35 Best & Fun Things To Do In Virginia Beach (VA)

Virginia Beach is a coastal city in southeastern Virginia, and there are a lot of fun things to do here.

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Virginia City has the world’s longest pleasure beach.

With so much fun rolling from all parts of Virginia Beach, it is a fun vacation spot in Virginia.

Have you been thinking of taking a vacation with your family to experience true beauty?

Do you want to have a quiet period and explore amazing and beautiful places in Virginia Beach, Virginia?

Aquarium, adventure, music, good food, and fun?

See Christmas lights along the boardwalk, go cycling along the Virginia Beach bikeways, and Dine with a view at waterfront eateries.

Then take your time to go through this list of the best and most fun things to do in Virginia Beach, VA!

Also, check out some of the best restaurants in Virginia Beach to dine in when hungry.

Things To Do In Virginia Beach

1. First Landing State Park

Of a lot of parks offering fun, camping, a public beach, and a lot more, the First Landing State Park offers a lot of recreational opportunities.

Situated at Cape Henry in the independent city of Virginia Beach, Virginia, the First Landing State Park is the first planned state park in Virginia.

This most visited park in the whole of Virginia is adorned with a beachfront having marshes, forests, and also trails.

Its landscape is well-structured and interestingly beautiful. There is just so much to explore in this park.

If you visit in the spring, you should try walking the White Hill Loop trail. This trail is also a perfect spot if you want to relax your muscles by biking or hiking.

You’d be thrilled to see Bald Cypresses at the Bald Cypress Trail.

Comfy and family-convenient camping sites are scattered all over the place if you want to go camping; however, watch out for mosquitoes. Go with a repellent to be on the safer side.

Although it has a lot of wildlife, the sunset view from this park is amazing to behold and will leave you blooming in freshness.

Pet friendly and accommodating. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about your pets. As long as you put your pets on a leash, you can walk them around and not bother them.

The Bay Beachside offers fabulous views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.

While at it, you can take some nice pictures or even walk down the beach. It has nice clean sand, and you can go swimming with your family.

Renting a boat here and going crashing through the waves can be a fun thing for you to do here too.

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

2. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

Formerly known as the Virginia Marine Science Museum, the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center is an aquarium and marine science museum located in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Located on the south of Rudee Inlet, 800,000 US gallons of fresh and saltwater displays are exhibited.

This Aquarium offers a Boat Tour next door and a variety of exhibits. There are huge shark tanks and an outdoor seal tank.

Also, an interesting exhibit is the Stingray exhibit tank. In this exhibit tank, you can place your hand on the water and touch the stingray. However, not to worry; the stinger has been removed.

If you have small children who want to see fish and sharks, this place can be an amazing place to bring them.

The jellyfish exhibit is also one of the exhibits that will thrill little kids. Jellyfishes, in all their beauty, are on display. The little ones will have fun watching this display. There are turtles, too, beautiful and fragile, in all sizes.

There’s also a gift shop on site where you can buy different items. You can shop and restock beautiful gift items and memoirs from this shop.

Since the place is pretty big and beautiful, you can bring school kids here on educational excursions to learn more about sea creatures.

The aquarium is a really fun place to teach children about these creatures.

You can take beautiful pictures of the sea life in this aquarium. The staffs are really amazing and wouldn’t mind giving you a complete and professional tour if you want.

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

3. Norfolk Botanical Garden

The Norfolk Botanical Garden is a botanical garden with an arboretum located in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Nice place to take your kids out for a peaceful walk. They also have little houses for kids to venture through.

It is a good spot if you are trying to distract your kids in a serene environment that isn’t too dangerous. You can keep your eyes on them too here.

Also, there is a huge sandhill as well! Climbing up and down this sandhill is a wonderful outdoor activity your kids will find interesting.

Bouncy and beautiful splash pads are open in the children’s garden during the summer.

There are likewise little areas for babies! Trees and flowers planted in this botanical garden are absolutely beautiful.

People around the globe come here for the Christmas lights walk. Walking through several beautiful colors of the radiating Christmas light is sure to make your Christmas fun! Plenty of photo opportunities too.

A million lights walk is another pretty opportunity where you can come with your pet.

Try holding a baby shower here in the Holly Room. Amazing space for parties and gatherings; if you’re still in doubt, check it out.

Apart from that, there are lighting crews, and they offer really nice catering options.

There’s also a stop along the path for coffee, hot cider, and hot cocoa. Finger foods like chicken strips and hotdogs are delicacies you will find too.

Photos won’t just do justice to this place because there is just so much animation. It is simply magical!

Address: 6700 Azalea Garden Rd, Norfolk, VA, United States

4. Cape Henry Lighthouse, Virginia Beach

The famous Storied 1792 lighthouse with beautiful ocean views.

The Cape Henry Lighthouses are a pair of lighthouses at Cape Henry at the southern entrance to Chesapeake Bay in the U.S. state of Virginia.

