Virginia Beach is a great place to head to no matter the weather or time of the year. If you are looking for something to do one day, then you can come down and visit one of the attractions listed below.
There are indoor and outdoor attractions to see, which are ideal for all the family and any generation.
No matter what your budget is, we are sure that there is at least one attraction on this list that will be perfect for you. You could simply visit the beach for a relaxing day. Or why not go and visit one of the local attractions and museums.
Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, thrill seeker or want to relax, we have covered every possibility.
In this article, we have collected the top 40 fun things you can do In Virginia Beach.
Origins Of Virginia Beach
Native Americans had been residing in the area for thousands of years before English colonists arrived at Cape Henry in April 1607. This is where they founded their initial permanent settlement at Jamestown.
The region was a part of Colonial Virginia from 1619 until the American Revolution in 1776. Since then, it has been a member of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Virginia Beach was first established in 1887. As it was transformed into a resort, once a hotel and railroad connecting it to Norfolk were built.
Additionally, it was a crucial location in the national coastline defenses after World War I. The City of Virginia Beach was finally formed in 1963 by the merger of Virginia Beach and the previous Princess Anne county.
It has now become one of the most populated cities in Hampton Roads. Thousands of tourists come to Virginia Beach every year to witness their attraction. In addition to learning about its long and rich history.
Where Is Virginia Beach?
In the Hampton Roads region of southeast Virginia, Virginia Beach is an independent city. It is located on the Atlantic coast and Chesapeake Bay, close to the cities of Norfolk and Chesapeake.
The city spans 302 square miles (782 square km) of land and sea, including 28 miles (45 km) of ocean frontage, from the entrance of Chesapeake Bay towards the North Carolina border.
Back Bay, a brackish lagoon and national wildlife refuge near the southern end of the city, is roughly 39 square miles (101 square kilometers) in size and runs parallel to the ocean.
There are various beaches and rivers throughout Virginia Beach, which is home to lots of wildlife for you to view.
The Atlantic Fun Park is one of Virginia Beach’s most entertaining attractions. It is an amusement park by the sea. If you walk along the beachfront close to 15th Street, it will be difficult to miss the Ferris wheel rising into the sky.
The park welcomes families and offers a range of enjoyable rides for both kids and adults. Test your driving prowess on the go-kart circuit, keep an ear out for the cries of delighted Sea Dragon passengers, and chime the bell atop the rock climbing tower.
The greatest spot to take photos of the boardwalk and coastline from a great height is from the top of the 100-foot-tall Ferris wheel.
Test your nerves on the Flying Bobs, Gravitron, and Flipping Action Arm Ride rides if you’re an adrenaline junkie.
The Midway is a terrific place to stop if you want to indulge in some of your favorite carnival cuisine or play your preferred game amid all the bright lights.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Virginia Beach is the Cape Henry Lighthouses. This lighthouse is located not too far from the point where the Chesapeake Bay empties into the Atlantic Ocean in Virginia Beach’s northeastern corner.
This is the fourth-oldest lighthouse in the country, built in 1792. It is accessible to the public and is located near Cape Henry.
The 191 steps of the circular staircase can be climbed to the top. Naval ships, commercial ships, and pleasure boats may all be seen entering and leaving the harbor from the top.
The 157-foot new Cape Henry Lighthouse, built in 1881, is only 350 feet away from the original lighthouse. Sadly, this one isn’t accessible to the public.
Both lighthouses are encircled by Fort Story Joint Base, so entry requires the presentation of a valid photo ID at the base gate. The cost of admission includes entrance to the lighthouse tower and visitor plaza.
Go to First Landing State Park when considering what to do in Virginia Beach. This state park is where it all started in 1607 with the English colonists.
The park, which is situated over 3,000 acres in Virginia Beach’s northeastern corner, provides visitors 1.25 miles of unspoiled Chesapeake Bay shoreline.
In addition to this, there are 205 campsites, and 20 miles of well-maintained hiking, biking, and exploring paths through salt marshes.
Explore Chesapeake Bay Center, as it is brimming with informative exhibits. Learn where to find the park’s uncommon species, maritime woods, bald cypress swamps, and lagoons. Exploring this area is a joy for all.
The kids will be curious to learn more about the everyday activities they can take part in, such as walks, crafts, and crabbing excursions. As a result, you cannot forget to visit Virginia’s most visited state park.
Address: 32386 Lankford Highway, Cape Charles, VA 23310.
