You’ll find the vibrant coastal city of Virginia Beach at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, where the Atlantic Ocean breaks gently against the golden sand. The attractions are world-class, the culinary scene is on-point, and the welcome is sizzling.

From families with children to young groups of friends, a trip to Virginia Beach is surely set to satisfy every traveler’s intentions for a great time!

From catching a show at the lively beachfront Veterans United Home Loan Amphitheater, putting on your explorer hat at Landing State Park, or taking the kids to ride a horse at Hunt Club Farm, your days in Virginia Beach will surely seem to fly by!

With over 3.5 military bases here, those interested in the military influence in Virginia Beach will love to learn more about it at the Military Aviation Museum.

Come here for carefree beach days in the sun, ocean tours with added dolphins, and a whole lot of history. There are heaps of fun things to do in Virginia Beach, you just need to decide which ones float your boat.

1 – Get close to dolphins on a kayaking tour

dolphin watching in Virginia Beach

See these friendly marine mammals up close in their natural habitat along the Virginia Beach coastline! Dip those paddle blades into the deep blue ocean and journey along the coast in search of adventure. You’ll spot wild dolphins playfully leaping through the waves, or perhaps you’ll be joined by curious seabirds.

Want to up the romance? Head out on a sunset kayaking trip in Virginia beach in and experience the magic of the water as the day slowly turns to dusk.

dolphin watching in Virginia Beach

2 – Stroll along Virginia Beach Boardwalk

Virginia Beach Boardwalk

The first thing you should do in Virginia Beach is hit the boardwalk and enjoy a refreshing amble along the Oceanfront. Breathe in that fresh sea air and pose for photos beneath the iconic King Neptune statue.

Virginia Beach Boardwalk is three miles long, so pause for refreshments at one of the charming outdoor restaurants. Some have live music in the summer!

Directions in Google Maps

3 – Explore False Cape State Park

False Cape State Park, Virginia Beach

False Cape State Park is one of the few remaining wilderness areas on these Atlantic shores. Once home to Native Americans, today the park gives visitors the chance to escape into nature.

Paddle a kayak and search for wildlife, cycle along the forest trails, or go hunting for seashells on the beach. There’s a tram tour too if you want to rest your legs.

4 – Discover Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center

credit to Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center

Come face to face with monsters of the deep at the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. You’ll encounter everything from sharks to seals – watch out for the toothsome Tomistoma crocodiles.

Feel silky rays in the touch pool, or spy dolphins and whales on a boat tour. Then finish the day swinging through the trees on zip lines at the Adventure Park.

5 – Chill out at Sandbridge Beach

Sandbridge Beach, Virginia Beach

This serene seaside hideaway is the place to come if you want to get away from it all. Secluded and laid black, Sandbridge Beach is all about the undulating dunes and sparkling ocean. Oh, and the water is warm so dive on in.

You can make a day of it as there are restrooms, shops, and eateries lining the shore. Just don’t forget your sunscreen!

Directions in Google Maps

6 – Relax at Grommet Island Park

Grommet Island Park, Virginia Beach

The highlight of this 15,000 square foot beach at Grommet Island Park is the impressive accessible playground. There are raised tables for building sandcastles, a sensory board for visually impaired and autistic children, and a fun sway boat.

Kids love pretending to ride the waves on the surfboard sculpture, and there are shaded seating areas for when you need a break.

Directions in Google Maps

7 – Get a hole-in-one at King Neptune’s Mini Golf

King Neptune’s Mini Golf, Virginia Beach — credit to King Neptune’s Mini Golf

Your putting skills will be tested on this mind-boggling 3D mini-golf course. Navigate your way through the underwater world as the black-lit scenes glow in the dark, bringing King Neptune’s Mini Golf kingdom to life.

There are 10 holes to conquer under the watchful gaze of giant orcas and neon angelfish. Keep an eye on those sharks!

Lastly, Jungle Golf Virginia Beach offers an 18-hole outdoor golf course, in a fun jungle theme perfect for the whole family.

