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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from Corolla to Richmond?
The direct drive from Corolla to Richmond is 184 mi (296 km), and should have a drive time of 3 hrs 40 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Corolla to Richmond, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Williamsburg, Virginia Beach, Nags Head, Norfolk, Manteo, Yorktown, Kill Devil Hills, Newport News, and Hampton, as well as top places to visit like Jockey's Ridge State Park and North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island, or the ever-popular Jennette's Pier.
The top cities between Corolla and Richmond are Williamsburg, Virginia Beach, Nags Head, Norfolk, Manteo, Yorktown, Kill Devil Hills, Newport News, and Hampton. Williamsburg is the most popular city on the route. It's 3 hours from Corolla and less than an hour from Richmond.
Kill Devil Hills, located in Dare County, North Carolina, is the most populous settlement on the Outer Banks. Positioned at the center of the Outer Banks, it provides easy access to both ends of this beautiful stretch of coastline. The town offers a wide range of services and amenities for visitors and locals alike. With its proximity to Kitty Hawk and Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills is bursting with exciting opportunities for adventure and exploration.
10% as popular as Williamsburg
10 minutes off the main route, 18% of way to Richmond
Nags Head is a coastal community situated in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. This beach town is renowned for its towering sand dunes located in Jockey's Ridge State Park. The park boasts various displays that highlight the local fauna and flora, which can be enjoyed while strolling along the boardwalk. Additionally, Nags Head Woods Preserve offers paths such as Roanoke Trail, leading through salt marshes and forest to a serene beach.
13% as popular as Williamsburg
19 minutes off the main route, 21% of way to Richmond
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Manteo, a charming town in Dare County, North Carolina, is situated on Roanoke Island and serves as the county seat. With a population of 1,602 as of 2020, Manteo offers a delightful experience at the Laughing Lollipop. This candy store boasts an impressive array of over 200 confections, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
11% as popular as Williamsburg
33 minutes off the main route, 23% of way to Richmond
Located in the southeast of Virginia, Virginia Beach is a city that lies at the intersection of Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Its oceanfront stretches 3 miles, adorned with a boardwalk and beach-lined views. The First Landing State Park situated on its bayside commemorates the arrival of English colonists to Jamestown in 1607.
54% as popular as Williamsburg
16 minutes off the main route, 57% of way to Richmond
Norfolk is a coastal metropolis located in the southeast of Virginia. It boasts a significant naval facility, Naval Station Norfolk, situated on Chesapeake Bay. Tourists can visit Nauticus, a maritime museum housing the Battleship Wisconsin - an enormous WWII vessel. Art enthusiasts can explore Chrysler Museum of Art's extensive collection of glass art and European and American paintings as well as sculptures. Besides that, the Virginia Zoo by the river houses various animals such as bears, birds, lions and farm creatures.
17% as popular as Williamsburg
1 minute off the main route, 58% of way to Richmond
I'll never travel to Richmond without this trip planner again
Hampton, a vibrant city in Virginia, is part of the Hampton Roads region and boasts a population of 137,148. It's known for its rich history, sunny beaches, and diverse neighborhoods. When exploring this area alongside Newport News, visitors can savor delicious breakfast options infused with local flavors. The region's deep roots in American history are evident through historical landmarks and its association with the Civil War and the United States Space Program.
5% as popular as Williamsburg
3 minutes off the main route, 67% of way to Richmond
Newport News, an independent city in Virginia, is part of the Hampton Roads region and has a population of around 186,247. Together with Hampton, it offers sunny beaches, historical landmarks, and diverse neighborhoods. The city's history dates back to the founding of Jamestown and it has played a significant role in American history from the Civil War to the United States Space Program.
6% as popular as Williamsburg
3 minutes off the main route, 70% of way to Richmond
Yorktown is a designated place for census in Virginia, USA, and serves as the county seat of York County. This area has a rich history dating back to the colonial era when it was one of the eight original shires in Virginia. It boasts a small population of only 195 people according to the 2010 census, while York County has around 66,134 residents as per estimates from 2011.
10% as popular as Williamsburg
10 minutes off the main route, 73% of way to Richmond
Williamsburg, a city in Virginia, served as the capital of the Virginia Colony from 1699 to 1780 and played an important role in the American Revolution. Together with Jamestown and Yorktown, it forms the "Historic Triangle." The heart of Williamsburg is Colonial Williamsburg, which is a living-history museum where actors dressed in period costumes depict daily Colonial life.
Most popular city on this route
7 minutes off the main route, 78% of way to Richmond
Best stops along Corolla to Richmond drive
The top stops along the way from Corolla to Richmond (with short detours) are Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center, Virginia Beach Boardwalk, and Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Other popular stops include Wright Brothers National Memorial, Currituck Beach Lighthouse, and Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center.
Jennette's Pier is a fishing pier on the Outer Banks of North Carolina that reopened in 2011 after being destroyed by Hurricane Isabel. The pier is known for its wide, clean beaches and offers fishing lessons. It celebrated its 10-year anniversary in 2021.
For only a couple dollars per person, you can experience beautiful aquarium exhibits with live fish, educational signs, interactive digital exhibits,
A gift shop, an upper level with beautiful lookout of the water (as long as there isn’t an event happening!), walk the pier and watch people catch fish, learn the history of the pier, and take pretty photos. A must do for all ages. Wear comfy shoes and bring a sweatshirt if you get cold easily.
Kate — Google review
We decided to check out the pier while we're still here in OBX. I loved the signage explaining the history of the pier and the small aquarium inside. The bathrooms were also clean and orderly.
Our only complaints were the $2 fee for each of us to walk on the pier just to check it out and the fact that they aren't pet friendly, even though it's completely outdoors. Since we have our small dog with us to explore, that was a deal breaker.
Shanah Bell — Google review
Loved walking this pier! A stunning day and they were hosting a event where 4 teams were competing for the production of producing clean drinking water from the ocean. We were informed of the event and it was such a special add-on to the experience.
Sylvia Balli — Google review
We had an amazing time. We came in for a day trip to enjoy my son’s 2nd birthday and it was perfect. We stopped at the small family market around the corner and then headed to the pier where we were able to find easy free parking and very close beach access. We had no troubles getting to the beach with our two year old and our belongings.
I would definitely recommend water shoes for this beach. The current was very strong and the ocean floor was full of shells and ocean debris which was unpleasant. I put my child in a life preserver and I felt it wasn’t too safe to go in at all, although there were many people a good ways into the water. The waves on this particular day were just absolutely brutal, I was knocked over and dragged a few times, immediately skinning up my knees and the ocean could have swallowed up my 2 year old very quickly, even in the very shallow surf. I normally love to frolic about in the waves, but even just the surf challenged every muscle in my body, my knees and ankles were even too weak too withstand it for any considerable amount of time.
Despite the aggressive waves, it’s still a great beach and the views are incredible and the memories will last forever. There are no rows and rows of high rise hotels obstructing the pristine views. The other beach goers were chill and friendly. Everyone is happy on the beach!
I highly recommend this experience! Just bring some water shoes, sand toys for the youngsters, and your favorite bevvy.
There were many treasures to behold in the surf and sand. I would definitely provide my toddler a sand bucket and shovel next time, so he can busy himself making moats and sand castles.
Jessica Wood — Google review
We always stroll the pier when we're here. Great walk to experience & different prices for passes depending upon your need. Gift shop is quaint with lots of toys & fishing items. Benches all over & is a fun expedition! Only $2 a person to walk on it but that pass good for full day! Small tube aquarium with fish details in common area. Easy park & walk!
Rebecca Hall — Google review
Awesome place and time sweet gift shop great views from the pier. Plenty of people fishing and getting rays and skates small blue fish and spotted trout. Great day awesome time had my Jeep with me also known as #smokey5120 thank u for the great time
Jason Boria — Google review
This enormous pier was a fantastic experience. There is a coffee shop, gift store, and small aquarium accompanied by placards and posters that talk about the history of the area and the pier. Out on the main pier, you can take in a beautiful view of the ocean. It is absolutely gorgeous! We even got to see dolphins not very far away from the pier. I highly recommend visiting! 👍👍
Dan Harrison — Google review
7/29/22 This is a fantastic pier which has wind turbines that generate the electricity for the pier's lighting. It is the longest pier of the seven piers on the Outer Banks reaching out 1,000 feet into deep water.
It's very popular for tourists and fishermen. The pier has a blanket license for anglers and licenses can be purchased at the register with a valid driver's license and payment.
The ocean and beach views are beautiful especially at sundown. The beaches here are wide and there is a public bathhouse, outdoor showers and a lifeguard.
A gift shop is located at the entrance and admission to the pier is just $2.00 for adults and $1.00 for children under 10 for the day. Hours of operation are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. from May to October. Pets are not allowed on the pier.
Tommie Frasher — Google review
This is not just another pier! Jeanette's pier pier is an experience definitely recommended when visiting OBX. The aquarium, the gift shop, and the pier with amazing views all day. It is very relaxing to just sit and take in the scenery and the people. Must see spot and should be on your list of to-do!
Matthew Truett — Google review
There seemed to be a lot of questions regarding the beach at Nags Head Island. We visited this place in mid of June a week ago and we had a wonderful time there. The beach is one of the great beaches i ever visited. There wasn't any litter or dirt beach is very clean and neat. In fact, its more beautiful in night time if you visit it at new moon night 🌙.. i love this place sharing some pictures you can see .. its amazing and incredible scenes...
Muhammad Adeel Anjum — Google review
I have been here a couple of times. I think this is a great pier to walk on and to fish. The first time I was here we saw three whales swimming past the end of the pier (which is rare to see). Today we saw a few fisherman catching fish at the end of the pier. The pier is pretty clean and the views are great if you want to take pictures with your family. There is a 2 dollar fee per person to enter onto the pier. I liked seeing the sun set, watching people swimming on the beach, and just sitting on the benches. I would recommend coming here for anyone vacationing in the area.
M B — Google review
Not a bad spot on the beach. The bathhouse is nice, and is much better than most places on the OBX. The area under the pier also has lots of shade, which is great if you need it. The beach does get pretty busy by the middle of the day, so I’d definitely arrive early if you want a good spot.
Micah Walters — Google review
Very nice place with great surroundings. 2 dollar entrance fee to visit pier. Lots of parking lots.
Oliver — Google review
My photos show what you can see without paying the fee to walk onto the pier. Outside walls have the interesting history of the pier. A large brass sea turtle makes for a good photo with the kids. Inside there are restrooms, a mini aquarium, and a gift shop with apparel, kids binoculars, toys, fishing gear, and snacks.
Charise Van Liew — Google review
Annual tradition for our family. We love the interactive touch screen information panels that accompany the incredible tanks. The pier itself has lovely commemorative fish shaped plaques inlaid in the wood walkway. The view is awesome and the beach is always enjoyable. Ample parking is a big plus.
Michelle Cuccherini — Google review
Jennette's Pier is a fabulous location for a wedding on the Outer Banks! We truly enjoyed photographing Isabel & Jeremiah's wedding there, so many amazing locations for photos and some of the friendliest staff! We can't wait to photograph here again!
Ryan Moser (Ryan & Rach Photography) — Google review
I’ve never been a big fan of piers that make you pay to walk out on and that’s why I could only give four stars. Other than the payment, the pier and gift shop are nice and clean. Plenty of seating and bathrooms.
James Brown — Google review
$2 per person to get onto the pier. The gift shop and little aquarium inside are free. We walked to the end and got to see some Dolphins in the ocean!
Jay Mitchell — Google review
We visited Jannette's Pier on a windy cold December day while on a road trip up the Outer Banks. There was a $2 charge per person to walk out on the pier. There were two fishermen and some dolphin spotters besides us. In the water in a wetsuit was a person body boarding the surf. They looked like they were having fun despite what must have been very cold water. I bet this place is packed in the summer.
Charles Ragan — Google review
One of the nicest piers I've been to. Great beach area too. There is a decent amount of parking but it does fill up fast during tourist season.
Synergy Web Systems — Google review
Beautiful day for a visit! This was our first time here, and I was pleasantly surprised at the overall experience. It cost $2 per person to walk out on the pier for the day. They have a nice beach access area and outdoor showers and bathrooms. They have sheltered areas to sit under along the pier. There were plenty of benches to sit on. There was also an indoor gift shop area and even a huge fish tank area with more bathrooms. Very nice! It's definitely worth visiting!
Amy Daniels — Google review
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4.5
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7223 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA
Nags Head's Jockey's Ridge State Park is a natural wonder that offers adventurers a variety of activities to enjoy, from hiking and sandboarding to kite flying. The park is always open from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free.
I always love coming here, and my recent visit on vacation was no exception!
The building was closed, but that certainly does not prevent you from going walking around it to access the sand!
Is there some sort of trail here? I know this is the end of the mountain-to-sea trail but I thought there was a trail specifically around the park.
Plenty of big dunes to take a fun tumble down, and this park contains the highest point in Dare County!
They also offer hang gliding here! If you look hard enough you can find the other end of the water too!
But what is this mysterious castle structure I took a picture of?
There are also showers for your feet at the entrance building, and you will definitely need it!
beastlycharizard13 — Google review
Great state park. Huge sand dunes with great views of the bay and Nags Head. The Park Ranger we met was really awesome and let the kids sit in his vehicle and gave them sunglasses and stickers. Lots of people flying kites and you can hang glide by appointment.
Chris Sweet — Google review
What a lovely unexpected stop as we arrived in the Outer Banks and waited for our rental to be ready. We ended up spending a few hours here and walking amongst the enormous dunes on a gorgeous spring day.Everyone in the family enjoyed it and it's great for little ones to run out some energy. It was nice taking our shoes off and exploring, but also watching the kites and hang gliders set up. You'll definitely want your sunscreen and glasses, since there is no shade out there.
Christy T. — Google review
My kids love this place. I do probably more than them...it's a really big hill of sand, which doesn't sound enjoyable at all, but the entire ecosystem captured there is incredible. Pack sunscreen, it'll be hot, but at the bottom of the dune, just as you come off the boardwalk, is a little basin where the water filters down and settles. The water is very warm and filled with tadpoles, which thrilled my kids to death. Take a kite and hold on, the winds will lift it high and fast. Watch the hang-gliding lessons and explore all the little paths. Great views of both the ocean and the sound
Bill Ruffalo — Google review
This was a really great place to visit and probably a once in a lifetime experience unless you plan to visit the Great White Sand Dunes in Colorado. The sand is super soft and the hike is very short to get to the main dunes. Images cant adequately capture how vast it feels when you’re there! If you have a pet I’d suggest going in the morning or evening so the sand is cooler. There is no shade whatsoever on the main dunes so bring a backpack and some water and a hat. Its also more windy at the dunes than in the parking lot so plan to go on a calmer day. It only took us 15 mins to walk from one side of the dunes to the other so its not as far as it seems when you first get there.
Only downside was that right after we got there someone dropped off 6 tour buses full of youths and their extended families so it quickly became a giant sandbox full of 200 cackling teenagers. Try going during off days/hours or multiple times since it’s totally free!
Matt Olpinski — Google review
Pictures honestly don’t do this place justice. It’s amazing! It’s way bigger than I expected it to be, so you feel like you’re alone even though you may not be. There are so many trails to walk and it’s such a great place to bring your dogs. They do have to be leashed but we let ours run a bit without holding onto them because no one was around and they have good recall. 10/10 recommend giving this place a visit and I’d definitely plan to spend a good chunk of time here!
Katie Bevacqua — Google review
I loved the open dunes on an excellent February of 46F. When we got to the trees, the trail was not well maintained, but we scrambled to the water. The signs can be confusing but we use the app “trails” to guide us. I totally recommend this place when the temps are low.
Veronica Hoyos-Leonard — Google review
Always have to make a stop here while visiting the Outer Banks. This is a must stop if you are a first time visitor.
The facilities have always been clean. The gift shop and vending machines are there if you need a snack or a beverage to cool off.
I would suggest bringing some water. It gets hot on top of the ridge. However its worth the hike because the view is amazing.
M.K. Productions — Google review
Our all time favorite place to visit in the area regardless of the season.
Tip#1: Rent the boards from the shop.
Tip#2: WAX, WAX, WAX and WAX the bottom of the board every 3 trips down. Edges first!!!
#3:We bring snacks and blankets. Going up and down the hills is exhausting. We lay down, take naps, snack and take walks in between.
Our favorite hill is the first real big one in the first main clearing. We haven't covered all of the park but that was our tried and true best out of all the hills we did.
Make sure you walk towards the center hills so you can see both the ocean and the sound. It is beautiful. I highly recommend bringing a kite. We just unfold it and like magic it flies, almost too well. I do wish the little store had more Jockey Ridge merchandise. We would have stocked up. The staff were great! Thank you for a great experience.
Fort Far — Google review
Lovely dune park in the Outer Banks.
Lots of parking, restrooms, and multiple paths out to the dunes.
There is also a short boardwalk to a viewing area.
If you walk far enough, you'll eventually see views of The Sound.
Wear appropriate footwear and expect blowing sand.
Also expect crowds with tour and/or school groups.
Cynthia Edmonds — Google review
Highly recommend visiting! We only had about 36 hours in the Outer Banks and we chose to do this. Free to visit. Went about an hour and a half before sunset. There’s a parking lot with plenty of spots and then at the little building they have a men’s and women’s bathroom. Plenty of stalls if you were with a group. We didn’t wear our shoes on the dunes so if you wear them, I recommend bringing a book bag to put them in. Also recommend sunglasses especially if it’s windy, because the sand blows into your eyes. 😆
Gabrielle Hughes — Google review
We rode by and saw the people out on the dunes from the road so I looked it up and found the Jockeys Ridge state park. I told my husband it would be neat to go out there and take a look. It was incredible to see all of the sand dunes here! You wouldn't expect to see so many huge sand dunes comparable to what it must be like in the dessert just a much smaller scale. My husband explained to me how it reminded him of his deployments. It's a fun family friendly place to go and explore and play. You can see the beach from both sides at the very top of the sand dunes. We will have to come back one day with our boys.
Angelica Denham — Google review
Worth the exhaustion of climbing all the dudes and fighting the wind. Incredible views and memories with my kids. Don't skip this place if you're visiting OBX. Pay a little bit more for a better kite at the kitty hawk kites store across the street and it was a great investment.
Jacqueline Kretzer — Google review
Jockey Ridge State Park is just awesome! Picture this: you're surrounded by massive sand dunes, with the ocean in the distance.
It's the perfect spot for kite flying or a leisurely hike on the trails. Whether you're into adventure or just chilling out, this park has it all. Definitely worth checking out if you're in the area!
Nook Hanklang — Google review
Beautiful! We went twice at sunset during our stay in the OBX. One day was really windy, but the sand blowing over the dunes was really neat. Both days had beautiful sunsets and weren’t crowded. We went during the off season (March), so I’m not sure how crowded it gets in summer
Allison Abel — Google review
Absolutely beautiful!! Waited for the sunset which was spectacular. Did a time lapse of the sunset. The park closed at 6 pm due to being in the off season; however, the park ranger was great and understood that the sunset would be after 6 pm and allowed for extra time. A must see. Be prepared to climb a steep dune following a scenic boardwalk to an observation area.
Wendy George — Google review
Fun time climbing the dunes. Great to do on a cooler day. Great views all around. The sand is packed and wind blown so not a hard climb through the sand.
Rob Spitler — Google review
So much fun to come with the kids and learn about the dunes in NC and fly a kite. I’m very glad we stopped. The dunes were massive compared to what I was expecting after having been to the beach all week. The indoor restrooms were very nice (didn’t use the ones outside). There were vending machines and picnic tables along w an area to rise the sand off.
Shelby Roberts — Google review
Jockey's Ridge was one of the places on my must visit list while doing a lighthouse tour along the Outer Banks. It's a phenomenal place that feels otherworldly while being located in such a bustling location. The dunes and sheer amount of sand stretching to the horizon is amazing. It was a fun experience running up the dunes with warm sand under my feet. This is also the eastern end of the state's Mountains to Sea Trail.
Charles Pinney — Google review
We decided on a whim to visit Jockey's Ridge State Park, and I am glad we did. We went earlier in the day when it was very windy after a night of rain. My son and I walked the boardwalk to the end, and then decided to see what these dunes were all.about. First, we climbed a steep hill, but once we got to the top we were greeted by an open area of dunes, and a view, in the distant, of the Roanoke Sound. Nature is so beautiful and awesome because the dunes are majestic. After that we drove to the other entrance right on the Roanoke Sound beach. This section was more about the water, and less about the dunes. Even so, it is still impressive. And to watch people parasail the Roanoke Sound was equally impressive. Make sure to dress accordingly for not only the temperature, but also the wind.
North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island offers a diverse range of activities and exhibits, including live animal encounters, interactive displays, feedings, films, and a large shark tank holding 285,000 gallons of water. This aquarium is an excellent choice for families looking for indoor entertainment or to escape the rain. Visitors can see sea turtles, otters, jellyfish, sharks along with other marine creatures.
This place is so awesome! They have incredible interactive exhibits and great prices. They have an amazing sea otter exhibit, HUGE shark tank exhibit, reptiles and amphibians, super cool touch tanks, and the jellyfish room is transcendent! The outdoor grounds area is scenic and peaceful as well. You can spend quite a bit of time both inside and out! The staff truly care about the animals, exhibits and are very willing to share their knowledge. Do recommend getting your tickets on their website, its easy and it can be extremely busy during the tourist seasons.
heather medwid — Google review
$12 for 13 n up you have to buy online.
Loved this little aquarium. Small enough to enjoy, large enough to be memorable. Staff is helpful. Watching the sharks be fed was cool. Kids will enjoy the touch ponds with sting rays and such. There is a fun garden to walk with activities for kids too.
LeeAnna Springer — Google review
We've been to a few different aquariums and this aquarium seemed to be worth the price of admissions. While it does take some time to go through and there are plenty of exhibits, the spaces are tight and narrow. We were fighting crowds and constantly around lots of people. There were a few open opportunities for me to snap a few good pics, but you can also see how crowded it can be too. Being as tight and crowded as it was, strollers were a nuisance, especially the big ones. If you have a pop-up, use it. The other thing that really annoys me at any aquarium and even most zoos, are when adults feel the need to stand in front of an exhibit for an extended period of time while children are waiting to see. I'm sure as an adult, you've already seen most of what's there, stand back and let the kids enjoy the experience. Same goes for those helicopter parents, your kids arent going to disappear if you give them a few more feet. Overall it was a decent experience for the afternoon at a decent value for the family.
Matthew Truett — Google review
My family love aquariums. This one was really nice. Be sure to reserve tickets early in the morning or the night before as tickets sell out quick. The parking lot was nearly full when we arrived. There are timed tickets but the place was still rather crowded. There is also a little outdoor section for kids to play.
Worth a visit.
Christine DeVose — Google review
Great place for family visit. Location is terrific. Not a big aquarium but they have a diverse collection. Loved the jelly fish and the shark exhibits. The 20 minutes show in the Neptune theater was super educational. This show is not advertised enough so the administrators are reading, please make sure your website highlights this experience of this unique Globe screen and the information you provide. Very nice gift shop. Once you step out, there is the beautiful pier and a trail where you can see lots of birds. Recommend this place to all!
Amresh Vaidya — Google review
Very well done exhibits. The treatment center was very interesting to visit and the staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. It's a smaller aquarium compared to those in big cities but worth the money and a must-see if visiting the Outer Banks. Timed entry helps control crowds but parking was still difficult.
Daryl Densford — Google review
The state of North Carolina operates several world-class aquariums that are located throughout the stet. This Roanoke island location is one of them and it's EXCELLENT. Not only is is a great aquarium, but it's location is close to the water and there are some great water views and activities for guests. It's also a nice place for bird watching. My suggestion is to choose a less-busy day, and really enjoy yourself!
Mike Longenbaker — Google review
Thus aquarium was very nice. It was definitely kid friendly for several reasons.
It was big enough to keep the children engaged but not too big they lost interest. They allow strollers(there are several in other states that don't). They had a couple of interactive exhibits. A touch one and an educational one about sea turtles. They rehab sea turtles with the expectation that they will be released back to the wild.
They also have a trail and a butterfly garden on the premises that is included with your admission.
All in all, we took a 2 and 6 year old and both were entertained. I'd say that's a win!
