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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from Salisbury to Greensboro?
The direct drive from Salisbury to Greensboro is 369 mi (594 km), and should have a drive time of 7 hrs 4 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Salisbury to Greensboro, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Virginia Beach, Raleigh, Durham, Yorktown, Norfolk, Newport News, Chapel Hill, and Hampton, as well as top places to visit like Kiptopeke State Park and Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, or the ever-popular Cape Charles Beachfront.
The top cities between Salisbury and Greensboro are Virginia Beach, Raleigh, Durham, Yorktown, Norfolk, Newport News, Chapel Hill, and Hampton. Virginia Beach is the most popular city on the route. It's 3 hours from Salisbury and 4 hours from Greensboro.
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.
Most popular city on this route
13 minutes off the main route, 41% of way to Greensboro
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.
32% as popular as Virginia Beach
1 minute off the main route, 42% of way to Greensboro
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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.
9% as popular as Virginia Beach
10 minutes off the main route, 43% of way to Greensboro
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.
12% as popular as Virginia Beach
12 minutes off the main route, 45% of way to Greensboro
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.
19% as popular as Virginia Beach
18 minutes off the main route, 47% of way to Greensboro
I'll never travel to Greensboro without this trip planner again
The city of Raleigh, located in North Carolina, is recognized for its educational institutions, such as North Carolina State University. The Research Triangle area surrounding Raleigh, Chapel Hill and Durham is renowned for its various technology and academic organizations. The North Carolina State Capitol is a historic building with Greek Revival architecture from the 1800s. Its rotunda features a statue of George Washington dressed in the attire of a Roman commander.
55% as popular as Virginia Beach
13 minutes off the main route, 82% of way to Greensboro
Durham is located in the northern part of North Carolina and forms an integral part of the Research Triangle Region. The area is renowned for its technology firms and academic establishments. Duke University, situated within Durham, boasts two prominent attractions- the Duke Chapel, built-in neo-Gothic style, and the Nasher Museum of Art showcasing pieces by contemporary artists such as Christian Marclay and Ai Weiwei.
39% as popular as Virginia Beach
4 minutes off the main route, 87% of way to Greensboro
Chapel Hill is a town in North Carolina. It's home to a campus of the University of North Carolina, which is known for its basketball team. The Ackland Art Museum exhibits European and Asian art. The North Carolina Botanical Garden has nature trails and themed gardens. The Morehead Planetarium & Science Center runs a program of live demonstrations. Franklin Street is lined with shops, restaurants and bars.
8% as popular as Virginia Beach
13 minutes off the main route, 87% of way to Greensboro
Best stops along Salisbury to Greensboro drive
The top stops along the way from Salisbury to Greensboro (with short detours) are Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Virginia Beach Boardwalk, and Historic Jamestowne. Other popular stops include North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Sarah P. Duke Gardens, and Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center.
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.
Kiptopeke State Park is a coastal park located at the tip of Virginia's Eastern Shore. It serves as an important bird monitoring area and is a top spot for hawk-watching. While some amenities may be lacking compared to other Virginia state parks, such as an outdated bathhouse and uneven camping sites, there are still positives to note such as rare sewer connections at some sites and frequent patrols during the day.
Great state park! Beautiful and just perfect! The staff is super nice! The area is beautiful and clean. Plenty of space! Great park for children. Our kids just loved walking around, going to the beach to dig holes and collect seashells and go around with their bikes.
During the weekend the little store is open, my kids would love to go their and buy ice cream. the lady is so nice there!
We'll come back for sure!!!
Lilly L — Google review
A beautiful state park next to the ocean.
It turned so romantic during sunset time. Of course during day time, it was a perfect place to take photos with the ocean as well.
Another thing to mention is that it is a good place for fishing. We saw many fishers there from day to night.
The park is free while you need to pay $7 of parking fee. Plus, there is a $18 of toll on both directions.
Sweet Kitty — Google review
Camped here early June 2023 with the Richmond தமிழ் சங்கம். Small lovely bayside park with enough activities for a weekend and maybe little more, right after the Chesapeake Bay bridge tunnel. Beach a short hike away from the campground. Yurts just on the boardwalk! Concrete ships a treat for the eyes, creating a safe swimming experience for kids on the north beach. Tempted to swim there, but too deep and too many boats.
Plenty of trails mostly named after birds, none too long or tough. Raptor trail to the Taylor pond full of bloom. Raptor watching in the early spring or fall should be magical. Loved the view from up above the first brown pelican trail overlook. Sad for a dead logger back sea turtle on the south beach. Missed the sunsets. Stunning night hike on the beach, one with the crabs. Great park for biking to the Eastern shore visitor center on the new bike path.
Bathhouse okay after the first evening. Helpful park staff. Pavilion great spot for a community get-together. Not many shaded sites in loops A or B. Must remember to review the campsite info buried in the park website. Small visitor center with not many souvenirs. Easy getaway to Cape Charles, a must do after having spent the hefty toll.
Arun Sagar (spark) — Google review
Lovely park. $7 to park- honor system, no ranger at the park office/visitor center when we visited. Parked and walked around the pier which was very well maintained with gravel paths, new fish cleaning station and picnic areas. You do have to pay a small fee if you want to fish from the pier. We walked several of the trails: Wood Warbler Boardwalk, Baywood, Brown Pelican, Mockingbird, Songbird and Raptor. They were all well cleared, maintained and mostly wooded/shaded. We would definitely come back to stay in the cabins or visit.
Ryanne Brown — Google review
A secret gem and if you’re lucky enough to have the time to visit this beautiful place you definitely won’t regret it. We tent camped for two days and it was one of our favorite camping trips to date. Our dog absolutely loved the beach and trails. We loved the sunsets and peaceful vibes!
Ashley Harrell — Google review
This is great state park in Charles Cape near the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia Eastern shore. We went with about 50+ families on camping trip. Camp site was flat and easy to put a tent on. Restroom were clean.
This place offers a great place for bird watching, fishing, surfing, hiking and has kids playground and a shop too.
I liked the wooded path to go down to the beach. As it’s on a higher ground you get a beautiful expansive view. Need to find pics from summer of 2019
Sarita Bisht — Google review
Lovely state Park with ample space at campsites. We stayed in B Loop with FHU. Access to the beach, boat ramp, area to put in kayaks, bathhouse several trails and playground. Interesting history and you have to see the concrete ships! Beautiful sunsets. If you don't have a camper, check out the Yurts because they have the best views. Check out the lodges because they are huge and look so nice. They also have cabins. Probably a great place to hang in the summer. Starlink worked great.
