The Williamsburg Area Restaurant Association (WARA) has launched a new initiative to encourage visitors and residents to enjoy a takeout meal at a local park. Park & Dine launched on Earth Day.
James City County is pleased to have several parks participating as options in this initiative.
- Chickahominy Riverfront Park is off of Route 5 (John Tyler Highway) and is an access point to the Virginia Capital Trail. This park has scenic views of the Chickahominy River and Gordon Creek and has some of the most incredible sunset views in the area. A great location to visit and then hop on the Virginia Capital Trail for a quick post-meal ride or enjoy water recreation (kayaking, canoeing, boat ramp and fishing).
- Freedom Park is one of James City County’s most historical parks with history dating back to the 1650s. Freedom Park is located off of Centerville Road and is more than 600 acres including two miles of multi-use trails, a one-mile ADA accessible paved trail and mountain biking trails. The Williamsburg Botanical Garden is located within Freedom Park and has a green roof pavilion, which is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal. Freedom Park is a dog-friendly park, so feel free to bring your pet.
- Jamestown Beach Event Park is located across from Jamestown Settlement, on the James River shoreline and has a variety of shaded and non-shaded picnic tables that are perfect for a meal. With stunning sunsets and an observational pier, this is a perfect spot to enjoy a meal. This fully accessible park also features an ADA accessible walkway, parking, restrooms and beach mat providing direct access to the river.
- Upper County Park is a 56-acre park is located in the northern portion of James City County. The park amenities include two playgrounds, three shelters, outdoor pool, walking and mountain bike trails, basketball courts, sand volleyball court, primitive camping and lots of open space. Upper County Park is a great hidden gem for an afternoon adventure and perfectly suitable for families.
- Veterans Park located off of Monticello Avenue is easily one of the most well-known parks in James City County. Veterans Park, formerly Mid County Park, is home to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial monument to honor residents who gave their lives in the Vietnam War. The 19-acre park is also home to Kidsburg, a 30,000-square-foot lighted playground that features separate play areas for children ages 2-5 and 5-12, a ship replica, swing areas and a zip line. Other park amenities include a 0.6-mile paved ADA accessible multiuse trail, sand volleyball courts, lighted basketball courts and pickleball courts, Wi-Fi connectivity and lots of open space. This park is ideal for families with children who need to burn off their energy after a meal! Veterans Park has extended evening hours – open until 9 p.m. November through February and until 10 p.m. from March to October.
Those who participate in Park & Dine are encouraged to share photos with WARA. Through Memorial Day, post five #ParkAndDine photos on the WARA Facebook page to earn a restaurant gift certificate!
Enjoy trying new restaurants while enjoying the spring weather!
For information on other participating restaurants and menus, please visit the WARA website.
WARA Media Contact:
Debi Schafer, Executive Director
757-345-1219; director@wararest.com
James City County Media Contact:
Laura Messer, Tourism & Marketing Coordinator
757-253-6607; laura.messer@jamescitycountyva.gov