The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chesapeake, Virginia to Chesapeake Beach, Maryland
Chesapeake, Virginia and Chesapeake Beach, Maryland are two coastal communities separated by approximately 131 miles of scenic highway. Along the way, there are plenty of things to see and do, making it the perfect road trip destination. The halfway point of this journey is Ashland, Virginia, best known for its railway history and notable historic district.
Top 5 Things to Do
1. Visit the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a three-mile concrete boardwalk that spans the beachfront along the Atlantic Ocean. It is home to several hotels, restaurants, and attractions, making it an ideal location for visitors. There is a myriad of activities available on and off the boardwalk, including arcade games, beachfront concerts, and street performers.
Fact: The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is the longest boardwalk in the United States.
2. Explore Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg is a living history museum that takes visitors on a journey back in time to the 18th-century colonial era. It consists of over 88 buildings, shops, and taverns, all restored to their original state, along with actors and interpreters who portray colonial-era residents. The location offers a wide range of programs, events, and exhibits, making it a popular tourist destination.
Fact: Colonial Williamsburg has over 500,000 visitors every year.
3. Experience the Beauty of Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park is a 200,000-acre wilderness area located along the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. It features vast forests, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife, making it an ideal place for nature lovers. The park boasts over 500 miles of hiking trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail, and stunning views at every turn.
Fact: The Skyline Drive, a scenic byway within Shenandoah National Park, spans over 105 miles.
4. Marvel at the Upside-Down White House
The Upside-Down White House is a unique tourist attraction located in the town of Stafford, Virginia. The house was built as a statement piece by the former owner, John H. Hinkle, as a symbol of his outrage towards the government. Today, it is owned by a group of investors who opened it up to the public for tours.
Fact: The Upside-Down White House appears on the cover of Ripley's Believe It or Not!, the best-selling book in its series.
5. Visit the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, located in St. Michaels, Maryland, is a museum dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Chesapeake Bay and its surrounding communities. It features numerous exhibits, including the history of boatbuilding, waterfowl hunting, and fishing. Visitors can also tour the museum's historic shipyard, which is home to several restored boats.
Fact: The Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States, stretching over 200 miles.
Conclusion
The road trip from Chesapeake, Virginia to Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, is full of adventures and scenic views. The journey covers around 131 miles with plenty of stopping points along the way, including Ashland, Virginia. Whether you prefer exploring museums, hiking in the mountains, or relaxing on the beach, this trip has something for everyone. It typically takes around three to four hours to complete, depending on the number of stops made, and is well worth the time and effort.