Cruising with the Clemons — Google review
Beautiful park, great staff, excellent facilities. Gorgeous sand beach that goes on forever. South beach is leashed dog friendly. Fantastic playground for the kids. Over five miles of trails to hike or bike. Accommodations are fantastic-lodges and cabins first class. All RV sites are back in, and if you’re really good at that, get one at the end of C loop where you will be rewarded with more privacy and plenty of shade. Firewood at the park costs more than outside but is dry and seasoned. Check out the concrete ships via kayak, fish at the CBBT islands, take a day trip to Cape Charles or other area parks and nature preserves. Please think twice when tempted by the many female crabs with eggs. Each carries an average of 800,000 of these precious eggs and is the future of the local industry.
Melissa Haley — Google review
Kiptopeke SP requires a fee to enter and additional fishing fee from the lighted pier. You can camp or rent a cabin. There's a nice beach w restrooms & showers, a boat launch & parking, kayak rentals, and trails to explore. What we found most fascinating besides the fishermen catching flounder were the "fleet" of WWII era concrete merchant ships that are found off the shore. Lined up stern to bow, there are 9 ships intentionally sunk to create a breakwater to protect the pier & beach. I never knew there were such ships made of concrete. The history of this and the ferry fleet prior to the construction of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel is intrigung. Great little park to enjoy the outdoors.
Gordon Shaffer — Google review
The pines meet saltwater. This is a state park for the outdoor enthusiast or those looking for a relaxing break. Full hook-up sites are limited, and electric and water are available at all locations. The campground can accommodate large rigs. There is some shade at most sites. The dump station is easily accessible and can accommodate multiple units at the same time. The bathhouses are outdated but relatively clean. There is a small store on site with basic fishing supplies and bait. Bring your boat and trailer as there is ample parking near the boat ramp. Boating, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and swimming are all available along the Chesapeake Bay. Great views by day and woods camping at night make this a great stop over, long weekend, or vacation spot.
A B — Google review
Took my son for an end of summer trip. We only camped for one night, but we both loved it. The beaches are small and private. We took a beach walk to watch the sunset & we were the only two out there. The sunset was gorgeous from the beach. It was a last min trip, so we didn't stay long enough to check out all the trails and everything they had to offer but even being just a short trip we really enjoyed it and would definitely come back again.
Danielle Richards — Google review
We stayed for 2 nights in the campground and had a wonderful time hiking the trails, enjoying the beach and relaxing. The campsites are well spaced out, the bathrooms are clean with hot showers. Very dog friendly area with many hiking options. We made sure we enjoyed all the trails, Just gorgeous area.
Bethany Bozzuto — Google review
Facilities are not as nice as many of the other Virginia state parks. Bathhouse wasn't clean and is showing is age. Camping sites aren't very level, are grass/sand, and are difficult to back into due to the 90 degree layout. Campers are very close and somewhat crowded. A plus is that some sections feature a sewer connection which isn't common in state parks. Fire pits are behind camper. Saw frequent patrols during the day. Beach access and boating access is great. Make sure you wear shoes crossing onto the beach due to sand spurs and briers.
Very quite and natural area.
Mark C — Google review
The park offered a view of the Chesapeake Bay with good camping amenities. Tent spaces had accessible water; RV space had convenient full service hookups. There are multiple well-designed bathrooms with hot showers and coin laundry, but they would only get two stars for cleanliness.
Thaddeus Taylor — Google review
Went in the off season but was still beautiful. Boardwalks need maintenance in certain areas, and grip tape for mossy downhill portions....tho it was pretty fun skiing on wood! Will be back, Hiking trails were great!
DARREN-WILL-FIX — Google review
Beautiful park on the bay! The workers were all very friendly and helpful. The park was clean. The campground for tents had big areas, with parking, fire pit, picnic tables and tons of rooms left over. Pricing was great too.
Lindsey Peterson — Google review
If you're looking for a place to camp, lodge, or cabin, it's not too bad. I've been many times and the campsites are relatively clean, and the lodges are big and support around sixteen people comfortably. There is a fishing pier, a boat dock, and two beaches, otherwise, there isn't many activities to enjoy. If you'll be staying here, know that the only place that you can visit within reason which is Cape Charles, which has good ice cream places and cafes, but no other activities than another beach.
Nathan Le — Google review
Great accommodations - tents, RV, cabins, yurts or whole houses!! The beach is perfect for young children where they can play in the water while guardians can relax on the beach. There are no big waves and the bottom slopes down very gradually so no danger of riptides or sudden drop offs. And then there's the fishing pier where one can reel in flounder, blue fish, croakers, ribbon fish, spot and others. The park also now has kayaks for rent. Check the park website for other amenities. Great time for everyone.
Nearby, if you are so inclined, are restaurants that serve simple and tasty cuisine.
miff vargas — Google review
Magical haven so close to Norfolk and yet a world away: pristine state park with peace and quiet and sights to die for! Most gorgeous sunsets ever, their yorts are stupendous, tent lots are closer together but friendly, and the park rangers are all so sweet. Most of all: amazing trails, hawk observation tower is epic, fun kid playgrounds, wonderful beach and cement ships to behold like nowhere else.
Marianna Gleyzer — Google review
Awesome park, and worth the drive if you're coming out from Norfolk or Virginia Beach. Very pet friendly, plenty of doggie bags around the park if you forget yours.The pier was great, and the picnic area was too. There is a good size playground by the picnic area, and plenty of restrooms scattered around the whole park. Had an absolute blast here. If I find myself out this way again, I will definitely be back. 10/10 all around.
RickAndZoesBigAdventureTime ! — Google review
This campground is great. The sites are big and there's alot to do. We enjoyed riding our bikes and walking the trails. We seen dolphins in the water and it was really quiet. The beach was clean and seeing the ships out in the water were great. Bring your bikes for exploring because you will need them or a car.
Rebecca McAfee — Google review
We enjoyed our stay in our 31' Class C RV. The main full hook up area is a large grass field, so that is why the 4 stars. As for the host, he met us before we pulled in and gave us information and was very helpful. The tent sites look amazing! Secluded with lots of trees and huge sites. FHU sites and other RV sites were a good size, just no trees or barriers between sites. We were there in mid Nov. The bathrooms were heated, toasty. The showers were plenty warm, showers separate, but shared dressing area. Clean. Friends live in Cape Charles so this was a great location to stay at. Lots of trails to hike and bay to view with a short walk.
Vickie Steele — Google review
We like the Park. Booking system is flawed for people that have not stayed before. RV sites mostly on grass and most not level..Some full service. Trails and beach within walking distance. Boat launch.
