Chesapeake Day Trip: Hidden Gems & Eats

Exploring Chesapeake's beauty on a shoestring budget.

21 June 2023

Chesapeake is an ideal destination for budget-conscious travellers looking to explore the eastern seaboard. With its beautiful parks, free museums, and scenic waterfront, there are plenty of budget-friendly activities to enjoy. Accommodation options and cheap eats can also be found throughout the city.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Chesapeake's Hidden Gems

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Sunrise Breakfast Shoppe, serving up classic American diner fare at affordable prices.
  • Take a stroll through the Chesapeake Arboretum, a peaceful oasis featuring over 48 acres of beautiful gardens and nature trails.
  • Head to Battlefield Park for a dose of history, where you can see where the Battle of Great Bridge took place during the Revolutionary War.
  • For lunch, grab a slice of pizza at Cugini's Pizza & Pasta, a local favorite for their thin crust pies and generous toppings.
  • Afternoon activities include fishing at Oak Grove Lake Park or kayaking in the nearby Northwest River.
  • End the day with a seafood dinner at Big Woody's Bar & Grill, where you can enjoy fresh catches like crab cakes and shrimp at affordable prices.

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.

More travel plans

Chesapeake: The Ultimate 5-Day Adventure on a Budget

Chesapeake, located in the United States, is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. With its picturesque beaches, parks, and diverse range of activities, it offers something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Explore the wildlife in the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, have fun at the Chesapeake Planetarium, or spend a relaxing day by the enchanting Chesapeake Bay – making unforgettable memories for the whole family.

Charming Chesapeake: A 5-day Budget Adventure

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.

Chesapeake on a Shoestring: 2 Days of Adventure

A trip to Chesapeake, United States on a limited budget can still be rewarding. Take advantage of free attractions such as the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and the Chesapeake Arboretum. Stay in affordable accommodations such as motels or Airbnbs and try local seafood for a budget-friendly meal.

Adventure and Flavor: A Day in Chesapeake

As a tourist, visiting Chesapeake promises an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty and rich history. From exploring the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge to kayaking on the Intracoastal Waterway, the city offers many opportunities to explore its scenic outdoors. Additionally, visiting historical landmarks such as the Chesapeake Central Library and the 1828 Great Bridge Battlefield and Waterways Park offers a glimpse into Chesapeake's roots and the significant role it played in American history.