Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Chesapeake, VA

Situated in the heart of Coastal Virginia, Chesapeake is recognized for its profound historical and cultural importance, as well as its rich array of natural landscapes.

Chesapeake boasts over 22 miles of waterways, including canals, rivers, and lakes. Notably, visitors can explore the intriguing Dismal Swamp Canal, which is said to have inspired Edgar Allan Poe’s poem ‘The Raven’.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Chesapeake’s parklands offer a multitude of opportunities for bird watching, hiking, and picnicking, particularly in beautiful settings such as Northwest River Park.

If urban experiences are more to your liking, the city presents excellent dining establishments, engaging museums, and a variety of indoor activities, including ice skating and stargazing.

Let us examine the top attractions in Chesapeake:

1. Chesapeake Arboretum

Regarded as a local gem, the Chesapeake Arboretum spans 48 acres and is often described as ‘nature’s classroom’, allowing visitors to discover the local flora and fauna.

Established in the 18th century, the Arboretum features a historical farmhouse along with themed gardens that enhance its natural environment.

These gardens include a fragrance garden, an antique rose garden, and a hardwood forest that invites exploration.

This site is also part of the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail South Chesapeake Loop, making it an essential visit for nature lovers.

2. Northwest River Park

As indicated by its name, Northwest River Park is located along the verdant banks of the Northwest River in southeastern Chesapeake.

With over 763 acres of land, the park offers numerous activities for visitors to enjoy.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive trails that provide a close-up view of the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Picnic areas and playgrounds cater to families, and there is even a mini golf course named the ‘Dude Ranch’. Bird watchers will be pleased to know that this park is also part of the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail, showcasing a variety of avian species.

3. Chilled Ponds Ice Sports Complex

The Chilled Ponds Ice Sports Complex is renowned as one of the premier ice sports facilities in Virginia, covering an impressive 90,000 square feet.

This facility offers a wide range of activities, housing two NHL-sized skating rinks.

Open to the public, Chilled Ponds invites visitors to learn how to skate or simply enjoy recreational ice time.

Additionally, it serves as the training ground for the Norfolk Admirals ice hockey team, and spectators may have the unique opportunity to witness an exciting game during their visit.

4. Battlefield Park

Battlefield Park was established as a memorial to honor the historical events of the Battle of Great Bridge.

Visitors can engage in various activities, including walking along the Interpretive Historic Pathway, viewing a recreation of the 1775 causeway, and using the outdoor auditorium.

A monument erected by the Daughters of the American Revolution marks the park entrance on Battlefield Boulevard, serving as a tribute to the Patriot soldiers who lost their lives in this pivotal battle.

For those interested in deeper historical insights, free docent-led tours operate daily.

5. Chesapeake Planetarium

The Chesapeake Planetarium is the perfect destination for individuals eager to explore the mysteries of the universe.

Located within the Chesapeake Municipal Center, it is distinguished as the oldest planetarium in Virginia.

Visitors can attend educational shows focused on the cosmos, planets, and the solar system. Depending on the schedule, telescope observations may also be available to observe the skies.

6. Fun Forest

Visitors to City Park in Chesapeake should not overlook Fun Forest, which spans three acres.

This recreational area features a children’s play zone, an imagination center, and a family adventure section, ensuring enjoyment for all ages.

Constructed by nearly 2,000 committed volunteers, the playground is designed to enhance motor skills, coordination, and interactive play.

Activities available include an underground telephone, a shaking bridge, a dolphin slide, swings, and slides. There is even a Fossil Dig for aspiring paleontologists to explore fossilized treasures.

7. Hickory Ridge Farm

Hickory Ridge Farm is a family-operated establishment recognized for offering some of the finest seasonal produce in Virginia.

In addition to a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, visitors can find locally sourced honey and a petting zoo for close encounters with the farm’s animals.

Seasonal activities are also available, including pumpkin picking in autumn and strawberry picking in the spring.

8. Chesapeake 9/11 Memorial

To honor the lives lost during the tragedy of 9/11, the Chesapeake 9/11 Memorial is located on City Park Drive.

This poignant memorial features a steel beam that was once part of the World Trade Center, alongside a rock from Shanksville and a piece of limestone from the Pentagon, which was previously located at the Chesapeake Visitor Center.

9. Great Bridge Lock Park

Great Bridge Lock Park occupies a vital position at the intersection of the Chesapeake Canal and the Elizabeth River.

The lock was designed to maintain the separation of saltwater and freshwater, and the adjoining park spans 19 acres.

This picturesque area is surrounded by the canal and the river, offering boat ramps, picnic areas, and various trails along both waterways.

Fishing and crabbing are popular activities due to the abundant aquatic life, while the park’s western section features wooded areas for exploration.

10. Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, though not traditionally classified as a tourist attraction, is renowned for its spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.

This engineering marvel connects the Eastern Shore to Virginia Beach and is an architectural landmark, offering breathtaking vistas to visitors.

11. Chesapeake Park

Chesapeake Park, also referred to as City Park, spans 90 acres, with 60 acres dedicated to lush open spaces and the remainder comprising wooded areas.

In addition to its natural charm, the park is known for hosting outdoor events such as the Chesapeake Park Whisper Concert Series and the Chesapeake Jubilee, making it a lively destination to visit.

The park features a skate park, horseshoe pits, and a designated dog park for recreation.

12. Rodgers’ Puddings

For those with a penchant for sweets, Rodgers’ Puddings offers a delightful selection of desserts.

This retro pudding shop, located in the historic district of South Suffolk, has garnered accolades for its banana pudding.

In addition, a variety of other local sweet delights are available in an inviting retro setting, making it a must-visit for dessert enthusiasts.

13. The Great Dismal Swamp

Located southeast of Chesapeake, the Great Dismal Swamp extends into northeastern North Carolina and is steeped in legend and mystique.

This area holds significant historical importance as it provided refuge for African Americans seeking freedom during the era of slavery.

Today, the swamp is celebrated for its haunting beauty and is designated as a National Wildlife Refuge.

14. Gum Tree Farm

Spanning 50 acres, Gum Tree Farm is a local sheep producer, also housing ducks, turkeys, pigs, cows, horses, goats, and even a donkey named Studebaker.

Visitors can engage with the friendly animals and experience the farm’s fiber production processes.

Farm tours provide insights into its history and include live demonstrations, such as the dyeing of wool.

15. Lake Drummond

Lake Drummond is one of two lakes located within Virginia, situated in the center of the Dismal Swamp.

Numerous legends circulate about the lake and the swamp, including claims of ghostly canoes spotted on the water.

Today, the lake attracts visitors for its excellent fishing opportunities, and boating is a popular activity for those adventurous enough to venture onto the water.