Chesapeake VA

Chesapeake – A charming blend of scenic nature and suburban comfort, Chesapeake offers peaceful waterways, lush parks, and a welcoming community. With a perfect mix of outdoor adventures and hometown charm, it's a city where families thrive, nature lovers explore, and Southern hospitality is a way of life.

• Population: ~250,000
• Weather: Mild and seasonal (30-90°F); warm, humid summers and cool, breezy winters.
• Places To Visit: Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, Chesapeake Arboretum, Northwest River Park, Oak Grove Lake Park, Historic Greenbrier.
• Top Activities: Kayaking along the Intracoastal Waterway, hiking forest trails, fishing in scenic lakes, picnicking in city parks, and exploring local farmers markets.
• Famous Food: Chesapeake-style crab cakes, southern fried catfish, hush puppies, BBQ ribs, and homestyle biscuits.

Chesapeake, VA is a growing city with a robust economy driven by sectors such as healthcare, education, defense, and logistics. Its proximity to Norfolk and the presence of military installations make it a prime location for skilled professionals. Below are the top career options in Chesapeake.

Top 5 Jobs in Chesapeake, VA

Chesapeake, VA, is a charming city with plenty of inviting spots where students can unwind, catch up with friends, and enjoy some downtime. With beautiful natural areas, tasty eateries, and engaging activities, Chesapeake offers a relaxing vibe for all.

Oak Grove Lake Park – This serene park is perfect for a peaceful walk or jog. With its scenic trails and lovely lake views, it's a great spot to escape from the hustle and bustle.

Greenbrier Mall – Whether you're looking to shop, grab a quick bite, or watch a movie, this mall provides an easy, all-in-one hangout option for students.

Great Bridge Lock Park – Ideal for those who love fishing or picnicking, this park is both relaxing and picturesque. The park is also a fantastic place to enjoy a leisurely afternoon.

The Garage Brewery – For students over 21, this local brewery offers a creative selection of craft beers in a laid-back atmosphere. It's an excellent spot to hang out and enjoy some live music.

Battlefield Boulevard – From unique eateries to cozy cafes, this bustling area has plenty of food options that cater to every taste, making it a prime spot for foodie students.

Regent University Park & Play – Located nearby in Virginia Beach, this fun spot is perfect for students looking to enjoy some competitive and low-key sports activities amidst a pleasant outdoor setting.

Chesapeake, Virginia is home to a range of respected colleges and universities, offering students academic programs in areas like healthcare, business, skilled trades, and general studies. Whether attending a public institution or a private college, students in Chesapeake benefit from access to quality higher education close to home or in nearby regions.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Chesapeake

Tidewater Community College (Chesapeake Campus) – One of the largest community colleges in Virginia, Tidewater offers associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training in healthcare, business, information technology, and technical trades. It serves as a key educational hub in the region.

Old Dominion University (ODU) – Virginia Beach Higher Education Center – Located nearby in Virginia Beach with flexible programs available to Chesapeake students, ODU is a major public research university offering bachelor's through doctoral degrees in engineering, nursing, education, and cybersecurity.

Norfolk State University – A historically Black public university within commuting distance of Chesapeake, NSU offers respected programs in business, social work, engineering, and health sciences.

College of William & Mary (Off-Campus Programs) – While the main campus is in Williamsburg, William & Mary offers extended and continuing education options for professionals in the Chesapeake area, including courses in government, education, and business.

Eastern Shore Community College (accessible to Chesapeake residents) – Serving the broader region, ESCC offers flexible online and hybrid programs in liberal arts, nursing, and technical education for students seeking an affordable path to higher education.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Chesapeake

Regent University – Located in nearby Virginia Beach, Regent is a Christian-based private university known for its strong online programs and degrees in law, business, psychology, education, and theology. It draws many students from the Chesapeake area.

South University, Virginia Beach – This private university serves students in Chesapeake with career-focused degrees in nursing, healthcare administration, business, and criminal justice through both online and on-campus formats.

Centura College – Chesapeake Campus – A private vocational school focusing on hands-on training in trades such as HVAC, medical assisting, dental assisting, and business. Centura's programs are designed for fast-track employment opportunities.

Averett University (Hampton Roads Regional Campus) – Averett offers adult learners in Chesapeake access to accelerated bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration, education, and leadership studies through evening and online classes.

Strayer University – Chesapeake Campus – A private university providing flexible learning options for working adults. Known for programs in business, information systems, public administration, and accounting, Strayer supports professional career advancement.

Chesapeake, VA is home to several exceptional high schools that provide quality education and help prepare students for future success. Whether public or private, these high schools offer strong academics, extracurricular programs, and support for college preparation.

