How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Virginia Beach, United States
1. First Landmark - Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
Explore marine life without the tourist crowd. Enjoy interactive exhibits and wildlife shows.
- Off-peak Hours: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak tourist hours.
- Explore Alternative Areas: Don't just focus on the main exhibits; discover hidden gems like the sea turtle hospital.
- Local Resident Discounts: Check for local resident discounts to save money and mingle with locals.
2. Second Landmark - Virginia Beach Boardwalk
Enjoy the beachfront promenade without the tourist rush. Stroll, bike, or dine.
- Early Morning Walks: Start your day with a peaceful morning walk before tourists arrive.
- Bike Rentals: Rent a bike to explore the boardwalk at a faster pace, avoiding crowds.
- Dine Off-Boardwalk: Find local restaurants off the main boardwalk for more authentic dining experiences.
3. Third Landmark - Adam Thoroughgood House
Step back in time without the tourist frenzy. Explore a historic colonial home.
- Guided Tours: Book a guided tour to learn about the house and its history from knowledgeable locals.
- Off-Peak Days: Visit on weekdays when fewer tourists are expected.
- Local Historical Society Events: Attend events hosted by the local historical society to immerse yourself in the area's history.
4. Fourth Landmark - False Cape State Park
Experience unspoiled beaches away from tourist crowds. Hike, bike, or camp.
- Early Morning Hikes: Hike in the early morning to see wildlife and avoid heat.
- Biking Trails: Explore biking trails for a more active adventure off the beach.
- Camping Overnight: Book a campsite to spend the night and fully immerse yourself in nature.
5. Fifth Landmark - Military Aviation Museum
Delve into aviation history without tourist congestion. View a vast collection of aircraft.
- Early Arrival: Arrive early to have the museum almost to yourself.
- Guided Tours: Book a guided tour for an in-depth look at the collection.
- Off-Season Visits: Plan your visit during the off-season to avoid peak tourist traffic.
6. Sixth Landmark - Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Observe wildlife in its natural habitat without the tourist hustle. Hike or bike.
- Early Morning Visits: Visit early in the morning for the best chance to spot wildlife.
- Biking Trails: Explore biking trails for a more active adventure.
- Wildlife Watching Tours: Book a guided wildlife watching tour for an immersive experience.
7. Seventh Landmark - Cape Henry Lighthouse
Visit America's oldest lighthouse without the tourist crush. Climb to the top for stunning views.
- Early Arrival: Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy a quiet visit.
- Guided Tours: Book a guided tour for insight into the lighthouse's history.
- Off-Season Visits: Plan your visit during the off-season to avoid peak tourist traffic.
8. Eighth Landmark - First Landing State Park
Discover where English settlers first landed without the tourist bustle. Hike or fish.
- Early Morning Hikes: Hike in the early morning to enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Fishing Spots: Find quiet fishing spots along the shoreline for a relaxing day.
- Guided Tours: Book a guided tour to learn about the park's history and local ecology.
9. Ninth Landmark - Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
Experience a scenic drive without the tourist congestion. Marvel at the engineering marvel.
- Off-Peak Hours: Drive during off-peak hours for a less crowded experience.
- Scenic Viewpoints: Stop at scenic viewpoints to capture stunning photos of the bridge and bay.
- Tourist-Free Restaurants: Find local restaurants off the main highway for a more authentic dining experience.
10. Tenth Landmark - Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum
Learn about surf culture without the tourist crowd. Discover local surf history.
- Early Arrival: Arrive early to avoid peak tourist hours and enjoy a quiet visit.
- Guided Tours: Book a guided tour for an in-depth look at the museum's exhibits.
- Local Surf Lessons: Take a surf lesson from local instructors to experience Virginia Beach's waves.
11. Eleventh Landmark - Tall Ships of Virginia Beach
Experience sailing on a tall ship without the tourist frenzy. Embark on a unique adventure.
- Private Charters: Book a private charter for a more intimate experience.
- Off-Peak Sails: Schedule your sail during off-peak hours to avoid the tourist rush.
- Local Crew Interaction: Interact with local crew members for an authentic experience.
12. Twelfth Landmark - Norfolk Botanical Garden
Explore a tranquil garden without the tourist chaos. Wander through themed gardens.
- Early Morning Visits: Visit early in the morning for a quiet and peaceful experience.
- Guided Tours: Book a guided tour to learn about the garden's plants and history.
- Off-Season Visits: Plan your visit during the off-season to avoid peak tourist traffic.
13. Thirteenth Landmark - Chrysler Museum of Art
Admire art without the tourist rush. Explore permanent and temporary exhibits.
- Early Arrival: Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy a quiet visit.
- Guided Tours: Book a guided tour for an in-depth look at the museum's exhibits.
- Local Art Events: Attend local art events to immerse yourself in the area's artistic community.
14. Fourteenth Landmark - Nauticus
Explore maritime history without the tourist congestion. Engage in interactive exhibits.
- Early Arrival: Arrive early to avoid peak tourist hours and enjoy a quiet visit.
- Guided Tours: Book a guided tour for an in-depth look at the museum's exhibits.
- Local Maritime Events: Attend local maritime events to learn about the area's naval history.
15. Fifteenth Landmark - Virginia Zoo
Encounter wildlife without the tourist crowds. Explore exotic and native animals.
- Early Morning Visits: Visit early in the morning for a quiet and peaceful experience.
- Guided Tours: Book a guided tour to learn about the zoo's animals and conservation efforts.
- Off-Peak Days: Visit on weekdays when fewer tourists are expected.