It has contributed to a great extent to the state due to a large amount of ocean-going shipping traffic in its harbors, its rivers, and shipping headed to ports on its bay.

This lighthouse is relatively easy to climb, with a small ladder that you have to climb too. Historic for its beauty, this lighthouse has a glass area too that you’ll reach if you keep climbing.

One of the lighthouses which use a military base is how you’d define this lighthouse.

If you have a military identity card, then you can spend a much longer time here. However, if you don’t have a military identity card, you can access it too.

There is rigorous security screening in the environment to ensure the safety of people going into these lighthouses!

A good place to walk, and if you have an affinity for staircases, then be prepared to climb pretty much all the way.

Maps are given to guide you to a designated spot so you don’t get lost and be able to understand the full structure.

If you follow the map, you’ll be able to understand so much about the place without stress, but if you need a guide, you can request one.

There’s also the site where the settlers landed.

This is a cool place to go on family outings and exercise your calves a little.

It will keep you in perfect shape. I recommend this spot 100 percent. Don’t forget to go with your stamp!

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

5. Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art

Located near the oceanfront resort area, the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art is a contemporary art museum in Virginia Beach, Virginia, the United States with ever-changing art exhibitions & classes.

Adjacent to the eastern terminus of Interstate 264 near the Virginia Beach Convention Center and the Virginia Beach.

Modern and spacious museum with varieties of contemporary works.

Notable among the artwork in this museum is the diversity in the background of these artists.

Most of the artwork showcased here belongs to minorities, thus creating an equal competing ground for all artists. Although small, it’s well worth a visit if you are here.

From the Made in Virginia exhibit to the Sculpture exhibit, you’ll see amazing exhibits of both locals and otherwise.

Staff here are very friendly and knowledgeable and willing to guide and explain anything you want to know about as well!

Before you leave, check out the independent bookstore at the front entrance. It houses a lot of historic and artistic books you’ll find absolutely interesting.

Engagement parties and stunning weddings can be held here too. With her stunning halls, this won’t be too much of a deal.

Outdoors, the trees are decorated with string lights. Rodriguez Pavilion has full-length windows that outlook to the trees for cocktail hour.

The Atrium trees here are also spaced throughout with lights on the trees as well as light-up pillars for a reception.

A magnificent theater in the reception area will thrill you. On-site instruction for art courses is the icing on the cake.

Since the focus of the museum is community contribution, many local artists often have opportunities to show their work.

Make sure to add this among every other thing you would do in Virginia Beach.

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

6. Ocean Breeze Waterpark, Virginia Beach

Water slides, a tubing river, and a wave pool are what make up this water park with over 30+ rides.

Nice selections of appropriate slides of different sizes for kids of different ages. From the smallest to the biggest child you come with, there’s something to keep them entertained in the Ocean Breeze Waterpark.

There’s also a cute kitty area where kids can play to their fill. Absolutely conducive and a good spot to allow kids to interact and make friends!

A lazy river and a large wave pool too. Kids can go swimming in this pool and if you bother a lot about its safety, do not worry. Life vests are provided for smaller children, so you don’t need to bring your own.

The staff was very friendly and helpful, and the lines moved fairly quickly.

This water park is a great spot for doing a parent/ child day or even taking a group of sleepover friends to keep them entertained.

Foods prepared in this park are pretty delicious and hygienic for your children. There are snacks and ice creams in the shops, just in case you need to get them something to eat.

Go in the summer for splashy good times; you’ll leave your kids thrilled.

Arrange a picnic and allow them to participate in fun outdoor activities. Play Monopoly or Scrabble with them on the grass, and watch them giggle endlessly!

Address: 849 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States

7. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge in southeastern Virginia is located in the city of Virginia Beach.

This 9062.45-acre freshwater refuge was established in 1938 in an isolated portion of the former Princess Anne County. And it is managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

It borders the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Back Bay of the Currituck Sound on the west.

Featuring large sand dunes and waterfowl migration stops with trails, the majority of its refuge marshlands are on islands contained within the waters of Back Bay.

In addition to its stunning beaches, there are also maritime forests, ponds, ocean beaches, and large impoundments for wintering wildfowl.

To conservationists, it is considered a legendary link to the Atlantic Flyway for migratory birds such as snow geese.

Wildlife trails on the Back Bay make up the many breathtaking scenes around this place. If you come in the evening, you’ll watch the sunset. Good photography is another promising thing you can do here.

This place is so scenic and ideal for a peaceful retreat. Go camping in her environs and set up tents here.

Beach ball, building sandcastles, and walking through the waters are some of the things you can do on her beach. Nothing is better!

You can also go fishing, riding bikes, or hiking from Back Bay all the way to North Carolina.

Renting a car or a bike is something you can do if you don’t have one, also bird watching and kayaking too!

It is one of the most peaceful places in Virginia Beach. So, be sure to add it to your itinerary.

