I love driving over the CHESAPEAKE BAY BRIDGE tunnel - either to Cape Charles or just to enjoy the Eastern Shore of Virginia which is littered with adorable small towns with amazing fish. Also, recently, we've discovered this is the best way to get to Maryland, Annapolis or Delaware - forget driving up I-95. This is it! This tunnel is over 17 miles long and is so relaxing - an engineering marvel and very well-maintained. My husband and I visited the Florida Keys a few years ago and were so excited to drive between them on the famous bridge, well, it was far less beautiful, less well-kept, and less impressive than our own bridge. read more

With a fear of tunnels AND bridges on our recent trip to Williamsburg I decided on some exposure therapy and tackle the bridge/tunnel I have avoided for decades. EVEN after I researched that there have been 45 fatalities from crashes and 19 involved vehicles going into the water. Result? This is no where near as bad as I made it out in my mind. The bridge is low so you don't travel high over the water. The tunnels are short. About little over a minute to get through. This is a 17 mile bridge/tunnel expanse and the anxiety level really didn't even twinge much at all. The wildfire haze affected our views but it was an exposure therapy bucket list to cross off. So if you have a fear of tunnels or bridges I can with certainty say this will no where be near as intimidating as you imagine. The side protection barriers could be higher in my opinion (especially knowing about the past incidents of cars going over) but it is much more doable than you would think. Bite the bullet, and do it. You will be stronger for it. read more

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Cool bridge & tunnel! Nice views and relaxing drive. The cons: Our toll pass from out-of-state didn't work (ez pass compatible so no idea why). $16 each way. A LOT of deceased sea birds on the bridge. That was pretty depressing and I feel like they should clean those up. We saw at least a dozen. read more

going on six years that I'm aware of and the only thing that has changed here is the calendar; the anticipated renovations to the fishing pier have yet to materialize and the southbound tunnels remain tragic fictions while the poutine eaters up north have nearly completed the Gordy Howe International Bridge across the Detroit River... so yeah, I was hoping to see some real progress here - any progress actually - but the equipment just sits rusting away in the salt air as traffic crawls painfully along and the urge to turn hard right into the bay grows evermore compelling except I've paid sixteen dollars american for the privilege of being bored to death at low speed. ¿so how about it? read more

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel - underwater... - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cape Charles, Virginia

This is by far one of my favorite drives... crossing this 17.6 mile bridge-tunnel. We always take this route when traveling to Pennsylvania. We avoid the DC are and take the coastal route which includes the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. This route can be beautiful whether it is foggy, rain or shine. There are a few pull of spots to utilize to get out and take in the sites and take photos. There is a spot to pull off and enjoy a restaurant and some gift shopping. There is also a fishing pier. Right now it is closed because they are doing construction. But, I have been able to pull off in the past and check out the large ships crossing over the tunnels. Always go the speed limit and be cautious and respectful of others. read more

Outrageously expenaive. $32.00 for a round trip. They have closed the restaurant and fishing pier. So what does my money pay for? A nice route but I think we will go elsewhere in the futur. read more

"Cuddle up, angel, cuddle up, my little dove We'll ride down, baby, into this tunnel of love" (Bruce Springsteen) Talk about an engineering marvel. Through a series of three connected bridges and two tunnels, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel crosses above and below Chesapeake Bay in a 17.6 continuous mile run without so much as a single stop sign, traffic light, or intersection. It's one long uninterrupted ride, despite the bridge-tunnel-bridge-tunnel-bridge sequence. The Bay Bridge connects the Delmarva Peninsula to the bottom of Virginia near Virginia Beach. The scenery and views are incredible, as you seemingly float above the water, then dive down below the water line. It was a $20 EZ Pass toll each way, but we ran into something unusual on the way home. When I pulled up to the EZ Pass Lane, the gate didn't open. I noticed there was an attendant in the booth who made a motion for me to roll up my window. She told us there was a high wind warning on the bridge, so we had to keep our speed under 45 MPH and NO PASSING was allowed. Sure enough, we shimmied and shook a little crossing that bridge. I'm sure that became a white-knuckle drive for some of the vehicles on that bridge! read more

