Plein Air Art and Adventure on Chincoteague Island

As we begin to enjoy cooler temperatures on the island, time-honored events continue to draw crowds from all over the country. Many island favorites including eateries, shops, and even the Assateague Lighthouse (open on Saturdays) are still open to enjoy. Come check them out and join us as we celebrate plein air art and other adventures in September! 

Recommended 3-day itinerary: 

Thursday, September 12

Arrive on Chincoteague Island and attend the Quick Draw Contest in Robert Reed Waterfront Park from 12:30-4pm. This contest will be presented by the Chincoteague Cultural Alliance and open to all artists (not exclusively those registered for the Plein Air Art Show). It has a $5 registration fee. Registration will begin at 12:30pm, and painting will take place from 1-3pm. Finally, paintings will be sold from 3-4pm, and it is recommended that the art be framed.
Next, check-in at the Refuge Inn, and enjoy an authentic local dinner from the “Virginia is for Lovers” menu at the Village Restaurant. Top off your tour of local eateries on Thursday with one (or two!) of many delicious ice cream flavors from Island Creamery!

Friday, September 13

Sleep in, and then take a small drive to enjoy the warm water and abundant wildlife at the beach. Visit Lily’s Little Mexico food truck for a delightful atmosphere and delicious food. Follow lunch by biking the trails of Assateague Island aboard a smooth-riding beach cruiser or tandem bicycle from the Bike Depot, adjacent to the Refuge Inn. Biking Assateague and Chincoteague Islands is an excellent way to take in the scenery slowly and fully appreciate all both islands have to offer. Wind down with dinner to-go from Pico Taqueria and catch the sunset from Donald Leonard Park on Main Street. Finish a perfect day with a late night swim and dip in the hot tub back at the Refuge.

Saturday, September 14

Get up bright and early to catch a Pony Tour with Cowboy Cruise Company. On your way back from the harbor, stop at the CCA Farmer’s Market on Church St. There, you can support local farmers and artisans by taking home a souvenir of your own. For the adventurous, this is also the perfect time to climb the Assateague Lighthouse. You can also simply visit to see the gorgeous views and take pictures with family and friends. Freshen up, and then enjoy high tea at the Channel Bass Inn, followed by the Plein Air art event at the Chincoteague Center from 6-9pm.The show is free to the public. During the event, hors d’oeuvres will be served, and there will be a cash bar. Pick up some Famous Pizza and enjoy it from the Marsh Platform at the Refuge to round out your evening.

Sunday, September 15

Pack up the room and head across the street to brunch at Blackfin. They open at 11 am and serve amazing food to finish out your island trip!

No matter how you choose to spend your time on and around our little island, we hope you will consider The Refuge Inn for your stay! Give us a call today at 757-336-5511 for more information on our rates and amenities.