Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake sits south of Hampton Roads with access to the Great Dismal Swamp, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, and the Northwest River.
The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge offers a unique natural experience.
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or browse all11 destinations near Chesapeake
Island Farm
Manteo, NC 27954
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 44 min from Chesapeake · fits $20 - $60 budget
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Maymont
Richmond, VA 23220
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 10.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr 45 min from Chesapeake · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Currituck Beach Lighthouse
Corolla, NC 27927
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 6.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 48 min from Chesapeake · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Henrico, VA 23228
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 45 min from Chesapeake · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
York River State Park
Williamsburg, VA 23188
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 8 min from Chesapeake · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
Manteo, NC 27954
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · highly rated (4.7 by 8.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 47 min from Chesapeake · fits $20 - $60 budget
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Governor's Palace
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 5.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 1 min from Chesapeake · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Elizabethan Gardens
Manteo, NC 27954
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.6 by 2.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 47 min from Chesapeake · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
North Carolina Estuarium
Washington, NC 27889
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.5k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 8 min from Chesapeake · fits $20 - $60 budget
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
The Lost Colony
Manteo, NC 27954
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.5 by 1.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 47 min from Chesapeake · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · well rated (4.4 stars) · 52 min from Chesapeake · fits $20 - $60 budget
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Chesapeake, VA?
The best day trips from Chesapeake include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Chesapeake?
Most great day trips from Chesapeake are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Chesapeake?
Many of the best day trips near Chesapeake are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Chesapeake?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Chesapeake, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Chesapeake?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Chesapeake make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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