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This is a modern marvel. Sure it was built in believe late 60's, but what a joy it was to ride passenger for once. Could look around. The work done here is impeccable, and this saves lots of time over a ferry service. Will definitely roll back this way to the eastern shore. All should drive or ride this. There are some walk out piers, and also stops for views. Looking out from here is mesmerizing. Can the tunnel parts be a tight squeeze? Sure especially when 18 wheelers coming the other way. Yet I've found this easy to drive. It's not as high as a lot of bridges are. That alone is comforting. Definitely worth the toll cost, as this is an amazing feat. read more

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I have been over the bridge and through the tunnels since I was a kid. And it is always fun. As an adult to drive over is still as much viewing pleasure as I gotten as a child. read more

Am I really writing a review for a Bridge-Tunnel? I guess so. I am not sure where else in the US something like this takes place. Maybe this is the only place where it happens at this scale. (No, I am not going to Google it to find out) The tunnels are wide enough to make you feel comfortable. They are 100x better than the Lincoln and Holland if you are familiar with them from up North. The bridges are pretty short. The trick is, especially if you are driving, to look around and see how far out in the middle of no where you are when crossing. The only tip that is a must is to be sure you fueled up ahead of time -- or at least have 18 plus miles to empty in your tank when you start the journey! read more

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This is one of those places that everyone needs to experience at least once in their lifetime. I go to VA Beach 1-2 times from NJ and this is one of my favorite parts. In good weather, it's stunning. In bad weather, it's powerful and terrifying. In my opinion, it's absolutely worth taking this route into VA Beach. read more

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I love this bridge/tunnel. I remember all the times my parents took me and my brother to Chincoteague. We'd be asleep in the car and oer our request, they'd wake us up in a fury. The Bridge Is Coming! Get Up! I remember..... its a lovely drive. Much better than Rte 50 Bay Bridge. This one is almost relaxing. *DYK, Chesapeake Bay Bridge is the 4th longest in the United States? Take a trip! read more

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The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel was a wonderful and scary trip over the water The tunnels were a little nerve wrecking since the lanes inside the tunnel are oncoming and when you pass a big rig in there, it seems to shake but that again could be my nerves There is no where to pull over out there if needed but there is police presence out there so that made me feel somewhat safer The average speed is 50 but it should be a little slower maybe 40 but hey don't make the rules. It was $14 one way on the toll. Definitely would do again. It was opened in 1964, the year I was born do we are both 57 years old. read more

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The Chesapeake Bay Bridge is probably the coolest bridge I've ever travelled on. I know it sounds silly to review a bridge but honestly, this was a wild ride! It was an absolutely beautiful drive with jaw dropping views of the bay. You go under the bay via two tunnels which I personally think is neat. Yes, this bridge has a toll and it isn't cheap. But the road bridge is a smooth ride. There is construction going on but at least you know where your toll money is going (unlike so many toll roads). If you ever get the opportunity to cross this bridge on GPS, I recommend taking it. read more

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OMG I had to say a prayer before crossing the 17.6-mile Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel The channel tunnel is 5,000 something feet long It was Labor Day weekend 2022 and my family was doing some traveling. I never been on such a long bridge before. What a lovely long drive, with a large body of nothing but ocean. I was able to zoom and see some of Virginia Beach. If you have a fear of bridges or tunnels then this ride is not for you. It's long so gas up, get snacks, water or whatever for a 20min or so drive across. Items carried on top of vehicles, are prohibited when crossing the bridge, so be aware. The toll to cross cost more if you have more wheels like a travel trailer/camper or something of that sort. Our Toll fee was $42 total going across and coming back. There's even a scenic overlook pull-off where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the surrounding scenery.. My daughters asked me when will it be over as if they were on a roller coaster ride... I can say I was impressed, it was an exhilarating experience. read more

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel - View riding across 17.6mile bridge Virginia Beach - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cape Charles, Virginia

