Place

Chesapeake Heritage & Visitors Center

Aerial view showing a marina, buildings, parking lots, green spaces, and open water
Waterfront gateway to Chesapeake Bay history, exhibits, trails, and on-the-water adventures

Queen Anne's County Economic & Tourism Development

Quick Facts
Location:
425 Piney Narrows Road Chester, MD 21619
Significance:
The Chesapeake Heritage & Visitors Center connects visitors to Queen Anne’s County and the Chesapeake Bay through exhibits, trails, and views that highlight the region’s maritime, cultural, and natural heritage.
Designation:
Chesapeake Gateways Network Site

Beach/Water Access, Dock/Pier, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Pets Allowed, Restroom - Accessible

The Chesapeake Heritage & Visitors Center serves as a welcoming gateway to Queen Anne’s County and the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Visitors can begin their exploration at the Chesapeake Legacy Museum, where interactive exhibits share the county’s deep history, heritage, and connection to the Bay. The museum highlights local stories, maritime traditions, and the changing landscape of the Eastern Shore, alongside a rotating display of regional artwork.

The grounds invite outdoor exploration with a boardwalk leading across marshland to Ferry Point Park, where a short walking trail overlooks the Chester River and a secluded cove. A viewing tower provides sweeping 360-degree vistas of Kent Narrows, a waterway that once served as a vital crossing point and remains a hub of commercial watermen and boating activity. Interpretive panels throughout the site encourage reflection on the evolving relationship between people and the Chesapeake.

The Center also provides access to the Cross Island Trail, free visitor orientation services, and parking for those continuing their journey along the county’s waterways and landscapes. With its mix of museum exhibits, outdoor recreation, and interpretive opportunities, the Chesapeake Heritage & Visitors Center introduces travelers to the diverse stories of the Chesapeake Bay. Learn more about the Chesapeake Heritage & Visitors Center by visiting their website.

Chesapeake Bay

Last updated: January 7, 2026