Cultural & Historical Destinations in Virginia Beach, United States

Virginia Beach, United States, Virginia Beach, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Cultural & Historical Destinations

Cultural & Historical Destinations in Virginia Beach, United States

1. First Landing State Park

Explore the site where English colonists first landed in Virginia in 1607. Enjoy hiking, fishing, and bird-watching in this historical park.
  • Historical Significance: A key location for understanding the early colonial history of Virginia.
  • Natural Beauty: Offers a variety of outdoor activities in a picturesque coastal setting.
  • Educational Opportunities: Provides learning resources about the early colonization of America.

2. Virginia Beach Naval Air Station Museum

Discover the history of military aviation at this unique museum. Explore aircraft exhibits and learn about the role of the Navy in Virginia Beach.
  • Military History: Preserves the rich military aviation history of Virginia Beach.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Offers hands-on experiences with historical aircraft and equipment.
  • Community Involvement: Supports local veterans and promotes military appreciation.

3. Cape Henry Lighthouse

Visit the first lighthouse in America, built in 1792 to guide ships into Chesapeake Bay. Take a tour and learn about its history.
  • Historic Landmark: One of the oldest lighthouses in the United States.
  • Architectural Interest: Features a unique octagonal design and is constructed with locally sourced brick.
  • Educational Experience: Provides insights into the role of lighthouses in American maritime history.

4. Thoroughgood House

Step back in time at this beautifully preserved 18th-century plantation house. Learn about life in colonial Virginia.
  • Historical Preservation: A rare example of an intact colonial plantation home.
  • Authentic Experience: Features original furnishings, tools, and artwork from the period.
  • Local Culture: Offers a glimpse into the lives of early Virginia Beach settlers.

5. Virginia Beach Military Aviation Museum

Experience the thrill of military aviation at this museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing historic aircraft.
  • Military History: Celebrates the role of military aviation in Virginia Beach and beyond.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Offers hands-on experiences with aircraft simulators and educational programs.
  • Community Involvement: Supports local veterans and promotes military appreciation.

6. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

Explore the wonders of the Atlantic Ocean at this world-class aquarium. Learn about marine life and conservation efforts.
  • Marine Education: Promotes understanding and appreciation of our ocean ecosystems.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Offers hands-on experiences with marine life and educational programs.
  • Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts for endangered species and habitats.

7. Cape Henry Memorial

Honor the brave men who landed at Cape Henry in 1607 and those who fought for American independence at this moving memorial.
  • Historic Significance: Commemorates the first English colonists to set foot on American soil.
  • Patriotism: Honors those who fought for American independence and freedom.
  • Peaceful Setting: Set in a beautiful coastal park with panoramic views of the ocean.

8. Virginia Beach Boardwalk

Stroll along this iconic three-mile boardwalk and enjoy the beautiful Atlantic Ocean views. Discover local shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
  • Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the ocean and coastal landscape.
  • Local Culture: Showcases the unique character and charm of Virginia Beach.
  • Recreational Opportunities: Provides opportunities for biking, jogging, and people-watching.

9. Virginia Beach Veterans Memorial

Pay tribute to our nation's heroes at this beautiful memorial dedicated to all branches of the military.
  • Patriotism: Honors the sacrifices made by members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
  • Memorial Experience: Features moving tributes and educational exhibits.
  • Peaceful Setting: Set in a tranquil coastal park with stunning ocean views.

10. Ferry Plantation House

Step back in time at this beautifully preserved 18th-century plantation house. Learn about life in colonial Virginia.
  • Historical Preservation: A rare example of an intact colonial plantation home.
  • Authentic Experience: Features original furnishings, tools, and artwork from the period.
  • Local Culture: Offers a glimpse into the lives of early Virginia Beach settlers.

11. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Explore this beautiful coastal wildlife refuge and enjoy bird-watching, hiking, and photography.
  • Natural Beauty: Offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, marshes, and coastal forest.
  • Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Provides opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and reptiles.
  • Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts for endangered species and habitats.

12. Norfolk Botanical Garden

Enjoy a peaceful day at this beautiful botanical garden featuring over 50 themed gardens and stunning landscapes.
  • Natural Beauty: Offers stunning views of gardens, water features, and exotic plants.
  • Educational Opportunities: Provides educational resources about botany, horticulture, and conservation efforts.
  • Relaxation and Reflection: Offers a peaceful setting for relaxation, reflection, and meditation.

13. Admiral Farragut Academy Museum

Discover the history of this prestigious military academy at its museum. Learn about naval warfare and its impact on Virginia Beach.
  • Military History: Preserves the rich military history of Admiral Farragut Academy.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Offers hands-on experiences with naval artifacts and educational programs.
  • Community Involvement: Supports local veterans and promotes military appreciation.

14. Nauticus - The National Maritime Center

Explore the world of maritime history and modern naval technology at this interactive museum.
  • Maritime Education: Promotes understanding and appreciation of our maritime heritage.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Offers hands-on experiences with maritime technology, simulations, and educational programs.
  • Community Involvement: Supports local maritime industries and promotes maritime appreciation.

15. Chrysler Museum of Art

Marvel at a vast collection of art from around the world at this impressive museum.
  • Artistic Diversity: Features an extensive collection of art spanning various cultures and eras.
  • Educational Opportunities: Provides educational resources about art history, techniques, and cultural contexts.
  • Community Involvement: Supports local artists and promotes arts appreciation within the community.