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I remember going through this as a kid. It was all excitement from me and my siblings, but a whole bunch of fright from my mom. I guess it all depends on where you are sitting in the vehicle. From the backseat it is all oohs and aahs, but from the front seat it is a bunch of OMGs. And I understand that now. Approaching the tunnel/bridge can be a bit intimidating. You are about to go under the water and a million what-if situations go through your head. All of which are obviously not going to happen. A majority of them just happen to be what would happen if my vehicle ended up in the water. However, it was a smooth ride through both the tunnels and bridges. There was a bit of construction on the bridge portion, but it really didn't slow down the process any. When you do have time to look around it kind of all sweeps over you and you appreciate the beauty of it all. As you near land it is quite entertaining as the skyline just keeps growing until you are back on land. It almost feels like one of those video game screens. All in all, this is an amazing feat of engineering. One that I probably don't see myself partaking in again anytime soon. I actually went out of my way to be able to traverse this. read more

Very impressive! This bridge / tunnel (brunnel?) spans 17 miles and drops under the water twice to allow for ship movement in and out if the bay. It replaced the ferry system in 1964, which then was the only way to cross the south side of the island (check out Kiptopeke State Park for more info and to see the WW2 concrete ships sunk as a breakwater for the ferries!). There looks to be a fishing pier and restaurant near the middle of the bridge, which is pretty cool as the view is all water with spits of land only visible in the distance, but both were closed either for the season or for construction, but I'll definitely be interested in those in future. If you have an EZ Pass and cross both directions in a 24 hour period, the fee is $20 total, otherwise, it's a bit more, like $14 each way, so don't forget one of those! read more

I was surprised to find that one could pay a toll by touchless means. So often these things are cash only or they make you buy a transponder (which doesn't work in all states). But I rolled up and paid with my Apple Watch pretty fast. The experience itself is a mix of causeways and tunnels. The tunnels have two way traffic and are a bit hair-raising (with construction in progress to improve the situation). Overall it was a very quick trip, and the Eastern Shore is well worth traveling to. It's an expensive toll, but it's also a heck of a piece of infrastructure, one of the sort that makes you wonder how these things got done given how in DC we've been waiting three decades for a light rail through the suburbs. Anyway, I think the trip is worthwhile and the experience good enough, though I wouldn't want to be here in bad weather. read more

Wow! This is one amazing structure! Not only a bridge, but a tunnel too! And there's more than one along the line! It costs us $14 for the toll, but it's one long trip one one of the 11 in the world. While driving on the bridge it's kind of freaky to be on a single lane where you're in the middle of ocean. Although there are emergency places to pull over in case you need to. We did see a car pulled over changing a flat tire; poor guy. read more

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cape Charles, Virginia

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This is a beautiful bridge with gorgeous sights of the water. If you have the time, there's an overlook by the welcome center where you can pull off and admire the bridge that definitely looks worth a stop! I unfortunately did not have the time, but it really is worth the toll to drive across and see the way the sun hits the water read more

This is my favorite bridge/tunnel. Every time I am on it, I realize how close I am to home. The views at sun rise and sunset are amazing! read more

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cape Charles, Virginia

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The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel (CBBT) is a beautiful structure that connects Virginia Beach to the Eastern Shore of VA. The structure is roughly 18 miles long, with two lanes of traffic in each direction, with the exception of the tunnels, where it is one lane in each direction. There isn't much you can say about a structure, but it gets you where you need to go. If you're not the one driving, be sure to take in the views available. I don't come over to the eastern shore very often. My most recent visit across this marvel (October 17, 2017) was to get me up to New Jersey, so that we could pick up a cruise to Canada. This time, traffic was only let into the tunnels one direction at a time. I'm not sure why they were doing that, but there were plenty of construction workers there. Also, there was a large police presence on the bridge, presumably to catch some speeders. Traveling across the CBBT can get pricey, as it costs $13 each way, with a discount on your return if done within 24 hours. This discount only applies if you use an EZ Pass. I find using the EZ Pass much easier than trying to pay through other means anyways. It is worth noting that the CBBT is funded only through the tolls. No local, state, or federal government funds are used to maintain and enhance the structure. In order to prepare for the expansions coming for the CBBT, the fishing pier, gift shop, and restaurant were all closed by October 1, 2017. Overall, this is a great engineering marvel to visit. Just make sure to go on a nice, sunny day to take in the sights, including the scenic overlook on the northern side of the structure. read more