Dana Hodges — Google review
Great opportunity to view beautiful creatures I would otherwise not see. However, I felt torn due to the fact I was a spectator. The animals should be in their natural habitat. The animal enclosures weren't very big. Their turtle rescue was good to see. They nurse injured/sick sea turtles back to health. Once they are fit, they're released back into the wild.
Francesca W — Google review
Great spot to check out on a rainy day or just to get the kids out of the house. Sea turtles, otters, sharks, jellyfish + more. This particular aquarium does a "trick or treat under the sea" annually around Halloween' if you buy tickets for that (in advance) you will not regret it.
We've been countless times over the years and never had a disappointing visit.
Krista Hanusik — Google review
Our family loved this aquarium. You have to buy your tickets online in advance and select a time slot.
It's right on the water and has a wonderful outside area for the kids to run around, a cafe to get lunch and a beautiful dock.
The aquarium was the perfect size for my two young children age one and four.
We absolutely loved the sea turtle rehab center. My four year old liked going to the different stations with his fake sea turtle and going through the different scenarios on what what wrong and how to help it. And what was even better, the real life turtle rehab center was right next door so we could watch the real life animals being helped.
Will definitely be back!
Courtney Correia — Google review
This is the second year we have visited this aquarium while vacationing in the outer banks. Our kids love this aquarium! There's a large variety of animals, including a nice shark and sea turtle exhibit. Tickets are very reasonably priced and there's lots of great activities for kids like the large touch tank. Will continue to come back in the future!
Crystal Martirano — Google review
It was such a great place to visit for all ages! A wide variety of marine life with beautiful tanks. I loved the turtle rescue section as well. The gardens outside were both beautiful and educational. Definitely worth a visit!
Eric Hepler — Google review
Great place to take your kids! They had plenty of interactive things for the kids to participate in and a very good variety of the diversity in habitats all the animals live in. Make reservations online as they are required! That being said, it's also not slammed busy. At least not on a Friday at 3 pm. So it was really nice to let kids have fun and run.
Greg Johnson — Google review
An intimate walk through the creatures that inhabit the NC Coast. We were enthralled and enchanted! Make reservations for an entrance ticket. Enjoy the amazing animals and the many volunteers who keep this place running so well.
Diane Albanese — Google review
Great experience for kids of all ages! Interactive exhibits were engaging. The touch pool was a big hit where you can get your finger hugged by urchins! Our sons really enjoyed the turtle lab, which was a hands-on simulation of how injured turtles can be rehabilitated. One of my favorite parts is the jellyfish room with its tall tubes of bubbles and light changing displays of floating jellies. The surrounding land outside the aquarium was also great. There was a "fossil" excavation mound, a nature trail, and a pier. I really liked the pier as it was a lovely view, ample seating, and informative panels along the pier walkway. Highly recommended.
Michelle Cuccherini — Google review
We had a good time at the aquarium. My favorite part was the Jellyfish tanks. It is worth visiting if you visit the outer banks. Highly recommended to take your kids or a date.
Nook Hanklang — Google review
I had a flight with OBX airplanes. Highly recommend ( do an hour 10-45 isn’t long enough) although pilot was amazing and informative should have gotten more. On me.. Aquarium was very informative, thoughtful of the aquatic life staff was acknowledging and informative, kind and helpful ❣️Thank you for all that you do. I also noticed there was an animal rescue across the street and the sweet darling girl that was so informative to the crabs, stingrays, and those that live in shell life was walking a beautiful labor retriever, after teaching me of the life of such. I adore this adventure I had there. Again thank you
The Wright Brothers National Memorial is a must-visit attraction in the outer banks with an admission fee of around $10. However, it's free for those who have an America annual pass. This site offers visitors the chance to stand at the take-off spot where the first successful airplane flight was tested and explore exhibits that provide detailed information about this historic event. Additionally, there is a gift shop on-site where you can collect souvenirs or magnets.
Took our 10-year-old grandson and we thoroughly enjoyed this visit. There is a small museum with a detailed history of the family and lives of the Wright Brothers. It was very interesting and gives a great insight into the area and the lives of the brothers as well as the locals during that period. There is a replica of the plane and it was very interesting to see and try to comprehend how someone was able to visualize and build something that would prove to be the beginning of air travel. My grandson found it fascinating. When you leave the museum you can see a replica of the living quarters of Orville and Wilbur Wright and the hangar where they built the plane. There are markers that showed the lengths of the first four flights. There are well made walkways from one area to the other. You can take a short walk to Jockey's Ridge and climb the large sand dune (paved walkway) up to the Wright Brother's Memorial. It is beautiful and you have beautiful views of the area and the ocean. On the back side of Jockey's Ridge is a metal replica of the plane and children (and young-at-heart adults) can climb and play on it. There are life-size statues as well of the locals who assisted the brothers. When you go into the museum young children can get a Junior Rangers booklet and complete the "assignments" as they tour the area and earn a Junior Ranger's badge. There is something for all ages and a very interesting recap of a huge part of NC history. Well worth the $10 entrance fee, and that one fee is good for 7 days.
L Ford — Google review
Very busy but very awesome spot. A nice visitor center with gift shop. Highly recommended buying your park pass online before coming; it will save a little time at the ranger station (which usually has a wait to get in). If you go inside, they are still masking for COVID, but they do offer them at the door if you forgot yours. Outside, there is a good bit of walking that you can do all over the grounds to see the flight markers (note there is little shade). The parking lot fills fast, but they do have overflow parking in the field nearby (look for signs). There is a place to refill water bottles, which is nice. Definitely recommend the hike up to the monument for the view!
Andy Beyer — Google review
Prepare to walk! Though you can drive to the base of the dune before walking up to the monument.
Went here as a kid and now brought my kids and it’s even better than I remember. The museum has enough information in it without being so much the kids get bored. Outside there isn’t a lot to look at but the historical significance makes it worth it. And the view from the top of the dune is amazing!
Definitely go. And as all national parks in the area, like the lighthouses, tickets are priced well and kids 15 and under are FREE!!!
Scott Sundblade — Google review
See where aviation began by exploring the Wright Brothers National Monument. While the large obelisk is on a huge sand bar that the Wright Brothers used for some of their experiments, the actual successful flight of their machine took place near the visitor center.
If you can, visit as soon as the monument opens when it's cooler (if you're there in the summer). I suggest driving to the obelisk on the hill first because there's quite a steep climb (parking is nearby all around the base). The visitor center is air conditioned so it's a nice way to cool down after your hike. While you can walk to the obelisk from the visitor center, it's quite far. On a hot day, driving is your best option.
After the obelisk, drive around the back and stop at the bronze replica of the first flight complete with statues showing the other men there.
The museum inside the visitor center is interesting, but it's not as comprehensive on the lives of the Wright Brothers as I would have liked. However, you do learn about their achievements with flying and it's a great reminder to anyone (especially kids - if parents point it out to them) that failure is a learning opportunity and VERY relative. The Wright Brothers failed A LOT more than they succeeded and yet we're still talking about them today and they are in no small part the reason we've been to space!
Chris Pontillo — Google review
Awesome 360 views. Very neat experience and a must-see when visiting OBX! History was made here! It's amazing to realize how far aviation has come in less than 120 years since the first flight of just 852 feet.
Matthew Truett — Google review
Getting into the park can take some time and the line of cars can really get backed up. The inside museum is great for a not too long air conditioned walk around. Walking the actual flight path is sombering in a way to see how far we have come in a century of flight. Walking up the hill to the actual memorial is quite a trek but worth it for the views. It's worth going to but definitely a ton of walking so bring the right (see what I did there?) shoes!
B 123 — Google review
This is a great National Park. We got there just in time for the last talk, where she told the story of the Wright Brothers. She did an excellent job and was very engaging. It was fun to hear how many times the Wrights traveled to NC to accomplish their goal.
Going in January be prepared for wind and cold. Also, you don't have to walk from the visitor center up the hill. You can drive around and get quite a bit closer. You will still have to tackle the hill though!
Heather Willmon — Google review
Nice spot to stop by if you are traveling in outer banks. It has entrance fee (I think $10) but if you beautiful America annual pass then it will be free
The highlights are
1. The visiting center has very well information about Journey of how first flight was tested successfully.
2. There is gift shop to collect gifts or magnets
3. Outside you have many activities
You can walk through the tracks where first flight tested
4. You can walk towards memorial or go bay car as there is parking near by memorial
Rest you can enjoy and take photos
Mahantesh Paramaj — Google review
A great way to spend an hour or two when visiting the Outer Banks. I always enjoy learning about the history of major milestones in American and World history. The site is very handicapped accessible but it is important to note that if you have trouble walking, bring a wheelchair and a kind person who is willing to push you up the hill to see the monument up close. The paths up to the monument are paved and they have a ramp at the entrance of the museum. Inside the museum the exhibits are arranged to allow easy navigation with a wheelchair. Great place to enjoy the sunshine and get some exercise!
The Abled Traveler — Google review
This national monument is so clean. The staff is super friendly. Water in the water fountains was not cold much to our dismay after the long trek up kil devil hill in the heat. The monument is very beautiful, but getting there is rough. If you are in a wheelchair, use a cane or crutches while "accessible" it is unlikely you will get yourself to the top without help.
The visitor center was picturesque. Friendly staff. They held a learning opportunity under a large white tent due to heat.
Jenifer Wittman — Google review
Pretty cool memorial. The visitor center is very informative. Staffed with knowledgeable park rangers. The exhibits inside and out are very well done. The markers displaying how far they flew in the first flights are awesome. They have a path so you can try to beat the distance and time.
Paul Stephens — Google review
Incredibly well done memorial and park honoring an amazing story and some truly great engineers and inventors. The museum is very entertaining and educational. It was thrilling to walk the path of our first flight.
Arcavore — Google review
An amazing national park that does a great job of explaining the history of flight and the Wright Brothers. The hill walk is nice, the monument is quite large, and there are exhibits that offer something for different age groups throughout each part of the park.
M Z — Google review
It was insanely windy (we went end of April and knew it was going to be cold but still!) and a good climb to the top but anyone can walk to the memorial at the top of the big hill. It’s a driveable loop around that memorial with some informational plaques places around the loop and some public bathrooms. There’s also an indoors museum where you can take refuge from the wind and learn about all the gliders they made and the successes and failures the Wright brothers endured. About 3 times a day, the museum will have a live informational “show” where they’ll go up to the replica and talk about the history of the Wright family.
Kate Lelegren — Google review
This was a surreal moment for me. As a pilot, coming here and learning about how it all started, the ups and downs of their efforts and all they have contributed to aviation was amazing. Loved seeing the rock markers of each of the 4 first flights, the memorial and the statues of the first flight were great. I recommend spending at least 4 hours here to be able to read everything and walk the grounds. There is plenty of parking, clean bathrooms and a water refill station here.
James Kitahara — Google review
A lot to learn about the trials and tribulations that was involved with humans learning to fly. The overall site has a lot of walking and steep hills to see the monument but everything is accessible. You might need assistance getting up the hills as the slope exceeds ADA guidelines. The park rangers here are very helpful and willing to answer any questions you may have. There is a decent view of the site and kill devil hills from the monument.
John Van Riper — Google review
Great stop! The museum had some interesting exhibits and the grounds were a walk through the Wright brothers' adventure. The climb to the monument was a little challenging for older folks, but the view was so worth it!
Robin North — Google review
This place was awesome! The museum was very nice and the staff were well informed on the history.
The grounds are beautiful. You can walk the runway from the first flight. There is a monument on top of the dune where they flew gliders before trying a motorized aircraft.
You really shouldn't go to the OBX without seeing this place.
Mike J — Google review
I was able to get in for free thanks to being with some seniors who had a park pass, but I’m rating this like I had to pay full price. The admission was $10 per person, which seems excessive for what was available. There is a small museum, and rangers available to give a 30 minute tour. Our group lost interest in the ranger tour about half way in, and did their own thing. This is essentially a big open field with a few monuments depicting where the Wright brothers took off and landed, as well as a hanger and a hanger they converted to their living quarters. There is also a huge memorial at the top of the hill. The memorial was the best part, as it gave outstanding views of the surrounding area.
If I had to pay full price, I would have been upset at what was there. It might be worth taking kids there as an educational experience, but you have to pay per person, not per car (as I am used to with National Parks).
There is maybe an hour worth of entertainment here if you really take your time. I would definitely not recommend going out of your way to visit.
Dan — Google review
Such a fun outing. Ample parking, clearly marked paths and great air conditioning and restrooms. This would be a great place to bring children, there are many opportunities to run and discover. The gift shop was neatly filled with appropriate treasures- books, postcards, shirts, maps and trinkets for all.
The park ranger, Adonis, gave a lively storytelling inside the building which we thoroughly enjoyed. We walked to all the sites outside and the view from the monument atop Big Kill Devil Hill is beautiful, you can see the sea. I’m a grandmother and I learned plenty I didn’t already know! Super fun ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
lara mijatovich — Google review
There’s nothing like this place with a ranger tour to make the first flight and the history of aviation to come alive! With all the books I’ve read on flying, nothing did as much as this to make it visceral. Cannot recommend enough!
Chadwick Brewer — Google review
Excellent stop for any flight, history or NC enthusiast. NC is famous for two types of flight…
1. Orville and Wilbur and their first successful flight with a manned powered aircraft.
2. Michael Jordan
Stop by this monument to see an awesome view, especially for sunrises or sunsets!
We visited in late December it was chilly and very windy.
M Dean — Google review
An absolute must visit but very ready for a mild hike to the top. The museum is also a must see with a theater. You can also receive a unique stamp for the national state parks. Such a beautiful view from the top of the monument. Dogs are welcome on the grounds but not inside the museum.
Wendy George — Google review
Very cool piece of history. It was super windy so we didn't walk out to the memorial but the visitor center was fun to walk through. Lots of information and there was a presentation by a very knowledgeable staff member about the plane and how it worked.
Jeanie Knox — Google review
Visited in October 2014—an interesting piece of local and aviation history. In a nutshell: On December 17, 1903, the Wright Brothers achieved a monumental feat in aviation history with the first powered, controlled flight of a heavier-than-air aircraft. This inaugural flight lasted 12 seconds, covered 120 feet (approximately 36.6 meters), reached a top speed of 6.8 miles per hour (about 10.9 kilometers per hour), and attained an altitude of approximately 10 feet (around 3 meters).
Jan Rosenberg — Google review
As visitors to the area from the Dayton, OH area we had to stop at this memorial and check it out. I’m so glad we did - it was a wonderful visit. Climbing the hill to the memorial helps you understand why the Wright brothers came so far to make their first flight - they needed that elevation and the warm air off the water. The memorial is beautiful and the visitors’ center is super informative!
Jen McKinney — Google review
An amazing experience. You get to walk in the footsteps of aviation giants. The museum takes about an hour if you read every display and take your time. The gift shop is small but has some great memorabilia. The hike up the hill to get to the monument is long but it's worth the view.
Mark — Google review
Soar through history at the Wright Brothers National Memorial! This iconic landmark in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, isn't just a monument, it's an immersive experience into the lives and achievements of the aviation pioneers.
Prepare for liftoff: Be aware that the monument sits atop Kill Devil Hill, so comfortable shoes and a willingness to climb are essential. The reward? Breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the very spot where the Wright brothers made history.
Beyond the granite: While the 60-foot granite monument is impressive, the true gems lie within the Wright Brothers Visitor Center. Interactive exhibits bring their story to life, showcasing their meticulous experiments, countless failures, and ultimate triumph.
Step back in time: Explore the reconstructed 1903 hangar where they built their flying machine, and peek inside their original living quarters. Imagine their dedication and perseverance as you stand on the very ground where they launched their dreams.
Juan Luis Gutierrez — Google review
I visited here at the end of November. There was a lot of crowd. The ranger gave nice explanations with props. The tour has 3 parts.
1. Ranger: Explain the history and significance of the Wright brothers. This is valuable info for 4th and up children.
2. Museum: It's nice with lots of information. All you need is some inquisitive mind about aerospace and history. A wonderful combination of science+history+geography.
3. Statue/Memorial: A giant memorial for wright brothers on top of a hill.
The information board is well written and spaced. The first flight attempts are well recorded and marked by stones.
Standing here you can really feel their excitement, hard work, efforts, sense of failure and achievement.
Archie — Google review
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1000 N Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948, USA
The Duck Town Park Boardwalk is a scenic and enjoyable park located in the town of Duck. It features a mile-long boardwalk that runs along the sound, connecting various restaurants, marshes, and forests. The boardwalk is an ideal spot for exercise as you take in the beautiful coastal views and explore local shops. Apart from strolling along the boardwalk, visitors can also go on walking tours to learn more about the area's history and environment.
This was an awesome find in the little town of Duck. While it's a smaller park, the kids had a blast and it's well shaded. The boardwalk itself is a fantastic way to get some exercise, while walking along the coastline and checking out the local shops. Highly recommend it!
Shanah Bell — Google review
Excellent well maintained boardwalk. We are here towards the end of the season and only found one loose board while we were walking. The boardwalk loops around all of the shops in the area and is an absolutely perfect place to catch sunset. If you’re in the area I recommend checking it out!
John Van Riper — Google review
Very pretty place to walk around. Large boardwalk goes all along the shops. Husband's - take your bride and spend the day. . . She'll love it.
Kevin P — Google review
Duck town Park was excellent. Watched a movie in the park on movie night. They had a table set up for anyone who wanted to use bug and mosquito repellent spray. It was a great evening. And the caretakers were awesome. They made sure everything was just right!
Damac (U. S. Traveler) — Google review
Loved the Boardwalk. The walking tour that we were able to sign up for was informative. We will visit the boardwalk and sound again.
Lisa Remsen — Google review
An awesome place to experience nature..The shops we may be able to see another time..but our trip in March to the boardwalk did not disappoint.
If you have health issues be sure to find places to use the restroom before you go. As not many businesses allow the public to use the restroom.
While on our walk we did the Duck Donuts verses Donuts on a Stick comparison. My son preferred Duck Donuts while my husband prefers Donuts on s stick. If yall love sweets, why not try both.
We were able to see cool scenes and awesome birds. If you are a nature lover, I encourage you to protect yourself from the sun and experience this trek. And the benches that allow you to rest and just relax while enjoying nature allow even those with physical challenges to enjoy the boardwalk.
Denise Harrington — Google review
Great views. Free but expect to spend a little money at the connected shops and restaurants. Lots of good deals for tourists.
Aric Pennington — Google review
Nice long boardwalk on the Currituck sound in OBX! There are lots of shops and restaurants along the boardwalk. There's also a cute playground for kids not far off of it. Part of the boardwalk goes right over the sound where you can sometimes spot turtles and birds. There's also a very nice public restroom located right off of the boardwalk. Definitely worth stopping by if you're visiting the outer banks.
Crystal Martirano — Google review
Definitely recommend. Nice and quiet. Many choices for snacks or a full meal. Nice scenery.
Kay Kay — Google review
The boardwalk follows the sound side of the island through the town park, much of the shopping area and town center. There are well maintained restrooms nearby. If you take your time tehre is a lot of wildlife to see. There are some signs but it would be nice if there was a little more effort put into pointing out and explaining nature -- flora, fauna and the interaction of the water and land. Photos are large driftwood, a crab hunting tadpoles, a frog and a turtle.
Michael Richards — Google review
Wonderful walk that changes with the time of the day and season! The path connects a series of very nice shops, restaurants and even a playground in Duck. You can spend 25mins to hours(!) strolling around the town. Each time you come back, you will discover something new.
The Whalehead Club is a restored 1920s mansion located on Currituck Sound. It boasts vintage furnishings and offers guided tours to visitors. Although it was designed as a Hunt club, it was never actually used for that purpose. The property also includes a modern museum/theater, a historical village, and an exhibit of old boats used in the area.
Such a neat place. You are also right next to the Lighthouse so you can knock two sights out with one trip. Did not do the tour but I had a blast wandering around the grounds and reading the signage.
M.K. Productions — Google review
This beautiful piece of American History hearkened back to Newport, Rhode Island and all that went with it. The house was beautifully appointed. The docents were well versed in all the history. This was well worth the trip and the modest price of admission. No photos are permitted inside. But the decor! Oh my goodness, decadent and unique.
Linda Dickman — Google review
We absolutely loved photographing Mimi & Ryan’s wedding at Whalehead Club! The staff on site are super friendly and accommodating and this location is truly incredible! We lucked out with the most perfect sunset which led into a truly gorgeous evening under the tent. We can’t wait to photograph here again!!
Ryan Moser (Ryan & Rach Photography) — Google review
We enjoyed our self-guided tour through whalehead club and the other displays on the same general property we're surprised that the whalehead club never was actually used as a Hunt club though it was designed to be used as such also there were many other Hunt clubs in the general area
In addition to the whalehead club there is also a modern museum / theater on property as well as a historical village and a museum of many of the old boats used in the area
We did pay a small fee to tour the wellhead club but the rest of the property was free although I think there may have been a fee to go up in the lighthouse if it were open
Charles Gulley — Google review
A beautiful and interesting place. A huge home built by a very rich family when the area was barely developed. Take the house tour it is worth the small charge. Visit the 1800s church and see the lighthouse and grounds.
Virgil Otto — Google review
Wonderful place to get out and walk around to see the views of the Currituck sound and to experience some nature
Lewis Kimmel — Google review
Beautiful park with wonderful sunsets.
Plenty of places to walk around and explore. Great for photos. Lighthouse is within walking distance.
I have been coming here for years and never took the opportunity to explore this area. Well worth a visit.
Lots of birds in area. Even saw a bald eagle.
Nik Kei — Google review
Our experience here was awful. 2 friends of mine just got engaged here. When the photographer arrived, the tour guide was made aware of the proposal that was about to happen. She was immediately very rude. When our small party arrived, we alerted the guide to the surprise as well. She was very hostile towards us all, truly with no just cause other than bitterness. Irene, said tour guide, went as far as tell the *bride to be* that we were not able to be on the grounds for the “proposal”, as well as mentioning the hidden photographers. She nearly ruined the surprise in a very classless display of disregard for such a special moment. Upon discussing the issue with the tour guide and manager, none of the employees apologized for their actions. This business is marketed AS a venue for proposals and weddings, and I would highly recommend against giving them your business.
Sarah Scalero — Google review
Great park with boardwalk and soundfront areas to explore. Historical footbridge over the water leading to the boathouse is very picturesque. Ample parking. The maritime museum adjacent to it has the nicest public restrooms I have ever seen. Great area to go birding.
Edward Lizewski — Google review
Really neat place to visit with a ton of architectural detail. The audio tour is great and very detailed. My biggest complaint is that they made it incredibly clear they absolutely did not want children present in the building. They advertise children under 5 are free, but the staff in the building stopped us at the door when we tried to bring our kids in. We still brought our children through, but it was clearly evident with how they chased us through the building the children were not welcome.
Joe P — Google review
Lovely place, pleasant place to walk around and view the water. Decent art show there today; some very talented artists present. The nearby historic village is also worth a visit.
Innes Ferguson — Google review
Loved the history here. Beautifully well taken care of and being updated even more. Plenty to see in this park.
Stewart — Google review
Beautifully tranquil setting, amazing mansion with a fascinating history!
Matt Gatlin — Google review
We come here every year to see the sunset, I’ve never been inside when this is open, but it is in a well-kept, park, scenic, picturesque, park. definitely come for the sunset
Matt Dell — Google review
We went over for the evening tour and it was a great evening. Weather was great and the tour was exceptional. The history of the property and owner was very interesting. We have talked with friends who have not done the tour yet so we will be going again next year. My wife had the privilege of going in the building years ago before any remodeling! She described the condition of the piano at that time and was pleasantly surprised to see the quality of restoration. It was very informative evening. Looking forward to next year's tour.
anthony smith — Google review
In May of 2023, my family and I vacationed in Kitty Hawk and had Whalehead Club on our agenda for the week. When we arrived there we fell in love with the place and ended up spending the entire day in the park.
A house tour, a museum tour, walking the beautiful grounds and crabbing the inland harbor were enough to whisk away an entire day and still leaving other attractions unattended.
While back in the area on a business trip in October I used a free day to go back to Whalehead Club for a second look. I can’t get enough of this place.