8 – Explore First Landing State Park

First Landing State Park, Virginia Beach

Walk in the footsteps of the first English colonists who landed here in 1607. Everyone, from merchant mariners to infamous pirates, has navigated the waterways of First Landing State Park, and now it’s your turn.

Hiking along the mysterious swamp trails beside hidden lagoons is one of the most iconic things to do in Virginia Beach. Watch out for rare wildlife on the way!

9 – Explore underwater with Lynnhaven Dive Center

Lynnhaven Dive Center in Virginia Beach — credit to Lynnhaven Dive Center

Get up close to shipwrecks as you glide over the “Graveyard of the Atlantic” on an epic scuba diving excursion. You’ll be swimming along reefs and watching as turtles and rays scour the seabed for breakfast.

Lynnhaven Dive Center also offers fun snorkeling tours for those who don’t fancy strapping on a scuba tank. See if you can find Nemo in this magical marine kingdom.

10 – Visit the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art

Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, Virginia Beach — credit to Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art

Enter the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art with an open mind and you never know what you might discover. There are regularly changing exhibitions with sculptures, paintings, and photographic exhibits to behold. Visual media also plays a huge part in bringing your creative mindset to life.

There’s something for all visitors here, with galleries showcasing everything from food films to glazed pottery.

11 – Catch a game or play a game at the Virginia Beach Sportsplex

Virginia Beach Sportsplex

Catch an exciting football game or other tournaments at The Virginia Beach Sportsplex – a complete, state-of-the-art sports venue located centrally in Virginia Beach.

Situated close to dozens of shopping and restaurants nearby, the fun won’t stop once you arrive and start to explore the different possibilities.

Speaking of, visit the Virginia Beach Field House to play a game yourself inside their facilities, no reservations required!

12 – Ride a pony at Hunt Club Farm

Hunt Club Farm, Virginia Beach Discover Virginia Beach’s agricultural heritage at Hunt Club Farm, offering something for kids of all ages. On the farm, they raise chickens, goats, and other livestock.

Visit their Petting Farm and make friends with goats, chickens, cows, sheep, donkeys, llamas, and pigs. Explore the BirdWalk Aviary and chat with the parakeets.

You can even take a pony ride or climb the netted and wooden bridges to the branches above on the amazing TreeWalk Adventure.

They also have an incredible Farm Market and host fun events like the Harvest Fair, Haunted Hunt Club Farm, and Easter Egg Hunt. Moreover, birthday parties and private events can also be hosted at the farm.

Take a look at all the activities offered for a fun day out in Virginia Beach!

Hunt Club Farm website

13 – Zoom along the coast by jet ski

jet ski, Virginia Beach

Hang on tight as you power through the waves on an adrenaline-fueled jet ski adventure. You can ride solo or with a friend, and no experience is required.

As you splash through the surf remember to drink in those superb Virginia Beach views, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you head into open water. You might even see a dolphin!

14 – Get arty in the ViBe Creative District

Explore beyond the Boardwalk in the ViBe Creative District. This hub of trendy restaurants, quirky museums, and independent boutiques attracts artistic spirits from far and wide.

Check out the wares at the weekly market and taste the fresh produce from farms and wineries in the local region. During the summer festival season, you can admire brightly-colored murals by renowned regional artists.

15 – See the Norwegian Lady Statue

Norwegian Lady Statue, Virginia Beach

In 1891, a Norwegian ship ran aground near Virginia Beach during a storm. Locals braved the tempestuous waves to rescue some of the crew, and the washed-up figurehead was erected on the shore before eventually being destroyed by a hurricane.

The current Norwegian Lady Statue was sculptured in 1962 and now stands on the Boardwalk as a memorial to the lives lost that day.

walking tours in Virginia Beach

16 – Cool off at Ocean Breeze Waterpark

Ocean Breeze Waterpark in Virginia Beach — credit to Ocean Breeze Waterpark

Scream in delight as you plunge down flumes at Ocean Breeze Waterpark. Will you dare to take on the spirals of the Sea Serpent or the centrifugal forces of the Vortex?

