Things to Do in Chesapeake
Virginia isn’t all Blue Ridge Mountains and prestigious universities
Located on the North Carolina state line, Chesapeake sprawls along the Intracoastal Waterway to the south of Norfolk, Virginia. Its sense of history is rich and—if you know where to look—wildlife is abound; Chesapeake has numerous wildlife and city-like dwellings just waiting for you to explore.
The Great and Dismal Outdoors
One of Chesapeake’s premier attractions is the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, covering more than 100,000 wooded wetlands acres. It's rumored to be where Edgar Allen Poe wrote portions of his eerie masterpiece, The Raven. Great Dismal Adventures offers a pontoon ride up the Dismal Swamp canal—the oldest man-made canal in the U.S. To get even closer to nature, rent a canoe at the Chesapeake Campground on Route 17. Glide over the water and watch wildlife from a safe distance, including some rare bird species. If you’re squeamish about floating, you can hike or bike the refuge’s many trails—or even go airborne. The Nature Lovers Air Tour offered by Hampton Roads Air Tours takes parties of three up in a small plane to view the swamp from above.
The Battle of Great Bridge
Chesapeake has its share of rich history. The Great Bridge Battlefield and Waterways Park offers a variety of activities for all, including a re-creation of the Causeway from the historic 1775 Battle of Great Bridge and an Interpretive Historic Pathway. Pack lunch to eat at the family picnic area. Guided docent tours are available, but you have to make an appointment in advance.
Fun for the Kids and the Dog
If your kids aren’t dazzled by history and wildlife, take them to BrickHeadZ on Technology Drive. BrickHeadZ offers workshops and “open build” time with tons of LEGO bricks. Let your imaginations run wild; you might even enjoy erecting a skyscraper masterpiece of your own. Then take a stroll through Chesapeake City Park, particularly if you’ve brought Fido along. The park is home to City Park Dog Park, voted “Best New Facility” in the state of Virginia. Let your pup off his leash to run in the enclosed area or lap up a drink at one of the doggy water fountains. There’s even a special area set aside for small dogs.
When It’s Time to Eat
A day of pontooning, canoeing, flying, building and reliving history can work up your appetites. If you and your gang aren’t ready to quiet down just yet, try the GameWorks location in Greenbrier Mall (1401 Greenbrier Pkwy., Chesapeake). Nosh on famously good appetizers and burgers, then head for the game room for fun with Monster Drop Extreme or “experience” a typhoon. For a less energetic cap to your day, visit the Cutting Edge (1434 Sam’s Dr., Chesapeake) for a panini to die for—be sure to try the wasabi braised beef! The Cutlass Grille (805 N. Battlefield Blvd. #101, Chesapeake) offers authentic Jamaican treats and home-style favorites like macaroni and cheese or baked beans. You’ll also find satisfying home cooking in a casual, laid-back atmosphere at The BBQ Shack (849 Old George Washington Highway North, Chesapeake).
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