Things to do in Virginia Beach Virginia include beaches, museums, state parks, wildlife areas, historic landmarks, trails, and family attractions. The Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay create many opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Additionally, Virginia Beach has more than 200 parks and park facilities covering over 7,000 acres. Visitors can combine coastal scenery with history, marine life, and nature.
The three-mile Boardwalk is one of the city’s signature attractions. Visitors can walk or bike while enjoying ocean views and easy beach access.
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center introduces visitors to Virginia’s coastal and marine environments. Exhibits include live animal habitats, touch experiences, and hundreds of thousands of gallons of aquarium displays.
First Landing State Park combines maritime forests, wetlands, beaches, and trails. Visitors can hike, bike, kayak, camp, or spend time along the Chesapeake Bay.
Cape Henry Lighthouse provides a historic stop near the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors can learn about early American maritime history and climb the historic lighthouse when access permits.
Military Aviation Museum preserves an extensive collection of historic military aircraft. It provides a distinctive museum experience for aviation and history enthusiasts.
Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art features contemporary art and changing exhibitions. The museum reopened at Virginia Wesleyan University in 2026.
Mount Trashmore Park is one of Virginia Beach’s best-known city parks. The unusual recreation area was developed on a former landfill and now provides extensive outdoor space.
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge protects coastal habitats south of the main resort area. Visitors can explore trails, watch wildlife, photograph nature, and experience quieter coastal landscapes.
False Cape State Park offers a more remote coastal experience. Visitors can explore undeveloped beaches, trails, wetlands, and wildlife habitat.
Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum explores the city’s coastal heritage. Its exhibits connect visitors with lifesaving, surfing, shipwrecks, and the history of the Oceanfront.
Virginia Beach offers thousands of acres of public parkland and more than 100 miles of maintained trails across city, state, and national lands. Therefore, hiking and biking can easily become part of a longer visit.
Begin along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and Oceanfront. After that, visit the Virginia Aquarium for marine exhibits and family activities.
Later, explore First Landing State Park or Cape Henry Lighthouse. History enthusiasts can choose an aviation or coastal museum instead.
Finally, consider Back Bay or False Cape for a longer nature outing. Check weather, trail conditions, and seasonal access before traveling.
Return to Virginia Beach Homepage.