Now that school is back in session, it can be difficult to carve away time for a big vacation if you have children. The good news, though, is that there are still plenty of weekend getaways that you can take advantage of! Before the weather gets too cold, it might be nice to take a weekend to enjoy the outdoors and attractions one more time. If you live in the mid-Atlantic region, a visit to Chesapeake Bay, Maryland, can be the perfect place to relax, have fun and maybe even learn a little bit! Here are some things to do while in the area:
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Go geocaching. Geocaching is a scavenger hunt that appeals to kids and adults of all ages. While you can participate in this activity nearly anywhere, the Chesapeake Bay is an ideal place to take part, because there is so much opportunity. You can search for nearly sixty geocaches on the John Smith GeoTrail, and for about forty on the Star-Spangled Banner GeoTrail.
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Look at wild ponies. Assateague Island is one of the natural barrier islands across the Bay, and it’s famous for the wild horses ponies. If you read Misty of Chincoteague as a child, you know all about them. If not, they’re feral equines which are often seen on the roadways and beaches. Do remember that although they are pretty, they’re wild animals and can be dangerous if approached; remind your children not to try to feed or touch them. You can rent bicycles to explore the island, or simply spend time enjoying the beautiful beach.
- Visit the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. Learn all about the history of Chesapeake Bay through fun and interactive exhibits, land and water tours and special events at this family-friendly museum. Interact with the staff of the Boatyard and learn about boating on the Bay. Climb to the top of a lighthouse, and be sure to pick up a souvenir at the museum gift shop. On Saturday mornings, kids ages 4 to 9 can enjoy ChesAdventures, where they’ll enjoy arts and crafts, games and other fun activities, or they can go on a boat ride with Mr. Jim. These experiences are available for a fee over and above the admission charge of $13 for adults and $6 for children. Kids under age six are free.
While you are in the Chesapeake Bay area, you’ll also find a lot of historical attractions and other outdoor activities. Venture into the nearby cities of Annapolis, Baltimore or Norfolk. Also, explore the Potomac River trails. While in any of the parks or on any of the beaches, bring along binoculars for birdwatching, or if you know how to sail, charter a boat and take the kids out on the Bay on a nice day.
If you are in the area, the Chesapeake Bay makes an excellent getaway for your family. Have you been there recently? What are some of your favorite family-friendly things to do in the region?