For something relaxing, float down Adventure River, passing by hidden coves and tumbling waterfalls. Younger explorers love splashing around Hook’s Lagoon, where pirate ships and water cannons will have them squealing in delight.

17 – Discover historic planes at the Military Aviation Museum

Military Aviation Museum, Virginia Beach

Marvel at one of the largest collections of aircraft from World Wars One and Two at the Military Aviation Museum. You’ll be exploring over 100 acres of hangars, exhibits, and control towers.

The best bit is seeing the planes in action, swooping through the skies, demonstrating their moves. Finish with a visit to nearby Jerrassic Park to walk beside life-sized dinosaur sculptures.

18 – Explore Mount Trashmore Park

Mount Trashmore Park, Virginia Beach

Once a landfill site, today Mount Trashmore Park is a green city space where locals and visitors go for recreation. The man-made mountains, lakes, and adventure playgrounds offer an escape from the city bustle.

Climb Mount Trashmore for views and bragging rights or go kayaking on Lake Windsor and see if you can spot the fish. Take a picnic and spend the afternoon there.

Directions in Google Maps

19 – Ride rollercoasters at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg

Busch Gardens in Williamsburg — credit to Busch Gardens

It’s all aboard the mighty Griffon for a rip-roaring ride on one of Virginia’s most epic rollercoasters. The Busch Gardens in Williamsburg are home to an astonishing range of heart-pumping rides, with loop-the-loops and lofty log flumes stealing the show.

Fancy something a little more sedate? Then check out the spinning teacups and the antique carousel for that ultimate fairground feel.

20 – Sway to the Live music at Elevation 27

Elevation 27, Virginia Beach — credit to Elevation 27

Go where the locals go to listen to live music at Elevation 27, where the venue gets its name from being situated 27 feet above sea level in the Hilltop area of Virginia Beach.

Considered to be on the list of a few famous musicians’ favorite venues to play at including the Rolling Stones, enjoy the state-of-the-art sound system, spacious venue, and chef-created menu offered.

Elevation 27 tickets

21 – Explore the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge in Norfolk, Virginia Beach

This unique habitat once stretched over a million acres across Virginia. Today, the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is the last remaining protected tract of land and a great place for animal encounters.

As you explore the trails, you might catch glimpses of otters, raccoons, and even black bears. There are flying squirrels and bog lemmings too, so keep your camera handy.

Directions in Google Maps

22 – Check out the music lineup at the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater, Virginia Beach

Another fun place to enjoy live music is the Veterans United Home Loan Amphitheater, located none other than on the soft sands of Virginia Beach.

Featuring a wide range of musical acts and genres, music fans will surely find a concert that will intrigue their interests, or inspire them to listen to something they normally wouldn’t, simply to be in the vibe of the biggest beach party in Virginia Beach.

23 – See animals in action at the Virginia Living Museum

There are over 250 species at the Virginia Living Museum, which offers a sanctuary to injured and orphaned animals. If you’ve ever wanted to meet a red wolf or a tiger salamander, this is your chance.

Travel back to prehistoric times on the Dinosaur Discovery Trail, and enjoy an interactive planetarium show to find out whether T-Rex could see the stars!

24 – Smell the roses at Norfolk Botanical Garden

Norfolk Botanical Garden, Virginia

Norfolk Botanical Garden is the largest in Virginia, boasting 175 acres blooming with thousands of endemic and exotic plant species. Wander through 60 themed gardens where the air is perfumed with the sweet scent of roses, hydrangeas, and camellias.

Don’t miss the Butterfly House and see if you can spot the brightly colored monarchs and giant swallowtails flitting about the flowers.

25 – Go whale watching

whale watching in Virginia Beach

Whale watching is one of the most moving things to do in Virginia Beach, with boat cruises taking you deep into the realm of these gentle giants.

Be amazed as the humpbacks slap their flippers and even breach the ocean surface, putting on quite a show. The onboard naturalist will explain the meaning behind these playful antics.

Sightings are at their best between December and February.

