Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Virginia Beach, United States
1. First Landing State Park
Historic site where the first English settlers landed in 1607, offering a glimpse into early American history.
- History Lesson: Provides insight into the founding of Jamestown and early American colonization
- Natural Beauty: Beautiful beach, dunes, and marshland for nature lovers to explore
- Educational Opportunities: Offers educational programs about the area's history and ecology
2. Cape Henry Lighthouse
The first federal lighthouse, built to guide ships safely into Chesapeake Bay.
- Maritime History: Offers a unique look at the role of lighthouses in American maritime history
- Architectural Interest: Features an architectural design inspired by Roman and Greek lighthouses
- Guided Tours: Provides guided tours of the lighthouse interior and grounds
3. Virginia Beach Fishing Pier
Iconic fishing pier providing access to ocean fishing, as well as shops and restaurants.
- Fishing Opportunities: Offers a chance to fish in the Atlantic Ocean
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of the ocean and beach
- Local Cuisine: Features seafood restaurants offering fresh catch of the day
4. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
A world-class aquarium featuring marine life exhibits and educational programs.
- Marine Life Education: Provides visitors with a deep understanding of marine ecosystems
- Interactive Exhibits: Features interactive exhibits for hands-on learning experiences
- Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts through research and rehabilitation programs
5. Thoroughgood Nature Park
A nature park offering walking trails, wildlife viewing, and a historic church.
- Nature Walks: Provides scenic walking trails for exploring the local ecosystem
- Wildlife Viewing: Allows visitors to observe a variety of wildlife, including birds and deer
- Historical Church: Features the historic Thoroughgood Church, built in 1736
6. Fort Story Military Museum
Military museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to the U.S. military history.
- Military History Lesson: Offers a comprehensive look at the role of Fort Story in American military history
- Artifact Collection: Features an extensive collection of military artifacts and uniforms
- Guided Tours: Provides guided tours led by knowledgeable museum staff
7. Virginia Beach Boardwalk
A 3-mile long boardwalk offering views of the ocean and beach, as well as shopping and dining.
- Ocean Views: Provides stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean
- Shopping & Dining: Features a variety of shops and restaurants along the boardwalk
- People Watching: Offers opportunities for people watching and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere
8. Norfolk Naval Station (Norfolk Navy Base)
A major U.S. naval base featuring tours of ships and museums.
- Naval History Lesson: Offers a unique look at the history and operations of the U.S. Navy
- Ship Tours: Provides tours of active-duty ships and museum ships
- Museums & Exhibits: Features a variety of naval museums and exhibits, including the USS Wisconsin
9. Norfolk Botanical Garden
A beautiful botanical garden showcasing a variety of plants from around the world.
- Horticultural Education: Provides visitors with a deeper understanding of various plant species
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunningly beautiful and serene outdoor spaces
- Events & Workshops: Hosts events, workshops, and classes related to horticulture and sustainability
10. Chrysler Museum of Art
A renowned art museum featuring a diverse collection of fine arts.
- Art Education: Provides visitors with an appreciation for various artistic styles and techniques
- Rotating Exhibits: Features rotating exhibits showcasing a wide range of art from different periods
- Permanent Collections: Boasts a permanent collection with more than 30,000 works of art
11. Norfolk Cathedral of the Marines
A unique chapel dedicated to all U.S. Marines, offering a touching tribute to their service.
- Military Tribute: Offers a powerful tribute to the sacrifices and achievements of the U.S. Marine Corps
- Architectural Interest: Features an architectural design inspired by European cathedrals
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a peaceful and reflective atmosphere for visitors
12. Tidewater Winds Christian Retreat Center
A Christian retreat center offering spiritual growth opportunities through workshops and events.
- Spiritual Growth: Provides a space for spiritual exploration and personal growth
- Workshops & Events: Offers workshops, conferences, and retreats focused on Christian themes
- Scenic Setting: Set in a picturesque location along the waterfront
13. Baptist Grove Church & Museum
A historic African American Baptist church and museum showcasing local history.
- Historical Significance: Offers a look at the rich history of African American Baptists in Virginia Beach
- Museum Exhibits: Features exhibits showcasing the church's history and local African American culture
- Community Events: Hosts events that celebrate local African American heritage and culture
14. St. John's Church Williamsburg
An Episcopal church located in historic Williamsburg, offering a glimpse into colonial history.
- Historical Significance: Offers a look at the role of religion in colonial Virginia
- Architectural Interest: Features an architectural design inspired by English Gothic architecture
- Guided Tours: Provides guided tours of the church and its surrounding historic area
15. Kollel Ohr Somayach Virginia Beach
A Chabad Lubavitch center offering Jewish learning opportunities for visitors.
- Jewish Education: Provides a space for Jewish education and growth
- Community Events: Hosts Shabbat services, holidays celebrations, and educational events
- Cultural Exchange: Offers opportunities for cultural exchange and learning about Judaism