Tim Ward — Google review
It was eerily beautiful when we got the because of the fog, very quiet and peaceful. Not too crowded probably due to the weather. The water was pretty and there were different varieties of birds flying around.
Tanga Traveler Series — Google review
This is such a beautiful place, full of scenic boardwalk trails and wild nature. The tent sites are in the tall trees covered in a bed of pine needles, and I mean that in the best way possible. Our tent felt so cozy with the needles adding a layer of insulation. There was a water pump in front of our site and the bath house was just a few dozen feet away. It's a well kept and friendly campground area with views over the bay from the trail. I couldn't recommend it more.
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.
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 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.
Bobbe Wright — Google review
4.6
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4.5
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Virginia Beach, VA, USA
I'll never travel to Greensboro without this trip planner again
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.
Most popular city on this route
13 minutes off the main route, 41% of way to Greensboro
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
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4.5
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717 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, USA
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.
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.
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
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1341 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23457, USA
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!
Buckroe Beach and Park is a lovely recreational beach area located in Hampton, VA. It boasts of kayak and paddleboat rentals, picnic sites, a playground, and a stage pavilion. The park sits on the Chesapeake Bay, offering visitors clear views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel as well as opportunities to spot dolphins fishing or playing when the tides change. Buckroe Beach is known for its cleanliness and peaceful atmosphere.
I've been coming to Buckroe Beach for more than 30 years. It's a beautiful little beach in Hampton, VA with both public beach and private beach I've been lucky to enjoy. Sitting on the Chesapeake Bay, you can see the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel on a clear day. If you're lucky, you'll see dolphins fishing or playing when the tides change. Buckroe is hardly the nicest beach, but no tourists come either. It's truly a beautiful community beach.
Andrew McKenna — Google review
We went on purple flag day( jellyfish alert). The lifeguard was very nice to explain this to my son. We still ventured ahead and had a great time. He was able to meet a friendly kid an they had a blast together. The beach could use a little sprucing up but otherwise nice. There is also a playground on site but we did not get a chance to use it. There was a cop at the end of the night making the announcement that the beach was closing. However you can't really hear it. We only understood because we were leaving and walking in that direction. So if you see the cop at the end of the night it's time to get ready to leave. Have a great time.
Leslie Mallory — Google review
Buckroe Beach and Park is located in Hampton, VA. Buckroe Beach and Park is north of Fort Monroe. I have not visited Buckroe Beach since 1978. Buckroe Beach had an amusement park 🎡🎢🎠many years ago. The amusement park closed in 1985 and was torn down in 1991. Buckroe Beach original fishing pier was destroyed in 2003 by Hurricane 🌀 Isabel. The fishing pier was rebuilt by the city of Hampton in 2009. Buckroe Beach has done an amazing job on the improvements. If you have not visited Buckroe Beach for many years, come back and check it out.🏖️
Valerie Williams — Google review
Love Buckroe beach❤️ and has a fantastic park for kids.... Has come up a while lot and be holding up well from what it was in the 80's and 90's. Board walks are open and functioning.... And not a long haul from your vehicle to the water, unlike a lot of other surrounding beaches.
Makayla Allmond — Google review
I can not get enough of this beach!!! It is beautiful! The park is very nice. There is a small stage for outdoor concerts. I love the swings & benches along the boardwalk. Nice picnic areas. Clean bathrooms & wash up stations. The port-a-pottys could use a regular cleaning, but its a port a potty so keep your expectations low. My only issue: not open late enough.
If I may offer a recommendation or consideration to the people in charge... My husband & I are into star gazing & late night strolls along the beach. Maybe have an evening or 2 on a weekend (or maybe every other weekend) to allow limited access until 12:00 midnight? No children under 18 unless accompanied by an adult. No swimming after sundown on said evenings. Just an opportunity to sit & enjoy this beautiful beach at night!!
Jami Dent — Google review
Not incredibly crowded but manageable. Good cool water, hot sand, and long walks. Great place for the family. I recommend a pop-up tent or a spot near the edge under one of the piers.
Michael Woods — Google review
We love Buckroe Beach! Our first trip here was last year and only a day trip but we loved it so much that we spent 3 days on the beach this year and plan to come back year after year! The beach is beautiful and not so crowded that you don't have your own space. My kids enjoyed both playing in the sand and the water.
Jewell Riffle — Google review
Beautiful, peaceful, and clean beach! This is one of the cleanest beaches I've been to. The people are all very friendly also.
Vickie Parry — Google review
Of course it was freezing outside on a Saturday evening right before the sunset so the beach was fairly empty. The beach itself looks clean and beautiful and is a lot easier to get to then any of the ones we’ve attempted so far. There is minimal-moderate parking so I’m sure on a warm spring or hot sunny day it will most likely fill up fairly quickly. We will definitely be back in the summer to check it out!
Nancy Bowers (Sunshine) — Google review
Plenty of parking. Good restrooms that are accessible as well as family style single room bathrooms beach side. Large fenced playground. Lots of room to spread out on the beach. Ice cream truck rolls by periodically. Boardwalk is long and very wide. Great for strolling.
J ?RubberDucky01? B — Google review
Very clean, beautiful park with friendly people! Highly recommend. A little sad that it's only dog friendly September 15-May 15th as my puppy loves beach walking with me and watching the ocean and people.
Emma McPhaul — Google review
Great beach, clean, large, water great. You can walk pretty far along the beach. The signs say no dogs on beach until after September 15th. However, we saw quite a few little ones with their owners. There are lifeguards most of the time.
Sally Mason — Google review
One of God's marvelous works is when the Sun enters the Earth's atmosphere, revealing a beautiful sunrise,
Misses DeeDee — Google review
Nice and quiet beach with ample parking space.
Has a nice place to walk around.
Tej Hemantharaj — Google review
Nice beach, many life guards with a police presence. Clean, well lite area. Only issue was parking. If you are looking for a good, safe, clean beach for you and your kids in which you don’t have to worry about strong rip currents this is your beach. Even had local food trucks driving past. If you are into fishing many places to fish. I plan on returning to walk beach really soon.
Johnny Mallory — Google review
Clean sand, great park & playground for the kiddos. Would love to try fishing off the pier.
The Virginia Air and Space Center is a museum dedicated to showcasing the history of flight and space exploration. It features interactive computers and screens that provide an enjoyable learning experience for visitors, particularly children. The center has a futuristic design and cost roughly $30 million to build. Visitors can watch 3D films on a giant screen, including blockbusters. On occasion, some areas may be closed for upgrades or maintenance; however, overall it's an interesting and fun place to visit that comes highly recommended.