Whalehead Club deserves a place on your vacation agenda. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.
Wesley Davis — Google review
Great place to stop if you are in the corolla area. It is kid friendly, the lighthouse is neat, and the boat ramp there is ideal for kayaks, jet skis, or small boats with a shallow draft. The surrounding waters can be pretty shallow so be careful in motorized boats.
The Currituck Beach Lighthouse, established in 1873, is a brick structure featuring a staircase with 220 steps. Visitors can enjoy exhibits and purchase souvenirs from the gift shop. The grounds are well-maintained and also offer stunning views. This historical landmark is a great attraction for those interested in history and architecture. Additionally, the lighthouse features a charming wooden porch furnished with rocking chairs that provide a relaxing atmosphere to visitors.
Beautiful NC Lighthouse! It is a great one to climb. Very accessible with landings and hand rails. $12 cost of entry. Grounds are well maintained with a parking lot fairly close to the entrance. The gift shop has nifty memorabilia. This is a must visit attraction in NC.
Sherri Barham — Google review
A beautiful brick lighthouse that you can tour! They charge $12 to climb to the top. A 220 step spiral staircase with landings every 20 or so steps (handy for climbing breaks) takes you to the top & back. The views from the top are breathtaking! As was the wind the day we visited. 💨 Don't miss the souvenir shop or nearby boat museum (free).
William McCurdy — Google review
This historic lighthouse is managed by a nonprofit and is amazingly well preserved and cared for. The grounds are beautiful and accessible from a nearby free parking lot with very nice clean restrooms adjacent to the maritime museum. It does cost $13 to climb the tower. The keepers house is not open to the public, but the small keepers quarter is open as a very well-stocked gift shop. The lighthouse is surrounded by live oak had pine forest, and is not fully viewable until you are very close. Then, photo opportunities are plentiful. The view from the top is truly amazing of the ocean and Currituck Sound. Interpretive signage is plentiful and very informative. This is truly a low cost and must-see OBX attraction.
LR P — Google review
Spent 4 days and 3 nights at this Inn. The staff were so pleasant. There was the cutest people in the office. The Inn and grounds were exceptionally clean, we had a king suite. The room as huge, with a kitchenette, a small table with a leaf, 2 chairs. The bathroom was a nice size. The bed was comfortable, pillows were a bit hard. A typical continental breakfast is served from 8am-10am. Would absolutely stay here again.
Raine — Google review
Awesome place to visit and see an older age construction of the lighthouse. Quite a few steps to the top, but was well worth it. There are several landing and stopping points with history on the wall to learn from and take a rest from the climb. The area itself is just fabulous. Give it a visit. You won’t be disappointed!!
Damac (U. S. Traveler) — Google review
Awesome and thankful that it’s been maintained as it was from day 1. Awesome climb up and the views are second to none. Should offer discounts to seniors/military to attract more locals to experience it first hand.
Southwest Speed LLC — Google review
Was glad the hours were extended to 8pm on summer season. Jill the lady in charge of the tickets has been very gracious in answering our questions regarding the landmark. The climb was not too bad, just take your time to ascend, and you will be rewarded with a breath taking view of the surrounding area. It was very windy at top
Ed R — Google review
It shouldn't be so much to walk up the lighthouse, but I understand they need money to keep it preserved and to pay for the boat museum next door. I am thankful that we got to go.
There was a line, even before opening at 9 but we had a fun time. I would go again when my kids are older if they were interested.
You can see so much from the top but it is hard to feel like you can linger long since you know a whole line of people is waiting at the bottom.
Jennifer Martin — Google review
This is a beautiful lighthouse, but if you have mobility issues, nothing there is very accessible. Because it falls under historical laws, they are not required to make it accessible. The sidewalks are uneven brick, and even the gift shop has a very steep staircase that was hard for my 70 year old mom to get up. Unfortunately there is only 1 handicapped parking spot, and we were forced to park next to the garbage cans. It is unfortunate that they don't attempt at all to make it easier for people to at least view the lighthouse easier and access shopping there.
angela baldwin — Google review
Great history, awesome climb and stunning views. Also the grounds are fantastic and they have THE BEST gift shop on the OBX. Along with a charming wooden porch with rocking chairs. Loved this place
Dan Blevins — Google review
This is currently the only lighthouse on the outer banks you can walk up to and climb without a reservation. Actually you cant make advanced reservations at all. The hardest part is actually getting to the lighthouse as it is on the most northern end of the outer banks as traffic can build up in Duck during the tourist season (Summer). To avoid the traffic mess I recommend coming up early in the morning (Like before 8am). Don't try to take an alternative way as traffic backs up on the neighborhood streets as well. Choosing the wrong time to visit can increase your drive time up to an hour. Use google maps to best judge traffic build up. The lighthouse itself is easy to climb with landings to stop on and rest. The building is well ventilated with fans on most landings during hot weather. The staff is friendly. A museum shop is located next to the lighthouse and has some nice items for sale. Parking maybe hard to find during busy times. There are lots of other things to do in the area including visiting other historical buildings or seeing the Currituck Maritime Museum at the base of the lighthouse.
Andrew White — Google review
This is a wonderful historical destination. The lighthouse is one of the few that still allows you to climb the stairs inside. Across the grass from the lighthouse are several historical buildings as well as an information center with the history of the lighthouse and buildings. It is a beautiful property to wander around with the kids and pets as well. (Just remember to clean up after them).
J Pagan — Google review
Get there early; the line seems to grow as the day goes.
To help with the flow of people they only let a few groups in at a time.
Climb was 220 steps -spiral steps & 9 platform landing.
Seemed like an easy climb. But your speed up is at the mercy of the group in front of you.
Its windy at the top - good views up there!
Robert — Google review
The line was long, but once you got inside, it felt like you had the place to yourself. When we got to the top, we were the only ones up there. We were able to walk around the top of the lighthouse with unobstructed views. When we got there, the line was at the back of the brick walkway, and It took us 40 minutes to get our turn. It went pretty fast, I thought. The store was cute and had a lot of things to purchase. We walked to the museum afterwards and checked out the views at the park. I took my 2 kids, who are 10 and 12. We had to stop a few times on our way up, but there were fans on the landings so we could catch our breath and cool off.
Lauren Oliveira — Google review
This is a beautiful lighthouse. I did not go to the top but they did let me in to get pictures. It is $12 to get in. There is also a really nice gift shop that I loved and a museum. Only issue is the museum is closed on the weekends. The surrounding area around the waterfront is beautiful too.
Karen — Google review
Great day climbing this lighthouse on Wednesday 12/27/23. $10 per person, must sign a waiver to climb. Great adrenaline rush at the top balcony of this lighthouse!!!
Allysa Robinson — Google review
Such a beautiful lighthouse! We did not climb the stairs to go to the top, but we are planning to in the future. I believe it is $12 per person to enter and climb to the top (there was little to no wait to enter the lighthose while ee were there). Walking around the grounds is free. Their gift shop is adorable and one of the historic buildings.
Kara C — Google review
This lighthouse is located in Corolla, Beach North Carolina in the Outer Banks. It is a fun, family, friendly lighthouse that encourages you to learn more about the local history. Nearby is amazing views, and a barbecue restaurant that is highly sought after this small town at the northern part of the island is one of the hidden gems of North Carolina.
Marc Sierra — Google review
The Currituck Beach Lighthouse was built in 1875 and is the only one in the state where the original brick remains unpainted. For a climb to the top it's best to arrive early to avoid the crowds. It's 220 steps up to the catwalk, and I had it all to myself to enjoy what can be described as spectacular views. The surrounding grounds were shaded and peaceful.
Charles Pinney — Google review
What a beautiful place! Great place to have a picnic also. Would definitely go back
COLLEEN PRALL-EMM — Google review
An intense walk up to the top of the lighthouse, but so worth it. The panoramic views of the area were amazing. As one walks up the spiral staircase it is nice to.take a break at each of the landings to catch one's breath. A very impressive and majestic brick lighthouse.
Carova, an unincorporated locality in the far northeastern region of North Carolina, is situated on Currituck Banks and was established during the 1960s. Bodie Island lies to its south, and it can only be reached by four-wheel drive cars or boats.
4.5
(372)
North Carolina, USA
9
Museum of the Albemarle
Museum
Non-profit organization
Regional history is showcased at this sprawling museum featuring an 18th-century farmhouse.
A quiet weekday visit, docents available to enlighten and discuss the history here, of these shores that were among the first to host early European settlers.
Jack “aka Richard” Graber — Google review
This was my first time visiting and it was interesting. I liked the Native American exhibit and the school artwork down the hall on the main floor. Women's History was informative and the female inventors were very nice to see. I was greated by Ms. Susan when I walked in who gave me directions to the different exhibits in which I took the time to look through everything. Upstairs the two ladies greated me and asked if I had any questions. They seemed more than willing to answer any questions that I may have had. After the High off the Hog exhibit I knew what I was going to eat for lunch.
Bran-Ds Gardn N Thangz — Google review
This museum was well worth the long drive and visit. It took us about 3 hours to see everything and there was a section that was closed off.
In addition to the regular sections of the museum they had special exhibit on the contributions of women and one called High on the Hog which was about the history of slaughtering and processing pigs. It was really interesting. Aside from those there was a section on the history of Native Americans as well as the history of the area.
The museum is fully accessible and has benches throughout. I was able to easily navigate it with my scooter. One thing that was disappointing was the first floor bathroom. There was a handicap sign on the outside but no handicap stall inside. Then when I looked a little further I found a door that said “nursing room”, when I looked inside there was a handicap toilet set up. It was strange.
The staff here are really nice and helpful. The gift shop was really nice, I spent way too much in there. I was also able to buy gifts from the local area.
Take the time to enjoy this gem of a museum!
Cat Lady — Google review
This is our second time back to this local Museum. First time we went was pre-covid for a program which the kids had a blast at. This time was a random rainy day decision. We brought our two daughters, ages 11 and 4, to view the local history and see what's new. The museum itself is free, donation bin available and focuses mostly on local history and artifacts found from the region, but also has other exhibits that they switch out from other areas, in this case it was artifacts found in ancient middle east.
What made this visit special is that not only is the building clean and fun to walk around, but the people who work there are informative and will stop and take the time to talk with you, whether for information on the exhibits or local area, programs coming up, and a good conversation. We were even surprised to learn that this museum has a local archeologist whom we were able to speak with for a few minutes. You might think it is silly for us to be excited about that, however my oldest wants to be an archeologist and a geologist when she grows up, so her meeting this wonderful woman who talked about what she has done in her life and how to get there was like my daughter met a famous person. Her excitement when we left couldn't be contained. We were also told about a teen volunteer program within the museum in which I will be asking questions on later, as I have a very interested girl.
I'm happy that a rainy day decision became something more enjoyable than expected. Thank you!
Felicia L — Google review
Great place to start your visit. There's no charge to get in, but they take donations. The museum has a little shop inside.
Restrooms are clean, elevator available, wheelchair ramp outside the building. There's Spanish guide available.
Elizabeth City it's very small, but you can walk to Seven Sounds Brewery, and there are a couple of restaurants to walking distance. Free parking available across the museum.
J S — Google review
Had a really good time visiting the museum today. Enjoyed looking at and learning all about the different history around the area.
Patricia Ahart — Google review
Amazing history. I love every moment of it. I want to give good advice and ask the staff which have a rich knowledge of the museum and area, make sure to get there when it 1st opens it is very time consuming!
Nick Moore — Google review
All around great museum for our area. If you love history and just a good time walking around with interesting exhibits, check it out. Staff is very helpful, building is nice and inviting. Good for anyone to come by and learn a few things. Make sure to find out what events and displays are coming, you'll love it all.
Chef Drizzt — Google review
It was raining so today was perfect to go inside and learn..I loved it also the volunteers were wonderful kind and helpful.the museum was very clean...
Lisa Mosher — Google review
Take a quick pop-in if it's your first visit to the area. I expected a larger display regarding the indigenous tribes of the area. I found this one very small in comparison to their relevance.
Sandbridge is a serene coastal community situated in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Nestled along the Currituck Banks Peninsula at the northern end of the Outer Banks, this beach offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. It is located in front of a residential area, providing visitors with a peaceful and relaxing environment to enjoy the natural beauty of its coastline.
4.5
(1487)
Virginia Beach, VA, USA
I'll never travel to Richmond without this trip planner again
The Military Aviation Museum in Sandbridge, VA boasts one of the worlds largest private collections of WWI- and WWII era military aircraft. These planes have been repaired to their former glory and allow visitors to experience a flight in an authentic WWII plane. With breathtaking views of Virginia Beach, this is a must-do activity in the area this weekend.
Wow, what a beautiful little museum. The workers/volunteers were such a joy to interact with. It was was great to see people who enjoy working there. They were also quite knowledgeable about the planes they had in the exhibits. Definitely something to check out if you are interested in military aviation. Also great for most children.
Karcs B — Google review
Excellent experience! Docents are very knowledgeable, entertaining even! Nice that they point out the genuine restored aircraft and the replicas. Display aircraft are easy to photograph and the main hangars are open to explore. The tour of the British control tower and the German hangar were very good.
I would recommend anyone visiting the Hampton Roads area make it a point to visit.
Kurt Z — Google review
Amazing! Very friendly and knowledgeable staff! You can tell they love what they do and are very proud of this museum! One of the best and most interesting places I’ve been to!
I went for my dad, who sadly can’t withstand the long trip it takes for us to get to VA Beach. He’s always wanted to go somewhere like this. So I decided to go in order to take photos and videos for him to see all the aircrafts and their history. He’s very excited to see them when I go back home! Thank you for helping me share this experience with him!
Unfortunately, I didn’t know you could reserve a ride in one of their restored planes before going, but I guess that just gives me a reason to come back for another visit so I can take to skies! It was amazing to watch the plane take off!
KC — Google review
This was a really nice place to visit while we were in Virginia Beach. They've got a huge collection of planes from WWI and WWII and also some other vehicles. I think it was well worth the cost of admission. The museum has helpful and knowledgeable volunteers that are happy to give you info if you'd like. There is a little gift shop that has some cool souvenirs.
David Phillips — Google review
If you are interested in planes, this is the place for you!!!! This museum is perfect for all ages, from young kids to adults. Here, you can get up close with a variety of planes (and other important military artifacts)
The volunteers here are very nice and informative. It's clear they love being there and educating others. I'll definitely be back!!
Emily Trunk — Google review
There are few places that I've gone to that have as much efficient and effective information presented to individuals who have come. The tour guide was extremely helpful, encouraging, and knowledgeable. The planes were absolutely gorgeous in their historical presentation. The gift store was abundant in options. It was clean and.
Beautiful. Well worth the time.
Will Lohnes — Google review
One of the best displays of WWI and II aircraft I’ve ever seen. Tour guides were very knowledgeable and understood what drove the development of each aircraft. Expected to do a quick 1+ hour tour and stayed for almost 4 hours. The detail of the restorations are unmatched. Well worth the visit.
Michael Hrycyk — Google review
The museum is very well run and the tour guides are friendly and extremely knowledgeable. Our guide, Warren, an Army veteran, was absolutely wonderful. You could tell how much he loved his job. Many of the planes are still flyable. Overall, it was extremely informative and well worth the cost of admission. If you do go, make sure to leave time to do the guided tour to the other areas (it's free with admission).
Kelli Hale — Google review
A nice museum with very helpful and knowledgeable staff and volunteers. We got to see the museum plus 4 hangars: international, navy, world war I, and German world war II. The signage could be a little clearer but volunteers were eager to answer any questions. We also saw some planes take off. If you book ahead of time, you can take a ride in a plane for about $200 depending on the plane and length of time. It's hot in the summer so bring some water and a fan!
Irene Williams — Google review
This place was hidden from the center city of Virginia Beach. Maybe 20 to 25 minutes trip but the tour was nice. There was also a tour guide at the exhibits explaining to us all the tools and equipment used during the war. We may have not have seen the rest to the historic planes due to temperature in the building but still it was worth the trip.
Jun S. — Google review
What a collection! Appreciated the volunteers and the stories! The care of restoring these pieces of history was outstanding. Photos on the wall in the Army room showed airplanes in original condition. We were treated to a tour of the British Air Tower. That guide let the young boys wind up the air raid vs gas raid alarms. First time I ever heard either in person thankfully & hopefully the last! Well worth the $12 donation for military visitors
Nancy Caggia — Google review
We had a wonderful visit at the military aviation museum today! We took our tour with Warren, who was very knowledgeable. He made sure to include our children in his presentation and it made the experience fun for the entire family. I would definitely recommend this museum to anyone interested in learning about the history of our military in aviation!
Jennifer Eberle — Google review
Volunteers made this place worth it! Ladies at the register weren't all that friendly but got past that once the volunteers told us many many stories and answered all of our questions. My 9 yr old son really enjoyed this place. I even quizzed the kids on the trip off this museum. The hanger tour is a must also!!
CeCe C. — Google review
Great collection of aircraft from all time frames.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff.
You're able to get up close and actually look at the aircraft, unlike most museums. Absolutely love coming here.
Unfortunately, a large section of their collection is locked away down the road on campus. You are given a "guided" tour, which a tour guide kinda rushes you through 3 additional areas (that i could spend a lot of time by myself in). The last time I was here in 2016, these areas didn't have enough staff to take you through the day we went back then, but I'm glad we did get to see all of it this trip.
Taylor Leturgey — Google review
Absolutely loved this experience! Great history and if you get a chance talk to the volunteers that are veterans they are a wealth of knowledge! We would come back again and again! Definitely one of the biggest highlights to Virginia Beach!
amy abang — Google review
Incredible collection of vintage and replica military airplanes in like-new condition. The tour guides and docents we met were all veterans. They were very friendly and knowledgeable about the collection. Among the many highlights are an authentic WW II German aircraft hangar and a British control tower. Both were dismantled in Europe, then reconstructed and restored here to look just as they had during the war.
This place is a treasure of military aeronautical history. I highly recommend it!
Jeff Burns — Google review
Love this place I recommend if you have time to go. If you are into military aviation then this is the place for you. They have a total of 5 buildings that you can see all different type of military aircraft’s that where used in war. The volunteers were all very nice and helpful with any questions me or my family had. I’m from New Jersey so I don’t get time to explore history like this very often. If you get an opportunity to go I would definitely recommend you to go. They also displayed new mowers that were robots. That was pretty interesting to witness but also cool. The parking was spacious on both ends of the property. Sometimes during the year you can come and experience a flight on one of the old aircraft. They also had a gift shop with lots of accessories you could buy for a loved one of for a souvenir. In the main building they have to floors. One being the main floor which holds the aircraft’s and the gift shop with a little of the vehicles they used.The second held all of the old uniforms they used and fought in. This place is a once in a lifetime experience and I have a lot of memories to bring home to my family.
Cody — Google review
Wow, what an amazing collection of vintage and replica military aircraft. Even more incredible is a lot of them still fly. The staff is incredibly kind and equally passionate about sharing the history and specifics of every plane we had questions about.
We weren't sure how long we'd spend here, but at the end of the day, we ticked in 6+ hours.
The only hiccup we had was in grabbing lunch. There is a snack machine on site with a limited selection, but needing something more substantial, we went with a tip from an MAM employee and drove to Pungo Boys BBQ for lunch - then returned to the museum.
What a fantastic day among the planes!
Back Packer — Google review
This place is a Gem. What a great museum. Very well maintained and clean. The planes and other exhibits are incredible and most of them still fly. They have a very strict rule, don't touch the airplanes. After seeing them and understanding you can't get replacement parts for them, you understand why they don't allow touching them. Probably not a good idea to bring young kids who might be disappointed finding out they can't climb on or get in the planes.
The staff are outstanding and very professional. The knowledge these retired military pilots have that they share with you is incredible and they're all volunteers. They answered every question with details you wouldn't think of. They gave us a tour of all the hangers with the planes and explained everything about them. They were very very polite and friendly and so happy to share their experiences with you. I would highly recommend visiting this place.
My wife and I are planning on returning in spring when the weather is a little warmer. Hopefully I'll be able to take a flight in the 1941 biplane.
David L Clarke — Google review
This was my second time visiting this museum - it’s gotta be my favorite air museum of all time, to me arguably even better than the air and space museum in DC! They have so many aircraft ranging all the way from WW1 to the Korean War (and further if you count the A1 Skyraider serving in Vietnam). The ticket price of $17 was very reasonable for any aircraft enthusiasts (my friends who were with me are not nearly as into aviation history as me - not sure it was as worth it for them but I dragged them along anyway). The aircraft here are in largely pristine condition, and even when there’s work being done on them the employees are able to tell the fascinating stories behind the wild amounts of service some of these aircraft have been through that led to them needing maintenance now. I unfortunately wasn’t able to come here on a day when they were flying some of these birds, it was very rainy on the day we came so wasn’t expecting them to. Don’t forget to go to the WW1 and Luftwaffe hangars - I saw the Luftwaffe hangar for the first time during my second visit and it did not disappoint. There’s so many fascinating and wild stories behind the intention in the design of these aircraft and it’s so intriguing how the circumstances of the wars they were in influenced their design and manufacturing. All around would highly recommend visiting here!
Jeremy — Google review
There are many warbirds here to see and plenty of friendly staff to help you see them all and teach you plenty. Make sure you visit their WW1 hangar, the architecture of the building itself is just stunning. If you time your visit right too you might witness some flights of the birds or glimpse peaks at their abundant restoration work. Make a visit, the dinosaur park at the entrance is also a nice plus.
James Rouse — Google review
Fantastic museum. We really enjoyed our visit. All of the staff were very nice and so knowledgeable! I would recommend this place to everyone. It would be a great place to bring your family to see history in person!
kel dud — Google review
I have been here twice for navy work related events. One being my re-enlistment and the other a pinning of a master chief I had the privilege to work under his great leadership & guidance. Both times I went, there were a great amount of displays in the Navy Hanger and the staff were so accommodating, made everything an easy process and very kind. They have a cute metal dinosaur park attraction off the main road as well near the entrance which makes it a neat little stop.
Gaemme Orduno — Google review
Rained out day Sandbridge beach. Found this museum by chance. What a find! Facility is awesome. Veteran tour guides are friendly and knowledgeable. Price is reasonable given what is on site. Facility can handle a lot of people so crowding was not an issue on a rainy day. Highly recommend regardless of weather. We visited with 3 young kids no problem.
Kevin O'Meara — Google review
Great place to look at American and German military combat artifacts. Don Johnston, the tour guide is a walking history book! He should be more friendly to his guests.
Genise White — Google review
4.8
(2858)
•
5.0
(1455)
1341 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23457, USA
The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center is a top tourist spot in Virginia Beach that focuses on marine life from the past and present. With an IMAX theater, boat tour, and aviary, this aquarium is perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about the ocean creatures living in Virginia Beach.
I found this to be a fun and educational aquarium well worth my time. I am a NC resident and decided to take a day trip to explore the Virginia Aquarium. The staff here was warm, friendly, and eager to share information to enhance my experience. I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the boardwalk and learning about oyster beds and reefs and the efforts to restore and protect them. There are quite a few large tanks here, each with different offerings, and more than one touch tank. I did not take the whale watching boat tour but I will come back to participate in the experience. I spent more than two hours here and still did not take in all that the aquarium had to offer. I also really appreciated that the gift shop had a large selection of eco-friendly options and things made by local artists. This was a trip well worth my time, and I look forward to returning with friends.
Charles Nye — Google review
Lovely aquarium. $25 for ages 12+, $20 for ages 3-11.
Lots of parking in front lot, but there is a $5 fee (pay at muni-meter).
At this time, reservations are required. We were lucky enough to show up at around 12 pm on a Wednesday and get a 1 pm reservation…as we didn’t know and didn’t book in advance. Masks are NOT required throughout the aquarium.
The beginning portion of the aquarium did get very crowded as it is a narrow pathway through a few exhibits, including the glass aquarium tunnel…when you consider tons of kids and parents taking a gazillion photos, this stretch of the aquarium can get chaotic at times…even with the timed reservations.
After that area though…there is more than enough space to explore at your leisure. Lots of interesting and well-thought-out exhibits…be sure to look and read everything. There is so much to learn.
The entire aquarium is well-kept and maintained. All staff were very nice and helpful.
