jordan-bridge
South Norfolk Jordan Bridge

Specialty Experiences

Complement any Chesapeake trip itinerary with one (or all!) of the city’s distinctive experiences. Take outdoor excursions to new heights with a trek to the top of the South Norfolk Jordan Bridge. The concrete mountain stands 169 feet tall, and its mile-long paved Pedestrian Walkway stretches across the Elizabeth River’s Southern Branch to deliver stunning sunset vistas and panoramic views of the working waterfront.

Another captivating engineering marvel is the working locks of the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal. Essentially an “elevator” for boats, the Great Bridge Lock is particularly unique because it’s a guard lock designed to protect water quality where fresh and saltwater bodies meet. Watch them in action at Chesapeake’s Great Bridge Lock Park or Deep Creek Lock Park.

If you prefer paddling over watching, hop in a kayak or aboard a stand-up paddleboard and explore Lake Drummond, Virginia’s largest natural freshwater lake. Its lush scenery and peaceful flatwater are widely regarded as a must do paddle experience in Coastal Virginia. Need more time? Set up camp on the banks of the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge for a rustic, unforgettable overnight outing. Add a new twist to a traditional fall foliage tour when experienced from a kayak. Peep all the glorious colors of changing leaves in a breathtaking waterfront setting on the Dismal Swamp Canal that was hand-dug in the 18th century.

Get a first-hand look at some of the wonders of the universe during Skywatch at Northwest River Park. The remote location is revered for its swath of dark sky and premier star visibility, and regular events help introduce stargazers to the Milky Way, constellations, and ever-changing spectacular night sky.

Make time to experience these specialty offerings while you’re here –or plan another visit to knock them off your bucket list!  

Story Inspiration

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