Love that this phenomenal museum is right here practically in our backyard! Great exhibits, particularly the aircraft and Apollo 12 capsule. IMAX theater is clean and comfortable. Cafe prices are not too unreasonable. If you live in the area, consider purchasing a membership…well worth it!
Shelly Durkee — Google review
Went here on a Sunday afternoon. It wasn't super crowded and we spent about 2 hours here and were able to see everything that was open. That's the down side though, not everything was open. The interactive computers and screens were really cool and it was a very fun learning experience for my son.
Catharine Behm — Google review
Great experience!
We went for my son's birthday and he really enjoyed the simulation activities. He was really happy to see the Apollo and Artemis displays.
We have a family membership with ATSC and it's worth It! We also met the new director he was approachable and kind.
The inflatable moon base and the simulation attraction was closed so that was a disappointment but overall the museum was a great trip!
Miss New Build — Google review
Much smaller than anticipated but I really enjoyed my visit. First time here and it was very pleasant. I went during the weekday so it was not busy at all. I love how the displays are setup and each area has very descriptive details about the displays. I even got to go to the kids section and color an airplane. This was a wonderful way to spend my birthday. I will definitely be back and tell others to visit.
Sasha Lee — Google review
This place was amazing to put it. They have plenty of models and its a very immersive experience. A lot of interactive spots that you could enter and play with. A great place for both young kids and adults.
General Dorimes — Google review
A slow start getting admittance, the process took a while with several families ahead of us and only one employee.
The exhibits are nice and include several interactive areas. The robot lab had one employee trying to link computer pads to the rolling balls which was a little slow.
We opted to eat at the cafe before the IMAX movie. This too was extremely slow. We were told the 2 salads and flat bread pizza are made fresh and would take a few minutes. 25 minutes later we got our food. We were the only people eating. If they had a crowd ordering it would have been horrible.
The movie was good with only 20 people or so attending. There is plenty to see but be aware there could be some delays.
There is a free 2 hour parking lot across the street.
Cathie Bales — Google review
Very nice and high-tech. Great stimulating experience for children. There are smaller rooms where kids get to play with some gadgets. The best part for my kids was the 3D movie. I recommend the visit.
Marie Pascaline Pascaline — Google review
Underwhelmed, exhibitions were closed, and observation deck closed. Imax on Caves was fabulous. We only stayed about 2 hrs, our 13 yr old son was frustrated so many hands on experiences were broken. Not worth the high admission cost. Disappointed, sigh.
Dawn Kirby — Google review
We loved the Virginia Air and Space Museum. We had kids from 6 to 13 with us, and all the children and adults loved it. We wish the observation deck was open and some of the exhibits were close, but we still had tons of fun and spent 3 hours there!
Jessica Lynne — Google review
Interesting place to stop by and check out. Spend a few hours hanging around. They have a imax theater with some cool shows you are able to watch. Simulation games are pretty cool to play.
Bubz 1 — Google review
It was an interesting and fun time for all. We loved the IMAX movie. The kiddos had a great time. We wished they had the other area open but it's understandable when they are trying to do upgrades to the areas (that's why only the 4 stars). Definitely would recommend!
Stephanie Beach — Google review
Very beautiful place. My son attended space camp for a week. Then we went to tour the building. Lots of spots for photo opportunities even on the top deck of the roof using binoculars just take some quarters. They have so many exhibits including space that let you see your weight on other planets. Play rover and space games and a flying simulator. There is even a little small kids section for play. There is also an imax theater and Cafe. There are a lot of planes, rockets, ships and touchable items here. If you have some free time you should check it out.
Leslie Mallory — Google review
Expected more from such big names. It was clean and visually pleasant but seemed lacking. Many exhibits were closed or missing pieces (airplanes in kids section, etc, pop-up astronaut pods, robotics section and more)). The kids section looks nice but had relatively little to do. There was no staff around on a Saturday to talk, teach, or answer questions. The displays were impressive but most of the big planes, etc. lack explanations. Seems more like an event space you can walk through that had a “hidden figures” makeover than a planned out museum. Electronic interactive displays worked but were limited in explanation and seemed geared toward older kids.
Jackie Giordano — Google review
Awesome experience and very educational! I especially enjoyed the mini movies and interactive displays. You could totally get lost in here for hours from taking in everything this place has to offer. My only regret is not visiting earlier so that I could stay longer than I did.
Tony L (Casual Observer) — Google review
This was a very fun museum. With free parking across the street. Good for all ages. It's not huge, we went through in about an hour. Has a few neat exhibits and a good layout.
Ashley Gutowski — Google review
Been a while since we visited the museum and we were not disappointed. The IMAX theater is always a treat. Love the games in the planet gallery! There is a new section for the little ones that is absolutely adorable!
Michelle Justiniano — Google review
School field trip, so it was short but sweet. We were able to see the IMAX movie, a classroom event about subzero Temps with liquid nitrogen, and explore some of the exhibits. It's definitely worth our visit.
Kerrie Grant — Google review
Got in with ASTC reciprocal tickets. Would not have thought about going otherwise. Great place for kids. Plenty of things to climb and explore. Really cool there is an airplane they can get in and get in the pilot seat
Art Than — Google review
I have always loved this museum. There is so much to see and do. I only wish the tickets weren't so expensive. At least offer a senior or veteran's discount.
Michael Tefft — Google review
It's not that huge a place, but a fun place to spend a few hours. The IMAX movie is included in the admission price. The Deep Sky IMAX movie was good. Some of the interactive activities, like driving the Mars Rover and the lunar lander, were fun and challenging.
Kin Wong — Google review
This place was way cooler than I was expecting! It had something for all ages for learning and playing. The 3D IMAX film was really good and I wanted to give a shout out to the employee, Classic (I hope I spelled that right) for making our day! She was awesome!!
I highly recommend a visit and there is the convenience of a public parking garage across the street.
Kim Porter — Google review
This was a fantastic find! My niece wanted to go back after visiting on a school field trip so off we went and had a great time! There are so many exhibits that are interactive as well as a kid's play area to get wiggles out. Everything from airplanes, ship models to space and planets was available to see and learn about. We didn't visit the cafe but I did notice they had one as well as a very cool gift shop. Restrooms are clean and there is plenty of seating in all areas if you need a rest while the rest of your party explores. There is also a viewing area on the 3rd floor if you don't mind a few stairs.
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.
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 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.
Easy access to the beach with plenty of parking. Perfect for short day trips and scenic walks. It's calm waters which are perfect for kayaks, paddle boards, and just going out into the water to swim. Bring your phone or camera so you'll be prepared to take photos. I recommend coming during low tide if you want to look for fossils or walk as far down along the shoreline as possible and in the meantime get a good workout. It's a little over a mile to the edge to get to the bigger cliff area. For extra nice photos, plan to visit around sunrise and sunset so you get really good lighting.
