See one of our nation's only surviving original Gothic buildings when you visit Historic St. Luke's Church in nearby Smithfield. This architectural attraction is something truly remarkable to behold, as it is the oldest Church of England foundation in America. Commonly referred to as “Old Brick,” it dates back to 1632. In 1953, the non-profit group St. Luke's Restoration was founded and played a vital road in the church’s maintenance and upkeep. The site is a National Landmark, on the Virginia Landmarks Register and on the National Register of Historic Places.
A single tree offers a great place to relax and commune with nature. But at the Chesapeake Arboretum, there are so many trees that your senses will be overwhelmed–but in a good way! This 47-acre garden features a staggering number of trees and also does an admirable job of championing the importance of environmental awareness through various exhibits and attractions. The Chesapeake Arboretum originally opened its doors in 1996 and has been welcoming hundreds of visitors on a regular basis ever since.
Go on an adventure filled with some of Chesapeake's most stunning natural beauty when you visit the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. The Great Dismal Swamp is located in southeastern Virginia and northeastern Carolina and has been recognized as a mysterious natural attraction where several people have easily lost their way. Originally established in 1974, this refuge is made up of 112,684 acres of forested wetlands. The 31,000-acre Drummond Lake is found at the center of the swamp.