26 – See the birds at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Virginia Beach

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is home to thousands of migratory birds, who come here to feed and rest during their long journeys. Ospreys are the stars of the show, and you might see them hunting for dinner in the shallow waters.

Lace up your boots and hit the hiking trails, or paddle along Back Bay in a kayak for a closer look.

27 – Listen to live music in Neptune’s Park

Neptune’s Park in Virginia Beach

Visiting during summer? Then take in one of the nightly open-air concerts at Neptune’s Park on Virginia Beach’s sizzling Oceanfront.

There are live events all year round at this grassy beachside park, all held under the watchful gaze of the giant Neptune statue. Sip vintage reds at the Fall Wine Festival and watch fireworks at the Boardwalk Weekend in September.

28 – Go wild at Atlantic Fun Park

Atlantic Fun Park in Virginia Beach

Enjoy a spin on the biggest Ferris wheel in Virginia Beach at the family-friendly Atlantic Fun Park. The views from the top are the best in town!

There are 16 epic rides at the amusement fair, so go at sundown and make an evening of it. Will you brave the Gravitron or the 100-foot tall Skyflyer? Tuck into cheesy pizza and fries afterward.

29 – Soar like a bird on a parasailing mission

parasailing, Virginia Beach

Fly high above the ocean as you parasail along the stunning Virginia Beach coastline. Opt for a tandem flight to share the experience with your friends.

From your aerial perch, you’ll enjoy epic views that more than match the feeling of pure adrenaline rushing through your veins. The photos taken by the crew will give you serious kudos back home!

30 – Let out a few chuckles at the Funny Bone Comedy Club

Funny Bone Comedy Club in Virginia Beach

Laughter is truly the best medicine, so a visit to the Funny Bone will have you coming out refreshed with the comedy stylings of some of Virginia Beach’s local comedians, and nationally recognized performers.

Make sure to head to the website to check out the calendar, and buy tickets directly there. Keep in mind that tickets are sold only in pairs of 2 or 4.

Funny Bone tickets

31 – Solve riddles on a scavenger game

scavenger games, Virginia Beach

Unleash your inner Sherlock and take on brain-busting challenges during your Virginia Beach scavenger hunt. Solve mysterious puzzles and follow secret clues to some of the city’s top landmarks.

Using an app and working with your team, see if you can crack codes and discover hidden gems well off the beaten tourist trail. Have you got what it takes to complete the mission?

scavenger games in Virginia Beach

32 – Discover the Naval Aviation Monument Park

Naval Aviation Monument Park, Virgina Beach, VA

You can’t help but feel patriotic as you visit the Naval Aviation Monument Park, which honors pilots from the 20^th century through to the present day.

Check out the statue of Eugene Ely – the first aviator to fly from a ship’s deck. Make sure you read the storyboards that pay tribute to the brave souls who took to the skies to defend their country.

Directions in Google Maps

33 – Play a round of golf

golf, Virginia Beach

Practice your swing on some of the finest golf courses in Virginia Beach. For a country club setting, book a game at the 72-par championship course at Cypress Point. It’s a great choice for golfers of all levels.

Up for a challenge? Then take on the holes at Heron Ridge Golf Club and navigate your way through wetlands, lakes, and natural depressions.

34 – Browse Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum

Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum

The sea has always been a huge part of life here at Virginia Beach. Visiting the Surf and Rescue Museum will give you a fascinating insight into the local maritime heritage and coastal communities.

Have a look at fun exhibits like the swivel gun from the HMS Liberty and learn how to tie life-saving knots used by the coastguards.

35 – Enjoy a tour of Lynnhaven House

Lynnhaven House, Virginia Beach

One of the more unusual things to do in Virginia Beach is to visit Lynnhaven House. Also known as the Wishart-Boush House, the dwelling was built in 1725 and is a fine example of Virginia vernacular architecture.

Take a guided tour of the household and find out what daily life was like back in the 18^th-century. Can you imagine yourself living here?