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

8. Mount Trashmore Park, Virginia Beach

Also known as Mount Trashmore is a city park sports & recreation spot located in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Opened in 1974, Mount Trashmore is an example of landfill reuse, an abandoned landfill converted into a park.

Spanning across over 165 acres and hills larger than 60 feet high and 800 feet long, Mount Trashmore Park is relatively big.

Trails like the 1.95 Miles Perimeter Trail, the 1.45 Miles Lake Trail, and the 1.30 Mountain Trail are multiple trails in this park.

Two other lakes are also found around the area where fishing is permitted. You can catch some salmons and other fishes quite easily in these lakes in the park.

Apart from that, there are also about three large, two medium, and six small picnic shelters for picnickers. The serene environment is suitable for outdoor recreational activities.

Playground areas with about four volleyball areas can be accessed here too. Volleyball areas are usually swarming with kids trying to master volleyball. Teach your kids how to play volleyball in these areas.

Smaller children will have fun and other things to do in the playground area. There are also vending machines and clean restrooms to ease yourself.

Also, there is a skate park and even a little exercise area designed for people 50 and older or with disabilities.

There’s a dog area and also a place where a lot of climbing games you can play. You can as well grill barbecues here and also embark on yoga activities.

It is a never-ending loop of fun! I’ll recommend checking out the fun things to do in this park.

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

9. False Cape State Park

A 4,321-acre state park located on the Currituck Banks Peninsula, a one-mile-wide barrier spit between the Back Bay of the Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean within the city of Virginia Beach.

The False Cape State Park can be accessed from the north on foot, bicycle, or seasonally available tram through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge or from the south on foot or bicycle. Boat access is also possible from any shoreline.

Hiking and biking trails are vast and relatively smooth to use. Its trails are wide enough; you can jog down them or even run marathon races. Try walking from the Sandbridge past the Wash Wood Historic Site.

Maritime forest preserves with great trails and a beautiful beach. As serene as it could be, there is also majestic Waterfowl Migration here.

There are 2 or 3 inconspicuous water refill points along the way. A visitors’ center, environmental education, and primitive camping facilities are also offered in this park.

Going camping here is one of the best things you can do here in Virginia Beach. The GPS is functional too.

This is a unique park in Virginia’s wetlands, coastal forests, and dunes. You’ll enjoy it all.

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

10. Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Featuring a lively area with sandy beaches, a cafe, and shops, the Virginia Beach Oceanfront is one of the fun sites to visit in Virginia Beach.

Walking on the sand and the boardwalk are some of the fun things you can do here.

Several miles of sandy beaches to explore, and the water is the perfect temperature to cool off.

You’ll see dolphins playing and singing loudly from the shore, and you can also find many different seashells.

If you’re very lucky, you may find some sand dollars!

It’s an amazing beach and oceanfront location! The fishing pier is another one of the must-see places here!

Luckily, you’ll always catch something if you fish properly. Use your fishing line, and you can get from blue crabs to salmons!

There are tons of statues and plaques describing the history, events, and important festivals too.

Around the giant Neptune Statue, there are stores and shops also!

Address: 1700 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA, United States

11. Children’s Museum of Virginia

The Children’s Museum of Virginia is the largest children’s museum in the state of Virginia.

Located in Olde Town Portsmouth, it is an interactive learning site for curious kids.

This museum has a planetarium and two floors of exhibits. However, the Museum has wide open spaces for running kids if they need to burn off energy on a road trip!

There’s a music room for older children and music lovers to spend quality time.

It houses one of the largest antique toy and model train collections on the East Coast.

Interesting objects in the museum include a life-size tug boat and house, as well as a real Hampton Roads Transit bus, the cab of a real fire truck from the Portsmouth Fire Department, and a real motorcycle from the Portsmouth Police Department.

Also, there is a separate place for young babies or toddlers. With a bubble wall and what looked like a padded forest or obstacle course, so be rest assured that your babies are in safe hands!

It’s a stimulating playground for the littles. Very family-friendly!

Meanwhile, adults would love to explore the Bubble Room. It has tons of tactile and interactive exhibits that cover a wide range of subjects.

Did you know there is also a ship you can fish from? I recommend going here with the children.

Address: 221 High St, Portsmouth, VA, United States

Planning other cities filled with lots of activities to engage in while in Virginia? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Norfolk, things to do in Arlington, and things to do in Roanoke!

12. Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum

A small vintage museum with beach views located inside a real Life-Saving Station from 1903. Virginia Beach Surf and Rescue Museum is a historic site and museum in the whole of Virginia Beach, Virginia.

It exudes an array of Virginia and Coast Guard history of the area. Owning attractive and informative galleries, it educates and unveils the happenings of the Virginia Coast shipwrecks.

Inside the museum, there are over a thousand pictures and art relics shown—a library too, where you can read all articles and books relating to the relics and exhibits displayed.

