On Virginia’s Eastern Shore sit two gems perfect for exploring on your bike—Chincoteague and Wallops Island. The first is most known for its wild horses. The second is most known as the home of the NASA Wallops Flight Facility. However, both are worth your time for a visit.
Chincoteague and Wallops Island in Virginia
Chincoteague, founded in 1908, is a town on Assateague Island. Its name means “beautiful land across the water.” With a population of approximately 4,000, it has a relaxed, easy-going feel. However, this area offers plenty to explore, including Wallops Island, only nine miles away.
Make Chincoteague and Wallops Island in Virginia a ride to remember.
Quick Travel Information
You have three ways to get to Chincoteague on your bike from the mainland. The most eye-popping route is the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. You enter the 17.6-mile-long bridge tunnel between Norfolk and Virginia Beach. The cost varies by season, but you can expect to pay between $14 and $18 in toll. Reduced prices apply on your return if you complete the round-trip in 24 hours.
If you are riding from Maryland or Delaware, you can skip the bridge-tunnel route and follow Highway 13 south of Pocomoke City, MD. One other option is to take Route 12 from Maryland toward Virginia, which then becomes Route 679 at the Virginia border.
The Herbert H. Bateman Educational and Administrative Center and Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
The Herbert H. Bateman Educational and Administrative Center oversees the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, and volunteers and staff are typically on hand to provide information about the available programs. The center is located in the heart of town and is worth a stop before heading to the wildlife refuge.
The wildlife refuge is a 14,000-acre park operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, filled with beautiful beaches for swimming, hiking and biking trails through the marshes and forest, hunting, fishing, and to catch glimpses of the famous wild ponies of Chincoteague. In addition, you have opportunities to kayak and climb the Assateague Island Lighthouse for a spectacular view. You can even end your day with a bonfire on the beach!
If you happen to visit in July, catch the Annual Pony Swim. It is a week-long event where the wild ponies swim across the water.
Explore the Town of Chincoteague
Chincoteague is a small town with a population of around 4,000 people. It includes the historic Main Street Merchants, where you can experience the town and pick up souvenirs. Seafood restaurants, hotels, and renowned ice cream parlors line the streets of this historic town.
If you are hungry, try AJ’s on the Creek or the Chincoteague Diner and Restaurant. Both serve fresh local seafood, including fresh oysters. If you want ice cream after your day on the beach, try Island Creamery or Muller’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor.
NASA Wallops Flight Facility
Just nine miles away from Chincoteague on Wallops Island is the NASA Wallops Flight Facility. The facility occasionally launches rockets as part of the NASA Space Program and offers a fantastic viewing area. Even apart from witnessing the power of a rocket launch, there is plenty else to experience at the flight facility. The facility has an auditorium, tours, and exhibits ranging from scientific balloons to current NASA missions.
Law Tigers Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
When exploring the islands of Virginia, you probably aren’t expecting to be in a motorcycle accident. But if you or your loved one suffers injuries in a motorcycle accident, call Law Tigers right away at 1-888-863-7216. You may be entitled to compensation. Our team will put you in touch with an experienced Virginia personal injury attorney who can explain your options and advise you on the next steps. Our network of lawyers extends nationwide.
