Imagine taking a road trip for a day on a scenic, relaxing drive on Delmarva's eastern shore.
As you parallel the coast, you leave thoughts about work, traffic and a busy tight schedule. Your attention now turns to Delmarva's rich history, unique and interesting wildlife, and the trees that rustle gently in the breeze.
As you drive along Chincoteague Road, you gaze at miles of Salt Marsh Cordgrass surrounded by the glittery Chintoteague Bay.
The ripples reflect the brightly shining sun and its rays through the trees. The snow geese cheerfully glide and then gather into one place along the marshy wetlands.
The marsh lands extend as far as the eye could see in all directions. Surrounded by nature, you take it all as you traverse the island. You find that this type of experience reenergizes and recharges you.
If you are the type of person who enjoys nature and likes to learn about the history of an area, a few of the following unique landmarks might interest you:
Kiptopeke State Park, Cape Charles, VA
Birdwatchers love this site. Kiptopeke State Park in Cape Charles, Virginia offers the chance to observe and explore the unique migratory bird habitat there. Kiptopeke State park boasts a haven for a documented 287 species of birds.
Wallops Island Visitor Center
If you are interested in the history of the space program, the Wallops Island Visitor Center provides a variety of interactive exhibits. Immediately upon entering the facility on Virginia's eastern shore, you will notice several photos and explanations of the rockets, the launch process, and the history of rocket missions. Admission to this educational site is free.
Delmarva Discovery Museum
As I entered the Delmarva Discovery Museum,in Pocomoke City, Maryland, the smell of aquatic life passed through my nostrils.
You see and hear life all around as well. The sound of birds singing and water running reminds you of a park with springs. In one of the water tanks,
A diamondback terrapin joyfully greeted me upon my arrival. Maryland designated this lively, enthusiastic creature as its state reptile. The terrapin compares to the very energetic and playful river otter, which put on quite a show there in a massive aquarium with a high tank and glass.
Both the otters and the diamondback terrapins present themselves as creatures content with life and filled with joy.
Only behind that glass would you want to get close to them.
These otters can hurt you with their sharp teeth and claws.
You'll enjoy seeing the otters' fun-loving personality come through but also their ornery side as well.
The otter exhibit, which includes a special presentation, is one of the main features of the museum. In addition, other interesting displays include snake exhibits as well as a plethora of information on the birds of the area.
You will also find information on the history of the shipbuilding industry and steam engine, which once constituted the primary means of water transportation. www.delmarvadiscoverycenter.org
Assateague Island
Assateague Island is a 37-mile long barrier island located off the eastern coast of the Delmarva peninsula facing the Atlantic Ocean.
The island includes both the Maryland and Virginia section. Both Maryland and Virginia sides of Assateague have wild ponies, each has a herd of about 160.
Assateague Island National Seashore has a combined total of over 300 wild ponies in Maryland and Virginia.
princessroyale.com/assateague-island-activities
Assateague Lighthouse
The 142-foot tall Assateague Lighthouse stands on the southern end of Assateague Island off the coast of the Virginia Eastern Shore.
The top of the lighthouse is accessible to the public, according to www.assateagueisland.com, where you can see the visitor schedule. The lighthouse is called "one of the most impressive landmarks in Virginia."The lighthouse is located on the Virginia portion of Assateague Island.
South Ocean City, Maryland--Boardwalk
Ocean City, Maryland offers a number of places to hang out, have fun, and explore. Among the opportunities include the rides at the south end of the boardwalk. You will also find Ripley's Believe it Or Not Museum, which displays a variety of odd and mysterious items.
The boardwalk itself spans well over two miles with shops, hotels and streets on the inland side and the vast shoreline on the beach side. Along your walk, you will come across Randy Hoffman's famous sand sculptures.
You can find more information on that here: www.bonitabeachhotel.com/famous-sand-sculptures-in-ocean-city-maryland