Virginia Beach VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Virginia Beach, Virginia.
1. Virginia Beach Boardwalk
ICONIC COASTAL PROMENADE
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk stretches 3 miles along the oceanfront, featuring separate lanes for biking and strolling. Visitors can enjoy regular concerts, festive lights during holidays, and scenic ocean vistas while exploring the many shops and restaurants. The boardwalk serves as the central hub for beach activities and entertainment in Virginia Beach.
2. Sandbridge Beach
SECLUDED COASTAL PARADISE
Sandbridge Beach offers a more secluded alternative to the main Virginia Beach oceanfront with its pristine shoreline and peaceful atmosphere. This five-mile stretch of golden sand dunes and tranquil waters is perfect for families seeking a quieter beach experience. Nearby vacation rentals and condominiums provide convenient accommodations for extended stays.
3. Military Aviation Museum
HISTORIC AIRCRAFT COLLECTION
The Military Aviation Museum houses one of the largest private collections of World War I and World War II era military aircraft in the world. Many of the meticulously restored planes are still airworthy and participate in flight demonstrations during special events. Visitors can explore multiple hangars filled with vintage aircraft and learn about aviation history from knowledgeable docents.
4. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
UNDERWATER WILDLIFE EXPLORATION
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center features interactive exhibits showcasing marine life from the local Chesapeake Bay and beyond. Visitors can experience touch tanks, shark and stingray encounters, and observe a variety of marine and land creatures throughout the facility. The center also includes a scenic nature walk with seal exhibits and an outdoor adventure park.
5. First Landing State Park
HISTORIC NATURAL REFUGE
First Landing State Park marks the site where English colonists first landed in 1607 before continuing to establish Jamestown. The park features 20 miles of trails winding through diverse coastal habitats including maritime forest, cypress swamps, and dunes. Visitors can enjoy camping, swimming, and educational programs while exploring Virginia's most-visited state park.
6. Cape Henry Lighthouse
HISTORIC MARITIME BEACON
The Cape Henry Lighthouse, built in 1792, was the first federally funded lighthouse in the United States and continues to stand as a sentinel at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors can climb the 191 steps to the top for panoramic views of the bay, Atlantic Ocean, and surrounding area. The site actually features two lighthouses—the original stone structure and a newer cast-iron lighthouse built in 1881.
7. Tarnished Truth Distilling Co.
CRAFT SPIRITS EXPERIENCE
Tarnished Truth Distilling Co. is an award-winning craft distillery located within the historic Cavalier Hotel in Virginia Beach. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the distillation process and sample a variety of handcrafted spirits including bourbon, rye whiskey, and vodka. The distillery combines modern production techniques with traditional recipes in an elegant setting that honors the region's history.
8. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
COASTAL WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge encompasses over 9,000 acres of barrier islands, dunes, freshwater marshes, maritime forests, and beaches. The refuge serves as a critical habitat for migratory birds, endangered species, and diverse wildlife throughout the year. Visitors can explore hiking trails, observe wildlife, and participate in guided programs focused on conservation and natural history.
9. Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art
MODERN ARTISTIC EXPRESSION
The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) showcases ever-changing exhibitions featuring works by regional, national, and international artists. The museum's programming includes thought-provoking contemporary art across various mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, and multimedia installations. MOCA also offers educational workshops, classes, and community events designed to engage visitors of all ages with contemporary art.
10. Mount Trashmore Park
RECLAIMED GREEN SPACE
Mount Trashmore Park is an innovative 165-acre park created from a former landfill, featuring two man-made mountains, two lakes, and extensive recreational facilities. The main mountain rises 60 feet high and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area as well as opportunities for kite flying and sledding. The park includes playgrounds, a skate park, volleyball courts, walking trails, and numerous picnic areas for community gatherings.
11. Ocean Breeze Waterpark
THRILLING AQUATIC ADVENTURE
Ocean Breeze Waterpark offers 30 rides, slides, and attractions across its 19-acre tropical-themed facility. The park features the million-gallon Runaway Bay wave pool and the Caribbean-inspired Buccaneer Bay children's area with kid-friendly water features. Visitors can experience thrilling water slides, relax on the quarter-mile lazy river, or reserve private cabanas for a more exclusive experience.
12. Rudee Inlet
NAUTICAL ACTIVITY HUB
Rudee Inlet serves as Virginia Beach's marina district where fishing charters, dolphin watching tours, parasailing, and jet ski rentals depart throughout the day. This bustling waterway is lined with popular seafood restaurants offering fresh catches and waterfront dining experiences. The inlet provides protected access to the Atlantic Ocean for recreational boaters and is home to the Virginia Beach Fishing Center.
13. Lynnhaven Mall
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Lynnhaven Mall is the largest shopping center in Virginia with over 180 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options spread across 1.2 million square feet. The mall features an array of high-end retailers, specialty shops, and department stores catering to diverse shopping preferences. Visitors can enjoy dining options ranging from fast-casual to upscale restaurants, plus entertainment venues including a movie theater and indoor adventure park.
14. Catch 31
OCEANFRONT SEAFOOD DINING
Catch 31 is a premier seafood restaurant located directly on the Virginia Beach oceanfront with panoramic views from its expansive patio. The restaurant specializes in fresh, locally-sourced seafood prepared with creative flair and seasonal ingredients. Diners can enjoy their meals around the outdoor fire pits while listening to live music and watching the boardwalk activities.
15. Norfolk Botanical Garden
LUSH FLORAL WONDERLAND
Norfolk Botanical Garden encompasses 175 acres of beautifully maintained gardens featuring over 60 themed areas including rose, butterfly, and Japanese gardens. Visitors can explore 12 miles of paved walking paths, take a tram tour, or enjoy boat trips through the garden's canal system during warmer months. The garden hosts seasonal events including the popular Holiday Lights display in winter and numerous plant shows throughout the year.