Mwazomela Thurmond — Google review
A great place to visit and to learn about the history. Had an excellent walking tour near the visitor center.
Jihye M — Google review
Colonial National Historic Park, located in southeastern Virginia, is a fascinating and well-maintained historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the early colonial period of America's history. Spread over an area of 23,000 acres, this park is home to several sites that played a pivotal role in America's early history, including the Jamestown Settlement, the Yorktown Battlefield, and the Colonial Parkway.
One of the highlights of the park is the Jamestown Settlement, a living history museum that showcases the first permanent English settlement in America. The museum features several exhibits that tell the story of the early colonists, including replicas of their ships, houses, and fortifications. Visitors can also interact with costumed interpreters who bring the past to life and offer a glimpse into daily life in the 17th century.
The Yorktown Battlefield, located at the end of the Colonial Parkway, is another major attraction of the park. This site played a crucial role in the American Revolution, serving as the location of the last major battle of the war. Visitors can explore the battlefield, walk the same ground as the soldiers who fought there, and learn about the pivotal events that led to America's victory.
The Colonial Parkway, a scenic roadway that links the Jamestown Settlement to the Yorktown Battlefield, is a must-see attraction in itself. The road winds through some of the most picturesque areas of the park, offering stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and the James and York rivers.
Overall, Colonial National Historic Park is an excellent destination for history buffs, families, and anyone interested in America's early colonial period. The park offers a wealth of educational and recreational opportunities, from living history museums and historic sites to scenic drives and hiking trails. With its well-preserved historical sites and beautiful natural setting, Colonial National Historic Park is truly a treasure of American history.
Cain Rosenfeld — Google review
Always love visiting colonial Williamsburg. Great friendly people. The carriage ride is a must every time we go. Relaxing place that makes you feel away from everyday life.
s Taylor — Google review
Parkway is a beautiful drive. Not much to see, aside from the destinations along the way (Yorktown and Jamestown), though.
Kent 19 — Google review
Loved the drive just wish others obeyed the speed limit and there were markers ahead of where you can pull over.
Ginneen Hinds — Google review
Details of those working over 30 years for the preservation of history. Amazing.
Nancy Lansing — Google review
Beautiful preserved nature and our nation's history. Recommend taking battle tour roads and museums.
G Land — Google review
Fantastic place for fans of history. Walking through the town was definitely worth it, even though I have to use a cane. Gives a perspective, too, of what battle was like during that era. Only dark spot on the trip was a lady reenactor at a reconstructed house who felt it necessary to talk down to us when answering a simple question. Other than that, definitely worth the trip.
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.
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
Great escape from the woes of life. Lots to do. I encourage everyone to come meet in the streets or one of the great places to sit and meet your neighbors. Clean, safe, friendly and convenient with lots of parking available.
Elle R — Google review
Loved the small town feel. Had a nice lunch walked through the shops that have an interesting and wide selection of products.I was surprised by the art options available from painters, painting, framing you name it.
Angie M — Google review
Cute strip just too small. If this is their "down town" there is much more needed. Cute shops and restaurants. Decorated for holidays and very pretty. Not enough to do. We were done in under an hour.
Jennifer James — Google review
Wake Forest downtown is a quaint downtown, please enjoy this for what it is and support the small locally owned small shops. Buy local, if you are looking for franchises of the big sort or a large city downtown this not that place. Raleigh is your place. It boosts coffee shop, a few cafe's, brewery, Mexican place and great tapas place just to name a few. If you are interested in buying local and getting cool ideas from local arcticians you have come to right place. Keep in mind WF has humble beginnings as far back ask 1980's there were only 7,500 people in WF. Very unique and lucky to have this very cool downtown. #downtownwakeforest
David Soper — Google review
Love our downtown area! It feels like you've gone back in time. Lots of fun restaurants and some cute shops.
LuAnn Polk — Google review
Beautiful historical district
Conrad Lotz — Google review
Beautiful, historic, great to walk around and check out shops.
The Marbles Kids Museum is a nonprofit museum with exhibits aimed at children under 12 years of age. The permanent collection includes displays about play, imagination and learning. There are also interactive IMAX experiences available for visitors to enjoy.
Very clean. Masks required, which is great!! This is probably the best kids museum/activity center I've ever been to. My son is 2 and we could have easily spent 4 hours here. In two hours, we almost almost everything (but we were chasing our little guy all over).
5 stars all the way. We will be back - many more times!
Michael Hopkins — Google review
Must visit place if you are in the area. Plenty of activities for kids for all ages. Very interactive and creative set up. You can easily spend 4 to 5 hours and kids won’t get bored! Outside activities are totally different! Parking might be an issue, might need to find a public parking or street parking. Super friendly staff. Activities included but not limited to Arts and science, Drama, Electronics, music and much more..
Krunal Shah — Google review
What a great space for kids to come and play. So many great interactive exhibits and lots of room to get out wiggles and let the imagination run wild. All the staff we encountered we polite and helpful. Lots of unique play experiences for young kids to experience. My little had a blast and cannot wait to return.
Brittany Dietz — Google review
What a wonderful museum for the kids and adults to explore together! So many activities and learning spaces! My grandchildren had the best time taking me to each and every space and playing while pretending and exploring! The favorites were the Medical van, Veterinary office, farm, helicopter, creative space, Toddler Hollow, Money, Camping, and Hockey!
Enjoy this time for ages 8 months (Baby space that is wonderful) and up. Make sure you have plenty of time. We missed a couple of areas because I didn't allot more time (3 hours) so I would say at least 4 hours if you have an active preschooler or older kiddo. We had a 1 year old and 4 year old and could have stayed another couple of hours. Fabulous eating area for snacks and an on site Café for those who want to grab a meal and coffee. We also don't do a movie which is an option that they would have loved. Can't say enough great things. Go here for a day and have fun!
Sherry Short — Google review
Must visit place for kids. Right in middle of downtown and many parking options nearby, this is a gem of place. Kids can simulate and play with ambulance, firework, helicopter news, painting, water and many other things. Price around $9 on weekday and $12 weekends. Promotion for bofa customers on price on a particular day. Purchase tickets online as they sometimes have a full board at site.
Danda Naveen — Google review
It was a nice Saturday afternoon. We had our nieces in town and what better place to take them to then Marbles.
Highly recommend tickets in advance as they are $9 per, Vs. $12 the day of. The staff was very friendly upon entry.
We were taken back by all of the rooms and activities. Easily can spend 2 hrs here. Great for kids ages 18 months and up to 10-11.