Top Public High Schools in Chesapeake, VA

• Grassfield High School – Known for its excellent academic performance, this school offers a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and extracurricular activities.
• Great Bridge High School – Offers strong college prep programs, competitive sports, and dedicated faculty that drive academic achievement.
• Western Branch High School – A large school with diverse course offerings, successful athletics, and technology-forward classrooms.
• Hickory High School – Recognized for its academic standards, engaged student body, and a strong fine arts department.
• Deep Creek High School – Features strong academic programs and a robust International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum for college-bound students.

Top Private High Schools in Chesapeake, VA

• Atlantic Shores Christian School – Offers a faith-based education with academic rigor and a focus on character development and leadership.
• Greenbrier Christian Academy – Serves students with a well-rounded curriculum that includes honors and AP courses, athletics, and spiritual development.
• StoneBridge School – A classical Christian school that emphasizes critical thinking, moral values, and strong academic training.
• Summit Christian Academy – Provides a supportive and academically challenging environment focused on nurturing each student’s potential.
• Veritas Collegiate Academy – Known for its college preparatory curriculum rooted in classical education and Christian worldview.

Chesapeake, Virginia, does not have any major league professional sports teams of its own. However, its location in the Hampton Roads region provides easy access to several nearby cities with thriving sports scenes, especially minor league and regional teams. Sports fans in Chesapeake often cheer for teams based in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and even Richmond, all within a short drive away.

⚾ Baseball – Norfolk Tides (Triple-A, MiLB)

• Norfolk Tides – The Norfolk Tides are a Triple-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles. They play at Harbor Park in downtown Norfolk, just minutes from Chesapeake. The Tides have a strong fan base and regularly develop top prospects for the Orioles. They have a long history dating back to the 1960s and won the 2023 International League Championship.

🏒 Hockey – Norfolk Admirals (ECHL)

• Norfolk Admirals – Playing in the East Coast Hockey League, the Admirals have been a staple of the Hampton Roads sports scene. In 2012, when they were part of the AHL, the team set a record with 28 consecutive wins and won the Calder Cup. They currently play at the Norfolk Scope Arena.

⚽ Soccer – Virginia Beach City FC (NPSL)

• Virginia Beach City FC – Competing in the National Premier Soccer League, this semi-pro soccer team represents the area in regional play. They host matches at the Virginia Beach Sportsplex and have gained a loyal local following since their founding in 2014.

🏈 Football – No Major Professional Team

• There is no major or minor league professional football team based in Chesapeake or nearby cities, but fans in the area often support NFL teams like the Washington Commanders and the Baltimore Ravens, both within a few hours’ drive.

🏀 Basketball – No Major Professional Team

• Chesapeake does not have a professional basketball team. However, basketball fans can enjoy exciting college basketball action, including games from Old Dominion University and Norfolk State University.

Though Chesapeake may not have teams in the top professional leagues, its proximity to Norfolk and Virginia Beach allows fans to experience quality live sports, especially in baseball and hockey. Residents show strong community spirit in supporting local and regional teams, and the area continues to grow as a hub for athletic talent and sports enjoyment.

Chesapeake, VA is a city known for its natural beauty, rich history, and community charm. From the Great Dismal Swamp to its growing local culture, Chesapeake is full of surprises. Here are some fun facts about this unique coastal city:

1. Swamp with History – The Great Dismal Swamp, partly located in Chesapeake, was a hideout for escaped enslaved people and now serves as a lush wildlife refuge.
2. Mile-High Trees – Chesapeake is home to some of the tallest and oldest bald cypress trees in the United States.
3. City of Waterways – With over 22 miles of waterways, Chesapeake is a paradise for boaters, kayakers, and nature lovers.
4. Underground Railroad – The city played a key role in the Underground Railroad, and local sites still tell those powerful stories today.
5. Twice the Size – Chesapeake is one of the largest cities in Virginia by land area, bigger than both Virginia Beach and Norfolk!
6. Wildlife Wonder – Keep your eyes open—Chesapeake has more than 100 bird species and even bobcats in its wilder parts.
7. Farm Fresh – The city has a thriving agricultural community, with local farmers markets offering fresh, homegrown produce all year long.
8. Lake Drummond Magic – Lake Drummond, right in the middle of the Great Dismal Swamp, is one of only two natural lakes in Virginia—and it glows amber due to tannins in the water!
9. Eco-Friendly Focus – Chesapeake is serious about being green, with multiple eco-parks and conservation areas for residents and wildlife to enjoy.
10. Movie-Worthy Views – With scenic marshlands, wooded trails, and riverfront parks, Chesapeake offers nature scenes fit for a film set.