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel - This is a view from the CBBT. This photo was taken October 17, 2017. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cape Charles, Virginia

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This is a peaceful place surrounded by glorious nature, bountiful sunsets, unlimited views. I highly recommend this location. Being a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Harbour Realty in Cape Charles, I have and continue to help others secure their special spot here on the Eastern Shore. Www.beverlymccord.com. read more

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Ahhhhhhh the bridge tunnel. For comparison you have to go to toll bridges and tunnels in NYC. Priced the same and similar experiences. For starters expect 14 dollars per trip. I do think they give discounts if returning the same day Worth every penny if going up to the NE. Even the Maryland shore it is a better trip than 64 to 95. Less traffic better scenery and shorter distance all add to a win. There are some hidden gems along the way Cape Charles, st micheals, and Berlin Md come to mind. That you can stop at for a meal or sightSeeing. All in all a great time. read more

Visiting the Virginia Beach area and decided to take a ride to Cape Charles , wonderful day to take a ride across Chesapeake Bay, be prepared for the 12 bucks you pay each way, I had a rental car with a prepaid pass that did not work! We felt silly when we had to make U turn and pay with cash, dang rental car, that did not dampen our spirits, it was a beautiful day! Highly recommend read more

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel - Chesapeake Bay bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cape Charles, Virginia

This is an absolutely GORGEOUS drive! By far my favorite drive so far. The views of the ocean are amazing. It's 17.6 miles long! It's a great experience and I think everyone who has the chance to cross it, should! It was $18 there and back (we visited Kiptopeke state park and cape Charles) a bit pricey but worth the drive AND adventures. On our way back at the highest point of the bridge there were seagulls flying right next to us! It was so amazing and breathtaking. Will be visiting cape Charles again soon and can't wait for this amazing drive! read more

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel - CBBT - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cape Charles, Virginia

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"You must stop by while going Norfolk/Delaware" - Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, Virginia Reviewed June 3, 2016 it is considered as one of the 7 engineering wonders of the world when it was built. and no wonder after experiencing this, it showed it is. A Marvelous piece of engineering. Stop by while passing it. Experience the beauty of the bay. There is a restaurant called virginal originals, gift shop and fishing pier. though I was not there at sunset, i am sure it would be beautiful from the pier. There is a toll to the bridge. One way its $13. There are 2 tunnels across the bridge names Chesapeake Channel Tunnel and Thimble Shoal Tunnel. Both are i guess a mile long. Enjoy...!! read more

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This bridge is wild. It's basically a series of bridges and tunnels, linking the Delmarva Peninsula to the southern end of Virginia at Virginia Beach. There's a lot of construction going on, including a remodel of the scenic views and gift shop that are on the bridge, which was a bit of a bummer. This bridge can also get hairy when there are high winds, so if you're driving something big, best check the weather forecasts before you go, it might be safer to take the inland route if you're heading north. Still, we had a fun time driving across the bridge, and enjoyed the scenic view from the overlook at the north end. read more

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel - From the Scenic Overlook - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cape Charles, Virginia

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This is a four lane, 20 mile long bridge/tunnel with some spectacular views!!! It is pretty fun driving through the tunnels and popping back up. Be sure to stop mid way at the Virginia Originals and Chesapeake Grill. Really nice place to stop and stretch your legs, look at the view, grab a bite to eat and check out the gift shop. read more

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I've driven over this bridge for years but now get anxiety. I love that staff will drive you over! Everyone who has ever driven me over has been wonderful - friendly and social! Keeps me at ease! It is an engineering marvel and the view is awesome! read more