36 – Take on the Adventureworks wetland zip line

zip lining, Virginia Beach

Fly through the trees as you conquer the Adventureworks zip line in the mysterious wetland forests. You’ll be scaling teetering towers before taking a leap of faith and zooming through the canopy.

Crank the adrenaline up a notch on a moonlight tour, where zip lining in the dark will have your imagination working in overdrive. Go on, give it a whirl.

zip lining in Virginia Beach

37 – Slurp slush at Waterman’s Surfside Grille

Waterman’s Surfside Grille, Virginia Beach

There’s no better way to cool off than with a refreshing orange crush from Waterman’s Surfside Grille. A dose of fresh juice, triple sec, and lemonade really hits that sweet spot.

Feeling peckish? Then tuck into the locally caught seafood, with crab fries, fish tacos, and buttered scallops all on the menu. This casual, oceanfront restaurant makes for a chilled and tasty evening out.

38 – Discover the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum

Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum, Virginia Beach

Sitting just across the road from the beach, the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum is housed in a 19^th-century boardwalk cottage. Bird enthusiasts will enjoy the impressive range of wildfowl artifacts and exhibits exploring the local coastal heritage.

You can watch live wood carving demonstrations and pop into the gift shop on your way out. The best part is that’s it’s totally free to enter!

39 – Ride the surf like a pro

surf lessons in Virginia Beach

One of the most thrilling things to do in Virginia Beach is to take on the waves and have a surfing lesson right here on the beach. You’ll learn the ropes from your expert instructor before plunging into the water to practice your moves.

Been surfing before? Then you can rent a board and conquer those rollers as they rush towards the shore.

40 – Indulge at the Coastal Virginia WineFest

Get to know your grapes at the Coastal Virginia WineFest. You’ll be sipping vintage wines and craft beers while swaying along to live music from local DJs.

Some of the best wineries in Virginia will be showcasing their wares, so it’ll be quite a treat for the connoisseurs. Don’t miss the grape barrel stomping competition or the art displays in the distillery den.

The Coastal Virginia WineFest happens during the dates of February 11th and 12th.

41 – Get active at Surge Adventure Park or work up a sweat at DEFY Trampoline Park

Surge Adventure Park in Virginia Beach

Let off some steam as you take on the mega activities at Surge Adventure Park. This fun-packed trampolining world will keep you on your toes, quite literally! Bounce around on the main court to get into the zone, then tackle the Wipeout course and trapeze to show off your moves. See if you can scale the climbing tower without falling back down to earth.

Show off your moves at the DEFY trampoline park in Chesapeake. Practice slam dunks on the bouncy basketball courts and see if you can keep your balance on the battle beams. Up the action with a game of extreme dodgeball, where wall-to-wall trampolines give you an extra lift. Wannabe ninjas will love tackling the obstacle course and the vertical warped wall.

For the little ones, let them loose at the legendary FunVille Playground. They’ll love swinging on ropes and busting aliens in the arcades, as well as taking on their friends in bumper car races.

42 – Cruise on the Spirit of Norfolk

Spirit of Norfolk cruises, Virginia Beach

Set sail on the Spirit of Norfolk and enjoy a lunch cruise along the Elizabeth River. Spot key landmarks and naval ships while tucking into a delicious buffet lunch.

Get into the party mood on an evening dinner cruise, with drinks and dancing on deck in the moonlight. The Norfolk skyline lights up after dark for a magical backdrop to your night out.

Spirit of Norfolk boat tours

43 – Take in a show at the Harrison Opera House

Harrison Opera House, Virginia

The historic Harrison Opera House is intimate and glitzy, with sparkling chandeliers and sweeping staircases making you feel like royalty. Enjoy glasses of fizz and soak up the glamor before the concert.

The best seats in the house are the boxes, so bag one of these if you can. Then settle in as the orchestra strikes up the first notes.

Harrison Opera House tickets

44 – Hang fast at Virginia Beach Rock Gym

Virginia Beach Rock Gym

Get to grips with gravity at the Virginia Beach Rock Gym – will you be able to cling on long enough? This indoor bouldering site has all the vertical walls, overhangs, and crash mats you need to put your skills to the test.

