Where History, Art, & Waterways Meet

This five‑day itinerary invites motorcoach groups to experience the premier highlights of Virginia’s eastern waterways and heritage‑rich communities. Blending natural beauty, historic significance, and curated local experiences, the journey offers a compelling showcase of the region’s most celebrated destinations.

Day 1 – Chincoteague: Where Your Eastern Shore Story Begins

Noon – Arrival in Chincoteague Step onto one of Virginia’s most magical barrier islands, where the air tastes like salt and stories linger in the breeze. Enjoy a waterfront lunch as a local storyteller paints a picture of the Eastern Shore’s deep agricultural roots and the proud legacy behind its world‑famous oysters and clams.

Assateague Island National Seashore – Guided Exploration Meet your Park Ranger and wander into a world where nature still rules. Cross windswept dunes, explore maritime forests, and stroll untouched beaches. Climb the historic Assateague Lighthouse for sweeping views and keep your eyes open for migratory birds and the island’s iconic wildlife.

Museum of Chincoteague Island – A Deeper Dive Discover the legends, lore, and local treasures that define this beloved island community.

Downtown Chincoteague – Choose Your Adventure Explore the charming downtown district on a guided stroll filled with coastal character. Then choose how your first day ends:

  • Set sail on a pony‑viewing or sunset cruise, where golden light dances across the water and wild ponies may appear like a dream on the horizon OR
  • Wander the shops, discovering artisan goods, coastal keepsakes, and the irresistible charm of island life.

Day 2 – Virginia Beach: Coastal Wonders & Soaring History

Travel south to the vibrant, sun‑kissed shores of Virginia Beach.

Blue Crab Bay Company – Taste of the Chesapeake Sample regional favorites and browse shelves filled with Eastern Shore flavors.

Chesapeake Bay Bridge‑Tunnel – A Modern Marvel Journey 17.6 miles across one of the world’s most extraordinary engineering feats. Watch the Atlantic and Chesapeake meet in a breathtaking blend of water, sky, and human ingenuity.

Virginia Beach Tour & Cape Henry Lighthouse Meet your step‑on guide and explore the highlights of this coastal city. Climb the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse—the first federally funded lighthouse in the nation—and stand at the First Landing Cross, where English settlers first touched Virginia soil.

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Dive into the mysteries of the deep through immersive exhibits and mesmerizing marine life.

Military Aviation Museum – History Takes Flight Surround yourself with one of the world’s largest collections of flyable WWI and WWII aircraft. Enjoy lunch accompanied by the Doorway Singers, whose stirring tributes honor America’s heroes.

Dolphin Watching Cruise – A Sunset to Remember Set out into the Atlantic in search of bottlenose dolphins—Virginia Beach is home to the East Coast’s largest population. As the sun sinks, watch the water glow with color.

Dinner at Waterman’s Surfside Grille End your day with ocean views, fresh seafood, and the legendary Orange Crush.

Day 3 – Portsmouth: A Seaport Steeped in Story

Naval Shipyard Museum – America’s Maritime Legacy Explore the history of the nation’s oldest and largest shipyard and its role in shaping American naval power.

Walking Tour of Olde Towne Portsmouth Stroll cobblestone streets lined with historic architecture, charming shops, and waterfront views.

Children’s Museum of Virginia – A Playful Journey Through Time Enjoy the Lancaster Antique Toy & Train Collection—nostalgia, craftsmanship, and pure fun rolled into one.

Paradise Creek Nature Park – Nature’s Hidden Gem Meet your guide and explore this restored urban oasis. Enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch surrounded by native plants, wildlife, and quiet beauty.

Rivers Casino – Dinner & Play Savor a delicious dinner and try your luck with free play at Portsmouth’s premier entertainment destination.

Day 4 – Suffolk: History, Art & Southern Flavor

Great Dismal Swamp Begin your day immersed in one of the most mysterious and ecologically rich landscapes on the East Coast.

Downtown Suffolk Tour Meet your guide and explore this charming city. Keep an eye out for Mr. Peanut himself and stop at the beloved Planters Peanut Center for nostalgic treats.

Suffolk Cultural Arts Center – Art in Bloom Experience vibrant exhibits and creative energy in this beautifully restored historic building.

Riddick’s Folly House Museum & Suffolk Visitor Center Step into Suffolk’s past through this meticulously preserved Greek Revival home, then stop by the Visitor Center for local insights.

Suffolk Seaboard Station Railroad Museum Discover the city’s railroading heritage in a beautifully restored station.

Dinner at Harper’s Table End your day with elevated Southern cuisine crafted with local ingredients and warm hospitality.

Day 5 – Smithfield & Isle of Wight: Timeless Charm & Historic Roots

Historic St. Luke’s Church Begin your day at Virginia’s oldest church building, a stunning example of early American craftsmanship.

Historic District Tour & Shopping Join your step‑on guide for a stroll through Smithfield’s picturesque historic district. Enjoy time browsing The Christmas Store and other unique local shops.

Lunch at Smithfield Station Dine waterfront at this iconic inn and restaurant known for its hospitality and scenic views.

Isle of Wight County Museum Explore the region’s rich history—from colonial beginnings to the famous world’s oldest ham.


CONTACTS:

Chincoteague Logo

Joanne Moore
Executive Director
Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce
(757) 336-6161
[email protected]
www.ChincoteagueChamber.com

Portsmouth Logo

James McCann
Tourism Manager
Department of Museums & Tourism
City of Portsmouth, VA
(757) 393-8983 ext.20
[email protected]

Smithfield Logo

Deb Frank
Visitor Center Manager
Smithfield and Isle of Wight Tourism
(757) 357-5182 
[email protected]
www.visitsmithfieldva.com

Suffolk Logo

Danielle Jonigan
Tourism Development Specialist
Suffolk Tourism
(757) 514-4131
[email protected]
VisitSuffolkVA.com

Virginia Beach Logo

Jim Coggin, CTIS, CSTP
Tourism Sales Manager
Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau
(757) 385-6642
[email protected]
www.virginiabeach.com