There is something truly special about autumn in the Hampton Roads area, isn’t there? The summer crowds thin out, the air gets a little crisper, and it becomes the absolute perfect time to spend a full day exploring right in our own backyard.
If you are looking to maximize a sunny weekend afternoon, we have mapped out a fun (and somewhat spontaneous!) stress-free Saturday itinerary. Grab your bike, pack a blanket, and get ready for a gorgeous coastal ride through historic Old Pointe Comfort and Fort Monroe National Monument just minutes from your front door at Mill Creek Landing.
Stop 1: Fuel Up at Buckroe Coffee Co.
Before you hit the trails, you need proper fuel. Swing by Buckroe Coffee Co. right down the street to grab a local brew.
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The Order: Grab an iced latte or a hot drip coffee and one of their fresh breakfast sandwiches or pastries. YUM!
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Pro Tip: Bring a sturdy travel mug that fits securely into your bicycle's water bottle cage or front basket so you can sip on the go. That’s a must! :)
Stop 2: Cruise Past the Old Pointe Comfort Lighthouse
Once you arrive at Fort Monroe skip the main roads and head straight for the scenic outer loops of Old Pointe Comfort.
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The Route: Hop on the paved path along the Fort Monroe Sea Wall and cruise past the historic Old Pointe Comfort Lighthouse. This is so much fun!
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The Vibe: This flat, easy trail offers completely unobstructed, panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay. Keep your eyes peeled as you pedal you will likely spot cargo ships heading out to sea, local fishing boats, and plenty of coastal wildlife. It’s really something over there!
Stop 3: The Perfect Picnic Spot at Outlook Beach (also known as the Pointe Comfort area of the beach near Paradise Ocean Club)
After working up an appetite on the sea wall, head just a half-mile up the path to Outlook Beach. While it’s a favorite swimming spot in July, the off-season turns it into a quiet, peaceful paradise.
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Where to Set Up: Find a patch of grass just off the sand overlooking the water, or spread your blanket right on the beach itself.
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The Menu: Keep it simple! Pack a cooler bag with refreshing wraps, fresh fruit, and some local snacks.
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Relax: Take an hour to unpack, eat, listen to the waves crash, and watch the migrating birds fly overhead in formation.
Stop 4: Step Back in Time Inside the Stone Fort
Before heading home, wrap up your loop by riding through the arches into the historic stone fort itself. It’s so cool to go through there!
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What to See: Fort Monroe is the largest stone fort ever built in the United States. You can bike along the quiet road inside, marvel at the massive live oaks, and check out the historic architecture.
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Don't Miss: If you have extra time, walk up the ramps to the top of the grassy ramparts for an elevated view of the entire property and the shipping channels.
Home Sweet Home
The best part of this itinerary? When your legs are tired and your picnic basket is empty, you only have a quick, easy drive or ride back home. You can spend the rest of your evening relaxing on your private deck at Mill Creek Landing, watching the sunset cast deep golds and rose hues across the pretty little inlet that we get to call ours! Sometimes the things that are closest to home are the things we take for granted. Be sure you put this on your list; you won’t be sorry. It will make for a wonderful day!