First time climbing? Then try an introductory lesson and see if you have what it takes to reach the top.

45 – Tour the Adam Thoroughgood House

Adam Thoroughgood House, Virginia Beach

Built in the early 18^th century, the Adam Thoroughgood House is one of the oldest remaining colonial dwellings in the area. If you’re looking for cultural things to do in Virginia Beach, this ticks all the boxes.

A designated National Historic Landmark, the house can be visited on a free guided tour. Check out the dramatic spiral staircase and take a stroll through the landscaped gardens.

46 – Have lunch at The Bee and The Biscuit

The Bee and The Biscuit in Virginia Beach — credit to The Bee and The Biscuit

Sip mimosas and bite into fresh cinnamon rolls as you relax in the patio garden at The Bee and The Biscuit. Set in a charming early 20^th-century cottage, this quaint restaurant is a bit of an insider secret in Virginia Beach.

The produce is fresh and locally sourced, with tempting biscuits, acai bowls, and shrimp grits that will make your mouth water.

47 – Visit the Cape Henry Lighthouse

Cape Henry Lighthouse, Virginia Beach

Standing watch over the First Landing site as well as the Atlantic Ocean, the Cape Henry Lighthouse is one of the iconic sites of Virginia Beach. Built in 1881, the majestic lighthouse guided travelers in from the treacherous waters for nearly a century.

Today, visitors can take a tour, climb the lighthouse tower for superb sea views, and visit the museum to learn more.

Directions in Google Maps

48 – Get spooked at the Nightmare Mansion Haunted House

Nightmare Mansion Haunted House, Virginia Beach

Steel your nerves and steady your racing heart as you creep through the most haunted house in Virginia Beach. The Nightmare Mansion is aptly named, with dark corridors and eerie hallways that will make your hair stand on end.

Watch out for ghouls jumping out from the gloom as you take on this bone-chilling experience. Will you make it out alive?

49 – Beat the clock at Escape Room Virginia Beach

Pit your wits against the mysteries and challenges of an escape room, Virginia Beach style! Choose from the murky world of the Explorer’s Club, an abandoned spaceship, and a grisly murder scene.

Be wary of ghostly goings-on as restless spirits seek eternal vengeance and ruthless murderers plot in the shadows at Escape2Win. You’ll need all your brain cells in gear to complete this epic mission.

Get ready to pre-book your escape from catching the Con Artists stealing world-famous paintings at the Escape Room Virginia Beach, or get ready for familial bonding at the family-friendly escape room at Breakout Games- Virginia Beach (rated one of the best in the city!).

Choose your level of challenge and theme at The Black Cat Escape Room and at Countdown Escape Room Virginia Beach, where you can choose between entering a doomed ship, or even uncovering a creepy doctor and his strange moves.

Explorer Club and Escape2Win are 2 other popular escape rooms, from creepy attics to other fun tricks and puzzles to solve.

50 – Explore the Lake Lawson and Lake Smith Natural Area

Lake Smith Lake Lawson Natural Area, Virginia Beach

This pretty wilderness preserve sprawls across 42 acres, with over 12,000 feet of shoreline to explore. Popular for fishing and boating, the Lake Lawson and Lake Smith Natural Area is a welcome respite from the busy city.

Hop in a kayak and relish the tranquility as you paddle around these calm waters. Then hit the hiking trails and search for wildlife.

Directions in Google Maps

51 – Find all the food, entertainment, and attractions at Apex Entertainment Virginia Beach

Apex Entertainment, Virginia Beach

From enthralling axe throwing, to mini golf, sports simulators, escape rooms, bumper cars, and ropes courses, you will absolutely feel the time fly by faster than the speed of your go-kart!

The long list of attractions at Apex Entertainment Virginia Beach doesn’t stop there, and as far as food options, you have everything from pizza, hot dogs, wings, salads, and so much more.

Whether you’re with friends or family- this place is a must!

