CHESAPEAKE ATTRACTIONS

Chesapeake Planetarium
Explore the wonders of the universe. Free public programs including telescope observations are offered each week. Reservations (757) 547-0153. 24-hour information (757) 547-STAR (7827). At the Chesapeake Municipal Center, 310 Shea Drive.

Chesapeake Arboretum
Return to nature at this 48-acre “natural classroom” dedicated to promoting horticulture and environmental awareness. One of Virginia’s finest trail systems meanders through a mature hardwood forest with many varieties of native plants and trees. The Arboretum headquarters is an eighteenth century farmhouse with theme gardens that include a fragrance and antique rose garden. The farmhouse was built in 1730 with an addition built in 1822. (757) 382-7060. 624 Oak Grove Road.

Fun Forest
Spread over three acres of Chesapeake City Park, Fun Forest is the ultimate children’s playground, imagination center and family adventure area. It was built by over 1,800 volunteers from the community. Fun Forest was the winner of the Virginia Recreation and Parks Society “Best New Facility in Virginia” award in 1996. The playground has an area for older children that features a dragon, three-way underground telephone, shaky bridge, dolphin tunnel slide, and many more challenges. The science and learning area teaches mathematics and science while children have fun playing with mirrors, whisper dishes, and a planet walk. The toddler playground invites little ones to steer a plane or truck, swing, slide and more. Fun Forest is truly a place for the entire family. (757) 382-6411. 500 Greenbrier Road.

Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
This natural preserve began in 1973 when Union Camp Corporation donated 49,100 acres of land to the Nature Conservancy. About half of this 107,000 acre federal park is in Chesapeake with the remainder in neighboring Suffolk. These forested wetlands are home to many species of plants and animals. The 31,000 acre Lake Drummond is in the heart of this refuge. Canoe rentals are available on Route 17 at Chesapeake Campground (747) 485-0149. Call (757) 986-3705 for more information. 3100 Dessert Road, Suffolk, VA.

Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway
Thousands of boats ply the Intracoastal Waterway passing through the Dismal Swamp Canal and the Albemarle Chesapeake Canal annually. The waterway links the Chesapeake Bay to North Carolina’s sounds providing a vital East Coast connection between Boston and Key West, Florida. Whether you are sailing or watching from the shore, you’ll enjoy the sights along this historic waterway. Parks at Deep Creek and Great Bridge provide excellent observation points.

Deep Creek Lock Park
The park is named for the Corps of Engineers’ lock that separates the salt water of Deep Creek from the fresh water of the historic Dismal Swamp Canal. Deep Creek Lock Park is heavily wooded with a pedestrian bridge and elevated walkway system to traverse a tidal inlet and marsh area. Other features include foot trails that wind through the woods. (757) 6411. 300 Luray Street.

Great Bridge Lock Park
Located along the Intracoastal Waterway just off Battlefield Blvd., this park has bleachers to permit spectators to view the many yachts that transit the lock. There is also a playground and a boat ramp. (757) 382-6411, S. Battlefield Blvd.

Northwest River Park
Developed as a natural recreation area incorporating camping, an extensive trail system, picnic shelters, play areas and an equestrian area for horse owners. There is fishing, miniature golf, the Marjorie Rein Memorial Walkway, and plenty of open areas. Rental boats, canoes, and fishing poles are available. A camp store, fragrance garden for the visually impaired and a classroom building are located at the north end. The lake stretches almost to the southern activity area on the banks of the Northwest River. (757) 382-6411. 1733 Indian Creek Road.

  Camping - The campground is open April 1 through December 1. Seventy sites for family camping and four group sites for organizations. Fees: $15/night; more than 6 people, $2/ each additional person ($4 extra/ night for electric hook-up.) Facilities include hot showers, laundry, a dump station, and fresh water. Maximum 10 people/ site.

  Boating - Paddle along our inland lake or venture onto the scenic Northwest River. Canoes-$5/ hour or $25/ day; jon-boats-$3/ hour or $15/ day; and paddleboats - $4 / -hour. An adult, age 18 or older, must be on each boat. No pets allowed in boat.

  Horseback Riding - Available to horse owners in the Park's equestrian area and horse trails. Join the Equestrian Club for $10 /person or $20 /family and ride year-round.

  Fishing - Fish our stocked lake for bass, blue gill, crappie, catfish and trout. A Virginia fresh-water license is required for anyone 16 years and older to fish. The Park does not sell fishing licenses.

  Ropes & Initiatives Course - Groups of 8-10 can spend a day of growth and outdoor fun learning about themselves and others. Ideal for work groups, families/friends, youth groups, and scouts. The Ropes course operates daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. All equipment and certified instructors are provided. Participants need only dress for the weather and bring their lunch and beverages. Call the Park for more information about renting the course for your group.