Top Family Vacation Spots in Virginia Beach, United States

1. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

Learn about marine life at this expansive aquarium with various exhibits like the 3-story shark tunnel.

Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on activities, such as touch tanks and animal feedings, engage visitors of all ages.
Animal Rescue Efforts: The center focuses on the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sea turtles and marine mammals.
Educational Programs: Offers workshops, camps, and events to educate visitors about marine conservation.

Explore a beautiful coastal park with beaches, hiking trails, and camping sites.

Nature Trails: Varied terrain for easy to challenging hikes, showcasing diverse plant and wildlife.
Beach Access: 3 miles of sandy beaches for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing.
Campgrounds: Oceanfront campsites available for tents and RVs with easy access to park amenities.

Experience a treetop adventure course with zip lines and obstacles in a wooded setting.

Age-appropriate Challenges: Courses for kids as young as 4 and thrilling challenges for older adventurers.
Safety Equipment Provided: Helmets, harnesses, and gloves are provided to ensure a safe experience.
Treetop Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the park as you navigate the obstacle courses.

Take a scenic stroll along this iconic boardwalk with beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible with numerous rest areas and benches.
Local Shops and Restaurants: Visit unique local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues along the boardwalk.
Atlantic Views: Experience breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and sunrises/sunsets.

Visit the first lighthouse in the United States, offering tours and educational programs.

Historical Significance: Learn about the importance of this lighthouse during colonial times.
Tours and Exhibits: Informative tours, exhibits, and programs for families to enjoy.
Scenic Views: Take in the stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay from atop the lighthouse.

Discover a 175-acre oasis filled with beautiful gardens and unique plant species.

Diverse Plant Collections: Over 60 themed gardens showcasing plants from around the world.
Educational Programs: Offers workshops, camps, and events to educate visitors about plant conservation.
Butterfly Garden: A serene area where you can observe hundreds of butterflies in flight.

Enjoy a day of fun on the water with wave runners, paddleboards, and inflatable water parks.

Water Activities: Choose from various water activities suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Rental Equipment: Equipment rental is available on-site, so you don't need to bring your own gear.
Lifeguards On Duty: Professional lifeguards are stationed throughout the park for safety.

Learn about naval history at this interactive maritime museum with simulators and exhibits.

Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on activities, such as flight simulators and submarine tours.
Educational Programs: Offers workshops, camps, and events to educate visitors about naval history.
USS Wisconsin Battleship: Tour a historic battleship that saw action in World War II and the Korean War.

Cast a line from one of Virginia Beach's longest fishing piers with excellent views.

Fishing Licenses Sold On-Site: Virginia fishing licenses and equipment available for purchase.
Scenic Views: Enjoy beautiful views of the ocean while fishing or observing wildlife.
Rod Rentals: Rod rentals are available for visitors who don't have their own gear.

Explore a coastal wilderness area with hiking trails, wildlife observation areas, and boat tours.

Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe various species of birds, deer, and other animals.
Hiking Trails: Easy to challenging hikes with diverse terrain and beautiful coastal views.
Boat Tours: Explore the Back Bay by boat for a unique perspective of the wildlife refuge.

Experience a peaceful park with walking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful wetlands.

Nature Trails: Varied terrain for easy to challenging hikes, showcasing diverse plant and wildlife.
Picnic Areas: Spacious picnic areas with tables and grills for family outings.
Wetlands Observation Deck: Watch wildlife in the wetlands from an observation deck.

Shop for fresh produce, local crafts, and prepared foods at this bustling market.

Fresh Produce: Seasonal fruits, vegetables, and flowers from local farmers.
Local Crafts: Handmade jewelry, pottery, and other craft items by local artisans.
Prepared Food Stalls: Taste international cuisine from various food vendors.

Explore a pristine coastal wilderness with hiking trails, horseback riding, and camping.

Hiking Trails: Easy to challenging hikes with diverse terrain and beautiful coastal views.
Horseback Riding: Guided horseback tours available through the park.
Camping: Oceanfront campsites available for tents and RVs.

Meet over 200 animal species at this expansive zoo with various exhibits and educational programs.

Animal Exhibits: Exhibits for a wide variety of animals, including lions, elephants, and gorillas.
Conservation Efforts: Focuses on the conservation of endangered species through breeding programs and education.
Educational Programs: Offers workshops, camps, and events to educate visitors about animal conservation.

Cool off at this water park with thrilling slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.