Two branches of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway stretch southward from Chesapeake, providing boaters with a choice of two scenic routes to Florida.
An untamed wilderness is nearby at the Dismal Swamp. Boating access to Lake Drummond in the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is available at the Chesapeake ramp off US 17 at Ballahack Road and west to the junction of George Washington Highway. Birds and bird-watchers share common ground on the South Chesapeake Loop of the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail.
Visitor Centers
Chesapeake Parks, Recreation & Tourism 1224 Progressive Dr. Chesapeake, VA 23320. Phone:(757)382-6411 or (888)889-5551
Shopping
Chesapeake Square Mall (4200 Portsmouth Blvd.) is anchored by Burlington. Greenbrier Mall (1401 Greenbrier Pkwy.) includes Dillard's, JCPenney and Macy's.