I highly recommend the aquarium to those of all ages.
Jason Persaud — Google review
Great aquarium!! Tickets were 29.95$/adult and 25.95$/youth. The shop was so cute- so many cute souvenirs, I got a glass turtle for 32$ which is good deal!! I had such a great time, wasn’t that packed on a Friday afternoon. So fun for the family! Great value for everything. Cute fishies!!
Litzy A — Google review
We visited on 7/12/23 and it seems like most of the exhibits were completed with the exception of 2. We loved the interactive nature of the aquarium; we could have spent an hour in imaginary play in the underwater submarine. We also loved touching the stingrays and the hermit crabs. The cafe was open while we were there, but we didn’t check it out other than to snap a photo. There is also a nursing room / pod for moms. Highly recommend this family friendly experience.
Portia T — Google review
Great aquarium! Lots of unique fish to look at and unique experiences. Everybody we interacted with was kind and helpful. I’m glad they limit the number of people in the aquarium at any given time. To be honest, it’s still way too crowded in some tight areas with interesting attractions. My wife is somewhat claustrophobic and it did make her very uncomfortable a couple times. Wish they had more space, but can’t blame them for making the most of the space they have.
Only critique I have would be the ticket line. They have several stations, but they seem to only have one person working the ticket counter when we visit.
Tyler C — Google review
Quite literally a very old building, but I really enjoyed the features. It could be far more, but I assume they lack funding. Regardless, you’re coming to see the fish 🐠 and whatnot, and they have plenty of it. Fun for kids without a doubt. Went with the family.
Tolson Musick — Google review
What an awesome experience this aquarium is! We took our twin 6 year olds here for part of their Birthday and they very much enjoyed it. Staff at the various areas were extremely informative and it was very educational. Would definitely recommend this aquarium if you've never been. It took us approximately 60-90 minutes to do the entire experience but you could spend hours in there! So cool!
Lacey Jones — Google review
Went the Friday after Thanksgiving. It was busy, but no wait and we didn't have to pay to park. Staff was friendly and everyone greeted you with a smile. The exhibits were great and there were plenty of areas to stop and take a break. My 3yr old grandson really enjoyed, especially with the sting rays and the turtles.
Teri Manning — Google review
What a beautiful aquarium!
My daughters truly enjoyed all the exhibits, beautiful animals, obstacle courses, and guided nature walk.
We were all tickled by the talking crow, blown away by the mesmerizing sea turtle, in awe of the jellyfish exhibit, and of course, it's always a blast to touch the stingrays.
Staff members were all very kind, and our tour guide was very informative.
This was a great spring break destination.
Dani B. — Google review
This place is great!! We always go to aquariums in as many states as possible and this is definitely in top 5. It is older so they are doing renovations but the exhibits are very good. They've worked hard at making it all encompassing. I wish I could buy the soundtrack!! It's so relaxing!! The gift shop has a large variety and is decently priced. Everyone is so friendly, insider tip....if you see someone with a messenger bag ask what's in it!! They're so knowledgeable and ready to share what they know!!
Terri Hart — Google review
We had fun overall. The adventure park trail is beautiful. Not worth the 59 we paid for 2 adults 1 child. Cafe closed for renovation, no other food options. Very small, few attractions and the adventure park not included. They are making renovations to a large back building so once cafe and back building are done I'd say it's worth it but unless they reduce the price for the very reduced usage/viewing options during renovation I'd skip it.
Jaime Clark — Google review
We spent 2 hrs here. If you take your time, engage in the many interactive features it's worth the money and won't take 45 min like some reviews say.
Very interactive, technology and sensory (touch whale baleen, what does shark skin feel like, touch a sting ray in the touch pond, play in a replica submarine with lots of buttons, knobs, switches & lights, and SO much more). We got to see a sea turtle and a moray eel get fed.
Reserved the 9am time slot as I read it can get very crowded later in the day, was not crowded was able to make our way through exhibits with ease.
Danielle Roberts — Google review
We purchased the Dolphin Cruise for our family of 5. We enjoyed taking the kids out on the intercostal waterway and the Atlantic ocean. It was really awesome to see the dolphins and to view Virgina Beach from the boat. I highly recommend this tour. The staff was engaging with everyone and there also is a nice little place inside to get drinks and snacks and cool off. There are bathrooms on this boat. Bring your camera so you can get some great photos and videos.
Christina Marie — Google review
I really enjoyed going to the aquarium for my first time. It was a night for VA BEACH employees and family. Everyone seemed to be really enjoying the evening. There was also cake and drink such as water and punch of some kind. The pictures and video say more than I can. Please enjoy and go for yourself soon.
Darryl — Google review
My daughter and I travel almost two hours to visit every year for her birthday. There are so many types of life to see, and lots of exhibits. We enjoy the outside walk, as well. We will definitely be returning! I do recommend visiting during the week in the off-season, while school is in. It is a lot less busy!
Lindsey Chase — Google review
Very nice facility. Fun for the children with lots of hands-on exhibits. I liked having the opportunity to touch a sea jelly. It was very clean, and there were many employees around to provide more information than was included on the signs. The cafe was a bit hard to find in the main building.
Shari Clifton — Google review
Great aquarium. We spent 4 hours there today. 🥱 Definitely worth it. Lots of touch pools. Sting Ray's, Jellyfish and Hermit Crabs. There's play areas for toddlers. Several gift shops. The outdoor adventure coarse is cool. We did not take advantage. But several were having fun out there. The second building had the Jellyfish and octopuses 🐙 sadly no octopuses were out today. We did eat at the café. It was actually worth it. Pleased with all of the food. Overall it was a great experience. 👍🏼
april “aprilbeautylife” — Google review
I've been going to this place ever since I was a kid. It's a really great aquarium, especially for visitors from out of town. It isn't the biggest, but the staff is always so sweet and kind, and they're always incredibly knowledgeable. It's a great learning experience for kids to come here too! They've made some improvements and added some new exhibits that are really awesome! They also include a lot of detailed information about the surrounding area, which is really knowledgeable and important to the local community. I've lived here in Virginia Beach for 20 years, and this is still a great and wonderful exhibit. Highly recommended.
Misha Haynie — Google review
It was a good time. A lot of things are empty either due to covid or them getting ready to remodel. My husband and I took our son for his first visit and we all still enjoyed it. Wish the city would invest more money in the aquarium so they could expand and add more things.
Ryan Rodriguez-Bishop — Google review
Such a beautiful place our 7 month old had an amazing time. Highly recommend this experience. Loved that it wasn't crowded but did seem to be really busy when we were leaving so I recommend earlier times. Parking was also smooth too by being early (1130).
Shanell M — Google review
This was one of the best Aquariums we've visited on Vacation... Tons of sea life and local river types of fish... Several sharks and huge sea turtles.. my favorite sea animal.. some wildlife, snakes, frogs and such, and a huge alligator and Komodo dragon... We spent probably easily around 2 hrs there.. several interactive things for kids to do and see.. I highly recommend going... Also some outdoor things to see as well
James Vinson — Google review
I visited 2 yrs ago and enjoyed it. This time around, It just didn't seem as exciting. Like everything else, prices went up, and now, during their peak summer season, you have to buy a ticket on their website with your arrival time. They also added a $5. Parking fee. I understand things have to be updated and repaired, and they must close exhibits, but the aquarium just wasn't the same without the sharks this time around.
Ken Breitenbecker — Google review
If you’re on Virginia Beach this place is worth an hour of your time. It’s not that much of an aquarium but it’s integrated nicely in its beautiful surroundings. The aquarium describe the local environment vividly and interesting.
Morten Andersen — Google review
My family and I had a great experience at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center! We happened to be staying in Virginia Beach during our road trip and found the aquarium when looking for things to do in the area. We all love animals so naturally we wanted to go see the exotic sea animals at the aquarium!
We purchased our tickets online through my husband since he is an active duty member and could get a discount ($2 off adult and youth rates). So just a heads up if you are a military family, they do offer discounted rates!
The aquarium is pretty big! The entrance is also located right by the gift shop in case you'd rather do your shopping beforehand. I noticed when going to aquariums or similar places, gift shops are more busy at the end of the day when people are leaving. They have all the typical items for sale (toys, stuffed animals, aquarium merchandise, apparel etc.)
There's a bunch of animals to see at the aquarium! Starting with the seals that are in the front, one animal you don't have to pay to see! They're so adorable and really know how to put on a show. Inside they have a big selection of different fish, amphibians, sea turtles, sharks, sting rays (you can pet them!) etc. Prepare for a decent amount of walking since the place is huge! They also have an outdoor area that you can walk around and enjoy the river that runs alongside the aquarium. It was very relaxing to spend a moment enjoying the beautiful views.
Overall I highly recommend taking your family here! Kids and adults will have a great time seeing all of the gorgeous animals they have.
Darien D. — Google review
This place is a captivating destination with a diverse range of marine life exhibits. From playful otters to majestic sea turtles, the aquarium offers an immersive experience for visitors of all ages. The knowledgeable staff enhances the educational aspect, making it an excellent place for families and marine enthusiasts. The interactive displays and well-maintained facilities contribute to an enjoyable and informative visit.
Jahidul Hasan — Google review
Reserving tickets online are convenient on their website. Parking is widely available. I have been visiting the aquarium with my dad for over a decade. We always learn something new about our seas. My toddlers enjoyed the touch pools near the end of the main building. Featuring a wide variety of aquatic animals and activities, it is an excellent educational experience for the entire family. We left inspired to be better stewards of our waterways and to protect our ocean friends.
Tabitha Short — Google review
We had a blast today with a 7y old and a 5y old. Spent 7 hours there!
Easy parking, easy check-in with online tickets. Very friendly staff and mascot photo-ops. Tons of interactive exhibits, as well as touch pools (rays, bay and jellies) for kids, separate tanks for Red Sea, sharks and bay. I particularly enjoyed the diverse and relevant information about ancient Virginia & geology. I think they design the exhibits with ecosystem concept in mind, which I appreciate a lot. They don’t have a lot of shows (we did see seal feeding and training which was very short) which I don’t mind at all, I love how educational the whole experience was. We even went to the south building via the nature trail, we enjoyed the trail and the outdoor playground the most. The playground and south building is partially finished, but I see huge potential. I hope they will add octopus, more otters, unique marine lives in the future. And complete the playground, please. It’s a Chesapeake bay concept playground, which is so cool, and again very hands-on and educational. I read some of the information panels and love what they offer. And hope the overall playground amenities will encourage kids to explore, learn and spend long hours outdoor, because it’s by the Owl creek! We spotted pelicans, egrets, geese, herons and more today. Maybe one day they will offer guided kayak tour as well?
The most “disappointed” part of today was the boat tour, we did see a few dolphins, but 2h was long and a little plain for my kids.
Overall, this was an excellent indoor and outdoor full-day trip with kids. It was very educational and fun. Definitely will be back.
Serena Liao — Google review
Second time visiting this aquarium on our trips to Virginia Beach from Ohio and we loved it even more than the last time! We were early and got to watch the outdoor seals get fed, which was a cool experience. The exhibits were all clean and well taken care of. But one of the best things about this facility that sets it apart from the rest is the staff. They are engaging, smart, and kind. This one lady (and I regret not getting her name) shared many stories of the animals we saw and personal experiences she has had working there. Loved her enthusiasm and drive. Will definitely come back the next time we are in the area. ❤️
Jessica Wolfe — Google review
VR, adventure park, two buildings, photos,gift shop,epic exhibits and amazing staff. 👏🏽 I mean what else could you ask for plus the other building has an outdoor area. Plus so much more my daughter and I saw but don't want to spoil it for anyone. Was super cool to see all the changes and to take my daughter. I haven't been to this aquarium since I was a kid. So if you haven't been you should go or go again. Oh in April they will have a mermaid also the cafe is super nice the food was really good.
April Calderon — Google review
Great place to see marine life!
Such a fun day seeing all types of fish, reptiles, and some water loving mammals. I absolutely loved the variety of the exhibits. The sharks were one of my favorite creatures to observe.
Admission price was reasonable for the size of the venue. My husband and I spent about two hours and had a great time. It was Easter weekend, but it did not feel packed or crowded. We did not walk the trail on the outside of the main building, but we plan to visit again in the future.
V. Tsodzo — Google review
Kimberly at ticket admissions was extremely knowledgeable and helpful in getting our tickets with add ons! All employees we came in contact with were awesome, educated & excited to be there. The wait for ticket purchase honestly wasn’t bad, they were quick & efficient — but if you want to bypass the line all together I recommend buying the tickets online
The overall experience was so fun, packed full of sights, education & activities - never a dull moment! Thanks
VB Aquarium!!!🤍🐠🪼🦀🐙
JORDAN LASSITER — Google review
We had a great time. Pace your time, much to see. The nature walk to the South building is very nice with lots of places to sit. It rained on us but the tree canopy kept us pretty dry. Great for the entire family.
TTV rayray284 — Google review
Absolutely amazing experience. I’ve lived in VA for almost 10 years now and this was my very first time going. It was wonderful, informative, creative, and fun. I will definitely be going back and may make this a monthly visit. I absolutely loved it.
Imari Perkins — Google review
I had a really great time here. Aquariums are just fun and awe inspiring. I will say a couple things that I didn’t love about this location and then will share what I did love.
I don’t like that you have to pay for parking in the summer. Winter is fine, but I don’t like that it is $5 to park. For where it is located, it just doesn’t feel right to me.
The aquarium feels small. They have fantastic exhibits and wonderful species. I am just saying from past experiences at other aquariums, I just did not spend as much time here. The price is also high.
What I did love: the seals are very cute and I like their exhibit being outside the aquarium.
The Komodo dragons are so cool to see.
Staff was very friendly and kind.
Two kinds of sea turtles on display was really cool
Brennan — Google review
We had a great time with my kids and grandkids. The Aquarium was really busy on that Saturday and there were so many people! It made it a little harder to get around but we started at the North Building and then walked to the South Building. The kids had a blast and we stayed about 2 1/2 hours.
jody korman — Google review
I would rate our visit a 10 star rating!
The entire experience was amazing.
From easy parking, building graphics, seals greeting us, friendly informative interactions with the staff, building layouts, exhibit signage, clean spacious tanks, engaging marine species, virtual reality experiences, gift shop memories, even the restroom signs were memorable.
This is a must see experience.
That is my review for only the main building as I will save the review the newly opened south building and the walkway between them for another day.
(Hint… it is also wonderful and don’t miss the Jellies)
James Kelly — Google review
4.4
(14187)
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4.5
(3613)
717 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, USA
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a vast pedestrian walkway lined with various hotels and eateries, hosting numerous summer events and concerts. Visitors can explore the area by renting a bike, surrey, or blades and checking out the family-friendly attractions along Atlantic Avenue. The beach itself is always crowded with an array of friendly locals who are always eager to help tourists navigate the area. Additionally, the beach boasts crystal-clear waters that are perfect for taking children accustomed to Pacific beaches on an exciting new adventure.
Beautiful clean beach. Locals were friendly and helpful. Always look forward to going back to visit
Veronica Hinkston — Google review
Love boardwalks! Enjoyed this one!! It was the middle of March when we visited Virginia Beach ... weather was around 40 degrees, rainy, and windy. We still walked by the beach and took in the beauty of the ocean. Would love to come back in summer.
Strawberry Fields — Google review
Everyone living in Virginia will never miss to visit this beach. It’s totally crowded most of the days and you have so many places to check nearby. Went on a storm day and it was crazy.
It?s me Charzi — Google review
It’s a beautiful place. Waters blue. People are very nice. And good food everywhere
BELLA A — Google review
Good holiday spot!!
Satya Singh — Google review
Great beach views. Plenty of stops to enjoy refreshments. Be sure to stop in at one of the many restaurants, especially "Chics"!!!
Marty Kapp — Google review
I love the beach but getting to bring my kids to the Atlantic when all they knew was the Pacfic was the best.
Taiesha Iles — Google review
Great family vacation place with tons of fun activities
Virginia Beach Living — Google review
The 3 mile Boardwalk was great and was kept really clean. I walked it every morning around 5 am while on vacation waiting for the sun to rise. I was able to watch dolphins every day while I took my morning walk. There are lots of places to rent Surrey's and bicycles to ride on the boardwalk bike path. Also, lots of food options. Looking forward to our next trip down there.
Richard Goewey — Google review
It is a fine beach with nice boardwalk. Although had trouble finding parking. Overall it is a good beach to visit
Aktha Panday — Google review
Good family vacation spot. We love to come here for spring and summer break. Lots of activities during the season.
Shawn — Google review
Specifically the Holiday Lights at the Beach they do every year, on the 1st of January they open it to the public to bike through all their light displays for free. It is one of the coolest and most visually stunning experiences we have ever participated in. Just so beautiful and worthwhile, we will come every year now! Just need to brave the cold beach breeze but that’s the only minus.
Marianna Gleyzer — Google review
Nice lovely place to walk on the beach.
Mary Kwast — Google review
I absolutely love this place. I try to vacation along the boardwalk every chance I get. It's a beautiful walk along the beach with views for miles. Not just the beauty of this place is spectacular, but also the atmosphere. The last time I visited, I went out just after dark because I wanted to see the ships going past. Well, I was amazed at all the active, happy people present laughing, joking, playing music and having fun. It's an experience to remember. There is so much to see and do along the boardwalk; many picture opportunities, artistic sculptures, fishing, beach activities, small museums, music, biking, restaurants offering freshly caught seafood...I could go on and on. It's definitely worth a visit no matter your age. It's fun for the whole family.
Chele Lee — Google review
Came around April and man it was cold and windy. Still enjoyed it though.
Justin Villa — Google review
Overall nice beach. Less crowds than ocean city beach. I saw people are swimming around 10 pm. No lifeguards.
Rahman Afrin — Google review
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk offers a picturesque coastal experience with its scenic views, lively atmosphere, and diverse attractions. Stretching along the sandy shores, it's perfect for leisurely strolls, cycling, or enjoying the vibrant events. From quaint shops to delicious seafood joints, the boardwalk caters to various tastes. The iconic Neptune statue adds a touch of charm. However, it can get crowded during peak times. Overall, it's a delightful blend of beach vibes and entertainment, making it a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike.
Digital Sparks — Google review
Love all most everything about it except for dog dropping on the boardwalk and in sand at beach and pushes vacations packages sale people accosting us as we are trying to relax.
Located in the southeast of Virginia, Virginia Beach is a city that lies at the intersection of Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Its oceanfront stretches 3 miles, adorned with a boardwalk and beach-lined views. The First Landing State Park situated on its bayside commemorates the arrival of English colonists to Jamestown in 1607.
54% as popular as Williamsburg
16 minutes off the main route, 57% of way to Richmond
Located within the Fort Story military base, the original Cape Henry Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse featuring an impressive tower climbs with ocean vistas. Also available for visitors to see is the newer black and white striped lighthouse nearby.
Located on a military base - Fort Story
Must show ID at the gate to enter the base and yield ID - and pass security screening - at parking station to take the free shuttle to the Cape Henry Lighthouse area.
Visitors are given a map of the area with marked blue boundary in which civilians must remain.
Steep steps lead up to the lighthouse from the admissions office.
191 stairs in the lighthouse with short ladder to climb into the old lantern room.
Beautiful views!
Back Packer — Google review
Cool historic lighthouse with a great view of the ocean and the, much newer lighthouse (black and white) adjacent to it. You'll pay about $10 for access to the lighthouse from what appears to be a small gift-shop/historic center. Once you make it past the cash register you'll climb a short set of stairs up the base of the lighthouse. The lighthouse itself is a really easy climb which goes quickly unless you get stuck in a queue. I went on a cold windy day and was the only person inside the building. It's neat to stand at the top and feel the winds buffeting around the structure.
There's a small ladder you have to climb for the last 6 feet or so before you ascend into the glass area. It's not hard, but watch your head and suck in your gut if appropriate.
A cool place to visit but don't plan on spending more than 20 minutes at the location. Potentially not worth it if you don't have a military ID and are subjected to more rigorous security screening.
Josh Diddams — Google review
I was skeptical at first after reading all the reviews about the hassle/effort it takes to actually make it there…but glad I went…though there is some truth to those reviews.
They open at 10 sharp…so make sure you get to the gates at or after that. If you get there earlier…9:55..you will be kindly asked to return at 10. At this time masks are required for the bus ride, so they will confirm that you have one at the gate. Also, they will confirm you do not have any firearms in your vehicle. After a brief convo, you will be instructed to park in a designated area. You then go though a metal (wand) detector before submitting your ID (government issued) to them in exchange for a plastic coated numbered map. (You will need to return this after returning to this area before you leave in order to get your ID back) No backpacks, except baby bags are allowed. They had no issue with my professional-grade camera.
You then listen to a 5 minute briefing advising you to stay within the blue line outlined on the map. You then board the bus for a few minute ride to the lighthouse. There is the old lighthouse, which you can enter and climb. There is also a new lighthouse (black/white) which is still functional and you CANNOT enter that one. At the bottom of the old lighthouse, there is a port a potty. There is a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs and purchase your pass to go up to the top of the old lighthouse ($10). There is a straight set of outdoor stairs which takes you to the base of the lighthouse. From there, you can enter the lighthouse and proceed up the spiral stairs until you reach a small ladder (5-6 step) to go up into the very top of the lighthouse. If you’ve ever been to other lighthouses before…this is no different…it’s narrow and hot in there, so be mindful.
You can walk around the area a bit (as long as you stay within the blue line). There is a gas station there with a few snacks and drinks. After you are done exploring, you can catch the bus going back at the bottom of the old lighthouse, where you originally dropped off. They have two buses running on rotation I believe, so the wait isn’t long. Upon your return, you give them your numbered map in exchange for your ID.
I believe if you are military, you do not need to go through the screening process and can drive over directly to the lighthouse. Not 100% sure on this though.
Overall I had a good time there. I didn’t have an issue with the restrictions, but I can see how a family with a lot of children, or those with mobility issues would. The lighthouses and grounds are nice to see and take photos of…but there really isn’t much there, so some may lose interest pretty quickly.
Jason Persaud — Google review
Well we were dumb. Didn't read the reviews. Just saw we were going to a lighthouse. Quite shocking running into an armed guard on the way in. At that point there's really no turning back. Little freaky, but worth it. The guided tour was fun, it's pretty cheap. So amazing what a nice area it is but the military mows it all down to look like north Dakota. Couple historic houses on military property that they're going to tear down. ☹️.
Jeremy — Google review
This lighthouse is located in a military area. Be prepared for a security check of your car, provide identity documents (which will be kept safe until the end of your visit) and leave your car at the entrance and take a tourist bus provided to go to the lighthouse. The lighthouse itself had about 200 steps and was a great experience. By the way, you can only go up on the old lighthouse. The new lighthouse is still functional is out of bounds for visitors
Siraj M.A — Google review
A little adventure. Going onto a US military base to see a lighthouse. You’ll need your ID to get onto the base. Tell them you’re there to see the lighthouse. You then park off to the left, get wanded for security, and hop on a shuttle where they drive you to the old and “new” lighthouse. You only have to pay the fee if you want to go up into the lighthouse. You can still walk around without paying. You get a little map that shows where you’re allowed to go without getting arrested or fined for trespassing. A few well worn billboards and statues describe the history of the area.
Kris Rhodes — Google review
Start out with, the lighthouse is on a military base. Not noticing the sign, but still stopping at the guard house, I had a young guy come out angrily and yelling. I can understand it if I did this on a daily basis, but this was the first time. Chill! Anyways, most the Navy folks were nice - some, not so friendly, but also not rude like the guy at the guard house. Be prepared to relinquish your ID while you visit. Civilian gal driving the shuttle was nice - not overly friendly. Shuttle does it's loop every 10 minutes. The souvenir shop is small. This is also where you pay to see the lighthouse. Got the AAA discount for $9. If the weather was nicer, then I would've checked out the gas station. Nice old lighthouse with great views.
Michael Anderson — Google review
Beautiful views. On Fort story military base so you have to surrender you id when you first get on base and you have to park and take a shuttle. You can tour the old lighthouse (brick one in photos) black and white is the new lighthouse and on the military base. You get a map outlined in blue and if you stay within the blue lines you won't have any trouble. You also get to walk up on a outlook and view the ocean. We even saw a submarine come up while we were on the outlook
Belynda Luckenbaugh — Google review
A heavy military presence welcomes you to Fort Story, an active training base. The security check is worth it, as the historic beautiful lighthouse gifts you with awe-inspiring views (provided you navigate about 196 steps)! Be sure to take in the other historic features while you are on these hallowed grounds.
