15 Best Things To Do In Chesapeake (VA)

Welcome, fellow adventurers, to Chesapeake, Virginia – a true hidden gem nestled in the heart of Coastal Virginia! Forget what you think you know about typical East Coast destinations, because Chesapeake offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions that will surprise and delight you at every turn. Imagine sprawling waterways, lush green parks, significant historical sites, and even an ice sports complex, all within easy reach. This is a city that truly has something for everyone, whether you’re seeking serene outdoor escapes, family-friendly fun, or a deep dive into American heritage.

We’re about to embark on an unforgettable journey through Chesapeake’s 15 best experiences, uncovering local secrets and practical tips to ensure your visit is as smooth as it is spectacular. The best time to immerse yourself in Chesapeake’s charm is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October), when the weather is mild, perfect for outdoor exploration, and the crowds are thinner. You’ll definitely want a car to make the most of your explorations, as attractions are spread out, but the scenic drives are part of the adventure! Get ready to discover why Chesapeake should be your next travel destination.

Chesapeake Arboretum

Prepare to be enchanted by the Chesapeake Arboretum, a true urban oasis where nature and education seamlessly intertwine. This sprawling 48-acre natural park is a living laboratory, showcasing an incredible diversity of plant life, from native trees and shrubs to beautiful flowering gardens. As you wander along its well-maintained walking trails, you’ll feel an immediate sense of peace and tranquility, surrounded by towering trees and the gentle sounds of birdsong. What makes this place truly unique is its commitment to environmental education and conservation, offering a serene escape that also teaches you about the local ecosystem.

You can expect to discover themed gardens, a delightful butterfly garden that buzzes with life in warmer months, and interpretive signs that enhance your understanding of the flora around you. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, a quiet picnic, or even a bit of nature photography. Families will love the open spaces for kids to explore, while solo travelers and couples will appreciate the serene atmosphere perfect for reflection. Don’t miss the historic farmhouse, which adds a touch of historical charm to this natural haven.

Northwest River Park

Northwest River Park is Chesapeake’s crown jewel for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a staggering 763 acres of unspoiled natural beauty along the Northwest River. This park is a wonderland of activities, making it an absolute must-visit for families, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature. What sets it apart is its incredible range of offerings: you can launch a kayak or canoe onto the tranquil river, cast a line from the fishing pier, or explore miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through dense forests and along the waterfront.

There’s even an 18-hole disc golf course for those looking for a unique challenge. You’ll find playgrounds for the kids, picnic shelters perfect for a group outing, and even a large equestrian area if you bring your own horse. The park’s commitment to preserving its natural habitat means you’ll often spot local wildlife, from osprey soaring overhead to deer grazing peacefully. It’s an ideal spot for a full day of outdoor adventure, creating lasting memories amidst stunning natural backdrops.

Chilled Ponds Ice Sports Complex

Get ready to lace up your skates and experience the cool thrill of Chilled Ponds Ice Sports Complex, a premier multi-rink facility that brings the excitement of ice sports to Chesapeake. This isn’t just a place for professional athletes; it’s a vibrant community hub where everyone can enjoy the ice, from beginners taking their first wobbly steps to seasoned skaters perfecting their spins. What makes Chilled Ponds unique is its state-of-the-art facilities, featuring two NHL-sized rinks, an Olympic-sized rink, and a dedicated figure skating training area.

You can expect to find public skating sessions offered regularly, allowing you to glide across the ice to music, whether you’re with family, friends, or on a solo adventure. Beyond public skating, the complex hosts ice hockey leagues, figure skating programs, and even curling, providing a dynamic atmosphere. It’s an excellent escape from the summer heat or a perfect indoor activity on a rainy day, offering active fun for all ages and skill levels.

Battlefield Park

Step back in time at Battlefield Park, officially known as the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Park, a site steeped in pivotal American history. This remarkable park preserves the ground where the first land battle of the American Revolutionary War in Virginia was fought, a decisive victory for the colonists that led to the expulsion of the British governor. What makes this park truly unique is its blend of historical significance and natural beauty. You can expect to walk along interpretive trails that guide you through the actual battlefield, with informative markers explaining the events that unfolded here.

The park also features a replica of the causeway and bridge vital to the battle, offering a tangible connection to the past. Beyond the history, the park boasts beautiful waterways, perfect for quiet contemplation or observing local wildlife. It’s an incredibly enriching experience for history buffs, students, and anyone interested in understanding the foundational moments of the United States. Families will appreciate the outdoor space and the opportunity to learn together.

Chesapeake Planetarium

Prepare to have your mind expanded and your imagination ignited at the Chesapeake Planetarium, one of the first planetariums built by a public school system in the United States. This intimate yet powerful educational facility offers a captivating journey through the cosmos, making the wonders of astronomy accessible to everyone. What makes it special is its commitment to public education, providing engaging and informative shows that cater to all ages.

