Chesapeake is a diverse city in the commonwealth of Virginia, known for its culture and nature. Found between the Atlantic coast and the great dismal swamp, Chesapeake is home to an estimated 245,000 people, making it Virginia's second most populated city. Chesapeake has a total area of 351 square miles, making it also one of the largest cities in the state.

Those who love the great outdoors will never lack something to do in Chesapeake. This city is home to the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. The original Great Dismal Swamp was estimated at over a million acres. However, human development has destroyed close to 90% of this once pristine wilderness. This National Wildlife Refuge preserves more than 112,000 acres, and is home to black bears, otters, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The refuge is open to visitors who can enjoy lakes, marshes, woods, and scenic boardwalk trails.

At the heart of the Great Dismal Swamp, you'll find Lake Drummond, one of only two naturally occurring freshwater lakes in Virginia. This inland lake has a surface area of over 3,140 acres, but its maximum depth is only 6 feet. Lake Drummond is a destination for local anglers, who catch crappie, yellow perch, chain pickerel, and bullhead catfish.

Chesapeake is home to many other unique attractions. Those curious about the night sky will love the Chesapeake Planetarium. Visitors maintain this is a great spot for families, and children especially will be fascinated by the presentation. Don't forget to visit the Railroad Museum of Virginia. You can walk through historic train cars, and the site is known for its friendly and informative staff.

Chesapeake also has a long and storied history. The region was first inhabited by the Chesepian or Chesapeake people. It was one of the first areas of English settlement during the colonial period. English colonists began living on the banks of the Elizabeth River in 1620. The area was also the site of an important battle in the American Revolution. American forces defeated the British at the Battle of Great Bridge of 1775.

The Great Dismal Swamp is also the home of America's oldest operating canal, dug completely by hand and completed in 1805. Sewell's Point was the location of one of the first major encounters in the Civil War. In May 1861, Union troops took control and occupied the region. The area remained rural for much of the early 20th century. However, as Norfolk grew to the north, Chesapeake began developing as a southern suburb. It has continued growing into the thriving community we know today.

With so much to see and do in Chesapeake, you'd hate to spend your weekends sweating over yard work. Good thing LawnStarter makes landscaping easier. With their website or mobile app, you simply enter your ZIP code and expert lawn care and landscaping companies are at your service. Leave the yard work to LawnStarter so that you can get back to enjoying your town.