Undoubtedly, one of the coolest things you can do in Virginia Beach when looking for engineering wonders is a trip across the 23-mile-long Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.
Virginia Beach is connected to the Virginia Eastern Shore at Kiptopeke and neighboring Cape Charles by the Chesapeake Bay-Bridge Tunnel. This tunnel spans the Chesapeake Bay and consists of several bridges and two tunnels.
You can either reroute your trips to or from Virginia Beach to see the enormous length of the Chesapeake Bay. Or you can just take pictures from the coast of this extremely long road over the water.
However, it is important to note that you do have to pay a toll for going on this bridge.
After leaving Virginia Beach, anglers might wish to stop at the Sea Gull Fishing Pier. This happens to be situated on the first tunnel island, for some excellent fishing or simply a photo opportunity in the center of the Chesapeake Bay.
Address: Resort area Oceanfront, Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
One of the nicest things to do when visiting Virginia Beach is to bike, roller skate, run, or stroll down the city’s three-mile boardwalk. Pause at the sculptures lining the promenade while on your stroll or boat ride to gain some local knowledge.
Visit a neighborhood restaurant for breakfast, supper, or for a summer evening filled with music if you want to relax and take a break.
Visit one of the four locations of Kohr Bros. Frozen Custard to indulge in a tasty treat. Additionally, there are several benches where you may sit and observe people.
Don’t forget to take your Instagram-worthy photo at King Neptune on 31st Street. Kids can have a fun animal scavenger hunt around this famous statue.
There are numerous sites along the boardwalk where you can hire bikes, surreys, and rollerblades from Cherie’s Bikes and Blade Rentals. They provide hourly, daily, or weekly rentals.
Address: 1113 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
Among the top things to do in Virginia Beach is to visit the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum. Located on the oceanfront, the historic DeWitt Cottage from 1895 serves as the museum’s home.
The 22-room home displays historical wild-fowling relics as well as recently carved shorebirds and decoys. Enjoy the modern wildfowl paintings and hunting club relics that line the walls as you move from room to room.
Take some time during your visit to observe the volunteer sculptor of the day produce their most recent creation. Hand-carved decoys, images, books, and diverse works of wildfowl art are available for purchase in the museum’s gift shop.
Then enjoy wandering the lovely garden by the sea as you leave the museum.
The Neptune Festival is held in Virginia Beach throughout the final weekend in September. The International Sand Sculpting Championship and over 40 additional weekend events offered across Virginia Beach have made this festival famous in the area.
Through golf and surfing events, an 8K run, the Atlantic Regatta, and beach volleyball matches on the seaside, the Neptune Festival fosters neighborhood pride and camaraderie.
Before taking in live entertainment at three separate stages along the boardwalk, you should witness the Grand Parade and say hello to the Royal Court.
Over the course of the weekend, 300 vendors set up shop all along the shoreline for the Neptune Festival Craft And Art Show.
The International Sand Sculpting Championship is the main draw, though. It’s a prestigious festival where sand sculptures from five different nations devote the three-day weekend producing works of art.
The sandcastles are then left for another week of viewing after the festival ends.
Address: S Atlantic Ave. Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
One of the places in Virginia Beach you should visit if you love to go surfing is Croatan Beach. The mile-long Croatan Beach, which extends all the way to Camp Pendleton, is located just south of the vacation resort strip.
Surfers swarm to this beach off the beaten path to test their talents at the two authorized surfing zones. This is because it is a lot quieter compared to the resort side beach. Between both the surfing sections, there is also a swimming area too.
There are restrooms, showers, and lifeguards at Croatan Beach. Although be aware that there is a parking cost at this beach.
Address: 2001 Pefley Ln, Virginia Beach, VA 23457.
For a day of picnics, fishing, and recreation in Virginia Beach, Munden Point Park is the ideal-hidden gem.
The 100-acre park is situated next to the North Landing River, near the southernmost point of Virginia Beach’s Pungo neighborhood.
Although the park is somewhat remote, the 45-minute journey from the oceanfront is worthwhile.
Rent a canoe and kayak, which will provide you with quick access to the river. Hence, you may spend a day paddling a canoe or kayak on the river or the Inland Waterway.
Fishing enthusiasts should bring their rods, freshwater fishing license and reels, for a day of fishing. You can either fish from one of the park’s appointed fishing spots, or get in your boat and fish the river.
With that being said, there is also plenty to do with your little ones as well. Children will have the time of their lives running around the three different playgrounds that are on offer. There is also baseball, volleyball, basketball and 18 holes of disc golf as well.
