What to Do, Eat & Explore This Week on the Southside

Fort Gregg-Adams hosts its annual Independence Day celebration — one of the biggest military community events of the summer. Expect live music, family activities, food vendors, and a spectacular fireworks display to close out the evening. This is a signature event for military families across the Tri-Cities, and it draws a great crowd. If you are stationed here or new to the area, this is one of those events that makes you feel like part of the community. Check the Fort Gregg-Adams MWR website for exact times and gate access requirements.

Petersburg's historic downtown comes alive for Independence Day with a community celebration featuring live entertainment, family activities, food vendors, and fireworks over the Appomattox River. The Old Towne district — with its cobblestone streets, historic brick buildings, and river views — is one of the most atmospheric settings for a July 4th in Virginia. Arrive early to explore the shops and restaurants before the evening festivities kick off.

Petersburg's beloved River Street Market is a Saturday tradition in the heart of downtown — a curated mix of local produce, artisan goods, prepared foods, and handcrafted products from Southside Virginia growers and makers. The market has become a true community gathering spot, and the setting along the river makes it a perfect weekend morning outing. Grab a coffee, browse the stalls, and soak in the Old Towne atmosphere.

The Petersburg National Battlefield preserves one of the most important — and longest — military campaigns of the Civil War. The Eastern Front Unit features over 10 miles of trails suitable for hiking, running, and bicycling, with interpretive stops along the way. It is an outstanding way to spend a summer morning, combining light exercise with genuine Virginia history. The visitor center has excellent exhibits and a short film that puts the siege in context.

The Brickhouse Run is the heartbeat of Petersburg's Old Towne dining scene — a gastropub tucked into a charming alley with a consistently excellent menu, a well-curated craft beer list, and one of the most inviting patios in the Tri-Cities. The food is inventive but approachable, the atmosphere is warm without being fussy, and the Saturday evening patio crowd is one of the best in the city. If you have not been to Old Towne Petersburg yet, this is the reason to go.

A Petersburg institution that has earned a loyal following for its fresh seafood, Southern comfort classics, and unpretentious neighborhood vibe. The fried fish platters are outstanding, the shrimp and grits are worth the drive, and the portions are generous. With hundreds of positive reviews, Croaker's Spot is the kind of place where locals bring out-of-town guests to show off their city's food scene.

A beloved downtown Petersburg deli that has been serving sandwiches, soups, and specialty coffees to the community for years. The menu is straightforward but executed with care — fresh-baked bread, quality ingredients, and the kind of sandwiches that make you a regular after your first visit. It is also a convenient grab-and-go spot if you are exploring Old Towne on foot.

A newer addition to the Petersburg dining scene that has quickly earned a following for its breakfast and brunch offerings in a historic downtown setting. The name says it all — great food in a building with real character. If you are exploring Old Towne Petersburg on a weekend morning, this is a natural starting point before heading out to the battlefield trails or the River Street Market.

Over 10 miles of nature trails winding through the Eastern Front Unit — suitable for hiking, running, and bicycling through open fields, forest, and historic terrain. The trails are well-maintained with interpretive signs, and the summer foliage makes every path feel like a green tunnel. A morning walk here combines light exercise with genuine Civil War history.

A 65-acre park with over 3 miles of hiking trails, a fishing pier, birdwatching areas, a canoe and kayak launch with rentals, and shaded picnic pavilions. The park sits along the Appomattox River and connects to the regional Appomattox River Trail — one of the best paddling and fishing corridors in the Tri-Cities. This is the kind of park where you can spend an entire morning and not realize how much time has passed.

A beautiful 3/4-mile boardwalk along the Appomattox River with fishing access docks, birdwatching spots, and waterfront picnic areas. The Riverwalk is one of Hopewell's greatest assets — a peaceful, shaded stroll along the water that is perfect for a morning walk, an evening sunset watch, or a quiet hour with a fishing rod. It also connects to the broader Appomattox River Trail system.

A sprawling 2,217-acre wildlife management area offering hiking, biking, horseback riding trails, and fishing at Lake Amelia (100 acres) and Saunders Pond. The WMA is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts who want to get away from crowds — the trails wind through mixed hardwood forest, and the fishing is excellent for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. If you are looking for a genuine Virginia wilderness experience without a long drive, Amelia WMA delivers.

A state park commemorating one of the final battles of the Civil War, with dog-friendly hiking trails, a driving tour, and a small but well-done museum. The trails wind through the same terrain where the battles unfolded, and the quiet, contemplative atmosphere makes it an excellent morning hike. Dogs are welcome on-leash, which makes this a great option if you have a four-legged family member.

A popular waterfront spot on the James River for fishing, boating, and watching the river traffic go by. The marina area has a relaxed, unhurried vibe that captures the essence of river life in Prince George County. Whether you are dropping a line from the bank or launching a boat for a day on the water, Jordan Point is one of the Southside's best waterfront access points.

The annual July 3rd celebration at Fort Gregg-Adams is the signature military community event of the summer. Live entertainment, family activities, food vendors, and fireworks — all designed for service members, veterans, and their families. If you just arrived for a PCS, this is the perfect event to start meeting your new community. Check the Fort Gregg-Adams MWR and ACS offices for gate access details and event times.

The USO operates a center at Fort Gregg-Adams offering programs and support specifically for military families — coffee hours, family events, transition assistance, and connection resources. If you are new to the area, the USO is one of the best places to meet other military families and start building your support network. They run regular programs throughout the summer, and the staff genuinely cares about helping families settle in.

The Fort Gregg-Adams MWR office runs a packed summer calendar for military families — outdoor movie nights, pool parties, family fun days, youth sports leagues, and skills workshops. These programs are specifically designed to help military families enjoy the summer and connect with the community. If you have kids home for the summer, the youth programs are outstanding. Check the MWR website or stop by the community center for this week's schedule.

Team RWB connects veterans, active duty service members, and their families through physical and social activity. The Richmond chapter holds regular meetups throughout the Central Virginia area — group runs, hikes, social events, and volunteer opportunities. Many of my clients have told me that joining Team RWB was the best decision they made after their PCS. It is an outstanding way to stay active, stay connected, and meet other military-affiliated families.