You can expect to recline in comfortable seating under a magnificent dome, where state-of-the-art projection systems transport you to distant galaxies, reveal the secrets of our solar system, and illuminate constellations in stunning detail. The presentations are often led by knowledgeable staff who can answer your questions and share fascinating insights. It’s a fantastic educational experience for families, a romantic and unique date idea for couples, and a truly awe-inspiring visit for solo travelers curious about the universe. Check their schedule in advance, as shows are not continuous.

Fun Forest

Unleash your inner child and dive into the vibrant world of Fun Forest, a fantastic municipal park designed with active play and community enjoyment in mind. While not an amusement park, this expansive green space lives up to its name by offering a delightful array of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. What makes Fun Forest unique is its focus on inclusive play, featuring a vast, imaginative playground with structures that cater to different age groups and abilities, ensuring every child can join in the fun.

You can expect to find swings, slides, climbing structures, and open fields perfect for running around or flying a kite. Beyond the playground, the park often includes walking trails, picnic areas, and sometimes even sports courts, providing diverse options for outdoor activity. It’s an ideal spot for families with young children looking for a safe and engaging environment to burn off some energy, or for anyone seeking a relaxed outdoor setting for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

Hickory Ridge Farm

Step into a charming slice of rural life at Hickory Ridge Farm, a delightful family-owned and operated farm that invites you to experience seasonal agricultural fun. This isn’t just a farm; it’s a destination for wholesome entertainment, particularly popular during harvest seasons. What makes Hickory Ridge Farm special is its authentic farm experience, allowing visitors to connect with where their food comes from and enjoy traditional farm activities.

You can expect seasonal offerings like pick-your-own strawberries in the spring, a vibrant pumpkin patch in the fall, and even a corn maze that provides hours of family-friendly challenge. They often have hayrides, a petting zoo with friendly farm animals, and a farm market selling fresh produce and homemade treats. It’s an absolutely perfect outing for families with children, offering hands-on learning and memorable photo opportunities. Couples and solo travelers can also enjoy the fresh air, browse the market, and soak in the rustic charm.

Chesapeake 9/11 Memorial

The Chesapeake 9/11 Memorial stands as a profound and moving tribute, offering a space for quiet reflection and remembrance of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. This isn’t merely a monument; it’s a sacred ground designed to honor the victims, first responders, and heroes of that fateful day. What makes this memorial uniquely powerful is its incorporation of actual artifacts from the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Shanksville, PA, creating a tangible link to the sites of impact.

You can expect to see a striking steel beam from the North Tower, a piece of limestone from the Pentagon, and soil from the Shanksville crash site, all thoughtfully integrated into the design. The memorial is laid out to encourage contemplation, with reflective pools and serene landscaping. It serves as an important educational site for younger generations and a poignant reminder for those who lived through that day. It’s a deeply meaningful visit for all, providing a sense of solemnity and gratitude.

Great Bridge Lock Park

Discover a fascinating piece of engineering and history at Great Bridge Lock Park, a site that beautifully showcases the intricate workings of the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal. This isn’t just a park; it’s a living demonstration of maritime infrastructure and a gateway to understanding the region’s historical waterways. What makes the Great Bridge Lock unique is its active role in connecting the Chesapeake Bay with the sounds of North Carolina, allowing boats to traverse different water levels.

You can expect to watch boats of all sizes, from private yachts to commercial vessels, pass through the lock chambers, observing the water levels rise and fall with precise timing. The park also offers scenic walking paths along the canal, picnic areas, and interpretive signs explaining the lock’s operation and the canal’s significance. It’s a captivating experience for anyone interested in engineering, history, or simply enjoying a peaceful waterside view. Families will especially enjoy watching the boats navigate the lock.

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel

Prepare for an awe-inspiring journey across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, an engineering marvel that defies imagination. This isn’t just a bridge; it’s a 17.6-mile-long complex of bridges, tunnels, and artificial islands that connects the Virginia mainland to the Eastern Shore, offering one of the most unique driving experiences in the world. What makes it truly special is the seamless transition from soaring above the water on bridges to diving beneath the waves through tunnels, providing constantly changing perspectives of the vast Chesapeake Bay.

You can expect breathtaking panoramic views of the bay, especially at sunrise or sunset, and the exhilarating sensation of driving directly into and out of the water. There’s even a scenic overlook and a gift shop on one of the artificial islands, offering a chance to stretch your legs and capture stunning photos. It’s an unforgettable drive for anyone who appreciates grand engineering, stunning coastal scenery, or simply a truly unique road trip experience.

Chesapeake Park

Embrace the community spirit and diverse recreational opportunities at Chesapeake City Park, a sprawling urban green space that truly serves as the heart of the city’s outdoor life. This isn’t just a park; it’s a dynamic hub for events, relaxation, and active play, designed to cater to every interest.