Wiji Sixstar — Google review
Great opportunity to see two lighthouses within walking distance of each other. One being old and decommissioned. The other is active and you cannot climb it. Beautiful view from the top of the old Cape Henry. The Cape Henry National Park Memorial is only a 5-minute walk from either lighthouse.
Barb Fisher — Google review
This was an ok adventure. Here are some key points to the visit;
1) once you arrive at the base gate they ask you some questions and take your ID. They keep it while you are on base.
2) you drive to a parking lot near by and get screened by a military personnel and given some laminated paper as your “ticket” you will have to return this in order to receive your ID afterwards.
3) you take a shuttle for a quick ride to the old light house.
4) you can not go to the new light house, just look at it
5) it is 10/person to climb the old light house.
6) there are a lot of stairs if you do this
7) inside the lighthouse at the top it is pretty hot up there if it’s warm outside.
8) the view is ok. You are pretty much looking at water one way and then the tops of building the other way.
9) you can walk to the gas station, the memorial, chapel and overlook. There are plenty of places off limits
10) the whole experience was cool and nice to pass the time but not sure I would personally want to come again. I liked supporting the military so we didn’t mind the fee to look at the lighthouse but if this was just some ordinary place and charged 10/per person I wouldn’t have done it. Seems more like a $5 charge would be better.
Tiffany — Google review
I have been visiting these two lighthouses since 1970. My family and I would spend a day here enjoying the lighthouses and beautiful beach. 🏖️This is great for family tours and meet ups. The staff is very friendly. Small gift shop now. They use to have a larger gift shop with amazing items. These lighthouses are incredible ❣️Located on Fort Story Base which requires all visitors 16 years and older to provide a valid ID. The driver of vehicle must show valid vehicle registration and proof of insurance. They now have a shuttle bus to escort guests. ADA service animal are only allowed. Ample parking available.
Valerie Williams — Google review
Neat lighthouse on a navy base. Requires an ID for entry. Can park on site but have to take the shuttle to the lighthouse since it's an active base. Navy personnel are friendly. Shuttle driver was nice and has good info. Was too hot to be able to go in the lighthouse so that was a little disappointing, but could go up the steps and look inside at the base of it. Admission was half price because of that also.
Lisa Fritz — Google review
Very beautiful lighthouse. Had to pay to climb it but I didn’t pay so I watched from down below. Definitely worth seeing though and taking in the history of the area. Worth the visit just go up to the gate and explain you don’t have a military ID and I’m sure they’ll get you escorted or up to the lighthouse somehow. My bf is in the military so he has an ID that let’s him get into these places.
Lauren Carbone — Google review
Beautiful place to visit when in Virginia Beach. It is required to carry your id card as this place is located in military area. Tickets are bought only if you are going up the light house. Else the visit to park and lighthouse area is free. It is strictly forbidden from stepping into some of the area there, stick to the boundary they suggest while entering this park.
Ranjitha Raghu — Google review
Very interesting place to visit. Make sure to check website for visiting instructions. Will be greated my military personnel upon arrival. Make sure to bring drivers license. I visited off season so was able to get in. The bus driver is very friendly and informative.
Sean Whittin — Google review
The light house is located on Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story. Visitors can go to the visitors' center and take a shuttle to the lighthouse. If you have a DoD ID, one can drive to the lighthouse. The orginial lighthouse is located adjacent to the new operational lighthouse. 79 steps to the base of the lighthouse and ~129 steps to the top of the tower. Great view of the coast and new lighthouse. Also, see the original 1607 landing of the Jamestown colonist a short walk from the lighthouse.
Michael Silas — Google review
Very interesting site - one older lighthouse, which can be climbed via 194 steps (!), the other is not accessible.
Great views of the Atlantic Ocean and the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. You do pass through Ft Story military base and will have to give your valid ID.
Domenick Schilling — Google review
Great first lighthouse to ever visit. Nice piece of history to experience. The staff is very nice and helpful. You pay for entry and get to climb to the top of the lighthouse. It might be strenuous for some, but it has a cool view at the top! *Age restrictions apply for the climb.
Also, be aware that it is an active Army Base and needs a proper government ID. They do have shuttles that take visitors to get screened. *16+ need a valid ID.
Nick Hidalgo — Google review
The staff working the front desk were extremely nice and were very knowledgeable on the history of the two lighthouses. Active duty members can climb to the top for free if in uniform. (Not sure if that is a requirement but that’s what I did) it’s not too long of a hike up and there is an 11 step ladder at the top. The views were super nice and I highly recommend if you’re in the area.
Kyle Hipol — Google review
So many steps...so great though, to be able to kinda envision the lifestyle of a Keeper. And how FIT you may have had to be to climb the stairs and maneuver around
Aisha Bonita — Google review
Great view from the top! Not a bad climb. But you MUST go through a security protocol as you are entering a DOD facility. You must park your car, go through security- think airport- and ride a shuttle. You cannot to the beach. There’s a long walk to a board walk to see the beach, but that’s it. Go for the lighthouse and go to First Landing state park for the beach.
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is a remarkable 17.6-mile bridge-tunnel system that serves as an engineering marvel at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. It provides a seamless connection between Virginia's Eastern Shore and the mainland, offering travelers a scenic and convenient way to cross the bay. Completed in 1964, this iconic structure was designed to eliminate the reliance on ferries for transporting passengers and cargo, making it an essential part of Virginia's transportation network.
The Norfolk Botanical Garden is a large and lush green space that features over 450 different varieties of roses as well as other flowers and plants. The gardens are always blooming, with special areas for younger visitors, and all visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature here. The Gardens use 100% renewable energy to run it, making it a sustainable option for visitors.
My family LOVES the gardens! It’s so beautiful and relaxing. There’s tons of space so you don’t have to worry about going shoulder-to-shoulder with other people. A nice place to take your kids for a peaceful walk. During the summer they have their splash pads open in their children’s garden and have a little area for babies too and the trees and flowers are absolutely beautiful! They also have little houses for kids to venture through and huge sand hill as well! Definitely worth the yearly membership!
Samantha S — Google review
Beautiful, large botanical gardens. Wonderful variety of local and exotic floral. You just feel happy walking around this beautiful garden.
We spent several hours here, there is ample parking, a nice visitor center with multiple bathrooms on site throughout the gardens. There's a gift shop, and tour guides available. We did speak with several garden employees, all. We're very friendly and knowledgeable about the different species of plants. The garden was very clean, fragrant, and just plain lovely. Went during the summer months early in the morning before it got warm. It did take several hours, and I'm not even sure if we saw it all. There are many maps throughout the gardens to help you navigate grounds, and you do receive a paper copy when you enter through the gate. The gardens itself is very child friendly, with a large children's garden with interactive splash pads and a center. This would definitely be a cool place to take toddlers to spend the day. We took our two school age children and they enjoyed it very much. They had a good time learning about the plants, exploring the grounds, and also viewing the planes taking off on the other side of the gardens.
Would recommend bringing some water, wearing good shoes, and spending several hours here to truly explore the whole thing.
J. Garty — Google review
Went to the Dominion Energy Garden of Lights last night at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens. It was basically the drive through light show, but walking.
Everything looked amazing! I think the experience was a little more immersive walking compared to driving.
You can tell very clearly that there is a lot of work that goes into putting this light show together. Kudos to whoever was involved in making this happen!
You can also bring your dog(s)!
There are snacks, hot cocoa, and other things to purchase, but we didn’t end up getting any.
Corey Donker — Google review
Love the flowers and beautiful walk ways. The main building is clean but does need to be ADA compliant as there are no push button door openers. I went on a Sunday which is take your dog day. I also love the kids splash pad, great for families. Highly recommend being a member and getting tickets early. When there is a carline sometimes having that gets you in all that much faster. The garden is awesome and lots of things to see and places to relax. The only thing it could use more of is parking.
Grant Fifield — Google review
Love the botanical gardens! Will be back for a doggy Sunday walk or to enjoy the cafe patio. The last few times I've been was to drive through and see the Christmas light displays, so it was interesting to walk the grounds. The botanical gardens are HUGE! Definitely take your time strolling and try to catch the circuit shuttle. Spent some time picnicking under the cherry trees, very peaceful. There are ground bee projects around the area, though the bugs didn't bother us.
Monica Ford — Google review
First time back in many years. Gardens do not disappoint. Beautifully maintained. The rose garden is amazing. Definitely the best Botanical Gardens we've been to in a while. Will have to come back next visit to VA Beach. Lots more to see.
Mike Maggiano — Google review
Beautiful gardens with a nice layout for walking around. The day we went was super hot and muggy, so the big trees provided some welcome shade. Love the giant magnolias and old trees in general. My favorite area was the butterfly sanctuary where the two lovely naturalists enchanted us with so much great info about the butterfly and moth life cycle. The NATO observation tower is also neat for its unique shape and fun views.
They have a great online reservation and parking system, and the website is very informative. All the staff we interacted with were great as well.
Hanting Kniphuisen — Google review
Beautiful gardens with plenty to see. Parking and navigation are pretty easy and the website has some helpful information for planning a visit. It’s easy to make a reservation online.
The trails are long which allow for ample walking, and there is also plenty of shade and seating if you need it. Restrooms and water refill stations are conveniently located along the pathways (I highly recommend bringing a water bottle). The gardens are clean and very well maintained, and have lots of flowers, trees, and other flora to admire as well as some wildlife. I would say the butterfly house, the NATO tower, and the magic forest are my absolute favorite areas. It’s truly the perfect place to go on a nature walk or have a picnic with loved ones.
Side note, the airport is right next to the parking lot and it will generate some noise, but you can go on top of an overlook and watch the planes land and take off!
Nicole Hancock — Google review
We took our mom to Gardens to enjoy the beautiful weather, and we were not disappointed. The Gardens are fabulous! We rode the tram, and the guide was friendly and informative. Great way to spend some time outdoors.
Diana Cournoyer — Google review
I can not say enough wonderful things about Norfolk Botanical Garden. It is a bit of beauty and peace in a chaotic world. Flowers are blooming all year round. There is always something different to see each time you visit. It is a great place for kids. There is a kids water park that is open in the summer. If you want to bring your dog you can on Sunday. You can ride your bike along the path. They have an assortment of programs to suit the interest of any age group. Their native plant sales let you bring home your own part of the garden to plant in your own. It is well worth it to get an annual membership. The holiday lights can't be beat.
Michael Baxter — Google review
I loved this place so much. This place was absolutely beautiful and so fun. We went and spent a ton of time at the butterfly house which was a blast. We got to learn a ton from Lauran the butterfly specialist. The rest of the garden was super pretty and very peaceful. There weren't very many people there which was nice.
Gloria — Google review
Awesome gardens. Great informational signage all over. The World of Wonder - children's area - is incredible. I've been several times and still not seen it all. They have different events all year. Their holiday light are great, and have also seen artwork made from ocean trash, and the birdhouse contest. Also attended a conference there. Well worth a visit.
Diane Leiter — Google review
I tell everyone I know in the 757 to get a NBG membership. It is hands down the most beautiful, tranquil place to go for a scenic walk or picnic. If I ever get married again, the ceremony will be here! We go every Sunday for doggie day because the doggies love it as much as the humans do. We are so fortunate to have this place!
Amy Hendrick — Google review
12/22/23 - I am writing a review based on the Christmas lights. I went with my family and there was 8 of us. It's nice they have food and drinks right before you start your walk. We got a donuts from duck donuts which were delicious. The lights were great! The walk seemed kind of short though. Also the crowds were a bit annoying. Taking photos you had to wait for people to pass or have them wait for you to finish taking your photo. Overall though it was very enjoyable and very pretty. I think we took about an hour to walk through it but felt quick. I would still recommend to go see the lights!
Matea L. — Google review
We went for early spring blooms. Daffodils and cherry blossoms were the highlight at this time. Gorgeous gardens, lovely walk by the water and really cool lookout tower.
Rachael Blake — Google review
Absolutely beautiful, i recommend carrying food and a blanket to have a little picnic. Enjoy the space for as long as you can. Very peaceful
Nadine Ramdeo — Google review
What an amazing Christmas Light display. It was such a nice walk, a mix between asphalt and fine stone, but all of it easy on the feet. There is a stand to get some delicious hot chocolate to take on your walk or enjoy there at a table. The lights are absolutely amazing. We had a blast and want to visit this summer.
paul matticks — Google review
Lovely experience, it's the beginning of spring and there are already plants that have tons on flowers on them. The flowering trees and shrubs are in their mid to full bloom stages and it's definitely a sight to behold🥰 visited the children's garden for the first time and my son loved it lol
Lexy G. — Google review
Perfect location for family or maternity photos! The Norfolk Botanical Gardens is serene, peaceful, and idyllic for families to adventure around and enjoy the gorgeous landscape and variety of plants and animals, and is also a great location for family or maternity photos in Norfolk! As a professional photographer, I like to recommend the gardens for portrait sessions as the landscape provides a timeless, classic background which is ideal for documenting your family's memories. As a mother myself, I bring my toddlers to the splash pad in the summer for hours of endless fun, stopping off to get coffee from the coffee truck, and then enjoying ice cream from the Ben & Jerry's truck on our way home from a day in the sun at the garden. The rose garden is one of my favorite spots for family photos, and especially beautiful for maternity photos to document the incredible milestone of each pregnancy.
Chelsey Kraus — Google review
We LOVED OUR EXPERIENCE! Beautiful display. Yummy snacks and coffee drinks. A booze free environment. I recommend the first showing cause the traffic and parking gets pretty bad! A nice long walk at your own pace. Very elderly and disabled will definitely need a wheelchair. A good 1/2 block before you get to a bench each time.
Melissa Miles — Google review
Wonderful visit on Sunday! Daffodils are in full bloom, beautiful camelias, and the azaleas are just starting! Always love walking through the Japanese Gardens and on the tranquil and peaceful paths throughout the gardens! ❤️
Cindi Courter — Google review
We recently went to the norfolk botanical gardens for the Garden of Lights Christmas lights display. What a beautiful event with plenty of things to enjoy for every member of the family. We enjoyed the event immensely and would plan on visiting during the regular season based on our visit. We spent just about an hour walking through the varying displays. Really liked the Under the Sea, aircraft carrier, and frogs! And the waterfalls! And the... well, I hope you get my drift! Go and see this for yourself!
The Nauticus National Maritime Center is a museum with exhibits about maritime life and naval history. It has an aquarium, as well as a historic battleship on the waterfront.
The Naval Museum is definitely something to put on your list when you travel to Virginia Beach. If you would like to learn more about the US Navy, the town of Norfolk is the place to visit. Back in the days when I was working in Virginia Beach, I got a chance to have a tour of the Naval Station Norfolk, the world's largest naval base and it was incredible to se the beautiful ships and carriers from very close.
The Naval Museum is definitely something to put on your list when you travel to Norfolk
Dragan Ange — Google review
My family and I had a great time visiting the Wisconsin battleship decorated with Christmas lights. We paid the extra price to visit with Santa and we were not disappointed. He was a wonderful Santa and very personable. The Grinch was also there and he put on a funny show. There were light displays on the pier next to the ship. We will definitely come back again.
Shane Harris — Google review
The Nauticus was so much fun. It is a lot of walking so make sure you have comfy shoes on. The exhibits were fun and very interactive if you have kids. They even have little movie rooms to watch different documentaries so you can take a little break from all the walking. The gift shop is nice and they do have a cafeteria if you're hungry. I would recommend eating before or after you go just to save some money. The staff is super nice all throughout the museum. Now the Nauticus ship itself was a ship there are a lot of stairs to climb nothing super special but fun to have that experience.
Nikki A — Google review
Wonderful experience! Great informative historical exhibits. We didn't take the guided tour of the ship, but the self guided tour was amazing. My only issue was that the science museum on the 3rd floor was lacking slightly, but I can hardly fault them for that since they just got done with renovations when we were there, and I'm sure they'll be adding to it in the future. What they did have was good enough for the kids though.
Deer Raar — Google review
A well layed out and fun place. From, education, hands on experiences (water curre to, giant Battleship, making paper, etc.) Informative photos and plaques are located everywhere.
Staff is really friendly and helpful. This place willfully up your whole day, and then you have the ship! It is HUGE, so much to see, fabulous!
Well worth seeing, I recommend getting a yearly or season pass, it is place that takes time to experience the full scope of it and is great for a repeat experience.
(Military discounts available (bring your spouse card))
Topaz San Felipe — Google review
We All enjoyed this place very much. The ship is really cool and very realistic. You see actual cabins, the kitchen is extremely realistic with vending machines, where you walk in line with your tray and get your food, which they have that looks very realistic by the way. You experience what it's really like to be on or working on a ship. Inside the museum there is a theater, aquarium, play areas and more. Three floors I believe. It's fairly priced as well. If you're in the area and haven't seen it or been there, it's something nice to do. It's good for the whole family:)
D C — Google review
Amazing navy museum! 3 floors of facts and fun! They have amazing original boat equipment to touch and see. History at every turn! Not just the writing with pictures on the walls but films and documentaries playing. Educational games and brain boosters and even not so educational games like the old sonic. I personally loved the huge battle ship game! Once you circled all there is is see there (which could take hours) be sure to board the battleship itself! It's HUGE! You can play where they shoot the guns, go see where they slept and ate and bought things. It gives you a great respect for our Navy and the sacrifice they make to serve our country. Thank you all who have and are serving💙
Rachael Rowe — Google review
Hey guys, I'm back again with another review for ya. I have many reviews to catch up on so many more to come. Nauticus! So, for this place, I can say I enjoyed myself as much as the kids. There are areas for everyone to like here. Some areas I found myself trying to pull the kids away from and some areas they had to pull me away from simoly because it was that interesting or that much fun. This Naval exploration museum, as Im calling it, was a good family fun place to visit that impowered us with naval knowledge that we would not have otherwise been exposed to. It is a good experience for all.
Michael Rodgers — Google review
In Virginia for training and wanted an experience out of the ordinary. Group of us got together to go see the museum and all it has to offer. The ship the mighty Wisconsin was interesting to walk through and explore. It had plenty of places for sightseeing above and below deck. The rest of the museum had great facts and learning activities foe all ages. From the previous history and wars and the involvement of the area through the years to a well developed kids learning area about the facts of shipping and transport. If you like your history this is your spot. Well worth the stop. Cheers!!!
justin carpenter — Google review
Had a great time. There is an indoor museum and a real battleship you can tour if you desire. There are some guided tours of the battleship that will take you into areas inaccessible to your general self guided tour. There are additional charges for the guided tours.
The battleship can get hot and there is allot of walking involved if you want to see everything. There are signs located throughout the ship that explain things and gives you some of the history. There are also people walking the ship who would love to answer your questions. The sailor we talked to didn't serve on this ship but was great to talk to and answered all of our questions.
The prices are very reasonable and would recommend doing if you're in the area.
Ray d — Google review
Wonderful experience. Great, friendly and knowledgeable people. The museum was fun and sobering. The battleship was fun.
The food was good there too.
Broc Ungaro — Google review
Not too big into naval history but the sheer scale is something to awe at in person. Spent well over an hour to see every section in detail. Quite the center piece of the city, if you only have a couple days in Norfolk definitely has to be one of the places to make it a point to go to.
Jacob Snider — Google review
It is a very cool nautical museum right at the harbor of Norfolk, Virginia. The museum has very interesting and educational exhibits and you can explore the Battleship Wisconsin!
Megan M — Google review
Toured the battleship and museum. A great place to see and learn about the U.S. Navy and Chesapeake Bay. It's more than just the battleship. Has a lot of interactive activities for kids. Don't wear a dress if you plan on going in the battleship.
Vanessa Keeler — Google review
Haven't been here in a while and decided to check out the 21 plus after hours event and I had a good time.
Justin M — Google review
A must see while in the Norfolk or Virginia beach area. Take tour time touring the Wisconsin yourself and enjoying the museum.
Bubz 1 — Google review
Highly recommended,,, specially for kids,,,so much history to learn about, made us very proud and thankful. Winter fest is a must!!! We had fun with the shows .
Yesenia Azañedo — Google review
Amazing! There are interactive areas and a museum. The USS Wisconsin was so massive. It was great to go through. There was a video playing of soldiers telling their experiences on the ship. It's extremely interesting. A great look into history. The staff is very friendly and informative. It has a museum, interactive activities, a gift shop, a restaurant, and the self guided tour of the USS Wisconsin.
Sue Fink — Google review
The Family Nauticus Winterfest on the Wisconsin 2023. It was a great and very kid/toddler friendly event. The kids loved the s’mores station. There were endless lights and entertainment throughout the boat. Be cognizant of the traffic pattern when leaving. There are plenty of ongoing holiday events in the area. There is a lot of walking so make sure you’re dressed appropriately for a long and chilly walk. Lastly, purchase your tickets online before you arrive.
Darrell Rice — Google review
Incredible afternoon, touring and wandering around the ship! So much history!! God bless our troops!!
🇺🇸❤️🤍💙
Mark Bistro — Google review
The new exhibits are really, really well done. Lots of new hands-on activities, interactive play, always a volunteer with some sort of learning experience.
I can't wait to see the rest of the renovations next year.
Tiffany Vilchis-Parks — Google review
1 adult, 3 kids $64 admission. Kids had a great time. That was with access to Wisconsin. The cafe there has great food.
Sanitizer and bathrooms throughout the museum. Lots of interactive activities. Went on a late Sunday morning. No crowd.
The USS Wisconsin, one of the largest and last battleships ever built by the United States Navy, is now a nautical museum at Nauticus in Norfolk, Virginia. Touring it is a great way to learn about its history and see different parts of the ship.
This ship holds so many secrets. I am a lead investigator for Haunted Nights Paranormal Events and we booked a private paranormal investigation for the night. Had a sold out crowd and everyone had a blast. The curators were very informative about the history of the ship and showing us all of the history that took place on that ship. Little needs to be said that there was great paranormal activity and can't wait to go back. Thanks to the staff for keeping a beautiful ship beautiful.
Derek Morris — Google review
This was such an awesome experience! I’ve never been on a WWII Battleship before. The experience is two parts - naval history museum and the battleship. You can do guided tours or just walk the ship on your own. They’ve done a great job preserving this piece of history as well as describing the ship and life aboard it. I highly recommend this. Plus it’s a very affordable experience. All in all an excellent piece of military history!!
Brad Harris — Google review
Amazing museum with an awesome historic monument. I would highly recommend to people of all ages & interests. I think about anyone can go to this museum and find it as a really neat experience. You can explore the ships deck including 3 floors up and 2 floors down. Expect it to take quite some time to explore the whole thing.
Alex Montgomery — Google review
This was absolutely AMAZING!! As an Army veteran myself, I loved it! I did this tour with my wife. It is self guided, but a pay tour is available. We spent 3 hours touring every nook and crany of this vessel. The history of it is so much more than I imagined. This is a must see exhibit! Come early as this does take a while to tour completely, as there is an inside museum as well. We will definitely visit again.
Aaron Able — Google review
I always enjoy visiting our military museums. Battleship Wisconsin is one of my favorites because the guides on board are very helpful. It is easy to request military ceremonies on board for advancements and change of command type situations, and they are very helpful with details and providing needed equipment. My son loves exploring different places on the ship, and they have various programs during the year. DEFINITELY worth several visits!
Thao Barnes — Google review
A very informative self tour through a once operational battery ship. The teenagers loved it! There was a great indoor science center as well for young and old.
Heads up: Getting down to the different levels isn't possible from what I saw if you are handicapped, too young, or unable to climb up and down steep ladders.
atina tinkham — Google review
Had a great time. Awe inspiring historic displays. You can pay for a tour or go self-guided. There are 7 decks and two museums to explore. Navy vets hang out and talk to tourists about their experiences. I met a naval surgeon and since I am an OR nurse I found his stories fascinating. Great value.
Catherine Clayton — Google review
Did the self guided tour. Great chance to see history in person. If physically able there are plenty of opportunities to walk through and see a great variety of different departments within the ship.