52 – Tour the Tarnished Truth Distilling Company

Tarnished Truth Distilling Company in Virginia Beach — credit to Tarnished Truth Distilling Company

Distilling in Virginia began back in the 17^th century, and it’s a huge part of the culture and heritage here in town. To learn more, and to taste the results of this ancient tradition, take a tour of the Tarnished Truth Distillery.

You’ll be privy to insider secrets and will discover the special ingredients that make these whiskeys, gins, and bourbon creams so moreish.

53 – Race the tracks at Motor World

Motor World in Virginia Beach — credit to Motor World

Strap on your helmet, take the wheel, and get ready for an epic go-kart race against your friends at Motor World. You’ll be negotiating 11 different tracks and choosing from 16 types of go-karts!

Then head to the amusement park for fun, family-friendly rides. Feel the thrills as you take on the heart-thumping Skycoaster and emerge victorious in the bumper boat battle.

54 – Land a whopper on a fishing trip

fishing tours in Virginia Beach

Sports fishing is at the top of its game at Virginia Beach, so your chances of catching something epic are high. Cruise out to sea and discover what the fuss is all about.

See if you can hook a prized rockfish, or wrestle with flounders and groupers as they dance on the end of your line. Marlin and tuna are also up for grabs.

fishing in Virginia Beach

55 – Meet the spirits of Ferry Plantation House

Ferry Plantation House in Virginia Beach

One of the spookiest things to do in Virginia Beach is to go on a ghost tour at Ferry Plantation House. With 17^th-century foundations, this restored brick dwelling is up there with the most haunted sites in the States.

Spirits of Native Americans, slaves, and even witches roam the corridors, and lights often flicker on by themselves. Who will you encounter during your visit?

56 – Enjoy in-theater dining at the Beach Cinema Alehouse or feast at Chix on the Beach

restaurants in Virginia Beach

Treat yourselves to dinner and a show at the Beach Cinema Alehouse. Your evening starts with drinks at the bar, then it’s time to settle into your comfy theater seats. The best bit? You can order food right from your chair, so tuck into burgers, nachos and pizza while watching the big screen. Wash it all down with a pitcher of beer.

Come to Chix on the Beach for buttery crab legs, steamed shrimps, and sizzling burgers. Stay for the views and the warm welcome. This oceanfront restaurant is a favorite with locals thanks to its laid-back vibe and top-notch location.

Also Catch 31 Fish House and Bar is Perfectly positioned on Virginia Beach’s Boardwalk, and offers a side of sea views with your supper. Feast on fresh lobster, juicy steaks, and clam chowder as you watch the waves caressing the sand. Get your timings right and you’ll enjoy happy hour cocktails and live music to start your evening with a bang.

57 – Solve clues at a Detective Murder Mystery Dinner

Dinner Detective Murder Mystery, Virginia Beach — right pictures: credit to Dinner Detective Murder Mystery

The largest interactive show in the States has come to town, and you’re cordially invited to take part. Virginia Beach’s Dinner Detective Murder Mystery performance is all about super-sleuthing while dining on a delicious multi-course meal.

Work through intriguing scenarios as the performers enlist your help to solve the puzzle. Will you discover who the murderer is before it’s too late?

58 – Discover the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts

Sandler Center for the Performing Arts in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a creative place, and there’s nowhere better to tap into the scene than at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts.

This world-class venue hosts entertainers from around the country, with a state-of-the-art interior making for a classy evening out.

Take in a show, giggle at stand-up comedians, and cheer live bands as they showcase their skills.

Sandler Center for the Performing Arts tickets

59 – Meet the residents at Virginia Zoo

Virginia Zoo

Say hello to the wild inhabitants at Virginia Zoo as you explore the different habitats. Don’t miss the pancake tortoises or the bearded dragons and see if you can spot the tigers padding around their Asiatic enclosure.

Are those monkeys you hear? Follow the call of the gibbon and see if you can capture them on camera as they jump from branch to branch.

60 – Hit the streets and the best nightclubs

The fun doesn’t stop after the sun goes down in Virginia Beach, it only gets better! Check out the night scene at the best nightclubs, starting with Peabody’s Nightclub, where the drinks are as good as the DJ spins.

