Chesapeake Bay travel guide

Chesapeake Bay travel guide

National Airports

There are several airports located in or near the Chesapeake Bay area that are considered national airports. Some of the major national airports in the Chesapeake Bay region include:

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) – Located approximately 10 miles south of Baltimore, Maryland, this airport is one of the busiest in the region and offers domestic and international flights.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) – Located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., this airport offers domestic flights and is the closest airport to the nation’s capital.

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) – Located approximately 26 miles west of Washington, D.C., this airport offers domestic and international flights and serves as a major hub for United Airlines.

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) – Located approximately 100 miles northeast of the Chesapeake Bay, this airport offers domestic and international flights and serves as a major hub for American Airlines.

Other smaller regional airports in the Chesapeake Bay area include Salisbury Regional Airport (SBY) in Salisbury, Maryland and Norfolk International Airport (ORF) in Norfolk, Virginia.

Trains in Chesapeake Bay

Chesapeake Bay is a large geographic area that covers parts of Maryland and Virginia in the United States, and there are several Amtrak train stations located throughout the region that offer train services to various destinations.

Some of the major Amtrak train stations in the Chesapeake Bay area include:

Baltimore Penn Station – located in Baltimore, Maryland, this station offers daily train services to various destinations, including Washington, D.C., New York City, and Boston.

BWI Rail Station – located near the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, this station provides direct rail service to Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and other cities in the region.

Richmond Staples Mill Road Station – located in Richmond, Virginia, this station offers daily train services to various destinations, including Washington, D.C., New York City, and Boston.

Newport News Station – located in Newport News, Virginia, this station provides daily train services to various destinations, including Washington, D.C., Richmond, and other cities in the region.

Alexandria Station – located in Alexandria, Virginia, this station offers daily train services to various destinations, including Washington, D.C., Richmond, and other cities in the region.

In addition to these Amtrak stations, there are also several commuter rail services in the region, such as the MARC Train in Maryland and the Virginia Railway Express in Virginia, that provide transportation to commuters in and around the Chesapeake Bay area.

Buses in Chesapeake Bay

There are several bus services that operate in the Chesapeake Bay area of the United States. Some of the major bus companies that provide transportation services in the region include:

Greyhound: Greyhound provides long-distance bus services to various destinations in the Chesapeake Bay area, including Baltimore, Richmond, and Washington, D.C. Greyhound also offers connections to other cities in the United States.

Megabus: Megabus provides intercity bus services between various cities in the region, including Baltimore, Richmond, and Washington, D.C. Megabus is known for offering affordable fares and has multiple pick-up and drop-off locations in the region.

BoltBus: BoltBus provides daily bus services between New York City and Baltimore, with stops in Philadelphia and other cities along the way. BoltBus is known for its comfortable buses and on-board amenities such as free Wi-Fi.

Maryland Transit Administration (MTA): The MTA provides public transportation services in Maryland, including bus services that operate in and around the Baltimore metropolitan area. The MTA also operates the MARC Train commuter rail service.

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA): The WMATA provides public transportation services in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including bus services that operate in Maryland and Virginia, as well as the Metrorail subway system that connects various parts of the region.

In addition to these major bus services, there are also several smaller bus companies that operate in the Chesapeake Bay area, offering services such as charter buses, sightseeing tours, and airport shuttles.

How to get to Chesapeake Bay

The Chesapeake Bay region is a large area that spans parts of Maryland and Virginia in the eastern United States. There are several ways to get to the Chesapeake Bay, depending on your starting point and mode of transportation.

By Air: The closest major airports to the Chesapeake Bay area are Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) in Maryland and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) in Virginia. Both airports offer domestic and international flights and are served by several major airlines. Once you arrive, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transportation to reach your final destination.

By Car: If you’re traveling by car, major highways such as Interstate 95, Interstate 495, and Route 50 provide access to the Chesapeake Bay area. If you’re coming from the north, take Interstate 95 south and then follow signs for either Route 50 or Route 301 to reach the eastern shore of the bay. If you’re coming from the south, take Interstate 95 north to Route 50 or Route 301. From there, you can explore the various towns and attractions along the bay.