Address: 4500 Holland Office Park, Suite 318, Virginia Beach, VA 23452.
From Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day, travel to Atlantic Avenue for entertaining Virginia Beach attractions and take in the Live! On Atlantic, evening activities.
Every night as the sun sets, Atlantic Avenue comes alive with street entertainers, symphony performances, magic shows, historical presentations, and local musicians.
Numerous street performers can be seen on the sidewalk along Atlantic Avenue’s west side. As well as at various stages and monuments.
Bring your lawn chair, beach chair, or blanket, so you can sit back and enjoy the family-friendly performances. Or why not join in on the dancing and singing as popular local and national acts entertain the crowd.
Address: 801 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
One of the interesting things to do in VA Beach is to ride the aerial ropes and zip lines.
The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Museum has the most extensive ropes and zipline course in the state. For all the adventure seekers in your family, the park is the ideal vacation spot.
The difficulty of the courses ranges from easy to double-black diamond. Requiring the application of physical prowess, athletic prowess, and analytical abilities.
The Adventure Park circuit is situated across 60 acres of the ocean front’s coastal woods in the Virginia Beach KOA Campground. This is located immediately south of the coastal resort area.
There are nine zip lines available for visitors to experience. Including one where they can compete against a family member or friend.
Sandbridge Beach is among the Virginia Beach locations that will probably be on your list if you’re going to the beach and hiring a beach house.
The five-mile-long beach at Sandbridge is flanked with vacation houses, sea oats-covered dunes, and a lovely sandy beach.
When visiting Sandbridge, the beach is the ideal location for a morning stroll. Away from the commotion of the crowded resort strip, you may unwind and enjoy the sun here. Start your day early and take in the sunrise over the sea.
It is worth noting that there isn’t any food allowed at the beach or in the local neighborhood. Hence, if you plan a day trip to Sandbridge, you must bring your own lunch and carry lots of water.
All year long, dogs are welcome at the beach. Dogs are permitted on the beach in summer, as long as they are on a leash before 10:00 am and after 6:00 pm.
Address: 717 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
You have to visit the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. Whether it’s a rainy day or you need a break from the hot, humid weather.
Plan on spending a full morning, afternoon, or even the entire day viewing the numerous exhibits contained in two buildings alongside the outdoor aviary.
You can check out the stingray touch tank, mind-blowing shark tank and the gigantic tropical fish aquarium.
Check out what movies are showing in the aquarium’s theater if you require a break from exploring. Or take a seat on the bleachers adjacent to the aquarium.
Make sure you keep an eye on the timetable to find out when the sharks will be feeding, and when the seals will be performing stunts.
In addition, the museum provides a number of behind-the-scenes experiences, boat excursions, and a rope course.
Address: 24th Street Park, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
One of the fun things to do in Virginia Beach is the Yearly East Coast She-Crab Soup Classic, which has seen record-breaking crowds since 2009.
Many of the neighborhood eateries and their finest she-crab soup attend the celebration. Fans of she-crab soup have the opportunity to try some of the best soups in coastal Virginia during the event.
You are entitled to a sample of soup from every restaurant and given one vote in the People’s Choice Award with the general entrance ticket. In addition to this prize, the soups will be judged by four professionals for the Critic’s Choice Award.
Rain or shine, on this April Saturday afternoon, head out to the oceanfront’s 24th Street Park to help satisfy your crab craving.
You ought to park conveniently in the 25th Street garage. Then spend the whole day playing on the beach, strolling down the boardwalk, cycling along the bike path, or just people-watching during the festival.
Address: 8800 Oceanfront Ave. Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
The North End Beaches, which run from 70th to 88th Streets, are a great spot to explore in Virginia Beach if you’re renting a home or want to avoid the crowds.
Since there is very limited parking and a beach walkway on every block, it is preferable to stay close to these beaches.
You must bring everything you’ll need for a day at the beach with you. This is because there are no restrooms, rental facilities, or places to rent chairs and umbrellas. Pets are welcome all year long at the North End Beaches.
Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach in the summer from 6:00 pm to 10:00 am. However, there aren’t any time constraints for the remainder of the year.
While here, take some time to stroll to the Cape Henry Lighthouses, if you are staying in the northernmost part of the region.
Driving down the coastal promenade and visiting Mansion Cross Land over the winter holidays are two excellent things you can do while visiting Virginia Beach.
The promenade is lined with swimming fish, singing crabs, and illuminated arches as part of BayPort Credit Union Holiday Lights.