William Charney — Google review
There’s easy parking which is not too expensive across the road from the museum. Staff are friendly and the exhibits in the museum are very informative. The actual ship is an education in itself the history of USS Wisconsin from World War II to the modern day conflicts that It found itself in. how shipboard life was able and is very real once you go below decks you realise how cramped and confusing it is, also what an amazing piece of engineering that wasn’t designed on a computer rather with a slide rule!
Phil Russell REALTOR — Google review
In the are for a hockey tournament and decided to spend time seeing new things. My family and our friends enjoyed exploring the USS Wisconsin. Even told other families who went to visit the next day and enjoyed it just as much!
J Borja — Google review
What a great experience for all ages. You visit the WWII Battleship after touring the naval history museum. There's a kid section in the museum that is informative and educational. They offer a guided tour (additional fee) or just walk the ship on your own.
Cost of entrance to museum and battleship: $17.95/adult plus tax is $19.25.
They did a wonderful job preserving this piece of history and documentation. They describe the ship and life aboard it quite accurately.
Wear comfortable foot wear as the ship is huge and lots of walking.
I highly recommend this visit as it details a part of the US military history!
Corina Mayo — Google review
Very cool big boat. Also extra cool it’s named after our fav state. Some interesting history through its service. Seeing it up close really makes you think about all the awesome people who served on it. They allow you to see a few internal decks. But a lot is off limits, which is unfortunate. I really wanted to see the bridge and engine room and that was not possible. Also banged my noggin a few times, but I’m over 6 ft so if you’re tall be careful.
Jake Gordon — Google review
A fantastic experience - both the museum and the ship. Our volunteer tour guide (an army artillery captain) put on a great show and was extremely knowledgeable. After our tour because he saw my extreme interest he continued around the ship with me explaining various additional things beyond the tour and telling some wonderful stories. Strongly recommend to visitors of all ages.
Zachary White — Google review
This was a very informative attraction and display. I like the fact that they have tour guides to take you around and describe the workings of the boat. Behind the scenes is definitely the way to go and don't forget to go inside the gun to it. Never living on a ship this gives you a good perspective how daily life was.
Warren Edwards — Google review
If your a history Buff this is a must see while in Norfolk!! We did not do the guided tours this time but we did see the entire ship minus the pilot house and a lower deck! It is an amazing experience and well worth the price of admission. No guided you can spend all day here! We spent about 4 hours taking it all in. It was a workout for sure, lots of places to climb down to or up to! Take your time and enjoy the experience! Thinking 18-25 yr olds ram this ship is completely amazing! The greatest generation for sure, it really is a great experience! I hope you enjoy my many photos. The galley and mess hall was great, officers area was neat to see as well !
Shawn Stiner — Google review
My family and I loved exploring this ship and we highly recommend your family checks it out too! It is such a great learning experience for kids. Definitely visit the museum as well. Expect to spend most of the day here if you want to see everything.
Katie Detwiler — Google review
Love these giants of the sea. We had the extreme pleasure of getting Charlie as a guide. He was friendly and had the advantage of being very versed in the Navy. Thank you!!
Darkwing Duck (Big_Banana) — Google review
The second year going and it got even better. Absolutely beautiful. They allow you into more of the lower deck which makes the event so much more interesting. They should consider offering tours of the ship’s interior all year round.
Al Montalvo — Google review
Very cool ship. Great history and fun to walk around. There are three levels you can go through. The top deck is off limits, which was a little disappointing but still had a good time. Took about an hour to walk through at a decent pace. There are employees throughout ship to answer questions if needed. Museum is nice. It is operated by the Navy, which was pretty cool. Gift store is also nice. They are currently renovating so there will be more to do in the future.
Bran — Google review
Wow that was a big ship a lot of climbing stairs. Bring your walking shoes. And don't miss the museum that's included with the admission. A lot of people around that can answer question. And if your a veteran or active duty go to there web site to get free admission.
Richard Schmidt — Google review
It was incredible!!! I've never been on a battleship before. If you've never been. I highly recommend it. Keep in mind, this is an actual battleship and it's not real handicap friendly (which I am). I wasn't able to go below deck, so I missed a lot of it, but my kids enjoyed it thoroughly!!
Matt Hatten — Google review
The Wisconsin battleship and connected museum are fantastic & well worth your time ! I traveled solo & took around 2 hours ! Great experience about battleship ! Must visit if you’re in Norfolk 👍
Kanchan P. Adhikari — Google review
Battleship that didn't sink and became a museum! We look through the ship first before heading over the museum to learn more of its history and all the other ships that used to roam the world. Always amazed me how people used to practically live in these things and operated them.
Niera Jan — Google review
It was an amazing Christmas light display while also getting to be up close with some very cool history. This was tastefully done with some many beautiful lights and sections set up. Getting to go below deck was especially cool to see, especially with the Christmas theme carried out there as well. The train display was nice to see as well. A very good visit, especially with the family.
paul matticks — Google review
Mind-blowing landmark. I was really pleased to hear the history of the ship as a part of the guided tour from the retired navy captain Jim.
You can go around the ship and see how it was to be a seamen back in the days. Some free parking space with a time limit of 2 hours is available across the street, but they recommend to park in the garage.
Ilyas Dossanov — Google review
Well worth a visit for people of all ages. A large amount of the ship is open to explore at your own pace. As well as several exhibits throughout the museum building covering local and maritime history of America.
The Chrysler Museum in Norfolk VA is the perfect place to spend a day if you're looking for a comprehensive overview of art from throughout history. The museum boasts an impressive collection of both ancient and contemporary works, with pieces spanning a variety of media and styles. If you're interested in learning more about glass or sculpture, this is definitely the museum for you.
Very nice museum. Lots of things to see and learn about history. I missed the glass making class that takes place 12 to 1 pm daily across the street. I loved the glass exhibit.
Best of all its FREE.
Jyoti Saini — Google review
We loved our visit! Spent nearly 3 hours exploring every inch of this place. Very well organized and curated. Some really great pieces. Especially loved the double takes placed throughout the museum to give thought provoking comparisons between two separate pieces of art. Friendly staff. Interactive section was so fun! And how amazing that this is a free experience! Parking is plentiful and also free!
Megan Eldridge — Google review
I have waited a while to write this review to see if my feelings changed over time. They have not. Went in not expecting a lot. Figured there would be some cool glass pieces and not sure what else. Let me just say, don’t miss the first floor. Upon entering we went to the right and checked out the glass pieces. Not sure how some of these were created. Wow. Then we went to the left side to see the McCarty Photographs. These are a don’t miss set of photos. They tell some fantastic stories of history of himself, the Beatles, girlfriends, and others. We eventually went to the other floors. The whole time we kept thinking about how cool those photos were. One of the other outstanding features of this museum you may not think about is they put the don’t miss items on the first floor. So if your old, hurting, handicap, or just want the highlights, they make it easy for you.
Well done to the museum staff!
David Webster — Google review
If you haven't seen the M.C. Esher exhibition at the Chrysler please DO NOT miss it - such a treat! So rare to see his actual works. The labelling/ explanations were superb, better than in most museums I've visited. I've come away educated & soul-satisfied. Thank you
Parveen Sikand — Google review
I could spend days walking around the different exhibits and amazingly, admission is free.
I spent most of my time in the glass exhibit which had a beautiful diversity of glass including ancient glass, Tiffany style windows, blown glass and modern artwork glass. Also, there is an exhibit on different sands and how they affect the appearance of the glass.
There is a very nice gift store too.
Across the street is an affiliated glass studio which has a small but amazing display of pieces make there, multiple artists actively blowing glass and hands on classes.
Jill Hagen (JilleonH) — Google review
I don’t understand how such a great art museum is free. The building is beautiful and there is free parking as well. Really cool pieces from a bunch of different time periods. I visited at opening in a Saturday and had a lot of the galleries to myself. I especially love their Bierstadt piece. I am excited to go back.
Brennen — Google review
I love museums, so visiting them was excellent—great artwork, glass, work, crystals, and beautiful. Bring a camera in many rooms with artwork for a picture-perfect backdrop. There's a remember tree; you write notes in remembrance of a loved one.
Atiyah A — Google review
As a lifelong Beatles fan, #PaulMcCartney as my favorite, this McCartney photo exhibit got me there from North Carolina! It was a wonderful experience, curated nicely, and enough space for all us Beatles fans to linger. It was great to see things from his perspective. As we walked out of that exhibition, we were astonished to see the others. Wonderful art and antiquities were found throughout the museum, which was a beautiful building.
Thank you to the person with the connections to make this happen, and thank you to the museum staff today (3/29).
Anita Mendoza — Google review
Amazing location, unbelievable free entrance access. It is a haven of modern artwork and historical artifacts, they even have mummies! Two full floors with immense collections from all cultures and eras, from Ancient Egypt and Greece all the way to French impressionism and very modern new age creations. I could and will come back here again and again!
Marianna Gleyzer — Google review
Wonderful experience! So much to see! I love the blown glass exhibit. It's huge and took an hour just to skim through. You could easily spend days looking at the art and the unique pieces of furniture. The porcelain room has some beautiful pieces of American history. Some pics have political significance and as to the history of the time.
Carol Dodson — Google review
Absolutley a gem of Norfolk and a must to do in the downtown area. The staff was outstanding from the moment they opened the door when you walk up. The exhibits are of very high quality, particularly the glass and the antiquities. It is not about quantity but rather quality.
There is also a fine new restaraunt/cafe. Very modern and chic.
It is a truly beautiful museum and a perfect way to spend the day.
J Williams — Google review
Still floored this place is free. It seems enormous walking in but is very easy to navigate. Great curation - exhibits flow well and the information on art pieces or galleries is always easy to find. Definitely check out all the wings, there are a lot of incredible pieces lurking about. There's a few Degas, a Monet, and a Picasso just to name a few of the classics here.
Slex — Google review
An enormous and stunning collection of paintings, sculptures, glassworks, and multimedia pieces. Spent 5 hours walking around and basking in every minute detail in every room. During my visit, the museum was hosting a field trip for an elementary school. Never seen a group of kids so engaged when their guide was teaching them how art can make you feel.
Jonathan Jiro — Google review
A wonderful free art museum. Super clean and very handicap accessible. Two stories of awesome art work. I really like the Roman era work. Admission is free and there is a free parking lot adjacent to the museum. They also have a great gift shop and food area. The staff is super helpful. You can spend two hours or more there.
Remo Molino — Google review
Highly recommend this FREE museum in Norfolk if you have an hour or two and enjoy art and history! Has a range of historical cultural art around the world, including Asia, Europe, and Africa. Has modern galleries for art as well, including glass made art pieces. Don't forget to check out their glass blowing studio just adjacent to this museum! Lots of parking available. Bring the whole family to enjoy this gem of Norfolk and Hampton Roads community.
david zhu — Google review
Stopped at the glass studio to watch the noon demonstration. The artists were informative and fun to watch and listen to. I wish the other attendees had been quiet (other than asking questions) but they were busy chatting with each other instead of paying attention so that was distracting. But the presentation was very good!!
Jen McKinney — Google review
A beautiful museum, and it’s free - what’s not to love?
Lots of varied exhibits, the lady at the front desk was very helpful explaining where to go, and the map is fairly clear - once you realise they have painted the walls in the same colour as the section on the map you can’t go wrong.
I started off reading everything in detail, but after 2 hours they were closing, so I had to speed up through the older paintings upstairs and skim them.
Great glassware section, and I loved the Beatles exhibits. (The photo with Muhammad Ali is awesome).
Highly recommended!
Paul Malham — Google review
Great collection for glass, the core strength of this free and sizable museum. Highlights include big names such as tiffany (lovely wisteria lamp) and a rare variety of galle pieces (france). The gift shop is well stocked in glass. The temporary exhibit are a bit more 'eclectic' but they try to broaden the museum's reach so that it's not too much about glass only.
Philippe Giabbanelli — Google review
Finally free. It used to be so expensive to get in. Thank you to whoever made this possible. I would have lived going there with my daughter when she was younger, if it hadn't been so pricey for us.
The glass shop demo was wonderful yesterday. I also got to see the ODU students making items. A docent was giving a tour, small group, just me! They're in the process of putting up some new exhibits. I'll look forward to a return visit to see them.
Cla 2090 — Google review
This is a gem of a museum! Admission is free, and there is so much to see here, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to grandiose American landscapes to contemporary video art. They have collections that feature pieces from all around the world, especially from regions and eras that I wish museums would pay more attention to.
The building itself is a labyrinth of themed rooms beyond a beautifully decorated and bright atrium. It's easy to spend several hours wandering around. My only complaint is that a few of their spotlights are flickering or burnt out, leaving some pieces and portraits in the dark. I believe that this is an easy fix that will greatly improve people's experiences.
I was extremely impressed by their glass exhibition, which features glass from all around the world (from ancient to modern) and an impressive collection of Tiffany Studios pieces. I believe that they also host glass blowing classes and workshops. In all, this is a must-see in Norfolk!
K M — Google review
It's a beautiful museum. Contemporary art isn't my thing, but I did enjoy the ancient statues and statuettes from around the world. I would definitely still recommend anyone, local or visiting, to give this place a shot at least once. It's freeee..
Journi — Google review
I will admit, I'm not much of an art person. But I took my daughter here to see what it was about, I was surprised. I really liked all the historical artifacts, and my daughter really enjoyed the contemporary art.
Perfect beach to come and enjoy the day with the sun, salt, sea and shops! So many friendly people here. Definitely worth the time to explore this area.
TIM BOBECK — Google review
Absolutely photo worthy, as well as having a low tide as opposed to other beaches in Eastern shores.
Ashley Price — Google review
Clean laid back beaches. Lots of room to spread out and at low tide you can walk 100s of yard out into the crystal clear water. There is a fishing pier you can fish and crab from as well. The shanty dock bar is a short walk away and there were ice cream trucks along the street.
Tim Auman — Google review
First time ever to go to Cape Charles, really liked it and will come back.
David Abraham — Google review
Arrive 15 minutes before sunset to get the most breathtaking photos. Or just hang out all day and soak up the rays. It's up to you, you'll enjoy yourself no matter what.
A M — Google review
I think this has become my new favorite beach!!
I don't have a dog, but noticed how super dog friendly this area is.
The waves were shallow and the beach experience is awesome!
Super cute retro nostalgic down town, walkable distance from the beach.
Huge fishing ramp - great for wheelchair users.
Monika Kessler — Google review
So beautiful! One of my absolute favorite spots! I actually took the time to take a few pictures this time. From the drive out there to the actual area itself, it’s just absolutely worth it!
Samantha S — Google review
Great beach for families with small children. This is the Chesapeake Bay, not the Atlantic Ocean so the waves are very small; no bodyboarding or surfing- SUP and skimboards work well though. There is also the occasional oyster shell sticking out of the sand so be sure to wear surf shoes or sandals if you’re down at the beach. Dogs aren’t allowed on the beach during the day (9am-9pm). Lots of restaurants and storefronts. Rent a golf cart for ease of transportation.
Timothy Stockdale — Google review
Loved it!!!! I parked on the side of the road for free and walked right over to the beach. I felt like I were at a private beach. The sand was so white and dense. The beach was convenient to restaurants and parking. I will definitely come back again.
Maranacci Wilson — Google review
What a hidden little gem of a place! We stopped off here on our way home from Ocean City and I really wished we had stayed for a few days in Cape Charles. Beautiful beach with no waves which makes it easy for this water neurotic mama to relax while there with kids. Every mom knows the terror that comes with bringing kids to the beach!
The town itself is idyllic and picturesque dotted with quaint little boutiques and restaurants.
If I could move here I would!
courtney blasiol — Google review
Our family’s favorite beach! The water is calm, warm and clean. This is a family friendly beach with many great local restaurants and shops.
Just be mindful that there is no boardwalk, so make sure to pack food and drinks. Shops nearby are lovely privately own and as far as I know they don’t offer delivery service to the beach.
The Mariners' Museum and Park is an extensive, comprehensive museum dedicated to global maritime history. One of the main attractions is the on-site USS Monitor Center which displays parts of the Civil War-era Monitor, one of the world's first ironclad warships, along with numerous associated artifacts and a life-sized replica. The museum also showcases a wide range of seagoing vessels from throughout history and their sailors in its vast collection.
Very nice place! Great location, we love visiting here! Nice family location. Beautiful grounds, and nice to take your pets for a walk, or as a family to go walking. Big parking lot as well. We love their walking trails!
Paru Paro — Google review
Wonderful museum! All of the exhibits are well thought out and informative. We came for the Monitor exhibit and were not disappointed. The America's Cup exhibit was fantastic as well. If you're a history buff or a Mariner, plan to spend a solid half day here. We'll be back!
Arden Chambers — Google review
Beautiful museum! Great for families! Admission was only $1 when we visited. There was something for everyone here.
Children's area, amazing artifacts, and emersive exhibits. Our favorite was the miniature ship models. The kids loved the scavenger hunt. Everyone working here was so friendly. The cafe was closed the day we went. However, there are great places to eat nearby.
Carisa Schlumbaum — Google review
Loved it!! I'm visiting from GA and didn't really know much about it. The Battle Theater movie is a MUST and it was very educative on what happened between the two ironclads. The rest of the exhibits made a lot more sense once I watched that.
The life size Monitor was fun to walk on, and the small part of the replica CSS Virginia that you can go inside was fun too.
The scavenger hunt for kids kept everyone super attentive and involved and because it's basically just a checklist, kids of most ages can participate.
We had a wonderful time!! I highly recommend it if you're in the area. Plus, it's only $1!!
Alyssa Allen — Google review
The renovation have given this museum a new life. I can't wait to go back with the whole family!!! Very beautiful
Elle Harden — Google review
This museum is a paradise for any naval or military historian, as well as for anyone that has sailed on the sea. The employees were all passionate and helpful, and there are plenty of things for kids to do, including a scavenger hunt. The museam is wonderfully curated and took about three hours to go through, and the cafe had fairly priced food and drinks.
Jacob Haver — Google review
Stunning natural beauty. Stopped by on a whim. Took a short walk on the Norton Trail. Came to the bridge and stopped there. Absolutely the most peaceful place. Then I looked down over the water and saw the 🐢 🐢 🐢 turtles. Wow...beautiful creatures. These aren't the loggerheads by the sea, these are Snapping turtles of various sizes. Amazing sight. Do not feed any wild life in any park. But especially here. These turtles can snap a finger in a minute. I watched them from the bridge. Safe distance...next time I'll go further. Loved it💜
Carol Kalvelage-Bohn — Google review
We once think this is a museum of telling history, but after we visited, we agree this is the museum for education, better to visit with your children. The most exhibits are modern ship models, and they will show how this model was made. Maybe the story behind the model will insist many people to learn.
hanhua ge — Google review
This is a great place to spend some time and is definitely worth a visit. Entry fee is only $1 but you can leave a donation if you enjoyed your visit. There are a full range of pieces from sailing boats to historical artifacts. There is a viewing area where you can see artifacts in various stages of restoration.
There are restored artifacts on display. There are knowledgeable staff walking around who are eager to answer any questions that you may have. There is an outside walking park but wasn't able to do it due to bad weather on the day of our visit. There is a gift shop and cafe on site.
Ray d — Google review
Took my 5yr old son here on a relaxing Saturday. We had fun completing the scavenger hunt the front desk gave us. Museum only charged around $2 that day. No lines and not busy but a lot to see.
Tino Martinez — Google review
This was a beautiful museum to go to! It was surprisingly large, with lots of information on different vessels and maritime events.
This place included beautifully detailed hand-made models of ships, real vessels, shipwrecked parts of the USS Monitor, and a full sized replica of the USS Monitor.
There was also an extremely large park you could enter for free, with lots of wildlife.
This is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon at!!
Emily Trunk — Google review
This museum is great. Extremely well done. With a $1 entrance fee, I had low expectations but this museum impressed around every corner. It focuses on the "Merrimack and Monitor" ships primarily, but it never gets boring. Quality displays that provided plenty of interesting information in a variety of formats. There's also a park that looked great, but we didn't have time to visit. This museum is well worth the stop.
Matt Triola (Tree) — Google review
If you've never heard or seen this place you should definitely come and check it out. The ticket price per person is only $1.00. My son really enjoyed it and wants to go again sometime.
Joshua Snyder — Google review
I cannot believe it is only a dollar to get in. The exhibits are phenomenal and the collection is comprehensive. I cannot wait to go back. The Monitor display is so cool. Make sure to watch the film in the gallery to understand why it is so important.
Brennan — Google review
I was in town on a business trip and stopped here to kill some time before my flight home and was pleasantly surprised. Upon entering, I was greeted by the docents who were very knowledgeable and provided tips on how to best navigate the museum and exhibits.
The highlights of the museum are the artifacts from the USS Monitor. You definitely want to watch the movie on the Battle of Hampton Roads between the USS Monitor and CSS Virginia. There's also the International Small Craft Center located in a separate building and an informative exhibit on the America's Cup yacht. But my favorite exhibit was the Miniature Ship Models of August Crabtree.
Kin Wong — Google review
Amazing! If you are in the VA Beach area, definitely go see the museum. $1 admission which means basically free!
Susan Parente — Google review
Lots of information regarding the Monitor and Merrimack battle, plus other general mariner information. The replica and artifacts from the Monitor were the biggest draw and are not to be missed. The museum is only $1, so you can't be it for value, and the docents are excellent and knowledgeable.
Chris M. — Google review
We learned so much, and entry was only $1 each. It took us 2.5 hrs to get through the first half. However, we read everything and looked at everything thoroughly. We Want to go back next time we are in VA as they were setting up for a new exhibit.
Sum Sum — Google review
We spent nearly 3 hours in the museum, which cost us only $1 each. It was well laid out and very informative. It described the story of the ironclad ships, the Merrimac and the Monitor, and there were reconstructions of the Monitor's turret as well as the entire ship. It was really interesting to see the actual turret being treated/preserved in a giant tank in the museum. Our only disappointment was that the cafe was closed. We then walked the 5-mile Noland trail around the park. This is a well- marked path with 14 large wooden bridges.
Patricia Goldring — Google review
Great museum for all ages. Also history is being restored in front of your eyes! Having the actual first Ironside that you can see and almost touch is amazing! I can't wait until it's all finished!
I was with my sister and her family and had fun playing large scale battleship and exploring with them. Highly recommend this to anyone in the area!
The Virginia Living Museum is a museum that features interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a nature trail with various plants and animals. It offers hands-on experiences for both adults and children. Visitors can learn about different species such as seahorses, flying squirrels, and mini dinosaurs on display. The museum offers educational and entertaining opportunities for families with children aged 10 years or younger who live in VA.
Ok, how did I not know about this spot! If you have children 10 and under and you live in VA it's a must bring. It's spacious, fun, educational and they maximize indoors and outdoors....just take a look at the pics. We are totally coming back. The adults loved it too😜
Nakeisha Gordon — Google review
This was a great place to take my boys, 5 and 7 years old. We spent 4 hours here and it was easy to do. The boys loved the Dinosaur Discovery Trail and the Vet and Keeper play area. Their Cafe wasn't open but we brought our lunch so it wasn't an issue for us. The staff here is very helpful and friendly which is starting to become a rarity these days.
Tai-marie Ferry — Google review
We rolled in about 16 deep. Ended up needing a wheelchair for GPA which was happily given. (Free of charge) We were from age 3 to "well seasoned" haha. Everyone had a great time. Plenty to see and lots for the lils to do. We went during the Dino exhibit which was a hit! It was 90+ today so getting back into the ac was fantastic but the shade definitely helped outside. Did not have any problems getting the 2 wheelchairs anywhere we wanted to go! Outside animals are hot too, so the were all just trying to beat the heat. Not mad at them. Staff was very happy and upbeat.
J.D. Griffin — Google review
Wow! Definitely a must visit if you have children or just want to see some wildlife! I thoroughly enjoyed my time here. We spent a good majority of our day here. Something for everyone. The trails outside were endless and I appreciated how they connected and ventured into other exhibits. Play areas. Lots of seating and friendly staff. Worth the price for sure
JustmeLory Thomas — Google review
Our kids range in age from 10 to 14, and our adults spanned from 40s to 70s - we all had a great time at the Virginia Living History Museum. This place had just the right mix of hands-on attractions, fascinating Virginia animals and fish, an engaging outdoor walking experience, and lovely planetarium. We went to Williamsburg for colonial fun, but I am so glad we set aside a day to come here and learn so many new things about our state. Such a relaxing, pleasant, and educational experience!