There appeared to be a gift store and cafe, but we did not go to either.
I highly recommend going here with the little ones.
Robin Mehera — Google review
SO MUCH FUN to be had here!
All of the areas in this city block sized building are set up for hands-on Montessori style learning! Everything from a giant chess set and giant Legos to an exercise/game themed room with loads of fun, educational stuff in between!!!
This was my first time visiting, with my friends' kids, and I think I may have had more fun than they did!
If you're in Raleigh with children of all ages, this is an absolute MUST for a full half day or so!
D. Heather Campbell — Google review
This museum was really fun and my son enjoyed it. We got there at 1100 and it was packed already. I thought we’d only spend an hour but that quickly turned into three lol. There was so much to do that he was knocked out on the drive back home. He really enjoyed being able to color his own car and have it appear on the big screen. We will definitely come back.
jan tye — Google review
We got tickets in advance for the 10:30/11 time slot. Got there a bit later but that wasn't a problem. Easy access with scanning the tickets.
The museum was very busy, but with it being the Wednesday before Thanksgiving it was expected.
My kids are 7 and 9. They enjoyed the downstairs a lot but they enjoyed the upstairs more. The downstairs area is for smaller children I'd say. The upstairs is definitely more for the older kids. It's a lot of fun and you can easily spend the whole day there.
There are plenty of hand sanitizing stations around the museum, there's an elevator, water fill up stations, a nursing station and plenty of bathrooms.
The only thing I wish they would have had was free parking. You can street park and pay or pay for parking in one of the lots. But it wasn't a deal breaker.
I definitely recommend this museum for children.
We did not visit the cafe, gift shop or IMAX.
Pia Boje — Google review
Wow, this is a really really fun place for kids.. there is so much to do here and the ticket is really cheap..
You have to buy the ticket in advance. You cannot buy on the spot, if all are sold out.
We went on a long weekend and it was crazy busy and they were not allowing anybody to walk in to make sure you check their website and book in advance .
Also, if you have Bank of America credit card the first weekend of every month, you get a free ticket .
The weekend we went. It was hard to find a parking spot in front of the
But we can park for free at the Morse Square parking deck, but remember it’s only free on the weekends..
We were there for almost 3 hours .. it was crazy busy when when we went, but one hour before closing it started to get free..
Definitely worth taking kids..
Vinay K — Google review
I wish I could give more stars here, this place deserves it. Absolute fun for the kids of any age. Loads of toys, variety of plays spread across a two-storey building. Any kid would have a blast. Tickets prices are fair, ample public parking spots around the vicinity. A must visit place for the kids.
satyajit das — Google review
This museum is AMAZING. We live in DC where there are museums galore, but this one is fantastic for kids. You could easily spend an entire day here. My kids are 8, 5, and a baby and they were all very entertained. My only regret is not coming here earlier in the day to have more time.
Bonnie Lessans — Google review
Affordable and with plenty of things to do and see. The kids will have a full day packed with activities and things to see and do. Great place to spend some quality time with your kids.
William Geronco — Google review
We love marbles so much! Plenty of choices for kids with different interests. My toddler loves it here, he can pick whatever interests him and move on to the next fun thing whenever he prefers. Very safe environment and thought out designs.
Sunny Gu — Google review
Spent a delightful 3 hours here with 7 and 4 year olds. We explored nearly all of the exhibits and faced tears when we had to tell the kids it was time to go. Really clean, really fun and creative exhibits. The water table was probably the biggest hit for the 4yr old, followed by the room that lets kids color balloons and cars then projects them moving around on a giant city map. 7 yr old liked the balls in the “economy” exhibit. It was pretty crowded on a Friday but still totally enjoyable. Almost no wait- we got tickets online the evening before.
Laura James — Google review
We went on a Monday, there was a decent amount of people there. So I would recommend going on a Monday. There are a lot of exhibits here. My 8 month old enjoyed the baby area, there were a lot of soft obstacles for him to climb on. He also liked the toddler area, he could crawl around and there were some stuffed animals and some things for him to crawl on. I strolled him around to the other exhibits, he was too little for most of it but he enjoyed watching the other kids and splashing in the water table. The cafe outside was not great. I got a water and my daughter got a smoothie but the staff at the cafe were very friendly and attentive. There weren’t any handicap doors, which made it a little difficult with a stroller. I think we will be back when he’s 2, I think he’ll enjoy it a lot more! I would say if your child is walking until about 7 years old is perfect for this museum.
Theresa Novicky — Google review
Enough to do for the entire day. It can get chaotic on busy days so we go on off times. Love the outdoor and indoor sections. Kids love the sand. We enjoyed watch Polar Express on IMAX. We had no issues finding specking on the street.
Marc & Bella — Google review
Wonderful experience for younger kids. Place was clean with so many hands on activities! Lots of fun things to do from science experiments and water tables to learning about forestry, firefighters and carpentry. Reasonably priced but it fills up early. Go late morning or early afternoon to beat the field trips from multiple schools.
GeraldLaz38 — Google review
Great place to take children of all ages. I could have stayed there all day. The name is misleading if you are not a local. I expected to see how marbles were made and for there to be marbles everywhere games tournaments, make your own marbles..ext..
Over all this place was a hit I enjoyed dancing to the music, the water area, the outside garden, basketball, trampoline, omg they really out did it with the variety of things to do. I loved it! My grandsons ages 3,2,and 1 enjoyed it.
Maria Leimbach — Google review
First time visiting. Lots of activities for young kids. My kids really enjoyed their time there. There is an area for toddlers as well as an area for infants. Must buy tickets online in advance. We opted for the 1 year basic membership. $150 covers admission for 1 year for 2 adults and all kids in the household. Opens at 10am but members can enter at 9am. There are two levels and two small outdoor areas. Parking can be an issue since it's downtown Raleigh. Street parking in the area is free on weekends and metered during the week. Kids will definitely enjoy.
Tim Bullard — Google review
March 24, 2024
I... LOVED IT. I had a lot of fun going with my friend and her grandkids. I had just as much fun as they did (if not more lol).
Definitely recommend! It's a place where kids and adults can have fun, and have learning take place (without realizing it!).
Definitely can't wait to go back again!
Kristen Chason — Google review
This is a great place to take the kids. We especially enjoyed the hurricanes hockey area. We also liked the IMAX animal kingdoms movie. I took a star off because I usually expect some kind of free parking. I parked on the street not knowing I would have to move my car after 2 hours and I circled the block several times trying to find a new spot (losing time to play in the museum). Finally I realized there was a parking deck that I will use in the future that is close by (ended up paying twice to park). Overall this is a wonderful place for kids to play and the workers seemed cordial as well.
