If you’re headed to the Chesapeake Bay area and looking for things to do, don’t stress. From shopping and dining to wholesome outdoor activities, there’s never a lack of recreation. However, there are a few things you can’t afford to miss. During your next visit, make sure you head to these top Chesapeake Bay attractions in Virginia.
Visit Cape Charles
Located an hour northeast of Norfolk, Cape Charles is one of the most picturesque places in the Chesapeake Bay. It has many activities for all interests, so no one’s left out. For a day of lounging or swimming, head to the quaint public beach in Cape Charles. If you’re looking for something a bit more active, the area is ideal for kayaking, windsurfing, and golfing. You can also wander around the historic downtown, which features several shops, as well as restaurants serving up some of the best seafood in the area.
Eat at Smithfield Station Restaurant
Voted as the best restaurant in all of Chesapeake Bay by Chesapeake Bay Magazine, Smithfield Station Restaurant in Smithfield is the perfect spot to get a bit gluttonous. Favored on the menu here are the delectable crab cakes. However, the restaurant also has other amazing dishes such as crab-stuffed salmon, mussels, clams, steaks, and chicken. No matter what you choose, there’s really no way to go wrong. While you’re dining, you’ll also get to take in the spectacular view along the Pagan River.
Harborfest in Norfolk
For the festival-goer, no trip to the Chesapeake Bay is complete without Harborfest. 2016 marks the 40th anniversary of this event, which is the largest and oldest maritime festival in the country. One of the most interesting aspects is a water parade for decorated ships and visits from famous naval vessels throughout the day. At night, live music gets the crowd going, followed by a spectacular fireworks display. There are also a number of food and drink vendors to help you sample some of the local fare or grab a thirst-quenching beer.
The Mariners’ Museum and Park
If you can’t think of going on a trip without learning something about your destination’s history, take a visit to the Mariners’ Museum and Park in Newport News. This museum houses the largest collection of maritime artifacts in the Western hemisphere. In addition to these artifacts, there are many great exhibits that discuss naval history, defense, and tales of shipwreck survivors. For the crown jewel, however, you can see parts of the USS Monitor, an ironclad ship from the Civil War that sank in 1862. This includes guns, turrets, the engine, and others. It’s definitely a must-see for the history buff.
Take in the View
Thrill-seekers can also have a great time in the area, thanks to Chesapeake Bay’s top-notch skydiving. Whether you’re going on a tandem for the first time or you’re certified, you’ll find the views unbeatable. Dynachute Chesapeake offers reasonable prices and advanced training for all those who want a little extra kick on this vacation.
The Chesapeake Bay is easily one of the most fun-filled areas in the mid-Atlantic. No matter what you decide to do, just know that it’s going to become a great, long-lasting memory.
Image via Pixabay
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