In addition, the rocking chairs are pretty much enough thrills. Plenty of exhibits, lots of history to be shared, and even a fun video.

If you read everything, it would take an hour, but a fast stroll can get you in and out in 15 minutes. It is super educative and is one of the must-see places in Virginia Beach.

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

13. Thoroughgood House

The Thoroughgood House is a brick house located at 1636 Parish Road in the neighborhood of Thoroughgood, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States.

Although formerly known as the Adam Thoroughgood House and it was built in 1719, but not by Adam.

After a series of major restorations in 1923 and in the 1950s, it now serves as a museum since opening to the public on April 29, 1957.

From Colonial history to Revolutionary History, it is enveloped with a whole lot of history!

There is also a great education center and inclusive: Native American and African enslaved people.

This no-cost museum is absolutely free, but donations are welcomed!

To explain history better and store the images in them vividly, they also project documentaries. A seven-minute video discussing the site in a condensed version will get facts straight.

Its tour guides are very knowledgeable and ready to assist at any time.

Very interesting place to visit if you love colonial history

Amazing place for a homeschool field trip. It is like a trip back in time! The chamber pot may be your favorite thing!

There’s also a room with a lot of artifacts on local history.

Address: 1636 Parish Rd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States

14. Ferry Plantation House

It shows tours of a slave-built Federal farmhouse.

Also known as the Old Donation Farm, the Ferry Plantation House is a brick house in the neighborhood of Old Donation Farm, Virginia Beach.

This ancient house was built in  1642 when Savill Gaskin started the second ferry service in Hampton Roads to carry passengers on the Lynnhaven River to the nearby county courthouse and to visit plantations along the waterway.

During her carriage of passengers to Lynnhaven River, a cannon was used as a signal tool for the ferry, which has about 11 total stops along the river.

Ghost tours are held here. You’ll love the history and their love for the famous Pungo witch.

In the walkway, there are several stones etched with names and little details that offer a treat to read and reflect on before you even reach the store.

While in the gardens you can do various things, drinking tea too.

Come here with homeschoolers on field trips together. It is a must-see in Virginia Beach!

There are tour guides to tell you the story of the slave era and some prominent history about the plantation.

We also enjoyed seeing how they baked bread in crevices made near the oven so that the oven heat bakes the bread.

An ‘H’ carved symbol on the wall will draw your attention! It is believed that this is where Henry the slave carved his name into the wall, marking his bedroom. Henry lived until his 80s, and the family allowed him to live there until he died.

I highly recommend this place. It’s very affordable and worth every cent! Please go, you won’t regret it!

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

15. Sandbridge Beach

Over five miles close to the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, Sandbridge Beach is full of relaxing oceanfront homes and condos.

This beach, however, doesn’t feature only oceanfront homes and condos, from classy sand dunes to varieties of wildlife and scenic blue coastlines. It has it all.

The remoteness of this beach makes it formidable, and the serenity comforting!

Best time to visit is September to May so you can feel like you have the place to yourself.

You can also take a hike or bike ride here. There’s a movie theatre room here that will catch your attention. Dolphins swimming is a common sight to see as well.

There is also a small market and cafe, both of which are open year-round.

Beautiful family beach and is very pet-friendly.

A picnic, walking through the water, and feeling the texture of the sand under your feet will thrill you.

Surfing and beachball are other things you can do here too.

Host a wonderful family reunion at Sandbridge Beach, and you won’t regret it. Birthday parties and engagement ceremonies can be fun in this beautiful beach park.

Address: Virginia Beach, VA, United States

16. Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum

Also known as the Witt Cottage, also known as Holland Cottage and Wittenzand, is a historic home located in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum was built in 1895. It is a two-story, “L” shaped oceanfront brick cottage surrounded on three sides by a one-story porch.

It is a famous beach cottage that offers interesting bird-life displays.

Great little museum with interesting exhibits. A great place to stop if you are strolling on a hot day and need a place to cool off and see something interesting.

If you explore this museum, you’ll learn about decoys and the history of their local hunting clubs. There’s a resident carver who will tell you about the hunting club and various other histories.

The first floor, however, is dedicated to waterfowl, and the second floor has more historical items.

A small video presentation is available as well. A nice little museum! There is also a small gift shop on the first floor if you need to buy anything beach or bird-themed.

I absolutely love the unique things available in the gift shop. The artifacts in this historic building are wonderful too. The beach views from the grounds are great. And you would love all the outdoor events they have here.

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

17. Croatan Beach, Virginia

Croatan Beach is a residential neighborhood in the independent city of Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Located on the Atlantic Ocean, south of Rudee Inlet, and north of Camp Pendleton near the Virginia Beach oceanfront, it is home to a sandy public beach and surfing spot.

In addition to the Atlantic Ocean, the community is on the shores of Lake Wesley and Lake Christine.

The Croatan beach is a hidden gem!