Hit up the 21st floor of the Hilton Hotel at Sky Bar Virginia Beach for the best beach views, and dance and drink until the early morning at the beachfront nightclub, Chemistry Virginia Beach.

61 – Taste local ale at beer festivals

beer festivals and breweries in Virginia Beach

Think you know a thing or two about beer? Then head to the Battle of the Beers and help vote for the best as you sample lots of local ale. It’s one of the most fun things to do in Virginia Beach!

Each summer, Neptune’s Park hosts the Coastal Craft Beer Festival, where food trucks, live music, and plenty of booze keep spirits high.

Head to the myriad of incredible local breweries, including Commonwealth Brewing Co, offering laid-back beach vibes in many of their beers on tap, Pleasure House Brewing, New Realm Brewing Co., and their innovative wheat and pale ales, Wasserhund Brewing Company and Back Bay’s Farmhouse Brewing Co. featuring beer and cider made with the highest quality of local ingredients.

62 – Sip signature cocktails at trendy bars

Esoteric bar, Virginia Beach — credit to Esoteric

The cocktail scene at Virginia Beach is booming, but to make the most of your evening out, it’s important you know where to go. Want a lip-smacking Manhattan? Then it’s the Repeal speakeasy bar that you’re after.

For a delectable Blood Orange Whiskey Sour, try the hip Esoteric bar. Or for a traditional Bloody Mary, grab a pew at the Bay Local. Divine!

63 – Invigorate your senses at the spa

Green Leaf and Pebble Tea Spa, Virginia Beach — credit to Green Leaf and Pebble Tea Spa

Harness the energy of the serene ocean landscape and indulge in a luxurious spa treatment. You are on vacation after all!

Try the hot stone massage at the Flowering Almond Spa, and breathe in reviving scents of fir and pine forests. Or relax in the sauna at Green Leaf and Pebble Tea Spa, before trying some of the organic loose-leaf teas in the ambient lounge.

Where to stay in Virginia Beach?

Sleep to the sound of crashing waves at the Coastal Hotel & Suites Virginia Beach, with oceanfront views, granting guests the ultimate beach oasis. With a state-of-the-art gym with an ocean view to start the morning or a quiet cup of coffee on the balcony, your time here with be comforting and absolutely breathtaking.

Enjoy the clean and modern decor inside the stylish Hyatt House Virginia Beach, which also sits oceanfront, and accommodates its guests with the top amenities in their rooms for ultimate comfort. Enjoy the closeness to the Virginia Beach Convention Center, the Virginia Beach Amphitheater, and much more! Breakfast is included with your stay!

For the budget-conscious, head to The Schooner Inn, a highly-rated hotel with views of the beach, and all the hospitality and furnishings you need for the best stay. Enjoy the closeness to The Boardwalk, and the long list of restaurants, shops, and coffee shops.

best hotels in Virginia Beach

Where to go next?

Want to keep exploring? Make sure to head east to Norfolk, where everyone from foodies to nature lovers will be satisfied beyond belief. Adrenaline junkies let out some screams at the Busch Gardens, while those looking for a quiet stroll through the city will love to hop on a bike tour.

Head north toward the capital of Virginia – Richmond for its list of things to do in the action-packed city. Visit the sites of the Civil War and check out the state capitol, fine-tune your taste for art at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, or take a leisurely but beautiful cruise on the Riverfront Canal.

Travel south to Raleigh, North Carolina for a beautiful encounter with nature at the WRAL Azalea Garden, or visit the historic Yates Mill County Park for a peek at colonial life, or check out the North Carolina Museum of History as well as the Pope House Museum.

Final thoughts

With its stunning views of the beach, lively ambiance, crowds all year long, and fascinating local history, we hope that our list of the best things to do in Virginia Beach has inspired you to look into this hidden U.S. destination.

Visiting soon? We hope so! We wish you a great trip to the beautiful coastal city of Virginia Beach – happy travels!

Table of contents:

63 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Virginia Beach, VA