Pre-Trip Fun for Chesapeake Bay, Virginia

"Misty" -- The heartwarming tale of a brother and sister who dream of owning a wild pony and their efforts to make their dream come true. The 1961 film version of the book that made Chincoteague famous is a must-see for island visitors. (All ages)

"Babe Ruth: The Life Behind the Legend" " -- Learn about Baltimore's native son in this film about the life and times of Babe Ruth. (All ages)

"Hairspray" -- A coming-of-age story set in Baltimore in 1962, this comedy/musical explores the serious issue of racial integration and teenage angst. (Teens)

Crab Cake Burgers -- Crab cakes are a Chesapeake Bay staple; make them more familiar by serving them on a hamburger bun.

Maryland Crab Soup -- Cook up this hearty soup for a taste of Maryland's prized blue crab, enhanced with traditional Old Bay seasoning.

Smith Island 10-Layer Cake -- This sweet treat (made famous by residents of the Eastern Shore's Smith Island) was recently designated as the official Maryland State dessert.

"Under the Sea" by Beck Ward -- This touch-and-feel book will introduce little ones to some of the creatures they'll see while visiting Chesapeake Bay aquariums. (Babies & Toddlers)

"Chesapeake ABC" by Priscilla Cummings -- This alphabet book teaches toddlers about the Chesapeake Bay through rhymes and illustrations. (Toddlers)

"There Goes a Mermaid -- A NorFolkTale" by Lisa Suhay -- Get kids ready for Norfolk's Mermaid Parade by reading this engaging tale that melds fact and fiction. (School-age)

"The Awesome Aquarium Mystery" by Carole Marsh -- A visit to an aquarium becomes an adventure for two kids and their grandparents when they help solve a mystery that stumps aquarium staffers. (School-age)

"Misty of Chincoteague" by Marguerite Henry -- The first book in this beloved series introduces readers to the Bebee family and the tradition of the Chincoteague Pony Penning. (School-age)

"Meet Naiche: A Native Boy from the Chesapeake Bay" by Gabrielle Tayac -- Part of the series "My World: Young Native Americans Today," this nonfiction book teaches kids about the lives and traditions of a Native American boy living in modern-day rural Maryland. (School-age)

"Landfall Along the Chesapeake: In the Wake of Captain John Smith" by Susan Schmidt -- In this nonfiction book, the author provides a detailed account of John Smith's journey to and along the shores of Virginia while attempting to recreate it. (Teens)

Baseball Wristband -- Kids can show their love of baseball (and enthusiasm for the Baltimore Orioles) with this sports-themed craft.

Flying Fish -- Bring the underwater world above ground with these colorful wind socks.

Sculpted Dune Buggy -- Do some (imaginary) explorations of the Chesapeake Bay dunes at First Landing State Park with this family craft.