Assateague Island
To truly experience the unique nature of this island, you should plan your trip in the late spring or early summer. However, be aware that summers on Assateague Island can be hot and that the island is populated with mosquitoes and biting flies. The sea breezes will keep these insects at bay, but you should pack insect repellent if you plan to spend any time outside.
Assateague Island has several events that are worth your time during the summer. You can watch the 100 Nights of Lights in the evenings, a light show every 20 minutes. In addition to the nightly light show, you can enjoy beach fireworks, held every Wednesday during the summer on nearby Ocean City. In addition, on the last Wednesday of July, the island hosts the annual Pony Swim, a benefit for the local volunteer fire company. If you're interested in interacting with the horses and learning about the island's fascinating history, the Pony Swim is worth a visit.
Chincoteague Island
The island of Chincoteague in Virginia is a beautiful, picturesque place to vacation. This place is home to several unique and exciting attractions, including the annual Pony Swim and Auction. It's also known for its clams, oysters, and wildlife sightings. Whether a nature lover or a history buff, this destination is a must-visit.
The protected area of Chincoteague Island is filled with scenic views, beaches, and hiking trails. The island is also home to bald eagles and wild ponies. If you'd like to take a ride on a horse, you can take a lesson at Queen Hive Farms, where you can take a scenic ride through the woods.
The island also has a 1.4-mile walking trail called the Island Nature Trail. The trail is hard-service and paved, with markers identifying the plant species. Visitors can also visit the Chincoteague Museum for a brief history lesson.
Fisherman Island
If you enjoy birding, Fisherman Island is a must-visit location. The island is located just east of Route 13 and is an excellent spot to catch a glimpse of various bird species. In early fall, you can still catch sight of Black and Least Terns, and you can also see the rare Sandwich Tern. The island is also home to Forster's and Caspian Terns only found here during the early fall.
The southernmost barrier island on the Chesapeake Bay, Fisherman Island, is home to a rich variety of wildlife. Nesting waterbirds and migratory birds use the island as a sanctuary. The island is closed to the public during most of the year when the wildlife is most active, but you can visit the island on specific Saturdays from October through March.
Brown's Island
Brown's Island is a popular public park space in Richmond, Virginia. It is located on the James River's riverfront and has access to the Manchester and Canal Walk neighborhoods. The park was first created as a part of the Haxall Canal in 1789. The park is named after Elijah Brown, who worked at the Confederate States Laboratory. Women and children worked on the island during the Civil War, producing ammunition and other wartime items.
The Headman Statue is a 14-foot statue depicting an African-American boatman. It honors the early contributions of African Americans in Richmond's economy. The boatmen were essential to the canal system, which enabled quicker transportation of raw materials and finished goods around the James River's falls. The statue was designed by Paul DiPasquale and unveiled in November 1993.
Tangier Island
If you love watersports, you can rent a kayak or a golf cart to enjoy the island's waterways and historic sites. The locals are friendly and welcome visitors. The Tangier Island Museum offers a look into the island's history and local culture.
You can see the remains of centuries-old settlements, including the Canaan village. The island was once an inland ridge, isolated from mainland Virginia and the Delmarva Peninsula. The highest portions of the ancient ridge are still above water as barrier islands. But today, their survival is threatened by rising sea levels.
The island is home to churches and quaint businesses, including one that serves breakfast. Parents don't worry about their kids riding bicycles on the streets of Tangier; the sunsets are enough to make you forget you are on vacation. The small town's economy has long relied on oystering, fishing, and crabbing. There are two churches and three cafes on the island.