Suzanne Leonard — Google review
Clean, fun, interactive, and informational. From seahorses to flying squirrels to their mini dino land both adults and kids will enjoy a trip here. It was a bit busy for a Wednesday but then again it's holiday break too. They also have a planetarium but we didn't do that this time.
Kawaii Kittle — Google review
A great experience for young kids, various fish, animals and outdoor scenery. . I enjoyed more than the kids. Nice outdoor areas for couples to sit, relax and walk the grounds. Little disappointed that the bird area was closed, didn't see any butterfly. The exhibit the fun and interactive amazing pollinators.
Best time to visit during the week and before noon..
Atiyah A — Google review
We couldn't go outside on our visit, but I look forward to another visit for that purpose. My 1 year old grandson enjoyed the Shark Pajama Jam, the music, snacks, and activities. The staff was nice. I also enjoyed the guy who worked at the front desk and danced and smiled the whole time.
Tomah Robinson — Google review
This was an interesting little zoo/museum. Focusing mostly on the Virginia and Chesapeake Bay, they also have facts about history of the area. They have some dinosaur exhibits and interesting outdoor walkways. I didn't get to do the planetarium and was a little bummed about that. They do have special events. Worth checking out if your in the area. They aren't really large and certainly geared towards younger kids around 4 to 7.
Z — Google review
Wow! Part zoo, part museum, ALL fun! We had our 6-, 4 ½- and 3-year-old grandkiddos with us, and they all had a blast... and so did we!
Aviary was good - Children's Garden was fantastic - especially the hobbit house.
Beavers, wrestling otters & foxes were the faves.
One of the zookeepers let the kids help her feed the catfish, and they were thrilled!
Ellen Preckel — Google review
Awesome place to take your family. The museum host several events and exhibits. If u go you must see the otters they are so fun to watch and are very playful with guest. Also, the museum has a new alligator. Definitely recommend the living museum
Tamia Pauling — Google review
Great place to spend the day. There are multiple exhibits you can see. There is a beautiful boardwalk section where you can view various animals. There's demonstrations throughout the day like the alligator feeding. All of the staff are informative and will happily answer your questions.
There's also a kid's dinosaur area.
Ray d — Google review
Brought out the whole family and we loved it! The museum was clean and the animals were clearly well cared for. My 18 month old daughter LOVED the children's garden, dino park and playground, and all the interactive exhibits inside.
Benji Sharib — Google review
What a fantastic museum! We've been coming here for many years and it's still my favorite. The outdoor trails are peaceful and you can tell the animals are accustomed to human interactions. I love the way the inside is set up, you feel like you can get up close to everything. The aquariums are also beautiful!
Anisa Glowczak — Google review
So much bigger than we expected. Got in with ASTC reciprocal tickets. Would not have known of this place otherwise. Will definitely be visiting again when we're near the area
Art Than — Google review
Thank you, Virginia Living Museum, for the "Winter Nature Nights" trail-walk...
We really enjoyed your wonderful winter Wonderland walk-thru trails of nature lighting exhibits, displays, and photo opts.
"United By Outdoor's" games of Cornhole and Giant Connect-4 Also, Christmas workshop and complimentary hot cocoa and cookie decorating for the kiddos, 'a reason for the season to be "MERRY & BRIGHT!"
We rated your Nature Park 5-Stars because you brought the community together, connecting people to Nature for over 50 years. Since 1966
Sharing the love from the State of Virginia's native animals and nature trail environments
'And the new renovations are coming soon...
Thanks again, Living Museum, we appreciate your affordable prices for all to enjoy during this wonderful spirit of a joyous season.
shawney Cheeseman — Google review
The best museum for kids ever. Our one year old absolutely loved it. The layout is great. This was a really great find for our vacation. Highly recommend for anyone with kids. It is like a hybrid zoo/aquarium/nature sanctuary. We liked it
Ashley Gutowski — Google review
Your kids will LOVE VLM! The whole family will. It is a great place for birthday parties too!
Angela Menichino — Google review
Nice museum for the kids, lots of interactive play areas and things to touch and climb on. When we visited, there were animated dinosaurs on exhibit. Very interesting. The inside of the museum looks a little dated, like it hasn't had a fresh coat of paint in over a decade.
The highlight is the outside area. Nice boardwalk path over a marshy area and views of native Virginia animals (assuming they aren't sleeping in their homes during the daytime heat). The foxes were adorable.
Next time I'd plan to see a show at the planetarium.
Rebecca Leser — Google review
Really fun place. I think i might like it better than the zoo. It's a bit more immersive. The walk back in the woods is really pretty. Lord of stuff for little kids.
Jeremy — Google review
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4.5
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524 J Clyde Morris Blvd, Newport News, VA 23601, USA
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a nature-themed amusement park based in Europe. It offers an array of entertainment options ranging from rides, coasters, and shows to dining, river and rail attractions. In addition to the theme park, there are other exciting activities like zip lining, kayaking and water parks nearby. To save money on tickets, it's recommended to purchase them at least one day prior to visiting as prices increase for same-day purchases.
The rides and animals made for a amazing day… buy tickets in advance they have dynamic pricing and raise the price from 69 to 89 dollars for a same day purchase. You will save at least 20 dollars per ticket by purchasing the day prior to coming to park. It was a absolutely a blast I would recommend it definitely and bring plenty of water… hours of walking… go for it you will not regret…
Jonathan Williams — Google review
I'm not a big fan of roller coasters, though I did ride a couple. Even without riding many rides this is a beautiful place and a great way to spend your day. Definitely an experience! Plenty of good food as well.
Journi — Google review
Great time to visit. No waiting in long lines to ride. Only downfall, it was too hot. Having water cups available was great! Had a medical situation. The Busch Gardens employees at The Magic Shop went above and beyond with the attention and concern that was shown. EMT Alex was very attentive and thorough. Transportation to parking was provided by EMT Supervisor Ralph. Every courtesy that was extended was greatly appreciated.
Laurie Garrison — Google review
We had a great time! It was very busy, however that was because of high schools bands having a competition. It was nice to see kids running around having a great time. I grew up going to Busch gardens in Florida, and this was my first visit to Williamsburg. We will definitely go again on our next visit.
Scruffy Woofy — Google review
They were having there St. Patrick Day celebration and all the rides were not opened, but had fun, if going all day during the summer to ride all the rides opening till closing would recommend to get the food pass for $30 more but you get a full meal every 90 minutes. Enjoyed everything even the dinner theater show while eating. Hope to come back soon!!
Rachel Patterson — Google review
This park was beautiful!! The rides have a nice array of thrill to chill that I love the variety. The food here was amazing! I recommend you get the all day meal plan , it is so worth the money! The shows we saw were top notch! The themes for the countries seemed very authentic and custom to the region you were in. If you are going to watch the fireworks we recommend using the bridge for the best view. But while everyone is watching those the ride lines open up a bit. The only issue we incurred while there was that they didn't have many shirts in large size, because they had sold out. I would definitely come back and bring my family!!
Stephanie Bean — Google review
My family and I went yesterday 7/4/23, our tickets were discounted for military appreciation and we got 10% off for purchases made in the park. My family had a ball. There was plenty to do for all ages of my family. My husband and I have a 3,8,and 9 year old my mother also attended with us.The food was great. We can’t wait to go back
Anisha Jones — Google review
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is my favorite theme park. Emphasis on theme because this park nails the theme in each of the areas. Every area focuses on a specific area of Europe. The rides are a lot of fun, many of them are kid friendly. The thrill rides are also great, providing different levels of excitement for everyone. Employees are friendly and helpful, making sure the experience is special for every guest.
We also participated in the steam engine train tour. This was really special. Recommend for any train enthusiast. They take you into the train depot and show you the engine and teach you about how it works. The tour guide who led us on the tour was very friendly and even gave us a quick queue on a ride while waiting for the train.
Nicolas Natale — Google review
Absolutely one of the most beautiful amusement parks. Lots of trees and lots of shade to avoid the heat if needed. Lots and very fun roller coasters to enjoy. Has a lot of children rides to offer as well. Great entertainment and fantastic seasonal activities all year long. Highly recommend!
Michael — Google review
It was the last weekend of Howl-o-scream so it was busy for sure. We got there around 11 with a plan to stay through the 6pm change over from the amusement park to scream fest. It was the best choice. This allowed us to get on a lot of rides with little to no wait. As the day progressed the lines got longer and longer but we didn't care as we had already done the rides. We were off to enjoy food and shows. Speaking of shows, don't miss the Skeletones....they were great! By the time we had eaten, played games, and caught a few shows; it was 15 minutes before the spooky started so we headed right for the witch in the woods and Nevermore. We were able to do both with no wait but by the time we came out of the second one, the lines were huge. The park continued to fill up even as we left at 9 and there were cars lined up as far as the highway trying to get in at 9pm! Overall, it was a fantastic day, great food, great shows, and great actors for the Howl-O-Scream. We will be making this an annual trip for this event!
Kevin Kinsey — Google review
We love BG! We live locally so we visit often. The most recent visit was with a 5yo and 3yo. Plenty of rides and activities for each of their ages. It's quite a bit of hilly walking so definitely bring a wagon/stroller for little ones. Bring your own water bottle(s) and pack snacks if you don't want to spend your life savings on food.
Annie Hogge — Google review
Always a great place to take the whole family to. They have many ways to get around the park to include a train. They also shuttle to and from the Germany, Italy, and Ireland parking lots
If you’re a single rider like my self the have a lane for that for most of the roller coasters.
Food and drinks are also affordable, but I’d recommend buying a food pass.
Keith Kuyper — Google review
I used to work in Busch Gardens Williamsburg for 5 months, and I had a chance to ride every single roller coaster again and again :)
Best time is to come at opening and you start with every country to explore the entire park. Spend the entire day if you want to have the most fun and experience the park. Buy yourself the express pass, because the lines are long long long. Save money on food or gifts if you, need to... but buy the pass.
I have been here few to visit the park after, because it is definitely the best amusement park in the US. I also visited the Busch Gardens Tampa Bay which very fun, but this park is better.
Dragan Ange — Google review
One of my all time favorite parks! There's a reason it's been rated the WORLD'S most beautiful theme park for 33 YEARS straight! Great rides, great food and atmosphere. I could live in the park if they'd let me!
Brian Hall — Google review
Busch Gardens is one of the most beautiful amusement parks I have been to. You can go on roller coasters and rides; some of my favorites are Finnegan’s Flyer & Invader. You can enjoy shows with spectacular actors and singers. And they have food corresponding to the different European countries the areas the park is based off of. I recommend purchasing the all day dining pass so that you can have the option to eat every 90 minutes. You must go here if you are visiting or local!
Francisco Coronel — Google review
Lovely park. Nowhere near the world's most attractive, despite the awards, but it's in the top of 20. Despite the blistering heat, the staff were mostly happy to help and the restrooms very clean and fresh. There's free water at every soda fountain location and snacks, etc. The ride queues are woefully inaccurate (both ways) and the fast track very expensive. It's possibly my favourite Busch park.
Lee Minett — Google review
Lots of fun. The coasters are all amazing. Went for Halloween on a Thursday and there were only a couple of rides with long(ish) wait times. It is hard to navigate at night with all the lights off. We kept going in circles and probably missed half the park
Jeremy — Google review
The Christmas town was great. The concept of different countries was exciting.The rides were amazing. It's a good place to have fun during the holidays with kids especially. They will enjoy it thoroughly.
Avanthika B — Google review
I have always loved this theme park. I took my 4 kids (12, 9, 7 and 5) for Christmas town and it was a blast with huge variety of entertainment and rides open. They constantly update rides and have managed the lines really well. The only reason why I left it at 4 stars is because the bathrooms need more attention for cleanliness, the little kids rides need more people to help put them on and take them off (the wait time to get them in and out was far longer than the rode itself). Again it was still a great time and I highly recommend visiting!
Michael Hinson — Google review
Returning to Busch Gardens Williamsburg for the Christmas season was a revelation. Having visited in the past, I thought I knew what to expect, but the park's transformation for the holidays was nothing short of magical. The moment I stepped through the gates, I was greeted by a dazzling display of Christmas lights, stretching as far as the eye could see. It was like walking into a winter wonderland, with every tree, building, and pathway adorned with twinkling lights that brought the festive spirit to life.
The atmosphere was perfect for a family night out. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and Christmas carols, and the scent of seasonal treats wafted through the air, creating a sense of warmth and joy. Despite the park being quite busy, the crowd did not detract from the experience. Everyone seemed to be in good spirits, and the staff did an excellent job of managing the flow of visitors, ensuring that the magic of the season was not lost in the hustle and bustle.
Christmas Town, the park's seasonal event, was the highlight of the visit. Each section of the park was themed to different Christmas traditions from around the world, offering a unique and educational experience. The shows were heartwarming and entertaining, with talented performers bringing holiday stories to life. The rides, too, had a special touch, with festive music and decorations making even familiar thrills feel new again.
In conclusion, Busch Gardens Williamsburg during Christmas is an experience I would highly recommend. It's a place where the joy of the season is palpable, and the memories made are sure to be cherished. Whether you're revisiting or experiencing it for the first time, the park's festive transformation is guaranteed to fill you with holiday cheer.
Bruno Minardi — Google review
A really beautiful park!! We really enjoyed walking through the different countries as they are well decorated. We also were pleasantly surprised that we had no wait times on any of the rides. The service was really hit or miss… several people were super kind and nice and others were clearly not thrilled to be there. But overall, a very positive experience!! Looking forward to coming back
Emily MacArthur — Google review
We bought the combined Williamsburg Busch Garden pass. When driving in stay all the way to the LEFT when crowded because 4 extra lanes open up. Excellent park to please everyone. Lots of wild roller coasters and plenty of other exhibits to see like the wolves, owls, Clydesdales, Border collies, horned sheep. Plus several shows to see. Loved the Celtic dancing. Great restaurants and large quantities at reasonable prices. If you are there for the whole day I recommend the $50 all you can eat. 90 minute wait after ordering. Get entry, side or dessert and drink each time. If you just eat twice you more than cover the cost and quantities are enough to share especially if you are eating every 90 minutes. The Smoke House sampler plate was the best. And the cake in the German Fest hall was huge. We really enjoyed the Clyde’s and collies tour that was extra but kids really enjoyed petting the horses and feeding the sheep. Linh was a very knowledgeable tour guide. Best time to visit is when it rains in the morning. Our second day there were no cars in line and they sent us to preferred parking because they didn’t want to run the tram with no customers. No wait to get in the park. It was empty so the best time to ride when the rain stopped.
James Simon — Google review
They have become cashless since the last time I went about 10 years ago. Some waits are longer than others. I felt safe on the roller-coasters. They make sure everyone is the correct size and that everything latches. I have only 2 real complaints: the lines should be supervised because there are multiple rides where teens were skipping in line. Seriously skipping the line, like 20-50 people at a time when the lines curved back into themselves, and no one stopped them. The bathrooms could be cleaner.
W Newcomb — Google review
Me and my family do trips here at least three times a year and we do our boys trip here for two days out of the year! We have been here for howl scream and all and have to say this is one of the best parks to come too and cleanest. I rather come to this park than any other parks around! Everyone here that works here always has a smile on there faces and will always give great advice and directions if you get lost. And definitely the best ride to ride first. Best part to bring your family, friends, spouse kids.
Jonathan Hosford — Google review
As awesome as it was since the first time I went there 35 years ago. It’s gotten consistently better as the years have gone on. The countries as well as the roller coasters have been added to over the years. The food offerings continue to be updated. I always enjoy my visits
Luke Beavers — Google review
I hate to say it, but Christmas Town just isn't as nice as it used to be. I'm glad we got tickets on sale and not at full price. Parking is $30 just for the general lot. In fairness, if you have the full season pass, your general parking costs are included & there is no additional charge for Christmas Town visits.
Having been to Christmas Town before, I was expecting so much more than what was presented. There weren't as many displays as previous times and many lights were either broken or simply not turned on. The shops also didn't have much Christmas merchandise with the exception of one store in Germany. It just seemed very lackluster overall. Also, my husband and another gentleman behind him both almost fell in the bathroom due to wet toilet paper being all over the floor. The women's restroom was quite clean. The hot chocolate was pretty good, I did buy a cute Christmas decor item and the light show on Escape from Pompeii was awesome!
Honestly, I just don't think it was worth the cost this year.
C J — Google review
My family visited on December 30, 2023 to experience Christmas Town 🎄 ✨️ ❤️. Busch Gardens has always been a family favorite since I was a small child and continues to be as I am now a mother of teen children.
The only reason for 4/5 stars is the expense. Like all theme parks, prices are much higher for food, tickets, and shops. Other than that, this park is well maintained and gorgeous anytime of the year. Several coasters are available for thrill seekers as well as mellow rides for those who just want to sit back. The park offers several options for small children. Throughout the park, there are places for resting and areas for shopping. Take 👟 good walking shoes as the park is NOT flat. Hills are throughout the park. If visiting during the summer, you'll also want to bring water friendly shoes too such as flip flops. Lockers are available to store items if you don't want them to get wet or to carry them around the park.
Strollers are available to rent for the day.
Bags 🎒 are permitted, but are subject to a search upon entry.
Brittany Lucci — Google review
Amazing experience, a place of fun for all ages. All the staff who work there are very friendly. you can get all kinds of food and a lot of variety. : Italian, German, Dutch, American.
Francisco C — Google review
Enjoyed going to Christmas Town. The last time I went was 2009! Didn’t have to wait very long for rides. Saw some of the animals. Family members enjoyed shopping in the boutiques. Some fun shows around the park. We did the Santa experience and the fireside feast. The Santa experience was short and not a lot of value for the price. The fireside feast was a bit better though manage your expectations on the food. Thought it was a bit rude how people left right after eating and didn’t even wait for Santa to say goodbye. We loved the way Santa read the Christmas story.
Water Country USA is an extensive aquatic amusement park that boasts a wide array of water slides and rides, including thrilling river rafting featuring tunnels and falls. Visitors can expect to have a fun-filled day at the park, but there have been some discrepancies with the website's accuracy regarding parking fees, rules on outdoor food consumption, and designated smoking areas. Despite these minor issues, Water Country USA remains an excellent destination to beat the heat on scorching days.
Fun outdoor water park with a nice variety of rides for kids of all ages. Had a few areas of play/pools for toddler aged kids. My 7 yr old loved the lazy river and wave pool. Great options in terms of cool water slides too... from the mild to the intense. Great place for entire family.
Allie G — Google review
My family and another family came to Virginia for vacation and made a visit to this waterpark. We’ve all agreed it’s easily the best waterpark we’ve been to. It was clean, there was plenty of shade and everyone was super nice and helpful. We came during the week and had no problems finding anywhere to sit at any of the pool areas or food areas and nearly no wait for food and drink items. If we are ever in the area we will be returning without hesitation.
Deserae Coy — Google review
So expensive! We paid $460 for 6 people to spend 3 hours there. Another $60 in parking for 2 cars. I probably won’t go back. Everything inside was crazy expensive too. $4.99 for a Diet Coke. $16 for a pretzel & churro. There is not a lot of shade. They don’t let you bring food or drinks in either. I wasn’t impressed.
Carrie J — Google review
Great time for the kids. Great things to do. The queue to the different slides can be long, but they move fast. Big enough & clean. I got all-day dining tickets for my kids. I think they are no deal : too expensive for what you get, in my opinion.
Marie Pascaline Pascaline — Google review
The experience at the water park was good, but not excellent based on my 4 stars. For one there was a section of the park closed and second there was a big tube ride down. All the rides that were open were great, but I would prefer that the lazy river had tubes instead of floating down either by yourself or with a life vest. The food was also just ok. Lastly it would be great if there was a lane when entering parking that was a prepaid line only.
George Terplan — Google review
Very large waterpark, in the heart of a beautiful forested park. It gets busy and the lineups for some of the rides are long as a result, but there is a variety of thrill opportunities for all levels of comfort. A lazy river and wave pool are great for relaxing and no lineups for those! A wonderful and fun way to spend the day with family.
Earl Phillips — Google review
Wonderful day of play with my teens. We enjoyed the variety of water rides, food, and treats. Staff was friendly and helpful. Lockers weren't too expensive. Bring your waterproof phone cover and be prepared to drop your shoes at each ride and be soaked.
MIMI B — Google review
Bought the 2 park fun card and 1 annual pass for parking. We were in the area for a month and this is the best way to do theme parks for us.
We would go at open and leave when it got busy. The park is nice with shade throughout don’t know what others are talking about, I’ve been to parks without shade and this place has a lot. Could use a bit more water on the concrete in a few areas. Tons of great slides, no wait hardly for the first few hours.
We would pack food and eat at the picnic tables outside in the parking lot if we wanted to do a full day. Water bottles are allowed inside but no food. Bathrooms were fairly clean and well stocked.
Enjoy!
Ryan Svolto — Google review
My daughter and I enjoyed this getaway yesterday, being the first time to explore Water Country. A good day to be had BUT..
The website was a little confusing though. Parking is $25 when online I thought I read $10
Outdoor food is not permitted (but online says its okay)
Smoking (online says no smoking in the parks, but at site had a designated smoking spot behind the bathrooms)
That's the only few issues I've seen, needing information to be more accurate in person and online. But all in all, it's a great place to go to cool down on a hot day!
Amy Ashworth — Google review
It is a good waterpark for children to have fun, yes! It's a little expensive but the slides are very fun my 8 and 12 year old kids really enjoyed it .
I would say that the only bad thing is the long waiting lines to get on the slide, but they have a fast pass extra purchase if you are not a big fan of waiting for a long time, but this is definitely up to you, also food and drinks are not good and they are very expensive and they don't allow any outside food or drinks into the park.
I took my son to this water park for the first time as a birthday present for him and he really enjoy it! Outside of the food and the long waits, everything else was amazing! My son was very happy!.
josi gutierrez — Google review
I've been coming here since I was in diapers. The park is clean, beautiful, and well maintained. The staff are MOSTLY friendly and helpful. The rides are great and I appreciate that they have added more umbrellas and shading, especially in the lines and rest areas. That being said, they were severely understaffed when we visited this past Sunday... which made the lines even longer and not worth waiting for anymore. Many of the rides had closed off some of their tunnels and slides too, making it worse. Management should be more prepared and pay their staff better ages to ensure that there is proper staffing... otherwise, it isn't fair to the guests who have paid to visit and enjoy themselves. Food and drinks are outrageously expensive as always, but that's nothing new.
Heidi B. — Google review
Conveniently located off Interstate 64 between Richmond and Virginia Beach in Williamsburg is Water Country USA.
We visited on a Tuesday afternoon, 1 adult and two kids ages 10 and 12.
I highly recommend purchasing your tickets online a head of time as you receive a discount off the gate price.
Parking is 30 dollars per vehicle or you can opt for the upgrade to get a little closer for 55 dollars.
After parking we scanned our passes, entered through metal detectors and began our day at the park.
We found lockers available for rent of the three tiers available. 20 dollars for small. 30 for medium and 40 for large.
For reference, small locker was sufficient for my cell phone, keys, three large bath towels and street clothes for us.
After securing our belongings we went on just about every ride from the lazy river and wave pool to Colossal Curl. Life vests are available free of charge and are encouraged for children under 48 inches and those that are not strong swimmers.
We purchased the dining package which allows for an entree, side item, or dessert along with a beverage every 90 minutes. Caveat, bottled water, beer, bottles of soda are excluded along with certain ice cream stands and funnel cake are not included in the dining pass.
Fast passes are available for an additional fee to avoid lines if you so choose.
If you are looking for a fun place to take the family and spend some time outdoors, head over to Water Country USA for some sun and fun; you will be glad you did.
*something also to note is Water Country USA is completely cashless. They accept credit cards, Apple Pay and you can also load money onto a prepaid card for use within the park.
