Most Virginians are familiar with the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, a stunning complex that goes both over and under the open seas, connecting Delmarva and Hampton Roads. But, what many don’t realize is that it’s actually the longest of its kind in the entire world. That’s right; there are a handful of other bridge tunnels throughout the planet, but none are as long as the one you’ll find here in Virginia. Here’s more on why the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel in Virginia is a marvelous feat of engineering.

Anyone who has traversed the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel never forgets the experience. This 17.6-mile structure takes drivers on an epic journey across the Chesapeake Bay.
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Prior to the bridge tunnel's opening in 1964, the only way to get across this channel was via ferry.
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Of course, as you can imagine, building the structure was no easy feat.
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The website states that building the complex meant "undertaking a project of more than 12 miles of low-level trestle, two 1-mile tunnels, two bridges, almost 2 miles of causeway, four manmade islands and 5-1/2 miles of approach roads, totaling 23 miles."
Upon opening, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel was declared One of the Seven Engineering Wonders of the Modern World. And it's no mystery why!
Chesapeake Bay Program / flickr
Along the route, the water varies from 25 feet to 100 feet deep. For those interested in getting out to explore the scenery, there's a scenic overview along the way.
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In fact, it's a popular stop for migrating birds on their route north in the spring or south in the late fall. If you're a birding enthusiast, prepare to be impressed!
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So whether you need to get across the Chesapeake Bay or you're simply looking for an epic day trip, you'll be glad you took the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.
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Enjoy this timelapse video of the entire bridge:

Have you ever driven the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel in Virginia? What did you think? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments — we’d love to hear all about your adventures! This amazing road can also be the start of a lovely day trip in Virginia.

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More to Explore

Amazing Attractions In Virginia

William Suphan | May 03, 2023

What are some bucket list attractions in Virginia?

Bucket list attractions in Virginia include:

  • Jamestown. This was the first British settlement and there is a ton of history here from the perspectives of the settlers and the Native Americans of the time.
  • Yorktown Battlefield. This was the site of the last battle of the Revolutionary War in 1781 and there are many relics to see.
  • Mount Vernon. This was the home of George Washington where he lived until 1799 and it is now a living history museum.
  • Appomattox Courthouse. This is the place where General Lee surrendered and it marked the end of the Civil War.

Find out more about these and other bucket-list attractions in Virginia. 

What are some lesser-known attractions in Virginia?

Lesser-known attractions in Virginia include:

  • The Old Cape Henry Lighthouse. This was the first lighthouse that the U.S. built in 1792 and it has been rebuilt but still uses the original light.
  • Wilderness Road State Park in Ewing. This is an interactive living history site that shows what life was like for pioneers in the 1700s.
  • James Madison’s Home in Montpelier. This old house was restored in 2008 and the surrounding forest has remained intact since the 1700s.
  • Mount Rogers Recreation Area. This is the highest peak in the state and there are wild highland horses that roam the area.

Learn more about these and other lesser-known attractions in Virginia. 

What are the best free things to do in Virginia?

The best free things to do in Virginia include:

  • Bluebird Gap Farm in Hampton. Come here to see and pet many species of animals and see farm antiques that are centuries old.
  • Virginia Beachfront and Boardwalk. Besides the beach itself, there is always some kind of entertainment here, including street performers, live music, and more.
  • Maymont in Richmond. There is a manicured garden, petting zoo, historic mansion, nature center, and much more here.
  • Colonial Williamsburg. Come see one of the best living history museums in the country to see colonial Virginia come to life.

Discover more about the best free things to do in Virginia. 

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Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, Virginia, USA