Explore Norfolk’s Backyard Like Never Before

Your Zoo, parks and trails are calling you to see, play or ride this spring – right in your own backyard. Connecting with nature is proven to boost the cognitive, creative, physical, social and emotional development of children, as well as instill empathy for the great outdoors at any age. The Elizabeth River Trail, Norfolk Recreation, Parks and Open Spaces and the Virginia Zoo have teamed up to show their backyards offer something for everyone.

Explore miles of city landscapes on the Elizabeth River Trail or drop your kayak in at Plum Point Park. Challenge your friends to a game of frisbee golf at Lafayette Park or get sandy at Ocean View Beach. Bring your family to meet a family of giraffes or come face-to-face with a Malayan tiger at the Virginia Zoo.

Or, take flight on a bike with a free, costumed ride looping from Norfolk’s Lafayette Park along the Elizabeth River Trail and back to the Virginia Zoo. On April 17, the community is invited to this eight-mile, casual-paced ride that celebrates the partnership. Registered participants will also receive a $5 discount code to purchase timed tickets to the zoo anytime between April 17 and June 30, 2021. In accordance with current COVID safety guidelines, attendance is limited and advanced registration, beginning March 31, is required.

Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/148236269673

This partnership, made possible by a grant from the Virginia Tourism Corporation’s (VTC) Recovery Marketing Leverage Program (RMLP), encourages the community to explore what’s possible in their own backyards.

Follow your Zoo, parks and trails online for more ways to get out and see, play or ride this spring – and all year long.

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