See the wild ponies

There is an island located about 55 miles south of Ocean City, Maryland, that is primarily known for horses. Each side of Assateague Island, which spans the Maryland-Virginia state line, is home to a herd of wild ponies. The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company looks after Virginia's herd of 150 ponies, which are housed at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. The Pony Swim, an annual event held in July, is the most popular time to view the ponies. The Saltwater Cowboys transport the herd from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island, where the town of Chincoteague is located, for the purpose of holding an auction for the foals. The herd's population is reduced through the auction; some of the sold foals are even put back into the herd to live in the wild.

The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, which provides veterinary care for the ponies, benefits from the event's proceeds. Former horse enthusiasts reported that the event is a fantastic (albeit hectic) time to visit the island. Try hiking the almost 2-mile Woodland Trail or strolling down the refuge's Service Road if you want to see ponies away from the throng (but don't worry, the Service Road is closed to automobiles). Hotels and camping are available on Chincoteague Island, which is across the canal from the wildlife reserve. There are restaurants all along Maddox Boulevard, but be aware that many of them only offer takeout and have outdoor picnic tables.

Website: https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/see-the-wild-horses-in-the-virginia-district.htm