In order to allow cars to drive down the walkway in search of Santa and the 40-foot-tall Christmas tree located on the beach, the boardwalk is closed to bicycle and pedestrian traffic during this period.
Then, go to Mansion Cross Lane in the Strawbridge district of Virginia Beach. Here, you will see a full row of decorated homes, including over 50,000 lights, that are all synced to the same music.
Drive through the neighborhood or take a stroll along the sidewalk to take advantage of the lights for no fee. However, donations are accepted for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
One of the best places in Virginia Beach to experience restaurants, local art galleries, and artisan shops is the ViBe Creative District. Head there when you need to leave the beach, if it’s cloudy, or the sun is setting.
Visit stores including North End Bag Co. to get a handmade, vibrant canvas bag. For your morning caffeine hit, grab a cup of coffee at Three Ships Coffee.
One of Virginia Beach’s biggest collections of public art may be found along 18th Street, where 300 feet of stockade fence has been transformed into approximately 60 paintings.
You can find a variety of local craftsmen at the First Friday VB Flea Night Market or the weekly Saturday morning Old Beach Farmers Market. As well as wonderful food, entertainment, and a pleasurable shopping experience.
Address: 2388 London Bridge Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456.
People of all ages frequently stop at Hunt Club Farm. Here you can buy a bird seed stick and go see and feed the parakeets in the Bird Walk Aviary.
Or you can buy a feed cup and go visit a llama, goat, pig, or chicken in the yard. Then ascend to the tops of the trees and traverse the farm on the Tree Walk Adventure route.
The Hunt Club Farm Market is available from the spring through to the majority of December. In the spring, there are lots of flowers, herbs, and yard ornaments to admire and purchase.
The summer offers a wide selection of dips sauces, jellies, and lovely hanging baskets. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, the Holiday Market is open where you may purchase original holiday decorations, gifts, and your freshly-cut Fraser Fir tree from Virginia.
From leaping into hay mounds, horse rides, and hayrides to the pumpkin farm in September and October, there is always a reason to head to the Harvest Fair.
If you want something a bit spookier, then at night, explore the nearby cornfields and woodlands. In addition to the farm’s four haunted houses.
Address: 4001 Sandpiper Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456.
One of the few places in Virginia Beach that cannot be reached by car is False Cape State Park. From the boat launch at Little Island City Park, visitors may kayak onto one of the four natural beaches.
Or hike five miles from Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to the park’s six miles of breathtaking Atlantic Ocean beaches.
If you happen to be nearby, the state park provides worthwhile informative programs and guided kayaking excursions.
If a nice motel room near the Virginia Beach Boardwalk is not your preference, but you prefer a rustic campsite with no electricity and no showers. Then you might like to visit one of the four beachside primitive campgrounds at False Cape State Park.
Address: 4136 Cheswick Ln, Virginia Beach, VA 23455.
The Ferry Plantation House is among Virginia Beach’s most stunning tourist attractions. The Walker/MacIntosh family owned the house, which was constructed in 1830.
The Princess Anne Courthouse served as a ferry boat station along the Lynnhaven River in the 1600s, giving rise to the name of the estate.
A tour of the grounds includes various historical tales from the mid-1600s to mid-1800s. As well as the 10 room Federal farmhouse and its central corridor.
This house is one of Virginia’s top 25 most haunted locations. Thus, be aware that you might have a chance to encounter one or more of the 11 ghosts that roam the grounds.
Stories concerning Grace Sherwood, the infamous Pungo Witch whose 1706 trial took place nearby, will also be told to you.
Address: 2200 Parks Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
One of the things to do in Virginia Beach when you need a break from the sun is to visit the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art. The art exhibit is conveniently located along the boardwalk that runs along the coast.
The nationally acclaimed annual Boardwalk Art Show, art classes, and gallery exhibitions, MOCA has been fostering an appreciation for the arts since 1952.
A variety of 20th and 21st century glass, sculptures, paintings, and other visual media can be viewed. These are all produced by well-known foreign, domestic, and local artists.
You can participate in a variety of interactive, hands-on activities at MOCA to help you better appreciate the art by making some of your own.
All ages may discover and make art at the Museum of Contemporary Art, which offers interactive artist talks, and gallery tours.
Address: 5100 Cleveland St, Virginia Beach, VA 23462.
One of Virginia Beach’s slightly off-the-beaten-path attractions would be a trip to the Union Kempsville High School Museum and Princess Anne County Training School.
