Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chesapeake, Virginia and Dunkirk, Maryland

A road trip can be a memorable experience, especially when the destination and the journey impress at every turn. Starting from Chesapeake, Virginia to Dunkirk, Maryland, the trip covers around 220 miles, ensuring that there are plenty of opportunities to explore during the ride. Although there are many places worth a stopover, the highlights of the trip are visiting the wineries, witnessing the horse races, enjoying the museums, and savoring seafood. The halfway point between Chesapeake, Virginia and Dunkirk, Maryland is Ashland, Virginia; a historic town with beautiful architecture.

Wineries - Sip on Delicious Wines in an Idyllic Setting

The wineries of Northern Virginia are known for their unique and delectable wines, as well as their scenic and peaceful settings. Located near Leesburg, One of the top wineries, The Winery at Bull Run, is a perfect place to stop over for a tasting session. Visitors can select among an array of red, white, and dessert wines with labels inspired by the history of the Civil War. The vineyard also has a picnic area, live music, and even offers a guided tour through a reconstructed 19th-century farmhouse, where visitors can enjoy a history lesson, along with their wine.

Interesting fact: The Winery at Bull Run was designed to resemble a Civil War era barn, and the venue served as a hospital during both battles of Bull Run.

Horse Races - Witness the Thrill of Live Racing

If someone's lucky enough to drive through the region during race season, they can catch the excitement of live horse racing at the Laurel Park racecourse. Racegoers can enjoy fast horses, lively atmosphere, delicious food, and fantastic views from the Grandstand. The park hosts events throughout the year, but one of the season highlights is the running of The Maryland Million Day. A unique part of Maryland's racing culture, the race day features horses, mostly offspring of Maryland stallions competing for more than $1 million in purses.

Interesting Fact: Laurel Park racecourse opened its doors on October 2, 1911.

Museums - Explore History and Art in Frederick

Frederick, Maryland, a historic town, has many museums worth a visit. Some of the most notable museums in the area include the Museum of Frederick County History, the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, and the Delaplaine Arts Center. The Museum of Frederick County History provides an insight into the people and stories that shaped the town over the centuries. The National Museum of Civil War Medicine showcases the advancements and treatments during the Civil War. Visitors can view the replicas of the tools and instruments used by doctors during the Civil War. The Delaplaine Arts Center is a contemporary space, where visitors can enjoy the exhibitions of regional and national art, attend classes or simply enjoy a coffee at the cafe.

Interesting Fact: During the Civil War, Frederick served as a key strategic location for both sides, and the war saw the town change ownership several times.

Seafood - Savor Fresh-Off-the-Boat Delicacies

Seafood lovers can't miss the chance of sampling some of Maryland's famous delicacies like blue crabs, oysters, rockfish, and clams. There is nothing like the experience of tasting seafood, fresh off the boat. One of the best places to satisfy seafood cravings is Fisherman's Crab Deck in Grasonville. At the deck, guests can enjoy the views of the Chester River while sampling some of the best seafood in the state.

Interesting Fact: Maryland's seafood industry dates back to the mid-1600s and is considered one of the oldest continuously-operating industries in the state.

Beach - Relax at a Scenic Beach

Finally, visitors can relax and unwind at the sandy beaches of Chesapeake, Virginia. The beach offers an ideal spot for picnics, swimming, fishing, and sunbathing. Visiting the beach sends one home feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.

Interesting Fact: Great Bridge Lock Park is a recreational park on the Intracoastal Waterway in Chesapeake, Virginia, which allows boaters to travel from Norfolk to Miami along the Atlantic Coast.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a drive from Chesapeake, Virginia, to Dunkirk, Maryland, spanning 220 miles, takes visitors through some of the most exciting and beautiful places this region has to offer. Highlights of the trip include the wineries, horse races, museums, seafood, and beaches. The journey passes through the historic town of Ashland, Virginia, and the various destinations make the journey enjoyable, exciting, and filled with some of the most unforgettable experiences. Those who embark on this road trip won't be disappointed. The journey may require anywhere from 4 to 10 hours, depending on the stops made along the way, but the memories created are priceless.