Chesapeake is bursting with life this week! The weather is fantastic, making it perfect for exploring the outdoors, from the Great Dismal Swamp to local parks. Plus, there are tons of events happening, from live music to family-friendly festivals, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Hike or bike along the serene trails that wind through dense forests and wetlands, paddle through calm waters by canoe or kayak, and spot an array of unique wildlife, including black bears, otters, and over 200 species of birds. Don't miss Lake Drummond, one of only two natural lakes in Virginia, for boating, fishing, or a picnic.
Tip: Bring bug spray, especially if you're visiting in the evening.
Escape into nature at this 48-acre tree sanctuary with walking trails, demonstration gardens, and a historic farmhouse. The Camellia Cove invites peaceful exploration, and the outdoor learning center offers educational opportunities.
Tip: Check out the Chesapeake Outdoors newsletter for a listing of what's happening at the Arboretum this month.
Enjoy a day of hiking, biking, boating, or camping at this expansive park. You can also rent a kayak and experience the water. Several trails loop through coastal Virginia wetlands.
Tip: This is a great spot for bird watching, so bring your binoculars!
Bike or walk along the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, surrounded by trees. This flat, wide, solid-surface trail offers nice views of the Dismal Swamp Canal waters.
Tip: Join the Cookie Classic Run in January, which supports local Girl Scout troops.
Enjoy waterfront dining at this Chesapeake restaurant overseen by Italian chef Carmelo Muroni, emphasizing local produce and seasonal ingredients. The menu features options like mahi mahi with mango beurre blanc and pork chop with fig sauce. It's known for fine dining in a relaxed setting.
Tip: Arrive early to enjoy the amazing sunset views.
Stop by this local favorite for homemade sandwiches and ice cream. It's a great place to bring kids, thanks to the petting zoo.
Tip: Try one of their original ice cream flavors!
Experience the vibrant flavors of Jamaica at this family-owned restaurant, specializing in traditional Caribbean cuisine. They also have a kids' menu with chicken fingers and fried shrimp.
Tip: Visit during happy hour from 3 to 6 PM, Tuesday through Sunday.
Enjoy an interactive, all-you-can-eat experience combining Chinese hot pot and Korean BBQ at the same table. The menu includes meats, seafood, dumplings, vegetables, and a wide selection of broths and sauces.
Tip: This is built for groups who want to linger, cooking their own food and turning dinner into an occasion.
Dance the night away at this vibrant nightclub with live country music, pool tables, and a mechanical bull. They have 3 stages, 8 bars and 3 dance floors.
Tip: Check out their calendar for themed events and live music performances. Happy hour is from 5PM–8PM.
Enjoy a night full of laughs and great drinks at this comedy club in Virginia Beach. Local comedians and others from throughout the U.S. perform here.
Tip: Try the Baja Tacos, a comedy club favorite.
Enjoy Latin music and a delicious tapas menu at this bar. Latin Fridays are considered one of the best parties in the Virginia Beach area, with local DJs, dancing, and special cocktails.
Tip: Check their social media for event information.
Enjoy nightly specials and weekly entertainment at this club. The club has a friendly staff, talented bartenders, fantastic music, and a wide range of excellent drinks and delicious food.
Tip: The club features a spacious dance floor and open seating area, providing excellent views of the live bands.
Step back in time and explore Chesapeake's Revolutionary War history at this museum. Interactive exhibits, artifacts, and engaging storytelling highlight the area's role in America's fight for independence.
Tip: Check out the interpretive walkway with informational signs providing details about the Battle of Great Bridge.
Tap into your creative side and design and paint your own piece of pottery to take home. Glazenfyre offers monthly events like a PJ Party and Movie Night for kids and Ladies' Night Out.
Tip: Rent the studio out for a group event or party.
Explore a variety of art, ranging from paintings to video installations, at this museum in Virginia Beach. The museum includes works from local artists as well as artists from around the world.
Tip: Try your hand at creating your own work of art in one of the studio art classes.
Visit this creative studio dedicated to the intersection of art and community. Jmurart LLC is known for its vibrant murals, interactive installations, and a range of artistic services.
Tip: The studio emphasizes collaboration, engaging with local artists and residents to create pieces that reflect the spirit of the community.
Enjoy a walk, run, or bike ride on the fitness trail at this local park. The park also features fishing platforms and a kids' play area.
Tip: Boating is not allowed at Oak Grove Lake Park.
Enjoy classical, pop, and jazz music live from the Virginia Symphony Orchestra at Chesapeake City Park on September 6, 2026. This free event brings out thousands to see dozens of professional musicians.
Tip: Bring a blanket or lawn chair for comfortable seating.
Visit this park along the Albemarle and Chesapeake Intracoastal Waterway. The park features a historic lock structure, boat traffic, scenic views, and waterfront trails.
Tip: Enjoy a picnic or watch boats pass through the lock.
There are many free events in Chesapeake. Check Eventbrite for free events happening this week, such as workshops and community presentations.
Tip: Events range from business and finance to crafting and music.
Let the kids loose at this expansive playground in Chesapeake City Park. Fun Forest includes standard playground features, as well as a dragon, a shaky bridge, and a dolphin tunnel slide.
Tip: Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park's open space.
Enjoy a nostalgic roller-skating experience at this skating center. It offers upbeat music, arcade games, and a snack bar.
Tip: This is a perfect activity for kids, teens, and parents alike.
Enjoy a day at the farm, picking your own tulips. Check for field conditions, special events, birthday parties and educational field trips.
Tip: You pick strawberries and pumpkins are their specialty crops.
Glide, learn, or simply watch the action at Chesapeake's premier ice facility. With public skating sessions, learn-to-skate programs, and its role as the official training ground for the Norfolk Admirals hockey team, it's a great spot for classic family fun.
Tip: Check the schedule for public skating times.
See what's happening in Chesapeake today