You can learn about the history of Princess Anne County, now Virginia Beach’s, first African American high school at Renaissance Academy. This is situated near the intersection of Witchduck Road and Virginia Beach Blvd.
The school was established in 1930 after the African American community donated funds to educate their kids.
Then, in 1962 it changed its name to Union Kempsville High School. Until Virginia Beach’s schools integrated in 1969, Union Kempsville remained in operation.
You may learn about the community’s and families’ struggles to provide their kids with a better education inside the museum. Visit the museum and learn about their inspiring struggles and sacrifices.
Address: 1341 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23457.
All history and aviation enthusiasts must stop by and visit the Military Aviation Museum. Receive a history lesson from the devoted volunteers who are former service members.
The museum houses the world’s greatest collection of war birds, which are still in flying condition. As well as more than 100 acres of hangars housing military aircraft from World Wars I and II.
From May through October, go on a Saturday to partake in historical activities, lectures, and flight demonstrations.
If you want to get even closer and experience a once-in-a-lifetime thrill, you can fly over the Back Bay Wildlife Refuge and southern Virginia Beach with a former pilot in a WWII airplane.
You should visit this museum if you desire to get as close as possible to these amazing aircrafts.
Address: 2040 Potters Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23454.
One of Virginia Beach’s greatest historic attractions is the Upper Wolfsnare Plantation. This house was built in the Georgian style.
Originally, Barbados native Thomas Walke acquired the rights to the land in 1612. Finally, a house was constructed there in 1759 by Thomas Walke III, a signer of the U.S. Constitution.
The three-story Flemish bonded brick home, which is located on the Upper Wolfsnare Plantation, depicts Walke’s way of life in the second half of the 18th century.
The interior of the house features a central hall, a full cellar, and first-floor wainscoting that was once hand-carved.
The Virginia Beach Historical Society and Princess Anne County offers 30 to 60 minute tours of this registered plantation house in July and August on an irregular schedule. Hence, you need to keep an eye out if you want to go on a tour here, to get a spot.
Address: 1776 Princess Anne Rd K, Virginia Beach, VA 23456.
One of the most delicious things to do in Virginia Beach is to attend the Pungo Strawberry Festival. It is known that this festival draws 80,000 visitors each year.
The festival is held each year from Friday through Sunday over Memorial Day weekend. It takes place alongside Princess Anne Road in Pungo’s southern Virginia Beach neighborhood.
There are several ways to enjoy strawberries, in addition to being delighted with pony rides, pig races, carnival rides, and nearby live entertainment.
Explore the many stalls to discover the more than 50 different ways to enjoy strawberries. The strawberry pie eating competition is always entertaining to watch, but actually eating it is even more enjoyable.
After that, proceed to enjoy some delectable tacos, strawberry lemonade, and chocolate-covered strawberries. Then, as you cheer on your preferred pot-bellied pig as he navigates the racetrack, enjoy sampling a fresh strawberry ice cream cone.
If you love all things strawberries, then this festival is going to be the perfect place to visit in Virginia Beach.
Address: 849 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
One of Virginia Beach’s wettest tourist destinations is located along General Booth Boulevard, directly south of the oceanfront.
Well over 30 slides and rides at the Ocean Breeze Water Park will keep the whole family entertained all day.
Water thrills range from the 350-foot Sea Serpent’s twists and turns to the Vortex’s plummet, to the kid-friendly Hook’s Lagoon and Buccaneer Bay.
Grab a lounge chair in the park’s midsection when you want to relax or take a dip in the Runaway Bay pool. However, the lazy river at Ocean Breeze will undoubtedly become your favorite places to float in.
Although the water park has a snack bar with food, drinks, and snacks, you might choose to bring your own lunch and have a picnic in the nearby parking lot.
Address: 4200 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
If your budget permits, reserve a room at the recently renovated old Cavalier Hotel. If not, you can sample the opulent hotel by going to Virginia Beach’s award-winning Tarnished Truth Distillery.
Here they will serve you with locally created rye whiskey bourbon, gin, and vodka in the Cavalier Hotel’s Hunt Room.
On Thursday through Sunday afternoons, the Tarnished Truth Distillery’s creators, Virginia Beach natives Josh Canada and Andrew Yancey, lead tours of the distillery’s production area.
On these tours, you will spend some time learning about the creation process of these drinks. Then afterward you will spend some bit sampling these sprites in the Tasting Room.
Hence, if you are looking for an activity where no kids are allowed, then this is the perfect adult activity for you to do.