I was a little nervous about traveling over/through the CBBT, and even asked for advice on my Facebook feed! I traveled both north- and southbound on a recent trip, and loved it! The tunnels made me nervous at first, but I got used to them. The bridge itself felt sturdy, expansive, and easy. I had no problem enjoying the lovely view! On the northern side, I stopped at the overlook on my southbound trip, and it was a nice stop. Do it! read more

A long over due write up for the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. The biggest reason that I just adore the bridge tunnel is due to the close proximity to my home... like less than a half mile. However, for those that have to travel farther it is quite the time saver to zip up to the Eastern Shore and be on your way to MD, DE, NY and other east coast destinations avoiding 95 and usually saving a lot of time. The bridge history is something I will save for you to look up on Wikipedia, but I will share some...it is amazing! Built in two phases that spanned over 35 years it is highly regarded for it's engineering marvel. The span is 20 miles toll booth to toll both. YES, that pesky toll of $13 to cross it one way it a huge factor of many in HRVA not exploring our neighbor North Hampton County in the Eastern Shore. Not long ago it was $15 cash only and was reduced and now allows credit card. If you round trip it in 24 hours and have EZ PASS your total cost is $18. There is current construction on the bridge, but it will not delay you a bit. It's a fun drive for the family to take day trips to several locations only 25-35 min from CXB. Cape Charles is a charming city that was quite something in it's hay day as a clamming capital for the region. But even closer is other things to build in a full day trip making it worth your while. Kiptopeke State Park just across the bridge a few miles and even closer is the Eastern Shore National Wildlife Refuge. Combine on a Summer day with beach, a restaurant, or ice-cream in Cape Charles and you have a full day of fun. I would be remiss if I did not mention the maintenance of the bridge tunnel. Both are maintained impeccably. There are only 10 bridge tunnels systems in the world and this is one of three in Hampton Roads and the only one privately operated. It has been operated by the CBBT, or Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel District from inception. A study by the Virginia General Assembly in 2002 deemed it impossible to turn the bridge tunnel over to the Old Dominion due to the high cost of it's annual maintenance. On a sunny day whether it be Summer, or Winter it's a spectacular 20 mile jaunt. There are two areas to pull over for scenic overlook photography, or just take in the fresh Chesapeake Bay air. Be careful of too much sight seeing of birds and boats while driving and keep both of those hands on the wheel. Always be prepared for a gust wind that could scare the living hell out of you at any time. There is someone reading this that is laughing right now because it's happen to them. Don't be shy, check it out for a 95 mile short cut, or a day trip to the shore. I think you will be glad you did. For me this is one of the most unique things to do in Hampton Roads. That fifth star not gonna happen with that pesky toll that is going no where. read more

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I appreciate photography, and I've seen great photos of this bridge in some people's portfolios. I did not realize it was the Chesapeake Bay Bridge/Tunnel until I realized this sat on my driving route throughout the northeast. I decided to take it, although I did not have as good luck in getting great shots. I came through here at nightfall, and it was raining. I had the pleasure of enjoying the ocean breeze as I drove through this long bridge. Twice the pathway became a tunnel, and it proved to be a smooth ride. I was hoping for a spectacular lighting show from the storm brewing up above, but alas I did not get it. There is a toll to take this bridge, and several toll stations sit along the 13 freeway. The charge is not that much, and the total I spent in tolls between Virginia Beach and north Delaware was about $25. They take credit as well, which I appreciate. read more