What makes Chesapeake City Park special is its sheer size and variety of amenities, from vast open fields perfect for frisbee or kite flying to well-maintained walking and biking trails that invite leisurely exploration. You can expect to discover multiple playgrounds for children of all ages, including an award-winning “Fun Forest” playground (distinct from the standalone Fun Forest attraction, though sometimes confused), ample picnic shelters, and even an outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts and community events throughout the year. It’s a fantastic destination for families seeking a full day of outdoor fun, couples looking for a scenic stroll, or solo travelers wanting to enjoy the fresh air and community vibe.

Rodgers’ Puddings

Indulge your sweet tooth and discover a true local culinary legend at Rodgers’ Puddings, a beloved Chesapeake institution serving up delicious, homemade Southern-style puddings. This isn’t a sit-down restaurant, but rather a charming, unassuming spot that specializes in one thing and does it exceptionally well. What makes Rodgers’ Puddings so unique is its dedication to traditional recipes and the comforting, rich flavors that have earned it a loyal following for decades.

You can expect to find a selection of classic pudding flavors, most notably their famous banana pudding, but also chocolate, vanilla, and sometimes seasonal specials, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. These puddings are known for their creamy texture and authentic taste, perfect for a satisfying dessert or a sweet treat anytime. It’s an ideal stop for anyone with a craving for dessert, a food lover seeking authentic local flavors, or families looking for a unique and delicious takeaway.

The Great Dismal Swamp

Embark on an unforgettable wilderness adventure into the heart of The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, a vast and ancient wilderness that holds immense ecological and historical significance. This isn’t just a swamp; it’s a protected natural treasure, a remnant of a once-immense wilderness that spans parts of Virginia and North Carolina. What makes it truly unique is its designation as a National Wildlife Refuge, preserving a diverse ecosystem that supports an incredible array of flora and fauna, including black bears, bobcats, migratory birds, and rare plant species.

You can expect to explore miles of unpaved roads and trails, perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. Canoeing and kayaking opportunities allow you to paddle through tranquil waterways, offering an immersive experience into this unique habitat. It’s a paradise for nature photographers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a profound connection with untouched nature. Its history also includes its role as a refuge for runaway slaves, adding another layer of depth to your visit.

Gum Tree Farm

While Gum Tree Farm is primarily a private equestrian facility, it represents Chesapeake’s rich agricultural heritage and the region’s strong connection to equestrian pursuits. Rather than a public attraction with set visiting hours, think of “Gum Tree Farm” as an invitation to explore the broader rural charm of Chesapeake, particularly if you have an interest in horses or local farm products.

What makes this concept special is the opportunity it presents to engage with the equestrian community or seek out smaller, local farm stands that dot the Chesapeake countryside. You can expect to find opportunities for horseback riding lessons at local stables, discover farmers markets selling fresh produce that embodies the spirit of local farms like Gum Tree, or simply enjoy scenic drives through the pastoral landscapes that define this part of Virginia. It’s an ideal experience for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of rural life, animal lovers, or anyone looking to support local agriculture and unique outdoor activities like riding.

Lake Drummond

At the heart of the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge lies Lake Drummond, a vast and mysterious natural lake that offers a truly unique wilderness experience. This isn’t just a lake; it’s one of only two natural lakes in Virginia, known for its dark, tea-colored water, stained by the tannins from the surrounding cypress and gum trees. What makes Lake Drummond special is its pristine, untouched beauty and the sense of profound tranquility it offers.

You can expect to reach the lake via the Washington Ditch trail (a 4.5-mile hike or bike ride from the refuge entrance) or by paddling through the Dismal Swamp Canal. Once there, you can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or fishing in its quiet waters, surrounded by ancient trees and abundant wildlife. It’s an unparalleled destination for nature lovers, paddlers, and anyone seeking a deeply immersive escape into a truly wild and historic landscape. The lake’s remote nature adds to its allure, making the journey part of the adventure.

Plan Your Visit

And there you have it – a captivating journey through the 15 best things to do in Chesapeake, Virginia! From the serene walking trails of the Chesapeake Arboretum to the cosmic wonders of the Planetarium, and from the historical depths of Battlefield Park to the thrilling engineering marvel of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, this city truly offers an unparalleled array of experiences. You’ve discovered how to immerse yourself in nature at Northwest River Park and the Great Dismal Swamp, indulge in local flavors at Rodgers’ Puddings, and enjoy family fun at Chilled Ponds and Hickory Ridge Farm.

Chesapeake’s unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and diverse attractions ensures that every traveler, regardless of their interests or budget, will find something to love. So, pack your bags, plan your itinerary with our detailed cost guides in mind, and prepare to be enchanted by the charm and adventure that await you in Coastal Virginia. Chesapeake is calling – are you ready to answer?