Viewing Wallops Island, VA Rocket Launches

Chincoteague Island has long been known for its Wild Ponies and picturesque beach. Thanks to NASA, Chincoteague is becoming known for something new and exciting... the go to destination for viewing rocket launches from Wallops Island.

At least 8 missions will leave from the Mid Atlantic Regional Spaceport located at NASA's Wallops Flight Facility on Wallops Island, Virginia. It's all part of a $1.9 billion contract between Dulles, VA based Orbital Sciences Corporation and NASA to deliver precious cargo to the International Space Station.

The islands of Chincoteague and Assateague on the Eastern Shore of Virginia are perfectly positioned to offer spectacular public viewing sites as well as waterfront lodging options on the Chincoteague Bay offering private balcony views.

Please be aware that a variety of unforeseen circumstances may cause the rocket launch to “slip” for a day or longer. There are weather, mechanical, or logistical situations that may occur to interrupt the launch schedule. Chincoteague and Assateague Islands offer endless opportunities to stay and play while awaiting the next “window of opportunity.” Explore our website for options.

We have compiled a list of what we have found to be the BEST ROCKET VIEWING SITES on Wallops, Chincoteague and Assateague Islands. Enjoy your time in the land of rockets and wild ponies!!

Please Note: Some viewing locations may be off limits for some launches as determined by NASA for safety reasons. The most up to date information on all launches can be found on the NASA Wallops Flight Facility website.

NASA Visitor's Center - Along Rt 175 heading to Chincoteague Island, VA

Directions:

• From Rt 13, turn east at T's Corner stop light onto Chincoteague Rd/VA-175.
• Located about 7 miles on Rt 175, outside of NASA Wallops Facility on right.
• Click here to locate the NASA Visitor's Center on Google Maps.

Queen's Sound Boat Landing - Along Causeway on Rt 175 to Chincoteague Island, VA

Directions:

• From Rt 13, turn east at T's Corner stop light onto Chincoteague Rd/VA-175.
• Follow Rt 175 7.9 miles to public boat landing on right.
• Click here to locate the Queen's Sound Boat Landing on Google Maps.

Curtis Merritt Harbor - 2246 Curtis Merritt Harbor Rd., Chincoteague Island, VA

Directions:

• From Rt 13, turn east at T's Corner stop light onto Chincoteague Rd/VA-175.
• Follow Rt 175 across causeway and bridges to Chincoteague Island.
• Turn right at the stop light onto Main Street, heading south.
• The entrance to the Harbor is near the end of the road on the left.
• Click here to locate Curtis Merritt Harbor on Google Maps.

Robert Reed Park - 4083 Main Street, Chincoteague Island, VA

Directions:

• From Rt 13, turn east at T's Corner stop light onto Chincoteague Rd/ VA-175.
• Follow Rt 175 across causeway and bridges to Chincoteague Island.
• Turn right at the stop light onto Main Street, heading south.
• Park is approximately .5 mile on the right. Parking lot entrance is at Don's Seafood.
• Click here to locate Robert Reed Park on Google Maps.

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge on Assateague Island - 8231 Beach Road, Chincoteague Island, VA

Directions:

• From Rt 13, turn east at T's Corner stop light onto Chincoteague Rd/ VA-175.
• Follow Rt. 175 across causeway and bridges to Chincoteague Island.
• Continue straight at the light onto Maddox Blvd.
• Follow Maddox through the Traffic Circle and follow signs to Assateague.
• Maddox Blvd becomes Beach Road.
• Launches are visible anywhere along the road leading to the beach.
• Click here to locate Chincoteague National Wildlife viewing area on Google Maps.