginia coast aims to please. If your idea of a "day at the beach" is more relaxed, then you'll want to visit Chesapeake Bay Beach for a tranquil spot along the scenic Chesapeake Bay.

Pocahontas Welcomes YOU to Jamestown!

Jamestown was America’s first permanent English colony, in Virginia in 1607 – 13 years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock. There are a lot of activities for exploring the first permanent English settlement in North America. You can share the moment of discovery with archaeologists and witness archaeology-in-action at the 1607 James Fort excavation, tour the original 17th-century church tower and reconstructed 17th-century Jamestown Memorial Church, take a walking tour with a park ranger through the original settlement along the scenic James River, and even "meet" a 17th-century personality. Who knows? Maybe you'll get a chance to meet Pocahontas!

Williamsburg - a short trip from Norfolk

Experience life in 18th century by visiting the largest living outdoor history museum in Colonial Williamsburg. Maybe you could rent a car for the day and drive up to Williamsburg. You can go off on your own, or you can take a private tour, where you'll learn all about Colonial Williamsburg Virginia.

Have you ever tasted Virginia wine? While you are in Williamsburg, take a tour of the local winery, surrounded by over 50 acres of vineyards. You can tour through the winery, museum and underground barrel cellars, and of course, taste seven wines after the tour and receive an etched tasting glass.

If you are a kid at heart, then head to Busch Gardens, which was voted America's most beautiful theme park. You'll find more than forty rides, shows, and attractions. Are you a roller coaster fan? Then this is the place for you! Busch Gardens is known for its world-class roller coaster rides, such as the Alpengeist and Apollo's Chariot.

It's not to early...

to plan your trip to Norfolk for the NALS Annual Conference. There is a lot to do in the area, so plan a mini-vacation in conjunction with the conference. You will want to arrive in Norfolk on Wednesday, September 10 because we'll start with our first session early Thursday morning. Think about going down a few days early to take in the history of Williamsburg or relax on the beach. Mark your calendar now and plan to attend a weekend of networking, education and fun!