Sprawling along the Elizabeth River, Chesapeake encompasses urban areas and farmlands in the South Hampton Roads region. It’s home to the wildlife-rich wetlands of the Great Dismal Swamp and is near outstanding museums in Norfolk.
Things to do in Chesapeake
Enjoy a picnic in picturesque Chesapeake City Park, which features large expanses of grassy lawns backed by a strip of pine trees. Kids can let loose in the Fun Forest playground while adults can admire the vintage diesel locomotive. There are also regular concerts held on the Robert G "Buddy" Bagley Stage.
Go wildlife spotting in the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, an ecologically significant wetland home to black bears, otters and more than 200 different bird species. Go canoeing on Lake Drummond, follow the Dismal Town Boardwalk Trail or explore the swamp on two wheels along the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail.
Make a day trip to Norfolk to visit the USS Wisconsin, a World War II-era battleship moored adjacent to the “Nauticus” National Maritime Center. Tour its engine room, the Captain's cabin and navigation bridge while learning about the role it played in World War II, the Korean War and Operation Desert Storm.
Travelling with kids? the Children's Museum of Virginia is home to a range of hands-on exhibits and a Lancaster antique train exhibit. Learn about recycling in the My Backyard and Beyond exhibit, indulge your artistic side at CreARTivity and enjoy the carnival-like displays of the Dr. Forces Traveling Energy Extravaganza.
Getting around Chesapeake
Chesapeake is a 20-minute drive from Norfolk International Airport and around 1.5 hours from Richmond International Airport. Having your own vehicle is the best way of exploring the region.