I love the Chesapeake Bay Bridge/Tunnel. The amount of time it saves on my drives to NYC is amazing. I can't imagine having to battle the traffic and extra miles of the I-64 to I-95 route. Once on the bridge one experiences a gorgeous trip over the Chesapeake Bay from Virginia Beach to the Eastern Shore of Virginia. The view and freedom it conveys is exhilarating. At a certain point one is unable to see land, which I love. You are one with our beautiful Chesapeake Bay. Seagulls rest on the lights or dive into the water to catch their latest meal. You can almost feel the salt air breeze inside the vehicle. Before too long the two lane span merges into one lane as both the north and south bound spans converge into the first tunnel. The building of the tunnel was an awesome engineering feat, as it is deep enough for aircraft carriers to clear. The Thimble Shoals Channel, above the tunnel, is the pathway into both the Port of Norfolk & the Norfolk Naval Station. As one exits the tunnel the bridge again divides into two 2 lane spans. The area between the two spans gives the illusion of a waterway. To me it looks like the Chicago River. One sails along on the bridge before another convergence into the 2nd tunnel, also with two way traffic. Before reaching the toll plaza on the Eastern Shore there is a high section of the bridge for boat clearance. Could we call it a bridge on a bridge? There is no toll as one exits, just the current $13 upon entrance, with a lesser rate charged on the return trip if made within 24 hours. The price is increasing on January 1, 2019 with a peak & off-peak inclusion. Peak rate times are basically weekends during tourist season. New rates are $18 peak and $14 off-peak. Lesser amounts for 24 hour returns also apply. Discounts require E-ZPASS. Construction is ongoing to add a 2nd Thimble Shoals Tunnel to offer two lanes in each direction. During construction, the popular fishing pier and restaurant, both previously on the bridge, have been removed. Twenty miles, toll plaza to toll plaza, the bridge/tunnel is a marvel. Those who won't travel the Chesapeake Bay Bridge/Tunnel should give it a try. The lanes and shoulders are wide. One feels completely safe. It's an exhilarating experience, especially on a sunny day. read more

Well, it's our only way to get to VA beach. The fishing pier and the restaurant have been permanently closed for several years which stinks, and the fact that people don't know how to keep their speed up when entering the tunnels is annoying. The bridge owners (yes it is privately owned and operated) are try to fix some of the tunnel issues by building a second set for north bound traffic. But that is years away from completion. read more

What an engineering feat! I was not bored passing of on the bridge and tunnel. It was fascinating. You alternate between a bridge and tunnels going over the wide expanse of the Chesapeake. And you get to see ships! Everyone should drive over this at least once. read more

Well maintained. Pleasant ride. Beautiful views. No more restaurant or fishing pier. Forever missed. Get your ez pass or pay full price, folks! Go towards Md and come visit The Vault in Pocomoke City Md! The entire Eastern Shore has lots to offer!! read more

An amazing piece of engineering, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel shows what a bunch of dedicated people can do if they set their minds to it. Over 17 miles from shore to shore, with tunnels a mile long, the CBBT was built at a cost of close to half a billion dollars. None of it local, state or federal! You have to see it to believe it. The amazing part is that they've built a little rest stop at the tunnel ends where you can stop, take a look around and pick up a few postcards or tshirts to remember the experience. As said elsewhere, probably not something you want to do on a really windy or stormy day. But on a sunny day, you won't believe the views! read more

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cape Charles, Virginia

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What Rich P. said is perfect: "highly prefer the bridge to driving all the way around, or swimming across. It's iconic. It's well maintained. I know of no better bridge. Thus, five stars." read more

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The only other comparable view is the bridge going to Key West. This just never gets old. Fresh air, boats, seagulls and even if it's hot...it feels great. Even had the lone sandpiper hanging out near the fencing. Those birds walk so fast it's hilarious. I fed the seagulls my cheddar popcorn and watched a Naval ship come back into port. I did not visit the restaurant so not review on that. The 5 stars are just for the view and the drive. The toll cost is well worth it. Not a lot of traffic this time on the bridge, but there was an unfortunate casualty. The driver in front of me did not miss the flying seagull and it went to Seagull Heaven. This does happen occasionally on the bridge. Winds or miscalculation on the seagulls part make them fly down and get hit by cars. There's usually no damage to cars, but the seagulls don't end up so well. R.I.P. Mr. Seagull, I'm sure there's more cheddar popcorn in birdy heaven. read more

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel - From the scenic side. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Cape Charles, Virginia