Points of Interest between Chesapeake, Virginia to Portsmouth City, Virginia

picture of Chesapeake, Virginia

Top Five Popular Attractions to See between Chesapeake and Portsmouth City, Virginia

If you're looking for a fun-filled road trip between Chesapeake and Portsmouth City, Virginia, you're in luck. These two cities offer plenty of exciting and beautiful sights to see. In this article, we will explore the top five popular attractions to see along the way. So, buckle up, grab some snacks, and let's hit the road!

The Route and Halfway Point: Norfolk, VA

Before we jump into the top five popular attractions to see between Chesapeake and Portsmouth City, let's take a moment to highlight the route and the halfway point, Norfolk, VA. If you're starting in Chesapeake, you'll take the I-464 N to I-264 E, which will take you straight to Norfolk. Norfolk, located in the heart of the Hampton Roads region, is home to numerous museums, cultural centers, and historical sites.

Norfolk is also the perfect halfway point between Chesapeake and Portsmouth City, making it an ideal place to stop for lunch or dinner. With a variety of restaurants offering everything from seafood to international cuisine, you'll find something for everyone in Norfolk.

Now, without further ado, let's move on to the top five popular attractions to see on your road trip between Chesapeake and Portsmouth City.

Top Five Places to See

  1. Chilled Ponds Ice Sports Complex

If you're a fan of ice skating or hockey, you won't want to miss the Chilled Ponds Ice Sports Complex. Located in Chesapeake, the complex features two NHL-sized ice rinks, a pro shop, and an on-site café. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you'll have a blast gliding across the ice.

  1. Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Located just west of Chesapeake, the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see for nature enthusiasts. Home to over 200 species of birds, the refuge also boasts black bear, bobcats, and river otters. You can explore the swamp by canoe, kayak, or paddleboard or simply take a hike on one of the many trails.

  1. Virginia Zoo

Located in Norfolk, the Virginia Zoo is home to over 500 animals from around the world. The zoo features beautiful gardens, a train, and a petting zoo for the little ones. From lions and tigers to monkeys and lemurs, you'll have a wild time at the Virginia Zoo.

  1. Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum

If you're a fan of naval history, you'll want to check out the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum. Located in Portsmouth City, the museum features exhibits on shipbuilding and the history of the Navy in the Hampton Roads region. You can even tour the WWI-era submarine, the USS "Becuna."

  1. The Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center

Located in Old Towne Portsmouth, the Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center features rotating exhibits of regional and national significance, as well as works from local artists. The center is housed in the beautiful 1846 Courthouse building, which is a work of art in itself.

Conclusion

There you have it, the top five popular attractions to see on your road trip between Chesapeake and Portsmouth City. Whether you're a fan of ice skating, nature, animals, naval history, or art, you'll find something to love in these two cities.

One of the best routes to take is to start in Chesapeake, visit the Chilled Ponds Ice Sports Complex, head to the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, and then continue east to Norfolk to visit the Virginia Zoo and the Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center. From there, head over to Portsmouth City to visit the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum before ending your trip.

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!