Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chesapeake Beach, Maryland and Norfolk, Virginia

If you're looking for a scenic and exciting drive from Chesapeake Beach, Maryland to Norfolk, Virginia, look no further. This stretch of road offers breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay, charming small towns, and plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs and explore. The drive takes approximately three hours and covers 169 miles. Here are five unexpected places to stop and explore along the way.

Halfway Point: Ruther Glen, VA

Before we dive into the five unexpected places to stop, let's talk about the halfway point on this journey: Ruther Glen, VA. This charming town offers plenty of fast food options for a quick bite, but if you're looking for something a little more substantial, be sure to check out Cobblestone Express. This family-owned restaurant serves up mouth-watering subs and sandwiches that are perfect for a mid-drive meal.

1. Belle Isle State Park (Lancaster County, VA)

Belle Isle State Park is a hidden gem located on the Northern Neck peninsula. This park offers a glimpse into Virginia's coastal ecosystems and is the perfect place to take a break from driving and enjoy nature. Visitors can hike, bike, or kayak their way around the park, taking in stunning views of the Rappahannock River and its surrounding marshes. The park also features a fishing pier, playground, and picnic areas. Don't miss out on the opportunity to see the historic Bel Air Plantation House, located on the park's grounds.

Favorite Food: Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch at one of the park's scenic picnic areas.

2. Virginia Air & Space Center (Hampton, VA)

Located in downtown Hampton, the Virginia Air & Space Center should be on every aviation enthusiast's bucket list. This museum is home to over 100 interactive exhibits that showcase the history and technology of air and space travel. Visitors can climb into a Mercury capsule, experience what it's like to fly an airplane, and see actual artifacts from NASA missions. Don't forget to check out the IMAX theater for an immersive movie experience.

Favorite Food: Grab a bite to eat at Harbor Cafe, located just a few blocks from the museum. They serve up breakfast all day and have a great selection of sandwiches and wraps for lunch.

3. Chincoteague Island (Chincoteague, VA)

Chincoteague Island is a charming coastal town located on Virginia's eastern shore. This town is famous for its wild ponies, which can be seen roaming around the island and the adjacent Assateague Island. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the ponies up close, or explore the island's many shops and restaurants. Don't miss out on the opportunity to see the Assateague Lighthouse, which has been lighting the way for mariners since 1867.

Favorite Food: Be sure to try the clam chowder at Steamers Seafood Restaurant, located in the heart of downtown Chincoteague.

4. Cape Charles Beach (Cape Charles, VA)

Cape Charles is a charming town located on Virginia's lower Eastern Shore. Its pristine beaches offer the perfect opportunity to soak up the sun and relax in the salty air. Cape Charles Beach is a public beach located just a short walk from the downtown area. Visitors can swim, kayak, or just lounge on the beach. The town also has plenty of shops and restaurants that are worth exploring.

Favorite Food: Stop by The Shanty, located just a few blocks from the beach, for locally sourced seafood and craft cocktails.

5. Virginia Beach Boardwalk (Virginia Beach, VA)

No trip to Virginia Beach is complete without a visit to the boardwalk. This 3-mile stretch of oceanfront offers plenty of opportunities to people-watch, enjoy live entertainment, and sample local cuisine. Visitors can rent bikes and cruise down the boardwalk, play a game of mini-golf, or take a dip in the ocean. The boardwalk is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year.

Favorite Food: Be sure to try a slice of pizza from Sal's Pizza, a Virginia Beach institution located right on the boardwalk.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a scenic and exciting drive, a trip from Chesapeake Beach, Maryland to Norfolk, Virginia is sure to deliver. From stunning state parks to fascinating museums, and everything in between, there's something for everyone along this route. So pack up the car, grab your map, and hit the road – adventure awaits!