Attractions and Places To See around Chesapeake - Top 20

Chesapeake offers a variety of natural attractions. The expansive Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is ideal for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing, featuring Lake Drummond. You can also visit the Chesapeake Arboretum, a 51-acre 'Nature's Classroom' with trails and themed gardens, or Northwest River Park, which provides opportunities for hiking, camping, and boating along the Northwest River.

Yes, Chesapeake features several trails for both hiking and cycling. The Elizabeth River Trail is a popular choice, offering over 10 miles of path along the shoreline, passing historic landmarks and parks. For hiking, you can explore trails at Oak Grove Lake Park or the Chesapeake Arboretum. You can find more options for running trails, cycling routes, and easy hikes in the area.

Chesapeake is rich in history. You can visit the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Museum and Battlefield Park, which commemorates a pivotal Revolutionary War victory. The MacArthur Memorial is a museum dedicated to General Douglas MacArthur's life. Another notable site is the Owen B. Pickett U.S. Custom House, a historic building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Chesapeake African American Heritage Trail also offers a self-guided tour of significant local history.

Absolutely. Many of Chesapeake's parks, like Oak Grove Lake Park and Northwest River Park, are great for families with walking trails and picnic areas. The Battleship Wisconsin offers an engaging experience for all ages, allowing visitors to explore a historic naval vessel. The Chesapeake Planetarium provides captivating shows, and Fun Forest is a dedicated play area for children.

The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a prime location for wildlife viewing, home to over 200 species of birds, including bald eagles, and various other animals. Northwest River Park also offers opportunities to spot local wildlife, especially within its Natural Area Preserve. Paradise Creek Nature Park is another excellent spot for observing nature.

Yes, Chesapeake provides several options for water activities. Lake Drummond within the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is suitable for quiet fishing and boating. Northwest River Park offers boating access to the Northwest River, and Paradise Creek Nature Park has a free boat launch for kayaking or canoeing. Fishing, kayaking, and boating permits may be required depending on the location and activity.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring Chesapeake's outdoor attractions and trails, with comfortable temperatures for hiking, cycling, and wildlife viewing. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter is milder but some outdoor activities might be less appealing. Checking specific attraction hours is always recommended.

Many of Chesapeake's parks and trails are dog-friendly, provided pets are kept on a leash. Oak Grove Lake Park is a popular spot for dog owners with its walking trails. Always check specific park regulations before visiting, as some natural preserves may have restrictions to protect wildlife.

Beyond historical sites, Chesapeake offers cultural points of interest. The MacArthur Memorial serves as a museum and research center. The Chesapeake Planetarium, the oldest built by a public school system in Virginia, provides educational shows. Additionally, Portlock Galleries at SoNo showcases local art, and the Chesapeake Central Library offers various community programs.

For scenic views, the Mermaid Sculpture in the Waterside District offers a pleasant visual element by the water, especially during an evening stroll. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel and the South Norfolk Jordan Bridge also provide panoramic views of the waterways and surrounding areas. The Elizabeth River Trail offers continuous scenic views along the river.

Visitors frequently appreciate the diverse offerings, from the historical depth of sites like the MacArthur Memorial to the natural beauty of its parks and wildlife refuges. The opportunity to explore significant naval history aboard the Battleship Wisconsin is also highly rated. Many enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of waterfront strolls, such as those along the Elizabeth River Trail, and the unexpected finds like the Mermaid Sculpture.