15+ Best Things To Do in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach offers diverse activities, making it an ideal vacation destination for tourists and families. With its expansive shoreline, the beach is a natural starting point for visitors seeking relaxation and beachside entertainment. Beyond the sand and surf, you can explore outdoor attractions such as state parks and gardens, providing a perfect blend of leisure and adventure.

When planning your itinerary, consider the vibrant local culture that infuses Virginia Beach. Diverse culinary experiences, shopping districts, and a dynamic nightlife scene cater to various interests and ages. Engage with the city’s history and arts through museum visits, or embrace the area’s love for the water with paddling tours or a walk along the concrete boardwalk that stretches three miles along the oceanfront.

Every turn in Virginia Beach reveals something new, ensuring that your visit is filled with memorable experiences crafted to satisfy the curiosity of every traveler. With a mix of attractions and experiences, Virginia Beach beckons you to discover its unique charm and create lasting vacation memories. Virginia Beach offers a variety of attractions that cater to adrenaline seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Things to Do in Virginia Beach

1. iFLY VA Beach

Address: 2412 Pacific Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

iFLY VA Beach delivers the excitement of skydiving without having to jump out of a plane. Encased in a futuristic glass tunnel, you can experience the sensation of freefall in a safe and controlled environment. This indoor skydiving facility is a crowd-pleaser for all ages, offering fun, family-friendly entertainment.

2. Va Aquarium

Address: 717 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center immerses you in the aquatic world. Explore over 800,000 gallons of one of the best aquariums and animal habitats in the country. Walk through nature paths, observe exotic marine life, and witness interactive exhibits that provide an insightful look into the ocean’s depths. It’s educational fun for the entire family.

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Parks And Nature

Virginia Beach offers a plethora of natural escapes, from serene state parks to wildlife-rich refuges. Whether you’re looking to hike, fish, or simply relax by the water, you’ll find an abundance of options.

3. First Landing State Park

Address: 2500 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

Your adventure starts where English colonists first landed in 1607. With over 20 miles of hiking trails and 1.5 miles of sandy Chesapeake Bay beachfront, First Landing State Park is ideal for both history buffs and nature lovers.

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

Interact with marine life and witness dolphin exhibits at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. It’s not just an aquarium; it’s a hub for conservation and education.

4. False Cape State Park

Address: 4001 Sandpiper Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, United States

Accessible only by foot, bike, beach transport, or boat, False Cape State Park is a haven for undisturbed coastal wilderness. Perfect for secluded beach outings, kayaking, and summer camping.

5. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Address: 4005 Sandpiper Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, United States

Explore Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to observe a diverse aviary population amidst marshes and wetlands. The trails here are prime for wildlife photography and serene walks.

6. Mount Trashmore Park

Address: 310 Edwin Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23462, United States

Mount Trashmore Park, an environmental feat, boasts a massive playground and skate park. Created from compacted layers of solid waste and clean soil, it’s an impressive example of repurposing land.

7. Grommet Island Park

Address: Boardwalk &, 2nd St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

Grommet Island Park offers a 100% wheelchair-accessible playground and beach, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the sands and waves without barriers.

8. Little Island Park

Address: 3820 Sandpiper Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, United States

At Little Island Park, you’ll find ample fishing opportunities with a 400-foot fishing pier and picturesque picnic spots perfect for family outings.

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Cultural Attractions

Virginia Beach’s cultural scene is as vibrant as its oceanfront. Delve into history, celebrate heritage, and immerse yourself in the arts at these curated attractions.

9. Military Aviation Museum

Address: 1341 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23457, United States

Discover an impressive collection of vintage aircraft at the Military Aviation Museum, where history takes flight. The exhibits provide an educational glimpse into military aviation history, with meticulously restored aircraft on display.

10. Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum

Address: 2401 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

Housed in the historic Coast Guard station, the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum honors the city’s coastal and lifesaving heritage. Engage with exhibits that tell tales of local maritime history and oceanfront development.

11. Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum

Address: 1113 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

Step into the charming De Witt Cottage to explore the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum. This site celebrates the migratory patterns of Atlantic wildfowl and showcases art reflecting this unique aspect of Virginia Beach’s natural history.

12. Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art

Address: 2200 Parks Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

In the heart of the ViBe Creative District, the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) presents thought-provoking exhibits of modern and contemporary art enhancing cultural understanding and encouraging lifelong learning.

13. Virginia Legends Walk

Honor Virginia’s influential historical figures at the Virginia Legends Walk. Walk this path to learn about the famous people who have shaped both the state and the nation across diverse fields.

14. Ferry Plantation House

Address: 4136 Cheswick Ln, Virginia Beach, VA 23455, United States

Experience the history of a bygone era at the Ferry Plantation House, a historic site where the story of Virginia’s colonial and agricultural past is preserved within a charming 1830s home.

15. Atlantic Fun Park

Address: 233 15th St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

For a fun summer diversion, head to the Atlantic Fun Park. Enjoy classic amusement park rides and attractions, providing entertainment and excitement for all ages.

16. Norwegian Lady

Address: 2500 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

Commemorate the ties between Virginia Beach and Norway with the Norwegian Lady statues. This oceanfront landmark serves as a memorial to those lost at sea and symbolizes the enduring friendship between the two countries.

Beach And Oceanfront

When you visit Virginia Beach, sun-soaked relaxation and oceanfront entertainment are at your fingertips. Explore miles of sandy shoreline, historical landmarks, and vibrant parklands along the Atlantic coast.

17. Naval Aviation Monument Park

Address: 25th Street &, 2500 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

Pay homage to the heroes of naval aviation at this oceanfront tribute. Immerse yourself in the past where sculptures and plaques detail heroic stories against a backdrop of soaring jets.

18. Virginia Beach Boardwalk

Stroll along the 3-mile concrete Virginia Beach Boardwalk, a hub for dining, entertainment, and biking. Be sure to join in the local events and festivals that bring this iconic location to life.

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19. Neptune’s Park

Address: 3001 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

Adjacent to the boardwalk, Neptune’s Park is famous for its towering King Neptune statue. This central entertainment locale is host to concerts and the Neptune Festival, celebrating local culture.

20. Cape Henry Lighthouse

Address: 583 Atlantic Ave, Fort Story, VA 23459, United States

Discover historic Cape Henry Lighthouse at the northern end of Virginia Beach. Climb the historic tower for sprawling views of where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean.

21. Sandbridge Beach

Escape to the serene Sandbridge Beach, perfect for swimming and surfing away from the busier oceanfront. Enjoy the natural beauty where dunes and undisturbed beaches make an ideal seaside retreat.

Entertainment And Recreation

Virginia Beach offers a diverse array of entertainment options that cater to your sense of adventure and desire for fun. Here, you can enjoy everything from thrilling escape rooms to the joys of an amusement park.

22. Black Cat Escape Room

Address: 2697 International Pkwy 2, Suite 101, Virginia Beach, VA 23452, United States

Immerse yourself in a challenging and engaging experience at the Black Cat Escape Room. With themes that captivate and puzzle designs that test your wit, you’ll find this escape room to be a highlight of your Virginia Beach entertainment itinerary.

Travel And Leisure Facilities

Virginia Beach offers a plethora of amenities that enrich your vacation. The city boasts a range of restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine, perfect for family dinners or romantic evenings. As for accommodation, you have a variety of hotels near the oceanfront ensuring comfortable stays with majestic views.

Facilities along the 3-mile boardwalk include accessible restrooms, outdoor showers, and photo-worthy spots to capture your memories. Whether it’s summer or not, the boardwalk accommodates bike enthusiasts and joggers alike, and for a more leisurely pace, the boardwalk tram can take you from one end to the other.

For families, playgrounds sprinkle the area, and the beach itself is vast and welcoming. If it’s on-water adventure you seek, kayak rentals and tours are readily available. To make the most of your visit, consult a travel guide for hidden gems and local favorites, ensuring a well-rounded vacation experience at Virginia Beach.

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