Exploring local gems, parks, history & more
Chesapeake, Virginia offers an impressive variety of things to see and do—from scenic natural parks and historic battlefields to waterfront trails, family-friendly farms and vibrant neighborhood spots. If you live in Chesapeake, serve here, or are just visiting the area, here are some great local destinations you’ll want to explore. Use this page as your go-to “bucket list” for Chesapeake, VA.
Great Bridge Lock Park & the Intracoastal Waterway
One of Chesapeake’s standout attractions is the Great Bridge Lock Park, located along the Albemarle and Chesapeake Intracoastal Waterway. The historic lock structure, boat traffic, scenic views and waterfront trails make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
At the park you’ll find picnic areas, boating access, walking paths, and a unique connection to Chesapeake’s history and waterways. Whether you’re launching a kayak, watching boats pass through, or simply enjoying an evening stroll, Great Bridge Lock Park is a top spot.
Chesapeake Arboretum
For something more natural and peaceful, head to the Chesapeake Arboretum (624 Oak Grove Road). This 48-acre nature preserve with trails, demonstration gardens and a historic farmhouse offers a lush escape within Chesapeake.
It’s ideal for nature walks, bird-watching, casual family outings or simply unplugging from the daily grind. The setting near Great Bridge and Western Branch neighborhoods makes it especially convenient for Chesapeake residents.
Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Museum & Historic District
Chesapeake’s rich history is captured at the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Museum, which commemorates the 1775 Battle of Great Bridge and offers exhibits on waterways, historic architecture and local heritage.
Whether you live in the Greenbrier district, South Norfolk, Deep Creek or Western Branch, this museum offers a meaningful local experience and is a strong signal for Chesapeake’s historical identity.
Dismal Swamp & Lake Drummond
A hidden gem for Chesapeake and Hampton Roads outdoor lovers is the portion of the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and the nearby Lake Drummond. Located near the South Norfolk and Deep Creek areas, this swamp offers kayaking, hiking, wildlife viewing and quiet nature moments.
For Chesapeake residents looking to escape into nature without traveling far, the Dismal Swamp and Lake Drummond offer a memorable destination.
Oak Grove Lake Park
Another favorite among Chesapeake locals is the Oak Grove Lake Park. Featuring a lake, walking trails and green space, this park is ideal for families, fitness walkers, dog owners and anyone wanting a relaxing outdoor break in the heart of Chesapeake. Tripadvisor
Located in the Greenbrier/Western Branch corridor, it’s very accessible for local families in neighborhoods like Hickory and Indian River.
Hickory Ridge Farm & U-Pick Produce
If you prefer a more rural charm experience within Chesapeake city limits, check out Hickory Ridge Farm in the Hickory area. Visitors enjoy seasonal u-pick fruits, pumpkins in fall, and family-friendly farm fun. Tripadvisor
This is a terrific option for Chesapeake families looking to connect with nature and local agriculture without leaving the region.
Neighborhood Connections: Greenbrier, Great Bridge, Deep Creek, Western Branch
Chesapeake is made up of many distinct neighborhoods—but some of the most active ones include Greenbrier, Great Bridge, Deep Creek, Western Branch, and Hickory. Mentions of these areas help emphasize local relevance:
- Greenbrier offers shopping, dining and access to major thoroughfares.
- Great Bridge ties to historical landmarks and waterways.
- Deep Creek and Western Branch provide natural trail access and family neighborhoods.
By including these neighborhoods and referencing local landmarks, the page sends strong signals to search engines about geographical relevance for Chesapeake, VA.
Maritime & Water Access: Elizabeth River & Intracoastal Waterway
Chesapeake’s connection to water is part of its identity. Whether it’s boating on the Elizabeth River, launching from Deep Creek marina areas, or exploring the Intracoastal Waterway near Great Bridge, these water access points make Chesapeake uniquely positioned for outdoor activity.
The sense of place—including waterfront trails, lock systems, and maritime heritage—is something many Chesapeake residents cherish and visitors seek.