One of Virginia Beach’s oddest sights may be found just a few miles from the oceanfront on I-264. Located in the 165-acre Mount Trashmore Park is a 60-foot-tall hill made of layers of clean soil and solid trash.
Two hills are available for tourists to ascend, slide down, or use as the ideal kite-flying location in the former landfill site.
There are multipurpose trails all over the park that you can use to bike, jog, or walk. Younger children will adore the two gigantic playgrounds. While skateboarders will rush to the skate park and vertical ramp.
There are two lakes in Mount Trashmore Park for the fishermen in your group to enjoy. Freshwater Lake Trashmore, located beside Edwin Drive, is home to a variety of fish. The salty water on South Boulevard and I-264 stretches alongside Lake Windsor.
Address: 3640 Dam Neck Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23453.
For more than 30 years, the Virginia Beach Farmers Market near Dam Neck Road and Princess Anne Road has become a favorite among the neighborhood residents.
A trip to the market includes browsing the fish market, the butcher shop, the confectionery shop, the organic grocer, and the mouthwatering fresh seasonal produce.
While the majority of the market’s vendors are only available between 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the market’s restaurant will open from 7:00 AM.
Furthermore, from April to December, the Farmers Market hosts a variety of fun family-friendly activities. In the past this has included hoedowns, seasonal craft shows, and farm tours.
Bring your chair on Friday nights from May through September to appreciate a night of great country music.
Address: 1413 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
Enjoy Virginia Beach Fishing Pier, which can be located on Virginia Beach, at 14th Street and the Boardwalk. Early risers can witness dawn over the Atlantic Ocean by going to the end of the pier.
You might want to take a picture of the sun rising through the pier pilings on another morning, while sitting on the sand.
Enjoy the day or simply spend an hour fishing on the pier. Everything you require, including fishing poles, and bait, is available at the pier. What is even better is that no fishing license is required.
When you’re hungry, Ocean Eddie’s restaurant and a gift shop are both located on the Fishing Pier. You may also rent bikes there.
Address: 4409 Wishart Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23455.
The Lynnhaven House is where you should go if you want to see one of the best examples of early Virginia vernacular architecture. Francis Thelaball, a middle-class plantation owner and ship’s carpenter, constructed the Lynnhaven House in 1725.
A ship’s lap floor, a closed-spindle staircase, and furnishings appropriate for Francis and Abigail Thelaball as well as their five kids in colonial Virginia may be found inside.
Learn about daily life in the Tidewater area in the early 18th century. This is just prior to the American Revolutionary War.
Tour guides in period costumes lead the tours and explain how different household members contributed to the successful operation of the plantation.
The majority of the land in Virginia Beach used to be farms before it became the well-known tourist destination it is today.
Therefore, if you’re seeking Virginia Beach attractions, travel to Henley Farms for mouth watering strawberries or to Cullipher Farm or Beatson’s Blueberry Farm for mouth watering blueberries in July.
Grab a cart and some containers when you arrive at the farm to start picking. However, don’t forget to bring something to carry your fruit back to your house or hotel room.
If you’re seeking for luscious peaches, Cullipher offers an orchard that allows you to choose lots of them. Or you can visit their roadside store for fresh food, baked products, and an ice cream.
You should also snap photos of your loved ones having a great time in the fields. After the strawberry and blueberry season, if you’re in the area in the fall, head to Cullipher that has enough sunflowers and pumpkins to decorate your home and table.
Address: 2401 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
The Virginia Beach Surf and Rescue Museum is housed in the historic 1903 Coast Guard Station. This is close to the 24th Street Stage on the oceanfront. If you desire a break from the blazing sun, then it is the ideal place to go.
The weather displays that discuss the super storms that impacted Virginia Beach are rather fascinating. The two floors of the museum’s exhibits highlight the efforts made to preserve Virginia Beach’s maritime past.
Nearly 2,000 relics, more than 1,000 shipwreck photos, and data on notable local surfers are all included in the exhibits.
You will have a greater knowledge of the U.S. Coast Guard and Life-Saving Services contribution to making the waters off Virginia Beach safer, after visiting the museum.
Address: 1324 Sandbridge Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456
The Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is hidden along Sandbridge Road in the southeast portion of Virginia Beach.
These barrier islands, which are surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, and the Back Bay are composed of ocean beaches, freshwater marshes, sand dunes, and marine woodlands.
A wide variety of educational activities are available at the visitor center. Eight kilometers of walking on five paths can be enjoyed by hikers.
