Pickin Peaches
Although the height of the peach season is typically July and August, you can start eating these fuzzy, juicy globes of sweet sunshine from May right on through September. Perfect in pies, cobblers, smoothies, and even salads, make your way to Chesapeake, VA for plenty of trees, restaurants, and farm stands serving this seasonal specialty.
Day One
On your first night in town, head to Baker’s Crust and start your peach-flavored adventure with one of their signature cocktails. Try the White Peach Bellini, the Grilled Peach Smash, or even the Harvest Sangria, which is made using peach vodka. Once you’re ready to eat, order the Shrimp and Crab Pasta, Wood-Fired Bolognese, or any one of the Farm-to-Plate Salads.
Now that you’re ready for bed, luxury and relaxation await at one of Chesapeake's many hotels. From full-service to hip, there is something for every taste and budget.
Day Two
Start your day with breakfast at Pop’s Diner, who has been serving locals and out-of-towners for more than 10 years. Stop by for one of Pop’s Combo Omelets, eggs with a choice of three savory additions; Apple Cinnamon French Toast; or a Country Fried Steak, smothered with sausage gravy. Best of all, kids under 10 eat free with the purchase of an adult entree.
Ready for peaches? Mount Pleasant Farms has almost 2,000 trees ready, waiting, and ripe for the picking. Grab a paper bag and wander the orchards to select individual peaches or simply buy a pre-picked peck. Before you go, stop by the store for fresh corn, eggs, and even hard candy, and don’t leave without trying the peach cheesecake or one of their peach smoothies.
Next door to the farm you will find Bergey’s Breadbasket and pick up one of their famous peach pies and a delicious scoop of fresh peach ice cream. Both are made fresh daily with peaches picked straight from the tree.
On your way back into town, stop by family-owned Cutlass Grille for some takeout you can turn into a picnic. With 65 acres of trails, paths, and forest, Oak Grove Lake Park is perfect for all kinds of summer adventures, including a delicious meal! You can also do some fishing, check out the playground, or even use one of the 6 outdoor fitness stations available.
Once you’re ready to eat, reserve a table at Racha Thai Cuisine for dinner, and delight in bowls of authentic stir-fries, curries, salads, and noodle dishes. End your meal with a coconut custard or fried banana before heading back to your hotel.
Day Three
For breakfast, make your way to The Egg Bistro and try the Cuban Shrimp Bowl, which mixes ham, cilantro, and melted Swiss in a house-maid sauce that includes apricots, mustard, and, of course, peaches.
Open to the public with no admission fee, Greenbrier Farms has been growing fresh fruits and veggies for over 100 years. Here you’ll find succulent peaches fresh from the farm. Look for a darker yellow color with a bit of blush, a little give, and no green spots. When they’re ripe, they’re usually super juicy, so handle them gently, the way you might hold an egg. Be sure to stop by to see the Barnyard Buddies. Goats, bunnies, pigs, and birds are all on-site for photos and feedings.
The canopy of leaves at the Chesapeake Arboretum is the perfect way to keep cool during the summer months. Step onto the path to search for blooming plants, lizards, birds, and many other kinds of flora and fauna.