Chincoteague may be best known as the setting for Marguerite Henry’s book “Misty of Chincoteague,” but there is much more to the island than ponies. The island’s small town charm, sandy beach and activities make it a favorite for families, millennials, outdoorsmen and mom squads alike.
If, however, you did come for the ponies there is plenty to see. Visit the Chincoteague Pony Centre for a chance to pet or even ride a Chincoteague Pony. Stop by the Museum of Chincoteague Island to see Misty herself. Book a boat or kayak tour with a guide to see the ponies up close on the water or visit the inn where Marguerite Henry stayed while she wrote “Misty of Chincoteague.”
If getting in touch with nature is more your speed, Chincoteague has that too. The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge may be most popular for its miles of sandy beach, but it is also home to top-notch birding, hiking and biking trails, hunting and a historic lighthouse. And of course, there are the park’s most famous residents, the Chincoteague ponies.
Chincoteague is about as family-friendly as it gets, there are activities like mini-golf, bike rentals and bowling to keep the kids active and experiences like pirate-themed boat rides and educational tours to keep them engaged. If you run into a rainy day turn to the Chincoteague Island Library for activities and books or the Island Theater for a movie. Schedule your trip during a NASA Wallops Flight Facility launch to see science in action.
Whether you need beach gear or board games, there are plenty of places to shop on Chincoteague. Both Maddox Boulevard and Main Street are dotted with everything from boutique clothing stores to gift shops and bookstores.
When you get hungry there are plenty of options on the island, from new American tacos to barbecue, Brazilian food, Vietnamese food, seafood, fine dining and southern staples. Chincoteague also happens to be home to a legendary ice cream shop. The Island Creamery has been voted one of the best in America.
Finding a place to tuck yourself in at night isn’t hard on Chincoteague. You can choose from campgrounds, B&Bs, locally owned hotels and motels, vacation rentals and national brands.
For more information visit the Chincoteague Chamber
6733 Maddox Blvd. Chincoteague Island, VA 23336
Call 757-336-6161
Region
Last Updated: 08/27/2020
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