By Train: Amtrak provides train services to various cities in the Chesapeake Bay area, including Baltimore, Richmond, and Washington, D.C. From there, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transportation to reach your final destination.

By Bus: Several bus companies, such as Greyhound, Megabus, and BoltBus, provide transportation services to various cities in the Chesapeake Bay region. From there, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transportation to reach your final destination.

By Boat: The Chesapeake Bay is also accessible by boat, and there are several marinas and harbors located throughout the region that offer docking and boating services.

What is the best time to travel to Chesapeake Bay

The best time to travel to Chesapeake Bay depends on your preferences and what activities you are interested in. Here are some factors to consider:

Weather: The Chesapeake Bay region experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall can be mild and pleasant, making these seasons a popular time to visit. Summer can be hot and humid, but it is also the best time for water activities like swimming, fishing, and boating.

Festivals and Events: The Chesapeake Bay region hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival, Annapolis Film Festival, Maryland Renaissance Festival, and Virginia Wine Festival. If you are interested in attending one of these events, it’s best to plan your trip around the dates.

Crowds: The Chesapeake Bay region can get crowded during the peak summer months, especially on weekends and holidays. If you prefer a quieter, more peaceful vacation, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or even in the winter.

Wildlife Viewing: The Chesapeake Bay is home to a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, dolphins, and crabs. If you are interested in wildlife viewing, spring and fall are the best times to visit, as many species are active during these seasons.

Overall, the best time to travel to Chesapeake Bay depends on your preferences and interests. Consider the weather, festivals and events, crowds, and wildlife when planning your trip.

How to get around Chesapeake Bay

The best way to get around Chesapeake Bay depends on your location and mode of transportation. Here are some options:

Car: Renting a car is a popular way to get around Chesapeake Bay, especially if you plan to explore multiple towns and attractions. Major highways such as Interstate 95, Interstate 495, and Route 50 provide access to the region. There are also several car rental companies available at major airports, train stations, and bus terminals.

Public Transportation: The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) provide public transportation services in the region, including bus and subway services. The MTA also operates the MARC Train commuter rail service.

Taxi: Taxis are available in most towns in the Chesapeake Bay region, and they are a convenient option for short trips or transportation to and from the airport.

Bike: Biking is a popular way to explore the Chesapeake Bay region, especially in the summer months. There are several bike rental companies and bike trails available, including the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Trail and the Virginia Capital Trail.

Boat: Boating is another popular way to explore the Chesapeake Bay, and there are several marinas and harbors located throughout the region that offer docking and boating services.

Overall, the best way to get around Chesapeake Bay depends on your preferences and location. Renting a car is the most convenient option for exploring multiple towns and attractions, but public transportation, taxis, biking, and boating are also available.

Accommodations in Chesapeake Bay

The Chesapeake Bay region offers a variety of accommodations to suit every budget and travel style. Here are some options:

Hotels and Resorts: The Chesapeake Bay region is home to several hotels and resorts, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury properties. Popular chains like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt have properties in the region, as well as several independent hotels and resorts. Many of these properties offer amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants.

Bed and Breakfasts: Bed and breakfasts are a popular option for travelers looking for a more intimate and personalized experience. The Chesapeake Bay region is home to several charming bed and breakfasts, many of which are housed in historic buildings and offer amenities such as home-cooked breakfasts, cozy common areas, and outdoor spaces.

Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals, including cottages, cabins, and apartments, are a popular option for families and groups traveling together. Many of these properties offer amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, private outdoor spaces, and access to nearby attractions.

Campgrounds: The Chesapeake Bay region is also home to several campgrounds, ranging from rustic tent sites to full-service RV parks. Many of these campgrounds offer amenities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities.

Overall, the Chesapeake Bay region offers a variety of accommodations to suit every budget and travel style. When choosing accommodations, consider your budget, travel style, and preferred amenities.