Visit Chesapeake

Experience the magic of maritime heritage, waterfront beauty, and discover why Chesapeake is Virginia's vibrant waterfront gem

Maritime Heritage
Great Dismal Swamp
Greenbrier Area

Welcome to Chesapeake

Chesapeake is Virginia's diverse waterfront city located in the heart of the Hampton Roads region, known for its rich maritime heritage, beautiful waterways, and excellent quality of life. This dynamic city is known for its maritime traditions, natural beauty, and unique "Waterfront Gem" personality that has shaped the region for generations.

From the iconic Great Dismal Swamp and Chesapeake Bay to the beautiful Northwest River Park and Chesapeake Arboretum, Chesapeake offers visitors a perfect blend of maritime heritage, natural beauty, and southern hospitality. The city also boasts Greenbrier Mall, Elizabeth River, and some of the best waterfront experiences in Virginia.

249,422 Population
9 ft Elevation
213 Sunny Days

📊 Travel Information & Statistics

Essential travel data to help you plan your perfect Chesapeake adventure

Best Time to Travel

Spring (March-May) Wildlife viewing, outdoor activities, perfect weather
Fall (September-November) Comfortable temperatures, outdoor recreation, cultural events
Peak Season March-May, September-November (Spring and Fall tourism)

Average Temperature

Jan 32°F / 50°F
Apr 52°F / 70°F
Jul 70°F / 88°F
Oct 55°F / 72°F

Humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters

Airports

Norfolk International Airport (ORF)

Main airport, 15 miles from downtown Chesapeake

  • Major airlines: American, Delta, Southwest, United, JetBlue
  • Direct flights to major US cities
  • Rental car services available

Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF)

Alternative airport, 25 miles from downtown Chesapeake

  • Domestic flights
  • Budget airline options
  • Shuttle services to Chesapeake

Travel Statistics

Annual Visitors 3+ million
Hotel Rooms 2,500+
Restaurants 400+
Cultural Attractions 15+
Average Hotel Price $140/night
Public Transit HRT bus system

Flight Statistics

Daily Flights 50+
Direct Destinations 20+ cities
Average Flight Price $280
Peak Travel Months Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Major Airlines 5 carriers
On-time Performance 80%

Airport Operations

Terminals 1
Gates 15+
Parking Spaces 3,000+
Rental Car Companies 6
Distance to Downtown 15 miles
Ground Transportation Shuttle, Taxi, Bus

Local Transportation

Bus Routes 20+ routes
Bus Frequency 30-60 min
Fare $2.00
Operating Hours 6AM-10PM
Bike Share Stations 15+
Ride Share Uber, Lyft

Cultural & Entertainment

Cultural Attractions 15+
Maritime Sites 10+
Entertainment Districts 3+
Movie Theaters 4
Museums 8+
Annual Events 30+

Outdoor Recreation

Great Dismal Swamp Wildlife refuge
Bike Paths 25+ miles
Golf Courses 8
Chesapeake Bay Water recreation
Parks 30+
Weather Seasonal activities

Popular Destinations & Demographics

Top Domestic Origin Washington DC
Top International Origin United Kingdom
Popular Airlines American, Delta
Average Age 38 years
Maritime Industry 25%
Average Stay 2.5 days

Shopping & Retail

Cultural Attractions 15+
Maritime Sites 10+
Average Spending $320/person
Maritime Industry $2B annually
Tax Rate 6.0%
Popular Items Maritime Souvenirs, Seafood, Culture

Safety & Health

Crime Rate Low
Hospitals 3 major
Urgent Care Centers 10+
Pharmacies 20+
Emergency Services 24/7
Tourist Safety Excellent

🚗 Rent a Car in Chesapeake

Explore Chesapeake and the beautiful Virginia waterfront at your own pace with a rental car

🌟 Top Attractions in Chesapeake

Discover the must-see destinations and experiences in Virginia's Waterfront Gem

Maritime Heritage

Maritime Heritage

Experience Chesapeake's rich maritime heritage featuring historic waterways, boat tours, fishing charters, and maritime museums that showcase the city's deep connection to the sea and Chesapeake Bay.

Year-round 2-4 hours Throughout Chesapeake
Explore Various prices Read More
Great Dismal Swamp

Great Dismal Swamp

Explore the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge featuring hiking trails, wildlife viewing, canoeing, and beautiful natural landscapes that showcase one of Virginia's most unique ecosystems.

Year-round 2-5 hours Great Dismal Swamp
Visit Free Free admission Read More
Greenbrier Area

Greenbrier Area

Discover the Greenbrier area featuring shopping centers, restaurants, entertainment venues, and modern amenities that make it one of Chesapeake's most popular commercial and residential districts.

Year-round 2-4 hours Greenbrier
Visit Free Free admission Read More
Northwest River Park

Northwest River Park

Explore Northwest River Park featuring hiking trails, fishing opportunities, picnic areas, and beautiful natural landscapes that showcase Chesapeake's commitment to outdoor recreation and environmental preservation.

Year-round 2-4 hours Northwest River
Visit Free Free admission Read More
Chesapeake Bay

Chesapeake Bay

Experience the Chesapeake Bay featuring boat tours, fishing charters, waterfront dining, and beautiful bay views that showcase one of America's most important and beautiful estuaries.

Year-round 2-6 hours Chesapeake Bay
Explore Various prices Read More
Chesapeake Arboretum

Chesapeake Arboretum

Visit the Chesapeake Arboretum featuring beautiful gardens, walking trails, educational programs, and horticultural displays that showcase the region's diverse plant life and natural beauty.

Year-round 1-3 hours Chesapeake Arboretum
Visit Free Free admission Read More

🍽️ Chesapeake's Seafood & Virginia Flavors

Savor the flavors of Virginia's culinary heritage with Chesapeake's diverse dining scene

Seafood & Virginia Flavors

Experience Chesapeake's diverse seafood cuisine featuring fresh Chesapeake Bay seafood, traditional southern dishes, and innovative culinary experiences that showcase the region's rich maritime food culture and Virginia heritage.

Top Seafood Restaurants:

  • Captain George's Seafood Restaurant
  • Blue Pete's Restaurant
  • Lynnhaven Fish House
Read More About Seafood & Virginia Flavors

Chesapeake Cuisine & Local Flavors

Discover Chesapeake's diverse food culture featuring seafood restaurants, waterfront dining, and innovative culinary experiences influenced by the city's maritime heritage and southern hospitality.

Must-Try Local Spots:

  • Seafood Restaurants
  • Greenbrier Area Dining
  • Waterfront Eateries
Read More About Chesapeake's Food Scene

🏨 Where to Stay in Chesapeake

Find the perfect accommodation for your Chesapeake adventure

✈️ Find Flights to Chesapeake

Search for the best flight deals to Norfolk International Airport (ORF) or Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF)

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