Five Fun Day Trips Residents of Hampton Roads Can Take This Summer

Summer can be the perfect time to experience all that Virginia has to offer. Keep your home base and travel during the day while being able to come home to your comfy bed every night. Look at the places that are just a few hours drive from the Tidewater area.

• Tangier Island. Get away from it all in this remote little island where no cars are allowed. Located in the Chesapeake Bay, Tangier Island is only accessible by boat and airplane. With less than 100 acres available to reside on, there are no traffic lights, crime is scarce and the people are as charming as the place itself. Find sea glass, enjoy freshly caught softshell crabs and experience the simple delights here.
• The Eastern Shore. Fishing, birdwatching, antiquing, wine tasting and more can all be done in this section of the commonwealth. This rich agricultural region known for delicious produce is home to the Chincoteague ponies, various art studios and historical sites. Drive over from Hampton Roads during the summer or any season for fun.
• Charles City. Take a step back in time. Visit the grand homes of yesteryear along the James River. Sherwood Forest, Westover, Shirley, Evelynton and Berkely are plantations that may allow visitors to tour the grounds. Get an up close glimpse of what life was like for early Virginians without going far from home.
• Edenton. Listed as one of America's Prettiest Towns in Forbes Magazine, this historical little burg on the water awaits your arrival. The Colonial capital still boasts many fine examples of beloved architectural styles. Come to enjoy festivals, restaurants, shops and outdoor activities in a serene setting.
• Northern Neck. Take in the pristine beauty of the Rappahannock and Potomac Rivers, along with many of the inlets that lead out to the Chesapeake Bay. Boaters, rowers, kayakers and canoers can find plenty of territory to explore in this part of Virginia. There is also the Belle Isle State Park, Westmoreland Berry Farm, Richmond County Fair, Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort.

Take a break this summer and leave your home in Hampton Roads just for a day.