Virginia Beach is the perfect summer destination. Aside from going to the beach and getting a tan, you can do a couple more things in this sun and sand haven. Learning about them will help you plan better, and you can take that holiday you have always wanted. Here are the top attraction sites in Virginia that you should check out.
Virginia Beach Boardwalk
You cannot go to Virginia Beach and miss visiting the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. It is 28 feet wide and about 3 miles long. It is located at the ocean front and has designated cycling space and enough space for wheelchairs and footpaths. The boardwalk is the perfect place for you to start your day. You can rent a bike from the vendors and cycle around or go to one of the cafés along the path. The best thing about this place is it is budget-friendly. You can go with family or your partner and get some fantastic pictures for your socials while taking a walk. Ensure you check it out before heading back home.
First Landing State Park
Another excellent place you should check out is the First Landing State Park on Shore Drive. It is widespread and is currently the most visited state park in Virginia. It is perfect if you love the outdoors since you can go hiking on their trails. The park stretches over 2,800 acres and has different hiking trails with various difficulty levels. Ensure you carry some bug spray with you if you plan on hiking. Aside from hiking, you can also go fishing with your family, kayaking, jet-skiing, or camping. If you request early enough, the park management will provide camping gear. They also have a homey accommodation service if you dislike camping. The park also offers perfect picnic sites for a romantic afternoon in the wild. Besides getting some air and enjoying the world, First Landing State Park also carries impressive history. It is where the English colonialists first reached the American shore over 400 years ago.
Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
Another excellent place you need to check out is the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. The center is located right near the beach so you can plan for a visit when you go. The area has some of the best marine attractions in the world. Here you get to see sharks, seals, turtles, and, if you are lucky, a Komodo dragon. The entire area has been divided into different sectors and will ensure you have the time of your life as you learn about different aquatic life. For instance, you can ride a boat and experience the whales and dolphins or check into the “Walk-through the Red Sea Tunnel .” You can also explore Adventure Park, which gives you a chance to do some zip-lining. This gem on General Booth Boulevard will make for a perfect day out if you have young ones who love the ocean.
Cape Henry Lighthouse
Being close to the beach, Virginia did need a lighthouse. One of the first lighthouses in the area was the Cape Henry Lighthouse in Fort Story on Atlantic Avenue. It is located in the “First Landing,” where the first English settlers set foot in America, making it a historical area. The area has two lighthouses in the same place. The first one was a 90ft lighthouse built in the 1800s, which was struck by lightning in the 1870s. There is also a taller lighthouse about 350 feet away that was constructed in the 1880s. To get to the top of the tower, you must go up the 191 stairs inside it. The views from the top are worth it, so ensure you check it out.
ViBe Creative District
Vibe Creative District is a place you will want to visit severally because of the fantastic vibes they have. You will fit in at the ViBe Creative District if you love art. The streets are full of paintings on the wall and at times, you meet the artist who drew them. Aside from the murals, Vibe District always has an event at least weekly that brings the locals together. It is the perfect place to go if you love mingling with people and making new friends. There are plenty of vintage shops for the perfect souvenirs, and you can also check out their artisanal shops if you want to buy unique art pieces.
Military Aviation Museum
If you are interested in history and what happened during World Wars I and II, you should visit the Military Aviation Museum on Princess Ann Road. The museum has a private collection of some aircrafts used during the war, and most are still in good condition. Here you get to see bombers, fighters, seaplanes, and trainers. They also have flight demonstrations with some planes, but you will need to figure out the schedule. You could check their website for this information. It is a great and colorful show that you can attend if you are in Virginia Beach.
Hunt Club Farm
This historic farm would be an excellent way to keep your kids busy and happy all day. It has been around since the 1700s and has changed hands a few times. There’s an aviary, a Tree-Walk adventure, and a petting zoo here. There are also lots of camps and events you can sign up for. Hunt Club Farm is fun to visit and get lost in farm activities. You will find it on London Bridge Road.
Final Words
One way to ensure you are having fun in a new area is to visit some top attractions. The list above lets you know what you can see and where to go. Planning your itinerary should now be a piece of cake. Plus, you can be sure that you will get to visit most, if not all, of the places that make Virginia beach magical.
