When was the last time you enjoyed a meal outdoors? Dining al fresco—a fancy way of saying "eating outside"—isn't just a change of scenery.
Research shows it can boost both your physical and mental health.

A sunny day outdoors means a healthy dose of Vitamin D, which can improve your mood, strengthen your bones, lower blood pressure, and support your immune system.
Breathing fresh air instead of recycled indoor air naturally relaxes you, helping you take deeper breaths and get better oxygen flow without even trying.
And let's not forget the views. Here in Roanoke, plenty of restaurants offer outdoor seating where you can soak in mountain vistas or the energy of downtown.
For example, El Rodeo on Electric Road has a welcoming patio with scenic mountain views—perfect for gatheri...
If you're looking for a cool treat with serious local flavor, Blue Cow Ice Cream is a must-visit.

This locally owned shop serves up homemade, small-batch ice cream that's anything but ordinary. Known for its creative and unforgettable flavors like Goat Cheese Blueberry, Banana Pudding, and the wildly popular Cow Patty, Blue Cow takes ice cream to the next level. When you walk in the door, the smell of the homemade waffle cones pulls you in. My go to flavor is the goat cheese blueberry, but in the fall they add dark chocolate raspberry, which is to die for!
Each scoop is made with care, using fresh ingredients and bold combinations that surprise and delight. Last time I was there, they told me they even roast the...
The Best Gluten Free Dining Options at Smith Mountain Lake

Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Smith Mountain Lake, living the gluten free life is both an adventure and a delight. With a growing number of local eateries and shops embracing gluten free options, residents and visitors alike can savor a variety of culinary delights without worry.
If you're craving the best gluten free pizza around, look no further than Bruno's Clubhouse Bistro. Bruno has mastered the art of gluten free pizza with a cr...
Running Your Own Food Truck

Who wants to just grab a drink and speak to people? How boring!
No sir ... it's human nature that want to also be entertained (and if you did not just hear in you mind Russell Crowe in "Gladiator," I'm not sure we could be friends.)
Well, our local breweries have the answer!
Almost every brewery has at least one regularly scheduled trivia night, and I am here to say, that the crowds can get seriously competitive. So bring your A-game in seemingly useless knowledge, but you may want to leave your feelings at the door. In addition to the weekly trivia, the credit to some of the most creative and fun events has to be given to our local brewhouses. This past year, Golden Cactus Brewing hosted a Mrs. Roper's Romp (I highly encourage visiting their Facebook page to view the pictures) and a fun