Shaya Moss — Google review
Great experience. Lots of fun and exciting rides for all ages. Lots of places to eat. They had a deal for food every 90 minutes. I did not go for that but that seemed like a brilliant idea for large families or groups. I look forward to going again
Gifty Davis — Google review
A Tuesday visit :
Lines were so long we couldn’t ride anything it took hours for three mediocre rides. For the cost there wasn’t much to do. The lazy lagoon was our favorite. We didn’t get to ride the big ride they have there because the line was 2 hour wait. The food with the dining plan was GOOD. Probably won’t return.
Shaquail Clark-Dance — Google review
I was pleasantly surprised with this water park. We had a party of six: 3 adults, 1 teen, 1 big kid, 1 toddler. It drizzled for the better part of the day. We opted to get a cabana for $220. Worth the expense to get a break from the drizzle. We received a free meal (X6) with the rental.
Come prepared to walk! Water shoes are a must, sandals barely worked out for me. The food was good for a theme park and prices. I saw people headed to their car for their food too. It's close enough to pull off.
The park closed 3hrs early because of inclement weather. We asked to receive passes to come back and we got all 6 passes back, expire within a year.
Great water slides/activities for toddlers, teens, and adults. No lines to get on rides. Highly recommend a visit.
Juan Villamar — Google review
The water slides were the best part. The wave pool and lazy river had so much leaves and debris it was not as relaxing as it should be. My biggest issue is that you can't get to the rides without walking over the hot sidewalk. Even if you wear your slides to the ride entrance the sidewalk in line should be misted or treaded. Somehow the other water park have this figured out.
Travis Maugle — Google review
Unfortunately, We purchased VIP parking online and got to the park and had to be refunded due to lack of spaces made accessible. We also purchases a Cabana because we had all ages and wanted to make certain everyone would be comfortable. ONLY to be there was no service for food, no ice for water service, not enough employees for food service. This was very disappointing.
RoRo Gingy — Google review
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4.5
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176 Water Country Pkwy, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA
The Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center is a living history museum that accurately recreates life in 18th century America. The attraction contains 88 original buildings, as well as hundreds of faithful reproductions, and employs actors in period costumes to immerse guests in the experience. Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about colonial life in America.
Informative and very fun! Don’t hit everything, just what you’re interested in. Expensive and not as immersive as I’d hoped, but still recommend. I wish their roads weren’t asphalt, but cobblestone or something more realistic.
Jaden Larson — Google review
It is completely our fault for realizing not a lot is open this time of year and NOTHING is open after 5pm. Fortunately, we had not yet bought tickets. So we bought the self-guided audio walking tour from Action Tour Guide. I loved it. The 12 year old was bored and the 16 year was nostalgic from when she came with grandparents when she was younger. Not a criticism, just a heads-up.
Deborah Monaco — Google review
Colonial Williamsburg exceeded expectations by far. I thought it was just going to be a tourist trap, but it wasn’t. Even the service at the ticket counter was super nice. The tickets are expensive but worth it if you spend the entire day. We walked over on the path from the welcome center, but there is also a shuttle. Our first stop was the governors palace. We attended a talk by Patrick Henry, and then we did a tour of the governors palace. Christine did a fantastic job. Everyone was extremely knowledgeable and nice to my kids. There are places to eat right offsite or in “town.” You can find the open exhibits because they have a flag outside. You cannot do everything in one day, so prioritize what you want to see.
Shannon Bedo — Google review
Amazing and beautiful! Our family loves Williamsburg. An awesome opportunity to teach your littles a piece of history or maybe learn a little more yourself! You don’t need to purchase tickets to walk around but if you want to tour the insides or certain buildings you will need to purchase tickets online or at the visitor center. You can walk to the colonial town from the merchant square or if you start at the visitor center you walk over the bridge and start from there. There are shuttles as well that can take you to and from the historic area. Definitely worth the visit if you enjoy history!
Samantha S — Google review
Efficient handling of visitors with friendly, cheerful staff. Wonderful treatment of Veterans, including annual pass for the price of a single visit (one multi-day pass).
Bright and comfortable environment.
Rita Thomas Photographer — Google review
Peaceful atmosphere, great customer service, amazing food. I love the colonial houses with the wreath's and Christmas decorations. Photos taken Dec. 31, 2021. (Blue light started appearing in my pictures when I started taking pictures at the beautiful church)
Julie Stawowy — Google review
Informative and fun place to visit. Be sure to get at least the one day pass in order to get the full effect of the many docents and role players throughout the site. You can park and walk for free, but you need a pass to enter most of the historic buildings. See artisans at work: printers, blacksmiths, carpenters, bakers, homeowners, etc etc. You also get to ride the shuttle buses with a paid ticket. You can expect to do a lot of walking. NOTE: MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS are the days off for all of the main restaurants and some of the historic homes. You can take the shuttle or walk to the market area which is technically outside the historic district, and find some restaurants open. Also, if you are active, retired or a military vet, you will get discounts on admission and in any of the merchant stores. There's also a USO style building with free coffee and drinks. If you have a challenge coin, bring it and they will trade it for one of theirs. There's a wall full of ones that vets have brought in. All of this will be explained by the friendly ticket agents at the welcome center. You can avoid waiting in line by buying tickets online, but we had a lot more information from the live folks. All of the period costumed staff throughout the site are more than willing to assist with any questions you might have.
Dennis s — Google review
I went with my husband to see if I would enjoy it for a second time 25 years later. It did not disappoint. If you want to go on any tours such as a carriage ride or night ghost tour you need to book them in advance, they were sold out when we got there for the day. We did the guided tours watched Thomas Jefferson on the stage and enjoyed walking the town. We didn't pay attention to time and missed the taverns open hours so we picked up a few snacks from the bakery.
Linda Kingston — Google review
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4.5
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101 Visitor Center Dr, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA
We found Dog and Oyster Vineyard to be charming and relaxing. The Sip and Slurp was such a fun concept. There were a lot of people enjoying the day but it didn’t seem crowded. The staff took good care of us. The wine is lovely so we did not go home empty handed. Our granddaughter was kept busy with decorating shells. Happy to have a nice place to bring kids and dogs.
Mark Tures — Google review
I love this new space. The only reason I’m not giving this five stars is the fact they are using all plastic throw away cups and plates. You’d think where they are located they’d use really glasses, I understood at their other location why they used plastic.
The wine is really good. We also tried their “dessert” oyster. Sooo good.
Logan W. — Google review
Could this place be any more adorable?! Came with a friend and sat outside to enjoy a glass of wine and freshly shucked oysters. We didn't do the wine tasting so I can only speak for The Pearl, which we each enjoyed a glass of. It was delightful. Just right for a summer afternoon.
Patricia Moore — Google review
We drove from Yorktown for Chesapeake Wine Trail weekend event to find only three people working the event. Tables unturned. People flagging down the three over tasked people just to get a drink. It appeared as if very few people had food. Three families left without being served within an hour with us just showing up. Disappointed.
Sherri Pigue — Google review
The oysters were wonderful! And paired very nicely with their wine, the Oyster White! The server was incredibly attentive and lovely, and the owner came over to meet us. Great service overall!
I was less impressed by their selection of wines to try via the tasting, I liked 1 of the 4, which is not typical for me. That being said, my husband liked 3 of 4, so perhaps they were just not my taste.
Emily Corbett — Google review
The winery was very relaxing. The hostess was very friendly and gave us information on each wine. Would love to come back on Saturday or Sunday for oysters!
Chanel Butler — Google review
We was at the Tides Inn for our anniversary and we stop at this place and was a amazing experience, the wine was so good and the staff was so kind, I really recommend the Oyster White Wine.
Karen Arriaga — Google review
They have 4 choices in wine and all of them are relatively dry. They're good, but not necessarily to my specific taste. Now if I was only rating on the basis of the crab cake and steamed oysters I ordered, which were excellent, this would be an easy 5 star rating. I did like the fact that despite all the COVID nonsense they were selling flights of wine so I at least got to taste all their wines. Finally their outdoor seating area is great and really has the feel of a tiki bar.
Rick Adkins — Google review
My boyfriend stopped by this winery while in the area for a wine and oyster tasting. Unfortunately on the day that we were there they did not have oysters. Even though we were disappointed we still enjoyed our time at the cute winery. We got a tasting. The wine was good.
Dori Roberts Stewart — Google review
First, though, I will say the staff were very friendly and helpful. That said, our experience was only okay: I did not care for the wine, with or without the oysters, and the roasted oysters (which we had, obviously) were not the amazing like the waitress said they'd be. There was also the smell of fertilizer wherever you sat under the tent. It just was a different experience than I realized it would be, probably because it's a micro-vineyard housed alongside a restaurant and inn experience. We do still want to try the restaurant, which we were unable to do this trip, but in terms of the wine-tasting experience, it was underwhelming, in terms of taste, scene, and available variety. The only plus was that the wine flight was inexpensive. So, silver-lining.
Historic Jamestowne is an intriguing site managed by the NPS, serving as the original location of the first permanent English settlement in North America. The settlement's remains were discovered in 1994, and visitors can explore the excavations on a free guided tour. Additionally, there is an archaeology museum called Archaearium that harbors over 4000 artifacts and features an exhibit called 'World of Pocahontas, Unearthed.
This was such a cool place to go visit. All the artifacts and information in the museums really help you get a clear picture of what life was like here. It's very cool to walk on the same land where English settlers walked 400 years ago, and also a bit sobering to know that many of the settlers died on that very land. The nearby musuem and replicas of the ships and Fort James are also very interesting and worth a look. All in all, a very cool experience.
Tristan Diekman — Google review
It was incredible to see the area first colonized in the USA. The day was perfect, weather-wise, and there was so much to see. The best part was the gentleman native American explaining how he was making an arrowhead in the traditional way. He showed and explained the tools he was using and how he was using them. He even explained the action to flake off pieces of stone to shape and sharpen it.
You enter through the main building and purchase tickets. They give you a sticker to wear as proof you paid. It's dog friendly and there is a gift shop/ post office inside. After passing through the building you walk across a long walking bridge. The tall obelisk is the first thing you see, then just beyond it is the church and you walk into the original Jamestown settlement. Beyond it is the building with artifacts.
There are plenty of benches to sit and rest while you watch the ferries go by. It was cool with the breeze coming off the water.
Laura Wright — Google review
Absolutely amazing place. It's so interesting to see the remnants of this country's origins. The archaeologists love taking questions and everyone there is so well-informed and just eager to share with you. Some of the archaeologists had actually found a couple of pieces while we were there and they showed them to us. It was a wonderful experience.
Tyrell Miller — Google review
Historic Jamestown is maintained by the National Park Service. Excavations are ongoing. Jamestown is the beginning of America. It is another story of the early struggles of the first settlers. There are lots to see and learn. The first fort on American soil is here. The first mansions are here. It is the story of people coming from all nations for a new beginning and contributing what they bring to the development of a new nation. I wholly recommend this tour.
Larry Henry — Google review
I would give it 5 stars but they have fenced off the best parts of the historic areas requiring a separate $15.00 entry fee. I was told this started in October 2023. Sort of a shame what the powers to be did here.
BILLY BOONE JR — Google review
The kids had a blast taking in our nation's history. What a fun way to bring our texts books to life! I would recommend good walking shoes as most is gravel and a good refillable water bottle. Restrooms are clean but not all around so potty before heading to the sites! Bring a camera the views are amazing.
tim taylor — Google review
Very well cared for park. Plenty of educational materials posted around the grounds. It was fun to see active archeological activities still occurring. The Park Ranger talk was very informative and engaging. It wasn't overly crowded even on a holiday weekend. Definitely recommend a visit.
Laura Jones — Google review
This is an awesome place just to walk the grounds to see everything restored and preserved from over 400 years ago. The view of the James River is beautiful, and it must have been very interesting starting the first permanent English settlement in North America back in 1607.
Mike McGuire — Google review
I haven't been back here for 30 years since I was a child, and I returned today with my kid and got to relive my childhood. Place looks so much better than what I remember as far as the museum areas go, and I'm happy they got as much going on as they do as this is an excellent place to preserve. Would highly recommend and I'm more than likely to come back with the family to tour the grounds a little more slowly. Had a wonderful time!
Jonathan Hartzell — Google review
This is the original Jamestown settlement. There is the US National Park and the Preservation Virginia area. There are two separate admissions. The Preservation Virginia side host the Archaearium Archaeology Museum, the Memorial Church, statues of John Smith and Pocahontas, and a fort replica. The National Park side has an obelisk monument and the grounds of the new Jamestown Settlement.
Michael Silas — Google review
If you are a military family the entrance will be free for all of the member of the family. That itself deserves a five star!
Most of the interesting things to see are outside so if you are afraid of Covid, go there confident. At the entrance of the welcome center, someone is at the ready to answer any questions before you buy your tickets.
We experienced NO wait, maybe because we traveled there before Christmas and during weekday.
Inside the welcoming center, there is a very cute souvenir store. There is also like a video room but that was closed — probably due to Covid restrictions.
Outside was lots of fun. The kids loved it. The excavation site was fascinating for them. They also simply loved running around and see the canon and statue of the first governor of Virginia.
I recommend that outing.
virginie gimenez — Google review
So awe-inspiring. To see where a nation first began is a piece of history you cannot replace. The interpreters are amazing and full of so much information. To think that the first English settlers also walked around here is thought-provoking. Well kept and rebuilt pieces of history.
Laura Gibson — Google review
The location has so much historical significance and they have done such a wonderful job exploring and preserving and presenting it. We were there for 5 hours and could have spent much longer. They currently have ranger lead programs 10, 1:30 & 3:30, but they said to call beforehand as the schedule changes daily. The National park pass receives 50% off admission.
Emily Anne — Google review
It's great to see the oldest English settlement in America. Much of the fort has been recreated for you to visit and there are a few original areas including some stone foundations, early graves, and some brickwork.
The museum included lots of original artifacts and also some skeletons from original settlers who had been identified using historical records and scientific analysis.
The cafe was FANTASTIC. Really great soups and sandwiches.
Overall, this was great value - about half the price of visiting Williamsburg, and much more interesting in my opinion. Also, kids get in for free!
Everyone was friendly and helpful. The ticket staff helped my parents obtain a discount.
Oliver Warne — Google review
Loved this place it has 2 museums one tou walk through to get to the out side settlement and one just off to the side in the settlement. They also have a live archeology dig they let you(kids) help with.its right by the water and just a nice place to walk in the grounds flat so it's not a hard walk. It's not to bad of a distance to walk neither with lots of shady spots to set and rest.i highly recommend to get a pass such as the triangle pass. But if that to high they offer other opinions. It covers all museums ,reenactment , and touts.
ray oliver — Google review
It was cool. Where comfy shoes, not saddles bc it is quite a walk to see all the exhibits and lots of gravel pathways. I appreciate how much available seating sprinkled about so when you get tired from walking and need a break, a bench isn't far away.
You can tell they took care and time setting up the exhibits. It is easy to understand the history that took place here.
Megan Villanueva — Google review
The site itself is pretty cool, albeit presented without much fanfare. Favorite part is definitely the archaeological museum that they have, whose staff are top notch knowledgeable and very interesting to listen to - in particular one Native speaker, I believe his name was also Daniel, gave one of the most in depth looks into the history of the first peoples here I'd ever heard.
Daniel Li — Google review
Great park to walk around and enjoy views of the river and learn the founding history of Virginia and the US. Dog-friendly in the outdoor areas only. Military families are welcomed for free!
Christina Patten — Google review
Came for the history. Stayed for the history. Left cause the pork and beans.
Great place. BYOF (Bring your own food!)
Military is free. But also, free for up to 3 adult guests w/ each military personnel as well. They don’t say that on the website.
Ben Crayne — Google review
Probably the weakest link of the Colonial Triangle, but still a fascinating place to visit. The Church is probably the focal point of the site, but there is still a lot of history to be seen here, and ongoing archaeological work being done to unearth even more. There is also a Wildlife Loop on the site with some very beautiful scenery, and 3 old graves.
Coming Judgement — Google review
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!! This is a MUST for schools whether local, or even out of state!! The knowledge found here for children and adults is beyond comprehension! This information is HISTORY IN THE MAKING!! To have visited today and having met a few of the archaeological team currently digging to continuously unearth artifacts dating back some 400+ years to earlier settlers of the Colonial Era when John Smith uprooted the Fort there at Jamestown, and well, … it quite breathtaking for a historian such as I to be standing in a place where the first democracy took shape. There are absolutely no words to express the surrealism of standing in this place. But then to turn and see the name of your ancestors on the wall or yet the very root of your family’s last name and thus your heritage, right there … it’s astounding!! When visiting Williamsburg, VA I recommend staying at Aldrich Bed & Breakfast where you have the opportunity of selecting several personal guided tours from Mr. Tom Patton, he and his wife Sue Patton are the Innkeepers. Mr. Patton is a Licensed Tour Guide. You have the opportunity of selecting a tour of Jamestown Island, Colonial Williamsburg, and/or Yorktown with Mr. Tom Patton. Feel free to visit their website aldrichhouse dot com. Mr. Patton has a knack for making the history of Williamsburg come alive as you tour, ITS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. You literally feel as though you are there during that period!
Cindy Burgener — Google review
Love the Jamestowne settlement attractions. The National Parks did a great job as always. The Jamestowne Settlement is also a great place to visit. (2 different places)
The actors did a great job in character and the tour guides were great also.
There is so much to see and learn.
Amazing to be there and learn the history. Loved it!
Jason Sargent — Google review
Very interesting historical place. Our guide Mark was phenomenal. We actually stayed all day to hear his afternoon tour
Christy Werley — Google review
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1368 Colonial Nat'l Historical Pkwy, Jamestown, VA 23081, USA
Jamestown Settlement is a living history museum that recreates the European settlement of 1607, featuring three ships and a Powhatan village. Visitors can take guided tours of the outdoor exhibits, which are led by knowledgeable and personable guides while interpreters provide an entertaining experience. The highlight of the museum includes the ships and Fort. The indoor exhibits are also well curated and maintained. Suitable for all ages, it is recommended to visit in winter on a weekday to avoid peak season crowds.
Awesome piece of history. Enjoyed every moment of being here - from the introduction video played, to the galleries, to the settlement, native village, and ships. The folks working here were very knowledgeable and friendly as well. Definitely recommend taking the time
to check this place out. I added a few pics below to show what’s available outside, but I’ll leave the indoor galleries for the visitor to see !
Andr? Thibodeaux — Google review
Very nice museum both inside and out! We ended up skipping the videos, spent about 3 hours walking around looking at the exhibits. There are quite a bit of interactive displays inside; and the people dressed in role player costumes are extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and present with sincere enthusiasm.
B.D. Olsen — Google review
This was a great place to bring kids and learn important historical info about the first American settlement. They did a great job with all the recreations and all the actors that were dressed up were very informative and stayed in character. The indoor museum and gift shop were also very well laid out and interesting. Highly recommend!
Travis and Kristina Rhodes — Google review
Nice museum! There are two fun movies to watch, interesting things inside and outside. There's a restaurant near the entrance with nice food. We had a fun time! A few hours was more than enough
Kirsten vdM — Google review
Very interesting place to visit if you want to understand the history of the settlers in the United States. It was fascinating seeing how people built and lived in a community before modern technology. This is a nice place to stroll leisurely through history. I highly recommend visiting this historical location and seeing what it took to survive in a transitional period.
Bryan Hill — Google review
Jamestown was a great experience, especially for the kids. There's a lot to take in but the kids can touch a lot of it which makes it feel like a real experience. The kids loved putting on the armor and hats and really enjoyed the ship. The indoor exhibit was insightful and interesting as well. The people who were giving demonstrations were great at telling their stories and showing us what the tools were used for, how the bartering system worked and more. You need at least half a day to see and be able to appreciate the whole experience. The cafe had a lot of options to choose from. There are deli sandwiches, hot grilled food, salads, desserts and even snack items for quick bites. The gift shop near the entrance of the lobby when you first arrive is very nice. There was a lot of things to look at and the kids loved looking around and picking out their gifts. There are so many neat toys and books for the little ones.
C Drake — Google review
Interesting place to spend a few hours. Replicas of the ships the first settlers to the United States used, people in period correct costumes sharing knowledge, a village, shot tower, and an indoor museum going back to pre-settlement.
Excellent for children and adults alike.
carl graybeal — Google review
This place was amazing! There is so much to see and do! One of the highlights going with 2 kids and my mother was the abundance of air conditioning options (and cafe) if it gets too hot! The actors were really friendly and informative. Everything was clean and wasn't hard to locate at all! We loved the interactive games outside also! While we were there it wasn't overly crowded. We got in at 9 and we're able to get front row parking and had time to see the entire place before it started filling up with people! Even after, it is a great experience!
Amanda Meyer — Google review
It was an amazing experience. Looking back to history. Visualizing how British has started colonization in North America. Understanding and thinking about those old days how people survived. Overall it was a great experience.
Rahman Afrin — Google review
Excellent activity. Ships, fort, and museum are a must visit in this area. The cafeteria food was excellent and reasonably priced for a tourist area. Also offered a veteran’s discount.
James Simon — Google review
Loved every second of my four hour visit here. Could have stayed longer. At first I wasn't sure about having to take a guided tour for the outdoor exhibits (in certain weeks in winter they don't allow you to meander around), but I am actually really happy I was offered a tour. The guide was extremely knowledgeable and personable, the interpreters were fantastic fun and I didn't want to leave. The ships and the Fort were definitely highlights. The indoor exhibits are also well done and everything is spotless. Great for all ages. It looks like they experience large crowds in peak season, if that's not your thing plan a visit on a winter weekday and you won't be disappointed.
Sarah Longmore — Google review
It was a great experience. We purchased the american historic triangle tickets for multiple places and it was the best bang for the buck. The town, fort and ships were awesome!
Mike Michetti — Google review
Wonderful museum. It really gives you a well rounded view of the history. My favorite "thing" was the obelisk. It's an interesting celebration erected at the 350 year anniversary. The Cafe was also liked by our group.
Gunnar Larson — Google review
We had such a great time. We enjoyed touring the inside of the boat. The native Indian live exhibit is a must see. It's respectfully done and so interesting. It's like stepping back into their village. The Jamestown settlement was a little more sparsely done that I would have thought with a lot less actors but the ones there were excellent and informative. The facilities were clean and well maintained. The museum portion was excellent.
Marian Miller — Google review
It is interesting to see. Is it worth the money, not really. Kids love it. We brought our now 25 year old here when he was 8 and it was great. It seems ever here they have downgraded the entertainment aspect of it. The museum is interesting.
Lora Jacobson — Google review
I had a fantastic experience at the Jamestown settlement. The museum is beautifully curated, offering a rich historical insight. The outdoor activities, paired with captivating performances, added a lively and engaging dimension to the visit. Highly recommend!
Tatsiana Nelipovich — Google review
Wow. I was super impressed. Definitely exceeded my expectations. Great place for children and adults alike. And teens that enjoy history. I love how the enhibits were interactive and tactile. Lots of great films. You can walk or drive down to the Glasshouse after and finish by riding the ferry to the fort and back. Definitely worth visiting!
Justine Vild — Google review
We had a wonderful time! The galleries were much more extensive than I was expecting, with so many artifacts. All the exhibits were displayed so well.
The Native American village, ships, and fort really let you experience what life must have been like in 1607.
Carolyn Mason — Google review
Great place to visit and learn about our country's history. Between the gallery indoors and the outdoor recreations (villages and ships) we easily spent 3.5 hours. They do offer a military discount and a multi location discount to visit all 3 main museums of history.
Dacia Zimmer — Google review
This was a fun adventure. There was a walk through education center with all sorts of exhibits. The Jamestown replica stronghold was nice and informative. The Native American village was informative. All the staff were friendly, informative and, all around amazing. The 3 boats on the water were very informative. Crazy to think how small they are and that they (are replicas) crossed the ocean. A good place to spend some time and see a lil early Americana.
C M — Google review
I love history, and this is a wonderful place to see and learn. I wish we could have been there at opening time. We got there late in the afternoon and missed the outdoor area. Call for info before you buy the tickets. A bonus is that they do offer military and first responders a discount.
Gloria Rodriguez — Google review
Amazing museum that is interactive and a fun place to explore. They have a couple of shows to watch, a few demonstrations of musket firing, blacksmithing, cooking and sailing. I recommend getting the combo pass so you get into Yorktown as well with the price of one. All in all, a great experience for the family.