Charming Chesapeake: A 5-day Budget Adventure

Discover Chesapeake's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Explore the charming city of Chesapeake, United States without breaking the bank. Take a stroll at the scenic Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Visit the Chesapeake Arboretum and immerse yourself in the serene and peaceful surroundings, perfect for a budget-friendly yet relaxing day out.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Chesapeake!

  • Check into the Red Roof Inn Chesapeake Conference Center, a budget-friendly hotel with easy access to nearby highways and dining options.
  • Grab lunch at Pier 7 Restaurant & Bar, a waterfront eatery that offers fresh seafood and stunning views of the Elizabeth River.
  • Head to the Chesapeake City Park for a leisurely afternoon with walking trails, picnic areas, and a skate park.
  • Catch a movie at the Regal Cinema Greenbrier, which features plush reclining seats and a wide selection of films.
  • Dine at Sakura Japanese Restaurant for authentic sushi and hibachi-style cuisine.
Day 2

From History to Art

  • Start your day at the Chesapeake Central Library, where you can explore genealogy records and learn about local history.
  • Visit the Chesapeake Arboretum, a hidden gem with gardens, trails, and educational programs for nature enthusiasts.
  • Stop by the Chesapeake Art Center to view rotating exhibits and take a pottery or painting class.
  • Enjoy dinner at Keagan's Irish Pub & Restaurant, where you can indulge in Irish favorites and a pint of Guinness.
  • End the night with live music at AJ Gators Sports Bar & Grill.
Day 3

Fun in the Sun

  • Spend the day at the Chesapeake Beach Park, a family-friendly beach with calm waters and a playground.
  • Take a picnic lunch to Oak Grove Lake Park, which offers fishing, kayaking, and scenic views of the lake.
  • Visit the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge for a chance to spot wildlife and hike through the forest.
  • Dine at The Egg Bistro for breakfast all day and delicious crepes and omelettes.
  • Grab dessert at Twist Martini & Assoc. for specialty martinis and creative ice cream flavors.
Day 4

Shop 'Til You Drop

  • Shop at Greenbrier Mall for popular retailers, including Macy's, H&M, and JCPenney.
  • Visit the Chesapeake Farmers Market for fresh produce, artisan goods, and live music.
  • Browse unique boutiques at Towne Place at Greenbrier, including eclectic shops like Style Encore and Diva Central Boutique.
  • Dine at Southern Eats, a cozy restaurant that serves Southern classics like fried chicken and sweet potato casserole.
  • Watch a performance at the historic Commodore Theatre, a refurbished movie theatre that also hosts live theatre and comedy shows.
Day 5

Farewell, Chesapeake!

  • Stop by the Chesapeake Planetarium for educational shows and a chance to see the night sky in a whole new way.
  • Visit the Chesapeake and Albemarle Canal Trail, a biking and hiking trail with historic markers and scenic views.
  • Grab lunch at The Broken Egg Bistro for gourmet breakfast and lunch options.
  • Head to the Elizabeth River Park for a final farewell with fishing, picnic areas, and stunning sunsets.
  • Depart with memories of a unique and charming city that is small enough to feel like home but big enough to offer countless adventures.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Chesapeake in the United States by plane is to fly into Norfolk International Airport (ORF), which is located 15 miles north of Chesapeake. There are several major airlines that fly into this airport, including American Airlines, Delta, and United.

Car

The best way to get to Chesapeake by car is to take Interstate 64 or Interstate 464, which both run through the city. If you’re coming from the north, take I-64 eastbound and exit at Greenbrier Parkway. If you’re coming from the south, take I-464 north and take the exit for Battlefield Boulevard.

Train

There is no train station in Chesapeake, Virginia. The closest train station is the Newport News Amtrak station, which is located about 25 miles east of Chesapeake. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car to get to Chesapeake.

Boat

The best way to get to Chesapeake by boat is to take a cruise to Norfolk, Virginia, which is located just north of Chesapeake. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car to get to Chesapeake.

Bus

The best way to get to Chesapeake by bus is to take the Greyhound bus to the Norfolk Bus Station, which is located about 10 miles north of Chesapeake. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car to get to Chesapeake.

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