Jess Neu — Google review
Took a trip to Marble’s with our boys, and they had an absolute blast! They loved just about every single thing on both floors. The staff was friendly and helpful. The best part was the splash area, they had the most fun with that! Your ticket/sticker gets you all day come-and-go access to the museum. So we even enjoyed surrounding downtown Raleigh for lunch! Great place to spend the day with your kids. We would highly recommend!
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the largest museum of its kind in the southeast and dedicated to natural sciences. It features a collection of 1.7 million specimens from every animal species and is spread across three campuses.
A large, poignant, nicely arranged collection of NC natural history from prehistoric time to now and beyond. So much to read and see and great interactive screens in Building 2 (don't miss going!) The building is really nice and well-planned. Nice customer service. Clean bathrooms. Great for all ages. Free and handicap-accessible. Free parking. In a great area close to other attractions.
Michael Stephens — Google review
This place has definitely improved over the years! It's definitely worth your time going. It's free to enter and the paid events are not expensive at all. The best part is, you could spend all day there and still not see everything! I especially love their dinosaur exhibit. My only complaint is I wish the dinosaur exhibit was larger and more interactive for $10 a person. But I was surprised that they move!
Ariel — Google review
Outstanding museum that continues to thrive and innovate. Currently under construction which is a testament to their constant growth. Big dinosaur stuff on the way! So informative and interactive. The exhibits truly come to life. The museum is free however certain exhibits are ticketed. Membership is less than $100 for families! You can’t beat that. A beautiful place to learn and grow. I highly recommend and look forward to coming back, I’ve been visiting this museum since I was a kid! I admire the progress and look forward to more knowledge and creativity. Stop by when you can!
MJ Worldwide — Google review
What a great museum North Carolina had! I could spent a whole day here just looking how amazing they created the space. It’s spacious,detailed, and neat, and clean. The museum also has special exhibitions to interact with the visitors. With the amount of what they provide, it’s amazing that they don’t charge visitors to enter the museum. It’s a great place to learn and bring kiddos to explore.
They have a cafe if you want to rest a bit and enjoy a cup of coffee while waiting for the kids to explore 😃
Nelly Febrina Kembaren — Google review
This is a free museum that is open to people of all ages. I was so impressed by their collections. It’s a 4-story museum with a breezeway that connects to research labs that are currently in operation. They have interactive exhibits that are so fun for the kids and adults alike. Watch for special exhibits that they are rotating through. Be sure to keep an eye out for some unique finds that are native to North Carolina and even more rare finds that exist only in this museum. The staff is very friendly and helpful!
Maegan Bull — Google review
Loved it. This place was massive and free. Two buildings, one was four floors and the other was three floors it took us about 5 hrs to go though the whole building and see everything. The bug exhibit was amazing especially with the terrariums of live bugs. Sadly the butterfly room was closed but we did see the sloth that was in their and got to watch him eat. They also had live feedings during the week. They also have a nice little Cafe next to the butterfly house on the fourth floor so you can watch the butterflies while eating.
Stephanie Vollmer — Google review
Amazing Place! I took my family here for the first time and had quite the adventure. There are countless things to see and do and I only wish I could've done more. They have almost everything you can imagine in a museum. From the Paleontology Lab to the Living Conservatory, From the Biodiversity Lab to the 3D Cinema, this place has it all. Whether you're taking your kids there to learn something new or just looking for a little bit of nostalgia. No matter the reason, this place certainly has what every adult and child needs.
Jared E — Google review
This museum is in downtown Raleigh and offers a nice variety of things to view and learn about. It is free to get in. The museum also has movies and special exhibits that require payment. Some of the areas close sooner than others. However, whether young or old, this place has something to educate anyone of any age. It is two buildings with multiple floors. There is a parking deck close by to park in, and it's just a short walk to the entrance.
Lettie C — Google review
First of all, this place is educational. Probably will learn more here than from a teacher. Second, it’s entertaining and can brighten your schedule. Lastly, it’s free, which makes it a wonder without any price that you have you pay. Located in the heart of Raleigh, this place is a must for any visiting people.
Harvey Shao — Google review
Very impressed with the amount of exhibits considering the admission is free. My small children loved it. Worth the visit and your donations. The staff at the Microbe viewing station were awesome. They let me 3 year old use a microscope. He loved every second of it. Very knowledgeable and engaging.
Robert K — Google review
We took our kids here while on vacation in North Carolina. They had such a great time looking at the dinosaur models. I was very impressed that such a neat place was free to visit. You can tell that all of the models were very expensive and well made. My favorite part was learning about space and all of the space rocks they have on display. They also have a really pretty butterfly botanical garden that is also home to a sloth. Sadly this area was closed to visitors being able to go inside. Overall a 5/5 experience, perfect for learning! I can't wait to go back when the kids are a little older and can really appreciate what it has to offer.
Angelica Denham — Google review
Little disappointed that alot of the interactive labs and displays weren't working on the nature side. We originally went here 5 years ago and now again in 2023. As an adult nothing has changed much. Kids enjoyed it as they were to young to remember our first visit. If you do want to do labs do them first as they close at 3.
michael newman — Google review
What an amazing place!! Lots of natural science exhibits from reptiles to dinosaurs with great staff available to answer questions and help with the hands-on displays. Something for all ages from toddlers to adults and there is no cost to get in to see the exhibits. There are some things like movies and such that do have a charge, but with everything to see on multiple levels, we didn't have a need to see any of that. Every time I come to North Carolina, I am more impressed with the states commitment to quality of life for the residents here, and this free museum is a great example.
Tom Holley — Google review
Great museum! We spent about an hour there but could have spent the whole day. Lots of exhibits to check out, and lots to learn. There were lots of families walking around and enjoying the experience! They have some dinosaurs, spiders, bugs, geology, history, etc. very well laid out among the 4 floors with a cafe on the fourth floor. There is also a Sloth that you may be lucky enough to see like we did!
Jason Martin — Google review
Free admission. Worth your time. 5 floors of a very diverse exhibition. Very kid friendly. Cafe on the 4th floor for a quick snack. Bathrooms everywhere. Easy to navigate. Loads of parking nearby.
Staff is very friendly, the mood is great. Variety of live animals (bugs, butterfly, etc)
Must visit in Raleigh. Also a great alternative to
Marbles just down the road.
Brian “CoFii” Adams — Google review
Located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, this museum is an excellent choice for a weekend getaway or a weekday excursion with kids. It boasts an impressive collection of live insects on the top floor, other floors included snakes such as copperheads, cottonmouths, rat snakes, and other snakes commonly found in North Carolina. The dinosaur exhibits were a big hit with the children.