Interestingly, the beach is divided into a surfing side and a swimming side. On the surfing side, you can ride through the waves and sea surf as much as you want! Surfers find this spot quite thrilling to surf around.

At the swimming spot, kids of all ages and parents can swim. Soaking in its waters is one of the best things to do in this place in Virginia Beach. Additionally, there are lifeguards on duty in case things go wrong or you need directions.

Bring your sunscreen and lie under the sun to relax; bring a book or two to read as you watch the waves crashing into each other.

Tourists and foreigners frequent this place a lot. If you’re looking forward to making friends or playing beach ball with people of different skills, I’d recommend this place.

Address: Virginia Beach, VA, United States

18. Grommet Island Park

One of the top Virginia Beach attraction sites with an accessible beach park and a playground. Owning over 15000 square feet, it is one of the most beautiful places in the United States.

Located at the end of the beach, Christmas lighting is one of the activities that is memorable in Grommet Island Park. Great space, several beautiful palm trees, and sand tables constitute its beauty.

Renting a family bike and riding with kids is one of the best things to do in Virginia Beach.

The kid’s playground is very well done with one of those soft/resilient surfaces in the playground area. Coupled with the proximity to the huge sandy beach and parking, it’s a kiddie sandbox paradise come true!

There is plenty of seating and views for parents to keep an eye on their kids while they play, yet near the parking and restroom area that adjoins the playground area.

The beach area has a swimmer section and a surfing section. Also, there’s a jetty if you want to do some fishing to break up the time at the beach.

Fun spot for a family to spend vacations at.

There is not much around to eat, but there is a really good pizza place and also an excellent seafood restaurant in the park.

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

19. Neptune’s Park

Famous for her 34 feet standing Roman god King Neptune Statue, Neptune is one of Virginia Beach’s tourist attraction sites. It’s right off the cement boardwalk at Virginia Beach.

Roman god King Neptune Statue is one of the iconic interests of the park houses; also behind it are a pair of dolphins.

Neptune Park offers beautiful beach views & live music. A quiet stroll around this park will reveal all its hidden beauty.

Festivals are held here quite often too. The International Sand Sculpture Festival is a wonderful festival you should think of attending here. It is usually at the end of September.

There are stunning views and spectacular displays of monuments as well. Competitors come from all over the world to participate in most activities Neptune Park offers.

You can set up large tents here, and its landscape accommodates disabled people too.

Kids will love exploring this enticing Roman piece!

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

See also the list of things to do in Blacksburg and things to do in Alexandria! 

20. Ocean View Beach

Ocean View Beach is a Bayside beach with calm waters in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

As its name implies, it is a beautiful place to spend the day with family and friends or just take a leisurely stroll.

The view of the ocean can be seen easily and the reflections of the sunlight on the waters are a sight you’d love to see.

It’s a pet-friendly place, and dogs are allowed before 10 am and after 7 pm between Memorial Day and Labor Day, any time of the day outside of then.

Vast sandbars are visible, especially during low tides.

Relax along the long stretch of the beach, and you can also camp on special sites showing the ocean.

Pretty rocks are washed ashore, and you can spend your time organizing a collection of rocks and seashells too.

However, crab hunting, snail finding, and hermit hunts are popular activities you’ll find kids doing around here.

The sand is so nice here as well, making it easier for them to spot crabs and snails.

It’s a gorgeous spot. You can definitely spend one day of your vacation here!

Address: Norfolk, VA, United States

21. Motor World

Featuring a Go-cart racetrack with paintball and rides, Motor World is famous for hosting one of the best trails for racing activities.

If you’re a fan of car racing games and paintball, you should check this out on your visit to Virginia Beach. Fast and furious crooners will love to check out this amazing race track.

There are multiple levels available for all ages, and there is enough staff to do most things. Moreover, there are height restrictions for certain rides too.

Euro Track is a perfect choice for adults; it is the most speed at about 20-30 mph and is a fun course.

Family-friendly options are pegged quite often in most of the tracks and have pretty decent tracks or karts. The go-karts are enjoyable. If you have teenagers, the best deal may be the three-hour unlimited pass.

The mini golf is somewhere in this race yard, and it’s a great spot to keep older kids and younger all alike entertained. Not a bad spot to relax with family or friends!

They serve delicious food, and there are also clean and accessible bathrooms in case you need to wash up at any time.

Address: 700 S Birdneck Rd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States

22. Northwest River Park

Bordered by the Northwest River on the south, Smith Creek on the east, and Indian Creek to the west, the Northwest River Park is situated.

Having vast aquatic habitats, such as riverside wetlands, swampy ponds, and open lake edges, it is a site of attraction for arrays of reptiles and cold-blooded sea creatures.

There are a lot of things to do in this park!

Firstly, fishing is one of the fun activities this park offers. People around come from time to time to fish in this river park. However, there are a lot of crabs crawling around.

