When you visit Chesapeake, Virginia, you can find plenty of activities that don’t cost a thing. This makes it a more affordable and enjoyable vacation destination for those who don’t have a big budget for their trips.
Battleship Wisconsin
This breathtaking ship was actually one of the last ships built by the U.S. Navy. It is also one of the largest Navy ships and is now on display at The Hampton Roads Naval Museum. While a guided Topside tour of the ship does cost a small fee, you can take a self-guided tour for free to learn more about this piece of naval history. It includes statistics, photos, and exhibits designed to educate people of all ages about its role in various military excursions.
Oak Grove Lake Park
If the weather outside is nice, you will find that parks tend to get more crowded with locals who want to take advantage of the sunshine. However, don’t let that deter you from visiting Oak Grove Lake Park, an outdoor recreation area with an observation platform that gives beautiful views of the surrounding water. You can also fish off the dock, take a hike on the 1.5-mile trail, and let your kids play on the playground equipment. Picnic shelters also provide space to enjoy lunch or dinner outside.
First Landing State Park
Virginia Beach is less than a half hour from Chesapeake, so a trip to this area is always a favorite for visitors. It includes more than 18,000 acres of national parks, along with a wildlife refuge. The leading destination in this area is First Landing State Park, where you can participate in monthly educational programs to learn more about animal tracking, hiking, surf fishing, and more. You can also rent bikes for a small fee and take in the sights firsthand. The park is also home to a number of endangered species and migratory birds, along with pigs, wild horses, and other animal life.
Battlefield Park
This park is the site of the Battle of the Great Bridge, which took place in 1775. Free tours with a docent are available by appointment, where visitors can learn more about the history of the site. Other attractions include an interpretive historic pathway, family picnic area, and an outdoor auditorium. Early in 2007, members of The Daughters of the American Revolution aided in bringing a stone monument into the park that paid tribute to soldiers who fought in the battle. You can see this large monument from the Intracoastal Waterway as well as from the street.
No matter what you are looking for during your trip to Chesapeake, you can find it in this culturally rich and historically interesting destination. With many different activities available for free, you won’t have to pick and choose between the many fun places to go and things to see. Instead of feeling limited by your budget, you will only be limited by the amount of time you have to spend in and around Chesapeake.
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