06/10/2026
Hello, it’s Kate! 👋
Have y’all ever heard of the 5 & Dime VA Loop?
It’s a scenic route that takes riders through some of the most beautiful and historic areas of our region, connecting the City of Hopewell, Prince George County, Charles City County, James City County, and Surry County. While it’s well-known among motorcycle enthusiasts, last weekend was my first time experiencing it for myself—and what an experience it was.
We started our journey in Hopewell and followed the loop on our way to support the Charles City Police Motorcycle Unit Fundraiser. As someone riding the route for the first time, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. What I found was something much more than just a ride.
There was a feeling of freedom in it—the wind, the sunshine, the open roads, and the constantly changing scenery. Somewhere along the way, I realized that this kind of peace had been missing from my life for a while. For a few hours, there was nowhere to rush, nowhere to be except right there in the moment. Time seemed to fly by.
Eventually, we reached a point where the road simply ended. To continue the journey, there was only one option: travel by water. That’s when we boarded the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry, which quickly became one of my favorite parts of the trip.
I had never experienced anything quite like it. Dozens of motorcycles rolled onto the ferry together, and for a few minutes, it felt like a floating community gathering. Riders stepped off their bikes, stretched their legs, shared stories, laughed, and enjoyed the view. It was a chance to slow down and appreciate the journey itself.
I also learned about the area’s incredible history. Looking across the water and seeing the ship replicas nearby made me appreciate just how much history surrounds us here in Virginia. Sometimes we drive past these places without realizing how significant they are.
Another thing that left a strong impression on me was seeing the support from local law enforcement throughout the ride. As we traveled through different communities, I gained a new appreciation for the police departments that help keep these events safe and organized. Watching officers coordinate traffic, es**rt riders, and work together across county and city lines reminded me that a lot happens behind the scenes to make community events possible.
The fundraiser itself was dedicated to supporting the Charles City Police Motorcycle Unit, and seeing riders come together from different places to support that mission was inspiring. It wasn’t just about motorcycles—it was about community.
Sometimes the best way to learn about a region is not from a brochure or a website, but by experiencing it yourself. Last weekend, the 5 & Dime VA Loop showed me a side of our communities that I won’t soon forget.
Have you ever ridden the 5 & Dime VA Loop(I hope so!) I’d love to hear about your favorite stop along the way! Comment⬇️🏍️☀️📸
