Welcome to Neptune’s Weekly - Your Guide to Virginia Beach’s News and Weekend Events

🌊 The Coastal Update  

From Adventure Park to Nature's Playground: Owl Creek Landing Takes Shape in VA Beach

If you've driven past the Virginia Aquarium lately, you've probably spotted that massive spiral tower reaching for the sky. That's the centerpiece of Owl Creek Landing, a new eco-attraction that's been a decade in the making. And trust me, it's not your typical tourist spot.

Remember when Adventure Park opened back in 2014? Well, the same folks at Outdoor Ventures have been quietly planning this 38-acre nature retreat ever since. They just had to wait for the right moment – and for that tricky bridge over Owl Creek to get built.

The star of the show is definitely the Nautilus Tower. At 65 feet tall, this steel giant will house what they're claiming is America's longest steel slide. The engineering behind it is pretty wild too. Instead of tearing up the forest floor, they borrowed some fancy foundation tech from Austria that works more like tree roots than traditional concrete.

Unlike its high-adrenaline neighbor Adventure Park (where you need to gear up like a rock climber), Owl Creek Landing is keeping things chill. Think treehouses connected by walkways, winding forest paths, and spaces to just soak in the view. They're even planting persimmon trees alongside the existing maples and oaks.

The best part? You can wander the grounds for free when it opens this spring. Though if you want to channel your inner treehouse dweller or brave that massive slide, tickets will run you $28 (or $18 for the kids).

Between us locals, this might just become VA Beach's new favorite spot to escape the boardwalk crowds come Memorial Day weekend.

🥘 Local Eats Spotlight 

Taste Unlimited: If you haven’t tried Taste Unlimited, you’re seriously missing out. This isn’t your average sandwich shop – it’s a Virginia Beach institution that’s been serving up mouthwatering sandwiches, fresh salads, and killer homemade soups since 1973. Every bite is packed with quality ingredients, and that signature house dressing? It’s like a secret weapon. Whether you're grabbing lunch or prepping for a beach picnic, Taste Unlimited is the kind of place that turns a simple meal into an unforgettable experience. Don’t take our word for it – go see for yourself!

🎉 Weekend Rundown 

Friday 2/21

🎭️ Annie at the Saddler Center for the Preforming Arts: The iconic musical Annie is hitting the stage with all its heart and soul—prepare for a night of catchy tunes and a feel-good adventure!

🪴 Bonsai Workshop: Discover the art of patience and beauty at PlantHouse's Bonsai Workshop!

Saturday 2/22

🤼 VHSL Wrestling State Championships: Watch the best high school wrestlers in Virginia compete for glory in this action-packed championship!

🪫 E-Cycling Event at General Booth Blvd: Clean out your closets and recycle old electronics to help keep Virginia Beach green!

🤘 Radio 80s at Voodoo Brewing Co.: Relive the 80s with non-stop hits from the golden era of music at Voodoo Brewing Co.!

🎤 The Monopoly Concert Series presents "2 Kings One Stage" Live in Concert at Scandals Live: Two kings, one stage, and an unforgettable night of music at Scandals Live—don’t miss it!

🕺 Latin Dance Party at LZ Tequila Jalisco: Shake, salsa, and dance your way through the night at this lively Latin Dance Party!

🥁 Kashmir: The Spirit of Led Zeppelin at Elevation 27: Rock out to the timeless hits of Led Zeppelin as Kashmir takes you on a musical journey!

Sunday 2/23

💃 29th Annual CBA Auction & Gala: Dress up and give back at this elegant auction and gala, where the fun is for a good cause!

✡️ Jewish Film Festival: Check out one of the longest running Jewish Film festivals in the country!