What’s New in Virginia Beach for 2017?
The Historic Cavalier Hotel Opens, Following a $70-million Renovation
The historic 1927 storied property, once considered to be the crown jewel of the mid-Atlantic oceanfront, will be brought to life when it reopens its doors this summer as a distinguished member of Marriott’s Autograph Collection. The hotel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is undergoing a total refurbish and the addition of a luxurious spa, fine-dining restaurants, a bourbon distillery and more. Staying true to the meaning behind its name, the renovated Cavalier will bring back the days of elegant and refined hospitality, impeccable service and glamorous etiquette. www.CavalierHotel.com
The Area’s First Farmer-Driven Restaurant Now Owns New Earth Farm
Commune, Virginia Beach’s first farmer-owned restaurant, is the true definition of farm-to-table. Located within the ViBe Creative District, Kevin Jamison opened the zero-waste business in early 2016, with an on-site herb garden, as an extension of his love for homegrown, healthy and hearty food. Kevin has taken his dream to the next level, purchasing New Earth Farm – a working, sustainable and educational farm located in the local Pungo farming community. He has started building a solar-powered henhouse, which he expects to supply all of Commune’s eggs, and by March, he hopes to revive the farm’s “Food Lab” cooking, pickling and fermenting classes for visitors and locals alike. While the farm will be capable of supplying all of the restaurant’s produce needs, Commune will continue to seek out unique offerings from other regional growers and to collaborate with the local community, including a partnership with the area’s sustainable schools to improve their culinary programs. www.CommuneVB.com
Coastal Virginia Brewery, Smartmouth, Finds a New Home in Virginia Beach
Smartmouth Brewery Co. was crafted in our neighboring city, Norfolk. The craft brewery, which will be known as the “Pilot House,” is opening its second location at the Resort Beach this fall. Housed within a former post office, the fully-renovated space will feature a small-batch brewery system, private event space, a tasting room as well as an outdoor patio for guests to enjoy during the warmer months. This new oceanfront hotspot will continue Smartmouth’s mission to brew quality craft beer with an emphasis on flavor over flash. www.SmartmouthBrewing.com
Virginia Beach Welcomes the Destination’s First Hyatt Brand Hotel to the Oceanfront
A new Hyatt House hotel will make the Virginia Beach oceanfront its home when it opens its doors this spring. The 19-story, 156-room hotel, located at 27th Street will be the destination’s first Hyatt property, providing guests with a four-star lodging experience themed and inspired by the local beaches. Amenities will include a fully equipped fitness center, meeting space, indoor pool, 24-hour room service and a 5-foot backlit waterfall on Atlantic Avenue. www.virginiabeach.house.hyatt.com
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Prepares for 2018 Expansion
The Aquarium’s Marsh Pavilion is gearing up for more than $9 million in improvements, that when completed will include outdoor learning and play areas, a conservation garden, new exhibits and a veterinary wing, the Mid-Atlantic Marine Animal Conservation Center. Also home to The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium, the renovations will include an expansion of the aerial park, including additional ropes courses and a view platform across Owl’s Creek. Construction is slated to begin in 2018. www.VirginiaAquarium.com