Making the Most of Your Visit to Chesapeake
If you’re planning a day out in Chesapeake, here’s a suggested itinerary:
- Morning: Start with coffee in the Greenbrier business district, then a walk at Oak Grove Lake Park.
- Midday: Visit the Chesapeake Arboretum for a nature trail followed by lunch in Great Bridge.
- Afternoon: Head to Great Bridge Lock Park for waterfront views or the Battlefield museum for history, then stop at Hickory Ridge Farm for fresh produce or a family outing.
- Evening: Explore local dining near the Western Branch corridor or the South Norfolk old town area before heading home.
Additional Local Highlights & Links
- Explore history at the Chesapeake Board of Historic and Architectural Review and city-historic preservation programs.
- Visit the Official Visitors Guide at VisitChesapeake.com for events, museums and more.
- Check TripAdvisor’s list of top Chesapeake attractions like the Arboretum, Oak Grove Lake Park and Great Bridge Lock.
Where Chesapeake’s Natural Beauty Meets Exceptional Dental Care
Nestled along the peaceful waterways of the Intracoastal Waterway and the Elizabeth River, Chesapeake, Virginia is a place where natural beauty, family values, and community pride come together. Just minutes from the energy of Norfolk and the beaches of Virginia Beach, Chesapeake offers a calm, connected lifestyle without sacrificing modern convenience. It’s a city where neighborhoods feel like family, traditions run deep, and residents enjoy a unique blend of suburban comfort and scenic outdoor living.
Chesapeake’s roots stretch back to the colonial era, shaped by historic moments like the Battle of Great Bridge and preserved in landmarks found throughout Great Bridge, South Norfolk, and Deep Creek. Today, the city thrives with growing communities in Greenbrier, Western Branch, Hickory, Grassfield, and Indian River—each offering something special for the families, professionals, military members, and retirees who call Chesapeake home.
Quiet, tree-lined streets, coastal marshes, and wooded trails weave through Chesapeake’s diverse landscape, creating a backdrop rich with natural charm. From the lush walking paths of the Chesapeake Arboretum to the peaceful waters of Oak Grove Lake Park and the winding boardwalks near the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, the city is filled with places to relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature.
For outdoor lovers, Chesapeake is a treasure. Residents enjoy kayaking and boating along the Elizabeth River, fishing in Deep Creek, hiking through protected wetlands, and exploring the Northwest River. Whether you’re strolling through local parks, paddling along scenic waterways, or discovering historical sites, Chesapeake offers a lifestyle that beautifully blends recreation with tranquility.
But beyond its natural charm, what truly defines Chesapeake is its people. Teachers shaping the next generation across Chesapeake Public Schools. Military families serving at commands throughout Hampton Roads. First responders, healthcare workers, and professionals keeping the community moving. Small business owners, retirees, and multi-generational families who bring heart and character to every neighborhood.
At The Foleck Center, we’re proud to care for the people who make Chesapeake the remarkable community it is. We understand the busy schedules, active lifestyles, and high standards of the families and individuals who live here. Our team is committed to delivering exceptional dental care—whether you’re a parent balancing work and family life in Great Bridge, a professional commuting through Greenbrier, a military service member stationed nearby, or a retiree enjoying the calm of Western Branch.
Our Chesapeake office provides comprehensive general dentistry, advanced cosmetic treatments, restorative solutions, and top-tier dental implant care. We combine state-of-the-art technology—including digital imaging, Pearl AI diagnostics, and guided implant planning—with compassionate, patient-focused care.
<p”>Because for us, dentistry is more than a clinical service—it’s our way of supporting the community we’re proud to call home. Every smile we care for represents a family, a story, and a future we want to help keep bright.
We are honored to serve patients across Chesapeake and its surrounding neighborhoods, including Great Bridge, Greenbrier, Western Branch, Deep Creek, Hickory, South Norfolk, Grassfield, Indian River, River Walk, Edinburgh, Pleasant Grove, Butts Station, Bowers Hill, and all throughout the Chesapeake region.
At The Foleck Center, we are dedicated to keeping Chesapeake’s smiles healthy, confident, and strong—with care rooted in integrity, respect, and genuine community connection.
