Family Activities in Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake, Virginia offers a wide range of fun activities that the whole family can enjoy. From water parks to hiking trails to museums, there are options to keep you busy all year round.
Are you looking for some free family-friendly entertainment? Admission is always free at the Chesapeake City Park and Great Bridge Lock Park. Chesapeake City Park spans 90 acres, 60 of which are open space. The park features a playground, imagination center / family adventure area, shelter for rent, outdoor concert stage, and an off-leash fenced in dog park.
Great Bridge Lock Park is tucked in along the Intracoastal Waterway just off of Battlefield Boulevard with the Chesapeake Canal on one side and the Elizabeth River on the other. There is a raised berm area with detailed information about the lock system and stunning views of the yachts that transit the lock. The park spans 19 acres and also features a two-lane boat ramp, a foot trail, picnic shelters, and playground. There are extensive areas for fishing and crabbing.
The Chesapeake Arboretum is free to the public. This 48 acre natural classroom is housed in a beautiful 18th century farmhouse. Originally constructed in 1730, it has a section that was added in 1822. The arboretum features a range of themed gardens including a rose garden. If you're hiking along the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail South Chesapeake Loop, you don't want to miss this stop.
When you're ready for a day at the theme park, head over to Busch Gardens Williamsburg, which is one of the SeaWorld parks. It boasts rides, shows, animal encounters, and more. Virginia's largest water park, Water County USA, is just around the corner from Busch Gardens. Enjoy drenching rides, slides, and pools with a handful of attractions just for kids including Cow-A-Bunga, H2O UFO, and Kritter Korral. If you're looking for more water parks in the area, check out Ocean Breeze Waterpark and Wild Water Rapids.
History buffs don't want to miss the NAUTICUS, USS Wisconsin, which is one of the largest and last battleships that the U.S. Navy built. It earned five battle stars during World War II. You can explore the deck via a self-guided tour or pay extra for the Topside Tour.
If you're looking for science, check out the Children's Museum of Virginia, the Virginia Air & Space Center, or the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. The Children's Museum of Virginia is the largest in the state and home to the Lancaster Train Collection. Other permanent exhibits include a working waterfront port, a bubbles station where you can create bubbles bigger than yourself, a tot yard, and a bank.
The Virginia Air & Space Center is a museum and educational center that also serves as the NASA Langley Research Center and Langley Air Force Base visitor center. Learn about aviation adventure, air and spacecraft, ham radio, and exploration on the moon. TheVirginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center boasts more than 800,000 gallons of top notch aquarium and animal habitats. Explore interactive exhibits, an outdoor aviary, a natural trail, and marshlands.
Are you in need of a Mazda dealer in the Chesapeake area? Cavalier Mazda is a full service dealership with new and pre-owned vehicles as well as a department for servicing, repairs, and parts. Are you interested in financing for your next vehicle? We provide pre-approval and estimates for trade-ins and monthly payments. Stop by and see us at 1552 S. Military Highway, give us a call at 888-854-7370.