Located in the heart of Coastal Virginia, Chesapeake offers a wealth of dining, shopping, and cultural options. Families will love this city's proximity to Virginia Beach, Colonial Williamsburg, Norfolk, VA, and other attractions. The area has an easy highway system that makes commuting a breeze.Chesapeake is home to numerous attractions, such as the Chesapeake Museum.
This historic landmark offers the public a view of the city's past and present. Visitors will appreciate its diverse cultural and historical heritage. This city is a hub of commerce and a major military post.For families, the area has a plethora of parks and public recreation areas.
There are ball fields, playgrounds, tennis courts, and picnic areas. The area also offers 22 miles of fresh and salt waterways. Visitors can enjoy both water sports and a concert in a park.For nature lovers, the Chesapeake Arboretum is a must-see destination. The 44-acre site was originally a 18th-century farmhouse.
Today, it is known as a regional treasure. The grounds are surrounded by nature preserves and themed gardens. Families can learn about plant and animal species in this beautiful place.
The Dismal Swamp Canal Trail is another excellent way to explore the area. Visitors can hike and bike through the wetlands and forests, and take a guided tour of the canal. There is even a rumor that Poe wrote "The Raven" in this canal. Visitors can also enjoy the city's famous jazz festival, which occurs in the first week of June and runs until the end of August.Hickory Ridge Farm, which is owned by a local family, is another great place to visit.
This farm features seasonal produce, local honey, and a petting zoo. During the fall and spring, visitors can also enjoy the park's strawberry and pumpkin picking season.The Dismal Swamp Canal Trail is an eight-mile multi-use path along an old canal. You can walk, bike, and paddle along this scenic trail. This area is great for wildlife watching and is close to the Virginia/North Carolina border. It's also a great place for fishing.The Great Bridge Lock Park is another great spot to visit in Chesapeake.
It is located at the junction of the Elizabeth River and the Chesapeake Canal. The lock was originally designed to separate saltwater and fresh water, but today it's a 19-acre park. There are also a number of historical buildings and a playground. You can also get a guided tour of the canal's historic buildings.