Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chesapeake, VA to Lexington Park, MD

If you're looking for a scenic drive that takes you through historic towns and lively cities, look no further than the drive from Chesapeake, Virginia to Lexington Park, Maryland. This trip takes you along the Chesapeake Bay, past forested hills and stunning beaches, and through charming towns and bustling cities. The total driving time for this 135-mile trip is about 2 hours and 30 minutes without stops, but we recommend taking your time and stopping in some unexpected places along the way.

Mechanicsville, VA - The Halfway Point

Before we dive into the more unexpected stops on this trip, let's take a minute to talk about Mechanicsville, Virginia. This quaint and historic town is located about halfway between Chesapeake and Lexington Park, making it the perfect place to rest and stretch your legs. Mechanicsville is home to a number of restaurants and shops worth checking out, including the famous Buz and Ned's Real Barbecue. If you're looking for a more scenic stop, head to Pole Green Park, where you can take in some beautiful views of the countryside.

1. Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge

Located just outside of Tappahannock, Virginia, the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem worth visiting. This 8,700-acre refuge is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including migratory birds, black bears, and river otters. Visitors can hike, birdwatch, fish, and even hunt in the refuge, which is open year-round. The best time to visit is in the spring when the migratory birds arrive, but the refuge is beautiful no matter what time of year you go.

Must-Eat Food: Head into Tappahannock for some delicious seafood at Lowery's Seafood Restaurant. Their fried catfish and hushpuppies are especially tasty.

2. Colonial Beach, VA

Colonial Beach, Virginia is a charming small town located on the banks of the Potomac River. Known as the "beach town without a boardwalk," Colonial Beach is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Take a stroll along the beach, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or explore some of the town's historic sites and museums. If you're visiting in the summer, be sure to check out the town's weekly farmers' market and live music events.

Must-Eat Food: Head to Denson's Grocery and R&B Oyster Bar for some fresh, local seafood. Their crab cakes and oysters are a must-try.

3. Port Tobacco, MD

Located in Charles County, Maryland, Port Tobacco is a small town steeped in history. This former colonial port town was once one of Maryland's busiest trading centers, and today it's home to a number of historic buildings and sites. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour of the town, which includes stops at the Port Tobacco Courthouse, the former home of Dr. Samuel Mudd (who treated John Wilkes Booth after he assassinated President Lincoln), and the Bumpy Oak Tavern (which served as a hotel and post office during the colonial era).

Must-Eat Food: Grab a bite to eat at Port Tobacco Marina Restaurant, which offers delicious seafood and beautiful views of the Port Tobacco River.

4. Calvert Cliffs State Park, MD

Calvert Cliffs State Park is another hidden gem on this drive. Located on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, this park is home to a 30-foot cliff that is made up of millions of fossilized shells. Visitors can hike the park's trails, look for fossils along the beach, or even go swimming in the bay (although this is only recommended for strong swimmers, as there are no lifeguards on duty). This park is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change colors.

Must-Eat Food: Head to Stoney's Seafood House for some delicious seafood and stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay.

5. Leonardtown, MD

Our final stop on this drive is Leonardtown, Maryland. This charming town is known for its lively arts and culture scene, which includes a number of galleries, museums, and theaters. Visitors can also explore the town's historic district, which is home to a number of well-preserved buildings and sites. If you're looking for a more active stop, head to Hollywood, Maryland (about 10 minutes outside of Leonardtown), where you can rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the Patuxent River.

Must-Eat Food: Grab a bite to eat at The BTB (Brewing Tasting Breathing) Public House, which offers delicious craft beer and a rotating menu of seasonal dishes.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a scenic and unexpected road trip, the drive from Chesapeake, Virginia to Lexington Park, Maryland is a great option. Along the way, you'll discover hidden gems like the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge and explore charming towns like Port Tobacco and Leonardtown. And with delicious food options at every stop, you're sure to be well-fed on this journey. So pack up the car and hit the road - you won't regret it!