Camping on its campground is another fun thing to do here in Virginia Beach.

There is a lot to do, such as canoeing, kayaking, biking, putt-putt, and frisbee golf.

Kayaks can also be rented from shops, and families can go kayaking in her beautiful and calm waters. Whether it is canoeing or paddle boarding, its waters are very suitable.

In the equestrian area, there are options for an arena, a round pen, and trails for horses.

Horseback riding is allowed too. You can rent a horse or two and take your family on a fun cruise on horseback. Teaching children how to ride horses is one of the commonly seen sights in this scenic space due to its spacious environs.

A playground and a mini golf course are available to pull you out of boredom. Therefore, if you are a kid or an adult, there is always something to do here.

Walking to the lake inlet is also another thing you can do here. Nice place to host a birthday party or even go on a picnic. I recommend this place on a visit to Virginia Beach.

Address: 1733 Indian Creek Rd, Chesapeake, VA, United States

23. Virginia Beach Fishing Pier

The famous Virginia Beach’s own fishing pier is located right off of the Boardwalk at Oceanfront.

This quiet and seasonal fishing spot with a tackle shop is a really wonderful place to visit.

People from different walks of life are seen consistently here, living to enjoy life, fishing, and hanging out.

Also, for relaxation, you can take turns deeply inhaling the cool air this fishing pier brings. Also, you should watch the waves crash against the poles at Virginia Beach Fishing Pier.

The waves aren’t too high, but the fun sound it makes while splashing and crashing around the poles here is fun.

While walking through this park, you’ll see so many people fishing. A hook, a liner, and a fishing stick can always be found around. Get good bait and catch some cool stuff!

Apart from that, there are crabs crawling all over the place. If you love crabs that much, then you can catch a handful if only you try.

There are also a lot of seafood spots and tourist shops in the area, even a couple.

If you’re hungry and you need to try out some of the dishes here, then you can.

You can also pick up one or two memoirs here to engrave this visit in your heart. Although the pier is sometimes closed by season, it is a great spot to take family photos and spend quality time with family.

I highly recommend watching the sunset here!

Address: 1413 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA, United States

24. Atlantic Fun Park, Virginia Beach

The Atlantic Fun Park is an amusement park featuring about 16 rides, a go-kart track, and midway games.

This park in Virginia Beach is enclosed through a fence for safekeeping.

It is one of the city’s treasures in times of child fun and entertainment.

Rides of different sizes are available for kids of different ages and sizes. Of over 16 rides, you’ll find a fitting and perfect one that will suit your child’s delight.

There is also a Ferris wheel you can ride for just 5 dollars!

Kids can compete in games to earn different prizes and gifts. Stuffed animals can be won too at some game spots.

It is likened to a permanent carnival with a lot of fun.

Water race carnivals are also held from time to time to keep the place bustling with fun and enjoyment.

Security guards too, and even security cameras to ensure that everyone is safe.

Numerous food stands with delicious foods are here in case you get hungry at some point and forgot to pack a lunch or two.

Good spot to go on a date or bring kids to spend the day to reward them for good behavior.

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

25. Chesapeake Beach

Commonly known as Chic’s Beach by locals, the beautiful Chesapeake Bay in Virginia Beach is a noteworthy discovery.

If you wish to experience the calm waters and enjoy a traditional beach in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake Beach is the place to be!

There are fancy and good restaurants on this beach, and you can walk to them without any difficulty.

Speaking of a pet-friendly place, then mark this place! It’s dog-friendly, so you can bring your dog on a leash here to take a walk or even jog around the environment with them.

So many outdoor recreational activities to engage kids in. They can skip a rope or play a game of tug.

Chess, scrabble, monopoly, and checkers can also be played by kids trying to build their IQ away from all the noise and confinement ·

Awesome scenery and picturesque environment accompanied by a holiday spirit· People will also enjoy taking a walk alone at night.

Dolphins splashing in and out of the water just add to its beauty; even if you don’t want to do anything here, just come and watch the dolphins.

Crabs are crawling all over the place, and you can see the huge bridge too. Small waves forming and hitting back is interesting to watch.

Also, the wind and the sand combo will leave your skin and soul delighted. This beach is a real gem with a spectacular sunset!

Address: Virginia Beach, VA, United States

26. North End Beach

A top tourist attraction site and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Virginia Beach.

The North End Beaches is a great place for surfing, boogie boarding, and setting up camp for an all-day beach excursion.

Visit during the Labor Day weekend, and you can bring your pets. Besides, that’s when you can bring your animals to this beach.

For surfers, there are a couple of great waves, and you can surf till evening as long as you can handle it.

Overall, it is definitely a contender for a yearly vacation!

Nice, relatively quiet, and relaxing beach, the best place to have family time.

If you’re hosting small group parties and family fun times, this is one of the places you can choose.

Of course, you’ll catch a glimpse of several dolphins and even pick up beach stones. Playing beach ball and building sand caste too, are also some of the fun things to do in this place.

