Chesapeake Travel Guide

Located in the Commonwealth of Virginia, Chesapeake is an independent city close to Virginia Beach, Newport, and Norfolk. Chesapeake is a very popular travel destination due to the great parks, wildlife reserves, hills, creeks, and beaches. Chesapeake is a diverse city because it has plenty of green space, but it is also populated with protected farmlands, swamps and miles of industrial waterfronts. The city has a long history having been settled in the late 1600s. Chesapeake started out as a small, farming community but it has since grown to be one of the economic backbones of Virginia.

Things to Do in Chesapeake

Chesapeake is a much beloved city, as it has plenty of amazing things to do. This historical town features many buildings and historical districts. However, the city is also an excellent place for an adventure or two. Outdoor lovers can spend time in the mother nature while exploring Oak Grove Lake Park. The park features places to fish, observation decks, picnic benches, hiking trails, and a few excellent birdwatching tours.

One of the most visited places in Chesapeake is the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail in the Dismal Swamp Wildlife Area. Despite the name, it is a beautiful place where visitors can see wildlife, go hiking, biking, play soccer, tennis, or fish in the pond. There has even been a number of black bear sitings in the area, but they are usually harmless.

For some beach fun travel to Virginia Beach, which is only a few miles northeast of Chesapeake. Beautiful sandy beach parks and lovely, iconic Virginia shores await visitors.

For those eager to spend some time in museums, visit the MacArthur Memorial Museum, which is dedicated to the US Army General, Douglas MacArthur, who served in three major wars and was considered a strategic mastermind. For a great maritime museum check out Nauticus Museum, where visitors can learn all about the naval and nautical history. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits to keep kids entertained.

Best Places to Stay in Chesapeake

Chesapeake is located between a few state parks and bays, so those who want to be closer to downtown should look for places to stay in the northern portion of Chesapeake but to have more access to the great nature surrounding the city then try a place south of the city. Greenbrier East is also a good location because there are many restaurants, bars, clubs, stores, and shops within walking distance. The eastern shore also presents the distinct advantage of offering vacation rentals and hotels with ocean views.

Best Time to Visit Chesapeake

The most popular time to visit Chesapeake is September when the temperature warm, there is a lot of sunshine, and very little rain. The winter months are definitely cold for a beach destination but the month of August is actually the rainiest.