Summer in southeastern Virginia offers an abundance of opportunities for families seeking fun, adventure, and meaningful quality time together. With its warm coastal climate, scenic landscapes, and a wide variety of family-friendly attractions, the region is an ideal destination for creating unforgettable summer memories. The cities of Chesapeake and Virginia Beach stand out as prime locations that blend natural beauty, recreational diversity, and rich cultural charm. Whether you're interested in exploring scenic parks and waterways, spending a day at the beach, or discovering local museums and festivals, these two cities offer something for everyone. From thrilling outdoor adventures to enriching educational experiences, Chesapeake and Virginia Beach provide the perfect backdrop for a summer filled with connection, excitement, and lasting family moments.
Outdoor Exploration and Nature Activities
Chesapeake, known for its scenic landscapes and beautifully preserved natural areas, is a haven for families who love spending time outdoors and connecting with nature. The city offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, with numerous parks, trails, and waterways that invite exploration and adventure.
One of the area's crown jewels is the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, a sprawling, mysterious wilderness steeped in history and teeming with biodiversity. Here, families can hike or bike along 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.
A visit to the refuge wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Lake Drummond, one of only two natural lakes in Virginia. Surrounded by cypress trees and still largely untouched, Lake Drummond offers a peaceful setting for boating, fishing, picnicking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty. Whether you’re casting a line in hopes of catching bass or enjoying a quiet moment by the water’s edge, Chesapeake provides countless opportunities for families to bond and unwind in the great outdoors.
Meanwhile, Virginia Beach offers miles of coastline and expansive beaches that attract families looking for traditional summer fun. The Virginia Beach Oceanfront is a vibrant hub of activity, featuring sand, surf, and a lively boardwalk. Parents can lounge under an umbrella while children build sandcastles or swim. The Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge(Opens in a new window) and False Cape State Park(Opens in a new window) offer quieter beach experiences, with opportunities for kayaking, bird watching, and hiking through undisturbed coastal habitats.
Amusement and Adventure Parks
For those seeking more structured excitement, Chesapeake and Virginia Beach are conveniently located near amusement parks and adventure centers. Families can head to Motor World in Virginia Beach(Opens in a new window) for go-karts, mini golf, and a paintball park. For younger children, the nearby Ocean Breeze Waterpark(Opens in a new window) is a summer favorite, featuring wave pools, water slides, and kid-friendly splash zones.
Chesapeake’s Fun Forest Playground at City Park(Opens in a new window) is another excellent option. It’s a large, multi-age playground with picnic areas and space for kids to run and explore. Chesapeake City Park also hosts various summer festivals and concerts, providing entertainment for the whole family.
Educational and Cultural Activities
Summer learning doesn’t have to be boring; it can be one of the most exciting parts of the season. In Virginia Beach, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center(Opens in a new window) offers a perfect blend of education and entertainment, making it a must-visit destination for families. With thousands of animals representing over 300 species, the aquarium provides an immersive experience where children and adults alike can learn about marine life and the importance of ocean conservation.
Visitors can marvel at graceful sea turtles, observe playful river otters, and come face-to-face with majestic sharks as they glide through massive underwater tunnels. The center also features interactive exhibits and touch pools where kids can get hands-on with stingrays, deepening their understanding of marine ecosystems through play and discovery.
Just steps away, families can take their adventure to the next level at The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium. This outdoor aerial park features tree-top rope courses, climbing structures, and thrilling ziplines designed for various skill levels, offering a fun physical challenge for kids, teens, and adults. Whether your family is exploring ocean life inside or flying through the trees outside, this dynamic duo of attractions turns summer learning into a memorable, action-packed day of discovery and fun.
Family-Friendly Events and Festivals
Throughout the summer, Chesapeake and Virginia Beach come alive with vibrant festivals, outdoor celebrations, and family-friendly community events that reflect the region’s welcoming spirit and coastal charm. These gatherings offer residents and visitors alike a chance to connect, unwind, and experience the unique culture of southeastern Virginia.
One of the standout events is the annual Boardwalk Art Show in Virginia Beach, held every October along the scenic oceanfront. This long-running tradition transforms the iconic boardwalk into an open-air gallery, featuring hundreds of artists from across the country. Families can stroll along the beach while admiring a wide variety of artwork, from paintings and photography to ceramics and jewelry, while enjoying live music performances and sampling delicious food from local vendors. The festival atmosphere is lively and colorful, making it a great outing for all ages.
In Chesapeake, summer weekends are filled with laid-back, community-oriented events that bring people together in charming local spaces. Outdoor movie nights in the park are a favorite, where families can spread out blankets, enjoy snacks, and watch kid-friendly films under the stars.
The city’s farmers markets offer more than just fresh produce; they’re gathering places filled with local crafts, food trucks, and live entertainment. Local summer concerts, often held in parks or town centers, showcase regional musicians and create a fun, casual vibe perfect for picnicking and dancing. Whether you're looking for a high-energy art festival by the ocean or a peaceful evening under the stars in the park, Chesapeake and Virginia Beach provide a rich calendar of events that celebrate summer and strengthen community ties.
Summer in Chesapeake and Virginia Beach offers countless opportunities for families to bond, explore, and create lasting memories together. From the gentle waves and sandy shores of the Virginia Beach oceanfront to the tranquil forests and scenic waterways of Chesapeake, the natural beauty of this region sets the stage for unforgettable experiences.
Families can enjoy everything from beachside relaxation and exciting water activities to educational outings at museums and aquariums, all while discovering the rich history and cultural charm that define southeastern Virginia. The area’s welcoming community spirit shines through in its many seasonal festivals, outdoor movie nights, and farmers markets, where families can enjoy the simple pleasures of summer in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Whether your idea of a perfect summer day includes hiking through a nature preserve, ziplining through the treetops, shopping for local goods, or just sharing ice cream by the sea, Chesapeake and Virginia Beach offer a diverse and enriching environment that caters to every interest and age group. The wide range of attractions and events ensures that every family can find their version of summer magic. With its unique blend of adventure, learning, and leisure, a summer spent in this part of Virginia isn’t just a vacation; it’s an opportunity to grow closer, explore more, and create cherished moments that will be remembered for years to come.
Contact BrightStar Care® of Chesapeake & Virginia Beach
If you or your loved one is in need of a personal caregiver, let BrightStar Care® of Chesapeake & Virginia Beach help you!
Contact us today to learn more about our caregiving services! Our office is located at 816 Greenbrier Circle, Ste 208 Chesapeake, VA 23320 You may also call us at 757-227-4047. We look forward to hearing from you!