Address: 8800 Oceanfront Ave, Virginia Beach, VA, United States

27. Oak Grove Lake Park, Virginia Beach

The Oak Grove Lake Park is a waterfront recreation area with a trail in Virginia Beach.

With woods in the middle of the city and beautiful clean water, the lake park is vast.

A lot of playgrounds around here make it a famous and well-known children’s play spot. There’s a lot of shade to make up for it, so you don’t have to bother a lot about the sun. However, the cool lake is readily available for soaks in case you want to cool off at some point.

In addition, it is a good place to walk your dogs on a leash and allow them to do their business comfortably.

They have benches throughout the walking path, and all are dedicated or memorialized to someone or a group of people. So, if you get tired while exploring this lake, you can sit somewhere and stretch your legs.

People can go on picnics, exercise, bike, or even have a food run. You’ll love to just sit on one of the benches and watch the sun go down. It is peaceful.

Celebrate your birthday or a kid’s birthday in one of the picnic areas. It is also absolutely comfy and can accommodate a handful of kids.

Areas to fish, walk and just enjoy the beauty of the magnificent lake are present too. Be sure to have fun to the fullest!

Address: 409 Byron St, Chesapeake, VA, United States

28. Chesapeake Arboretum, Virginia Beach

Chesapeake Arboretum is a non-profit arboretum located in Virginia. It is open daily without charge and offers forest trails, gardens & education.

The arboretum was established in 1996 and currently consists of a mature hardwood forest with a good trail system, farmhouse, and theme and demonstration gardens.

Spanning approximately 45 acres and some 3.5 miles in length, the Chesapeake Arboretum trail system is mind-blowing.

This isn’t the only beauty about this place; it is crossed by 11 bridges! Crazy and exciting, right?

There’s also a perennial stream and Starr Run. Beautiful ponds and well-maintained nature trails too. Trees are grown here, and the tree canopies provide good shade when it’s really hot.

The pond is lovely and serene too. You can go here for a walk and not be disappointed. Hiking and cycling with a group of friends are also some fun things to do here in this arboretum.

Also, another great thing about this 2-mile walk is there are gorgeous stops along the way that allow for a rest and enjoyment of a garden or even a bridge.

Flowerbeds are also designed with space to walk through tall flowers, giving it a lovely cottage garden look.

Address: 624 Oak Grove Road, Chesapeake, Virginia.

29. Lynnhaven House, Virginia Beach

Also known as the Wishart–Boush House, Wishart House, and Boush House. This house was built in 1725.

A legendary example of 18th-century Tidewater Virginia vernacular architecture is located in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Although the Lynnhaven House was founded by the Thelaball family, it is sometimes referred to as the Boush House or the Wishart House.

Following its close proximity to the Lynnhaven River, which flows on this similar land, it was named the Lynnhaven House.

This home tells the story of Francis, his wife Abigail, their five sons, an apprentice, and several enslaved people that lived in the house from 1725 to 1727. It reflects the social and economic status of Francis Thelaball.

Museumgoers go here to time-travel into the mid-1700s. There’s a scent of the shrouded mystery of past history this house gives off.

Since it is also one of the oldest buildings here in Virginia Beach, it is a treasure to the people and a historic site.

Lots of fun things to do in Virginia Beach, VA right?

Address: 4409 Wishart Rd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States

30. Harrison Opera House

The Edythe C. and Stanley L. Harrison Opera House, also known as the Harrison Opera House, is the official home of the Virginia Opera in the Neon District of Downtown Norfolk on the border of the Ghent Square neighborhood.

Although this theatre was built as a public works auditorium, it served as a venue for World War II USO shows.

Previously known as the Norfolk Center Theater before its renovation by an architecture firm, GUND Partnership, and reopening in 1993 as an opera facility with a 1,632 seating capacity.

A grand theater with various performances. Check out the Black Jacket Symphony and watch her great performances.

Stellar acoustics at the Opera House are melodious and relatively vibrant.

Seating capacity is enough and also comfortable for the 2-hour show.

There’s a good view of the opera from any position you want to watch from, or you are seated.

Water, popcorn, and alcohol are on sale too. If you, however, need to melt something in your mouth while watching the shows, you can always opt for it.

Parking spaces are also close and relatively easy to find! I recommend this theatre if you’re looking forward to seeing stellar performances and beautiful acoustics.

Address: 160 W Virginia Beach Blvd, Norfolk, VA, United States

31. Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum

Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum is located on the downtown Portsmouth, Virginia, United States waterfront.

It is America’s oldest and largest naval shipyard, located on the Portsmouth Waterfront. Moreover, the city and the shipyard have been intertwined since the founding of the Gosport Shipyard in 1767. That location has been renamed Norfolk Navy Yard and, finally, Norfolk Naval Shipyard.

Also, part of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum is the Lightship Portsmouth.