We also decided to explore the spider exhibit, but I wouldn't recommend it. There are far more captivating displays and a 3D film to enjoy elsewhere.
What's even better is that there's no admission fee, and the place wasn't crowded during our visit. I wholeheartedly recommend this museum for families, kids, or anyone with a passion for spending quality time exploring.
Parking is available in public areas, and even on a weekend, we found ample street parking.
Ajesh Rn — Google review
We go to this museum all the time! We have never been during Bugfest. It was absolutely amazing!! One of the ladies that work there told us it’s the biggest event of the year. They offer several insects for you to see and touch, they also have lots of vendor set ups outside, you’ll get to see people dressed up in costumes, face painting, and just a lot of education on the several different kinds of insects . My kids loved it. We had so much fun and look forward to going next year.
Shonda T. — Google review
the museum is rich in exhibits 3 or 4 floors, for all ages. About 2 hr walk through. You are your own tour guide. Best part is its no cost at all. You'll learn a bit of history on wildlife and science. The dinosaur exhibit was pretty cool. I was to scared to get in there with the butterflies though, it would be a nice experience if you aren't squirmish like me. Quite fascinating. Something fun to do if you're already in the area. I wouldn't suggest traveling more that 2 hours to get here. I don't like that there's certain life wildlife displayed in cases that aren't the appropriate length requirements for them to thrive in. I hope they are taken out at night or something, but don't believe they are. But overall all great experience.
Courtney — Google review
Fun and educational place with lots of great exhibits. It was surprise for us knowing the museum is absolutely free to the public. Clean and very well maintained place. They also have canteen with good sandwiches and other snacks. Our favourite section was butterfly dome where we saw several species of butterflies. Love to visit this place again.
Located in downtown Raleigh, Pullen Park is home to a carousel, miniature train, and many other attractions for the whole family to enjoy. It has been in operation since 1887 and is one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States.
Beautiful park with a large playground for kids of all ages. The train around the park was more fun than I thought and great for taking pictures. There is also a place to eat and a carousel here as well, and plenty of restrooms. You can even take a paddle boat out on the lake!
Anthony Ferguson Jr — Google review
Beautiful public park with a great history. The old rides are really nice. I love how they have preserved the carousel, It feels like stepping back in time. Very family friendly with lots of activities. The rides I felt were reasonably priced at $2 each.
Liam Dobbie — Google review
This park is beautiful! Love the different types of activity you can do with your kids. The playground is huge and if you want to go for a nice walk, they have various paths you can do that with. Definitely recommend for a nice family day!
Kaini Feller — Google review
Amazing park rides are so dang cheap… kids will have a lot of fun.. each ride is like $2 to $4.
We went on a weekend and the park was crowded.. but all the rides are fun.. my kid love the carasol..
We went on the boat ride and it was super hot that day.. save your energy if you want it boat ride.. they give you 30 mins but you will be done in 15 mins..
The train ride takes you around the park which give you a good view of the park..
You can buy tickets online and no need to wait in line for the tickets.. Park is small and easy to walk around.. which I really like and you dnt get tired…
Vinay K — Google review
What a great park! I was in town and wanted a park to go to with the weather being so nice and I saw that there was a lot of reviews for this one and I decided to check it out! It was AMAZING! My daughter absolutely loved how versatile that park was! The coolest part of the park had to be the Marry-go-round! The paths are paved so they are stroller friendly. There was a lot of shade and places to sit and have lunch. There was even a little food hut in the park! We didn’t eat there but many people did! The coolest part was the music that was playing near the restrooms, gave retro vibes to the area and made you feel like you stepped back a few decades
Jaclyn Kliest — Google review
Great!!! Awesomely beautiful park. Great views, great breeze. Good for family, couple ‘s day. A day with the kids. Picnic. Anything. If you visit NC you HAVE TO VISIT THIS PARK. Super recommended
L — Google review
Very beautiful peaceful park with gorgeous nature and playgrounds. Cool thing that it’s close to the city and can be easily driven to in 15 minutes. Haven’t been there at the busiest , parking was really easy to find . There is a beautiful small lake on premises as well . Overall pretty park for relaxing
Dmitry Trishkin — Google review
Pullen Park is North Carolina’s oldest public park, and the 5th oldest operating amusement park in the US.
There are lots of flowers and gorgeous landscaping to enjoy while strolling around the park.
And there is a little train you can ride that circles the park.
The real highlight here however is the Gustave A. Dentzel Carousel which dates back to 1911. I may or may not have pushed some children aside to make sure we got on the cats! There were also giraffes, goats, bunnies and of course plenty of horses. Took me right back to childhood. Well worth the $2 ticket price.Swan shaped paddle boats are also available for rent. Plus plenty of play areas for kids and some other interesting things to see like a retired train car.
David Ethridge — Google review
Randomly stopped after noticing this park as we drove past. Very pleasant discovery for us. A historical park, with wonderful landscaping, paved paths, rides, fountains, playground, and signage for the history. We were too late for the attractions to be open, but everything was beautiful.
William ?Maclind? Coley — Google review
Pristine park within the city of Raleigh NC. It is beautifully landscaped around ancient trees. It has plenty of paved pathways and bridges with benches and seating areas to enjoy the beauty from. There is plenty to do. You can ride a train, a carousel and paddle boats. There are picnic areas and playgrounds for toddlers to older children.
Eagle Mountain — Google review
We had such a good time at Pullen Park. I enjoyed riding in a paddle boat; you will see beautiful scenery around the park while paddling. There’s no long wait on weekday afternoons. The park offers many attractions for kids and families, including carousels, a train, paddle boats, and playgrounds. There are also some picnic areas, or you can enjoy walking around, and tickets are not expensive.
Nook Hanklang — Google review
This is a 5 star park but only gave it 4 star due to lack of parking spaces. Otherwise beautiful serene peaceful park with natural beauty surrounding it. Definitely highly recommend taking the train!
MindfulLiving Bellevue — Google review
This is a great park, not just because of the attractions and play area, but the history also. It makes it all the more enchanting. The train and the historic carousel absolutely delight my toddler, as do the paddle boats. Be prepared to wait if you go on a weekend, though. There's pretty much no wait on weekdays. There's picnic shelters and grills, and a great playground, with stuff for kids of all ages. The concession stand also has great food and treats, and the restrooms are very clean.
Allie Thurkill (Sock Thief) — Google review
Awesome park. There a lot of activities to do for all ages like train ride, playground, carousel, kiddie boat ride, Paddle boat and alot more. