Situated along the Atlantic Ocean, Virginia Beach has been a favorite for beach lovers from around the nation for many years. Fantastic waves, trendy boardwalk, historic sites and great museums have given guests great reasons to come back again and again. This quaint beach town gives you everything you need for a great holiday, including some of the best seafood restaurants to be found along the coast.
One of the top attractions here is the amazing Virginia Marine Science Museum. With a 50,000-gallon aquarium filled with beautiful underwater life, ocean sightseeing tours and a huge IMAX theater its a must for those that love the water. Another interesting place to learn about the ocean is the Old Coast Guard Station. But instead of learning about underwater life, youll hear fantastic stories of shipwrecks and learn about the history of Virginia Beach.
Just north of the town youll find beautiful beaches. Because of its amazing waves, the Billabong Competition has found a home here making it the place to go for surfers from around the nation. Its a spectacular site to see them ride over and under the waves. No beach town would be complete without a boardwalk and Virginia Beach is no exception. Whether you love fast food and ice cream or need to rent some water-sport equipment, this boardwalk has got you covered. And after youve spent the day on the sand and in the water, the boardwalk becomes a great place to hang out at night. Close by is the Virginia Beach Amusement Park, located just across the street from the pier. Enjoy the great rides and games. Theres also a nice selection of sticky and sweet treats, making it a great place to go with the family.
Take a break from the water and make your way the Verizon Wireless Virginia Beach Amphitheater where big names come through on tour and rock out the house. The Chrysler Museum is one of the best museums to be found. Its permanent collection has more than 30,000 objects that spread across more than 5,000 years. Enjoy the impressionist gallery, American and European paintings and sculptures that date back to the Middle Ages. With works from Renoir, Rodin, Monet and Degas, youll be glad you came. Or, you could explore the nature and coastal dunes at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and First Landing State Park. Youll see lots of people taking advantage of the paths, whether theyre biking or jogging.
Step back in time as you stroll through the Historic Cape Henry. This landing marks where the first Europeans came to the New World in 1607 and was named after Henry, Prince of Wales. The oldest government built lighthouse in the nation has called this home since 1791 and the view from its peak gives you a fantastic look at the area. Only a short distance away stands another lighthouse, which was built in 1881. Built in 1680, the Thoroughgood House is considered as one of the oldest brick homes in all of America. It once belonged to settler Adam Thoroughgood but is now open to those curious what life was life way back when. The home also showcases a beautiful 17th century garden. Just a short one-hour drive away is the historic Colonial Williamsburg. Throughout its rich history, it has somehow retained the culture and style of the 1800s and is the nations oldest, and largest, outdoor living museum. There are over 500 reconstructed buildings that have been restored to what they would have looked like before the American Revolution. Youll see hundreds of locals in period costumes stroll along the cobblestone streets and be able to enjoy the many events and festivals held here throughout the year.
Whether you love the coast, history or delicious meals, Virginia Beach has got you covered. Some call it a great beach town, others call it rich in history and even more call it their favorite place to go.