Lightship Portsmouth is a museum ship on display here. This ship was built in 1915. In 1989, however, it became a National Historic Landmark.

In addition, artifacts, uniforms, photographs, and models depicting history are properly in the ship’s quarters and are on display.

This historic shipyard & shipbuilding site’s rich history is now told through exhibits, hands-on programs, and special events.

There’s a lot of great local history in this great location in Virginia Beach.

If you love history, the Navy, and ships, take the time to visit!

Visit the local shipyard museum. It surely displays wonderful objects and also follows a timeline approach.

It also represents the area during different periods.

Moreover, you can go to this museum on a ferry ride to further explore the tranquil nature it brings with it.

Address: 2 High St, Portsmouth, VA, United States

32. Pleasure House Point Natural Area

On 118 acres of marshlands and wildlife habitat, the Pleasure House Point Natural Area sits.

This natural spot is a relaxation recreation site with boat access.

In this recreation area, there are multiple trails with two main endpoints.

The trail has a mixture of flat, light rock and some wet areas. It’s an easy hike for all ages but is, however, only wheelchair accessible on the trailside by the nature center with all-terrain wheels.

You can complete this trail in just about 30 to 40 minutes; It’s indeed a point of excitement and vibrancy for a variety of outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking and cycling are also things you can do on this trail.

In addition, it is pet friendly, so you can go for a walk with your dog on a leash. Dog waste stations are also in position at strategic points with trash cans.

Bring your dogs here to swim, as there’s a beach where your dog can swim in; awesome, right?

Leave No Trace guidelines are everywhere and are used to preserve its outdoor area.

There are also several benches on the trail to enjoy the views of the waterway.

Also, tributary shorelines are here for fishing activities, and you will enjoy fishing in this corner.

For bird watchers, the calm lakes here attract birds of different species. Bird watching is also a common thing that most people do here.

This is definitely one of the best areas to enjoy nature within the area.

Address: 3957 Marlin Bay Dr, Virginia Beach, VA, United States

33. First Landing Beach

First Landing Beach is located on Cape Henry in North Virginia Beach. This 2,888-acre park offers a wide range of activities for visitors.

This local beach in Virginia Beach is beautiful and very relaxing. People come to swim all day on this beach.

So much fun in a single place since there are a lot of things to do here in Virginia Beach.

However, since there are small waves, water surfing is a common thing to do here.

While surfing, you’ll also see dolphins jumping in and out of the water, but you shouldn’t try touching them.

There are also a lot of crabs crawling around here, so if you want a pet or whatever it is you want to do with one, you can find some!

Near the shore, there is programming that happens throughout the year with families. This gives them an opportunity to learn something cool with the children.

It is absolutely dog friendly, so bring your dog and go for a walk around here as long as they’re on a leash.

Great parking space and a serene environment to enjoy the sunrise and sunset too.

For fun, watch the little ghost crabs peeking out of their holes at you.

Address: Virginia Beach, VA, United States

34. Francis Land House

The Francis Land House, or Rose Hall, is a historic brick house located within the Rose Hall District near Princess Anne Plaza in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

It is the plantation home of the prominent Land family, a founding family of Princess Anne County, Virginia.

This historic Georgian-style plantation site has a lot of local history and was built around 1805 to 1810.

Education-wise, this is an intriguing place to bring children and build their knowledge about history.

Schools organize field trips to this place and host very educational projects and centers for children to participate in.

They’ll learn about games and how people lived back in those times.

According to stories, this home belonged to slaveowners. Stories of the various slaves that live here and how they work for their masters are told during tours here.

There are images and notable items present to give the students and tourists a wheel back in time into the lives of these masters.

If you want to host a reception after a funeral, it is quite a delight. Staff here are really friendly and accommodating.

However, it is a historical location in Virginia Beach, so they also offer guided tours to anyone interested.

Address: 3131 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States

35. Great Bridge Lock Park

This is an island park featuring a playground, fishing area, boat ramp, observation beam, and picnic shelters.

Shores in this park are filled with little crabs. You can find crabs crawling around the waterside.

There’s a nice little park alongside the canal. It is well maintained too so you don’t have to be bothered.

Playgrounds and some picnic pavilions are available for use during your visit.

It has a place to kayak and several amenities. Kayaking in these waters is really fun to do.

The water is good for fishing, and lots of boats go by. You’ll catch a lot of basses and have a real fun time.

The playground is perfect for kids and is well structured. With its beautiful landscape, Great Bridge Lock Park will also satisfy you to watch your kids play and bump themselves into the sand.

There are a lot of things to do here in Virginia Beach. Host a birthday party here, and you won’t be disappointed!

Address: 100 Locks Rd, Chesapeake, VA 23320, United States

 

Final Remarks

Fun things to do while exploring Virginia Beach are indeed endless!

Use the list above to plan things to do in Virginia Beach!

Happy travels!