Make sure you look out over the Atlantic Ocean and the Back Bay when trekking, by going to the platform on the Dune Trail.
Utilize the spotting telescopes to spot ducks, deer, bobcats, and muskrats all around the refuge. Regardless of the season, Virginia Beach’s sanctuary is among the most amazing spots to visit.
Throughout the winter, thousands of tundra swans migrate across Back Bay. Along with a variety of Canadian Geese, ducks, and other waterfowl.
A seasonal canoe/kayak launch is available at Horn Point. Thus, you may spend a beautiful day out on the water.
Virginia’s first urban winery can be found in the Chix’s Beach district along Shore Drive. Visit Mermaid Winery in Virginia Beach if you want to taste some regional wine.
The goal of the vineyard is to create exquisite wines that resemble the legendary mermaid.
They use California and Virginia grapes to make limited quantities of dazzling Sparkling Rose, semi-dry Siren’s White, dark crimson Cabernet Sauvignon, and fragrant Chardonnay.
Make use of the restaurant’s over 800 international wines to complement your entrée. In addition, visit the Tasting Room on a Friday evening to enjoy a themed tasting.
Not all the attractions that are on offer can be found on land. There are three businesses to look out for: First Landing Charters, Virginia Aquarium, and Rudie’s Tours.
Every company offers fantastic educational excursions where you can see the Virginia Beach shoreline from the boat. Keep an eye out for sea life, seals, and birds, and discover a little bit more about the area’s water and wildlife.
All ages can enjoy the tours. Although because the air is colder at sea, it’s best to pack a jacket for the summer excursions and warm clothing for the whale-watching adventure.
Address: 1636 Parish Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23455.
One of Virginia Beach’s oldest attractions may surely be found if you visit the Thoroughgood neighborhood. A leader of the Virginia Colony named Adam Thoroughgood purchased the expansive property near the Lynnhaven River in 1636.
Later, in 1719, Adam Thoroughgood’s great-grandson Argall Thoroghgood built the Adam Thoroughgood House.
While you’re there, stop into one of the oldest colonial-era residences still standing, where you can admire the handcrafted turned staircase. Also learn about the 1700s through interactive exhibits in the teaching center, and wander around the English garden.
The 1 and half story Adam Thoroughgood House has a central passageway connecting the parlor and hallway, and a pyramidal chimney. With walls including both English and Flemish bonding.
Keep an eye out for any possible paranormal activity while you are there, too. Many visitors have reported seeing ghosts, experiencing chilly drafts, and seen candlesticks flicker and light.
Discover the statues on the boardwalk while on the resort strip. This is one of the best and most cost-effective activities you can partake in while on Virginia Beach.
Take a leisurely stroll along the lovely, spacious 3-mile Atlantic Ocean boardwalk in Virginia Beach. While making sure you make some stops at some of the striking statues you pass.
Ralph Stanley, Arthur Ash, Thomas Jefferson, and other Virginians who have made contributions to Virginia, the United States, and the world are honored on the Virginia Legends Walk at 13th Street.
The statue of John Wareing, the founder of Wareing’s Gym, is located at 17th Street Park. He is posing in a particular way to show off how strong he is.
The 1891 Dictator tragedy and shipwreck is remembered by the Norwegian Woman Statue at the boardwalk’s entrance on 25th Street.
A fantastic storyteller relates the tale of the Dictator’s shipwreck and the lives that were lost and saved during the summer on Live! On the Atlantic.
The Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard are honored along with their ties to Virginia Beach in the Naval Aviation Monument Park on 25th Street. There are also carved storyboards showing different historical events dotted across the area.
The most frequently pictured statue found on the boardwalk is the 26-foot-tall King Neptune Statue. This is located near 31st Street. Spend some time seeing the sculpture’s 12 fish, octopus, lobster, two dolphins, sea turtle, and two dolphins.
Finally, at the 38th Street Navy SEAL Monument, the life-size Frogman is positioned to stare out over the water. This monument honors the SEALS and their noteworthy national service.
If you’re visiting Virginia Beach, immersing your toes or your whole body into the Atlantic Ocean should be at the top of your list of things to do.
Despite the 35 miles of coastal beaches in Virginia Beach, the resort district is where the majority of the action takes place.
Apply sunscreen and have fun in the sun on the three-mile-long beachfront next to the well-known Virginia Beach Boardwalk.
There is enough space to allow everyone to enjoy the beach because it is pretty wide. Spend the day making sandcastles, playing in the water, or just spend the day relaxing in the sun.
