Virginia Beach, located on the southeastern coast of Virginia, is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches, bustling boardwalk, and diverse attractions. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family-friendly activities, there are plenty of things to do in Virginia Beach that cater to all interests. In this guide, we’ll explore the top things to do in Virginia Beach to help you make the most of your visit.
1. Enjoy the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
One of the most iconic things to do in Virginia Beach is strolling along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. Stretching three miles along the oceanfront, this bustling boardwalk is perfect for walking, biking, and rollerblading. Along the way, you’ll find numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. The boardwalk also features beautiful ocean views and hosts various events throughout the year.
2. Relax at the Beach
Relaxing on the sandy shores is one of the quintessential things to do in Virginia Beach. The city boasts 35 miles of coastline with pristine beaches ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports. Popular spots include Sandbridge Beach for a more tranquil experience and the Resort Beach for a lively atmosphere. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen and beach gear to fully enjoy one of the best things to do in Virginia Beach.
3. Visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
For an educational and entertaining experience, visiting the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is one of the top things to do in Virginia Beach. The aquarium features over 800,000 gallons of exhibits showcasing marine life from the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Highlights include the Shark Tunnel, the Restless Planet exhibits, and the Adventure Park, where you can zip line and climb through the trees.
4. Explore First Landing State Park
Exploring First Landing State Park is one of the must-do things to do in Virginia Beach for nature lovers. This historic park, where English colonists first landed in 1607, offers hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for kayaking and picnicking. The park’s diverse ecosystems, including marshes, dunes, and forests, provide a beautiful backdrop for outdoor adventures.
5. Discover the Military Aviation Museum
One of the unique things to do in Virginia Beach is visiting the Military Aviation Museum. Home to one of the world’s largest collections of World War I and World War II aircraft, this museum offers a fascinating look at aviation history. Many of the planes are still in flying condition, and visitors can even book flight experiences in some of the vintage aircraft.
6. Experience the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum
The Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the city’s coastal community and its lifesaving services. Located on the boardwalk, this museum features exhibits on shipwrecks, lifeguarding, and coastal history. Visiting the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum is one of the interesting things to do in Virginia Beach, offering insights into the city’s maritime heritage.
7. Enjoy Outdoor Activities at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Covering over 9,000 acres, the refuge offers opportunities for hiking, biking, bird-watching, and fishing. Exploring Back Bay is one of the serene things to do in Virginia Beach, allowing visitors to connect with nature and observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
8. Take a Dolphin Watching Cruise
Taking a dolphin watching cruise is one of the exciting things to do in Virginia Beach. Several operators offer boat tours where you can observe playful dolphins in their natural environment. These cruises often provide educational insights about marine life and the local ecosystem, making it a fun and informative activity for all ages.
9. Visit the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art
Art lovers will find visiting the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) one of the enriching things to do in Virginia Beach. The museum showcases a diverse range of contemporary art exhibitions, including paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. MOCA also offers art classes, workshops, and special events throughout the year.
10. Explore the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is an engineering marvel and a unique attraction in Virginia Beach. Spanning 17.6 miles, this bridge-tunnel complex connects the city to the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Driving across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is one of the adventurous things to do in Virginia Beach, offering breathtaking views of the bay and the opportunity to explore nearby coastal towns.
11. Discover the Historic Cape Henry Lighthouse
Visiting the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse is one of the must-do things to do in Virginia Beach for history buffs. Built in 1792, this lighthouse is one of the oldest in the United States. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay and learn about its significance in guiding early American ships safely to shore.
12. Enjoy Water Sports and Activities
For those seeking adventure, engaging in water sports is one of the thrilling things to do in Virginia Beach. The city’s coastline provides ample opportunities for surfing, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing. Several rental shops and tour operators are available to help you make the most of your aquatic adventures.
13. Visit the Farmers Market
The Old Beach Farmers Market is a great place to experience local flavors and culture. Open on Saturdays, the market features fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delicious prepared foods. Visiting the farmers market is one of the delightful things to do in Virginia Beach, offering a chance to support local vendors and taste regional specialties.
14. Experience the Ocean Breeze Waterpark
Ocean Breeze Waterpark is a family-friendly attraction that offers a fun-filled day of water activities. With over 30 rides, slides, and attractions, it’s one of the top things to do in Virginia Beach for families. Highlights include the wave pool, lazy river, and various thrilling water slides.
15. Explore the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts
The Sandler Center for the Performing Arts is a premier venue for concerts, theater performances, and cultural events. Attending a show at the Sandler Center is one of the cultural things to do in Virginia Beach, providing top-notch entertainment in a state-of-the-art facility.
16. Visit the Thoroughgood House
The Thoroughgood House is one of the oldest surviving colonial homes in Virginia. Visiting this historic house is one of the educational things to do in Virginia Beach, offering guided tours that delve into the early history of the area and the life of Adam Thoroughgood, one of Virginia’s first settlers.
17. Discover the Lynnhaven House
The Lynnhaven House, built in 1725, is another historic gem in Virginia Beach. This well-preserved example of early Virginia architecture provides insights into colonial life. Exploring the Lynnhaven House is one of the fascinating things to do in Virginia Beach for those interested in history and heritage.
18. Enjoy a Scenic Bike Ride
Virginia Beach offers several scenic bike trails perfect for exploring the city’s natural beauty. Renting a bike and riding along the boardwalk or through one of the many parks is one of the active things to do in Virginia Beach. The Cape Henry Trail in First Landing State Park is a popular choice for its picturesque views and peaceful surroundings.
19. Take a Ghost Tour
For a spooky and fun experience, taking a ghost tour is one of the intriguing things to do in Virginia Beach. These guided tours take you through some of the city’s most haunted locations, sharing eerie talesand local legends. It’s a unique way to learn about the darker side of Virginia Beach’s history.
20. Dine at Local Restaurants
Virginia Beach’s culinary scene is diverse and delicious, offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. Dining at local restaurants is one of the delicious things to do in Virginia Beach. Popular spots include Waterman’s Surfside Grille, known for its crab cakes, and Blue Pete’s, offering a taste of Southern hospitality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Virginia Beach is a city full of diverse attractions and activities. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, enjoying the beach, or indulging in local cuisine, there are plenty of things to do in Virginia Beach that will make your visit memorable. Plan your trip and discover the best that this coastal city has to offer.
Also read: Top 20 Things to Do in Richmond, VA