Along with a wide selection of hotels, restaurants, and stores to pick from, the beach also offers a number of playgrounds from 2nd and 35th Streets. As well as plenty of restrooms.
From 2nd and 40th Streets, lifeguards can be found on duty from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM from mid-May to mid-September.
Address: Dough Boy’s Pizza at 17th Street and 33rd Street, Oceans 14 along the boardwalk, 712 Atlantic Avenue.
Virginia is for Lovers, the Old Dominion’s 50-year-old catchphrase, may be seen on car license plates. While also on more than 275 LOVEwork signs all around the state as you drive through Virginia.
Discover the nine locations in Virginia Beach where the city’s official signs are located. Then you can explore the area to see if you can spot any of the handful of unofficial signs that are hidden here as well.
Visit Bunker Plaza at 3208 Holland Road to see the LOVE sign in American Sign Language. For a charming picture with rabbit ears, go to the Virginia Beach Animal Care & Adoption Center found at 341 S Birdneck Road.
Richard Stravitz’s renowned “Wings of Grace Angel ” is perched over the LOVE Each Other sign at the Stravitz Fine Art and Sculpture Gallery. This can be found at 1217 Laskin Road.
Also discover Chesley De Leon’s unique work featuring art, the beach, diversity, and Town Center. This sign can be found at 700 Virginia Beach Blvd. Which is near the Virginia Beach ViBe Creative District.
Find the enormous metal grid letter, which is said to be around 4 feet tall. These letters are known to spell out the word LOVE.
You can find this sign at SK8 House, 600 S. Lynnhaven Road. Take a lock and place it to the sign to express your partner’s unending devotion.
Finally, it is worth checking out the following signs at the following sites along Atlantic Avenue on the Resort Strip:
What Type Of Food Can You Find In Virginia Beach?
As there is so much to do in Virginia Beach, whether you are staying for a while or just here for a day trip, you may need to find some food to enjoy during your visit.
It seems like every city has a distinct culinary character. Yet compared to other cities, Virginia Beach seems to place a greater emphasis on seafood.
This city is well-known for its thriving restaurant scene and has a long history of providing some of the best seafood in the nation.
There are various restaurants and establishments in Virginia Beach that you can choose from. Some of these establishments prefer to maintain and refine the traditional coastal dishes.
While some other restaurants in the area are always pushing the boundaries and creating new yet delicious seafood dishes for us to enjoy.
Both are intimate places to enjoy a simple meal that highlights how good fresh seafood is. Local ingredients are used, so that you know the fish you are eating is as fresh as it can be.
Although, if you are looking for something a bit different from classic seafood, then you may love The Stockpot. Each visit to The Stockpot is distinctive because they use seasonal ingredients.
In addition to this, they are constantly changing the recipes and dishes that they are making. Hence, you may not ever have the same meal twice when you visit the Stockpot.
Although, it is known for producing healthy but comforting food that the whole family will enjoy.
What Is The Weather Like In Virginia Beach All Year Round?
Virginia Beach is known as a place that is often sunny. Virginia Beach has year-round average temperatures that hover around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the perfect destination for vacations in the spring, summer, and fall.
The summer highs average in the upper 80 degree Fahrenheit. Which is similar to adjacent beaches, while the temperatures stay rather warm.
In Virginia Beach, July is typically the hottest month and January the coldest. Yet, it has been said that the best months to visit Virginia Beach are September and October.
This is since the weather is still pleasant. Also, prices begin to drop as there are fewer visitors as most of the kids have gone back to school.
Final Thoughts
If you are heading to Virginia Beach any time soon, you have a broad range of options to choose from if you aren’t sure on what to do with your time here. There are various beaches you can relax upon, so it is important to pick the one that will suit you the best.
If you don’t want to sit and relax on a beach, then there are various museums, farmers markets, plantation houses and wineries for you to enjoy. No matter what your mood is and budget, then there is an attraction for you, on the list above.
We hope you have enjoyed this article. Now you know 40 fun things that you could do when you next decide to go to Virginia Beach.
Hi, my name is Alex Kallen and I love to travel. Ever since I could afford the ticket, I hopped on a plane and never looked back. I’ve made a living writing travel guides and blogging my experience all over the world.
I want to encourage and inspire others to travel around the US like I am. There’s no need to go on vacation overseas when there is an amazing land of opportunity right on your doorstep. Enjoy my website, I hope to see you out here one day.
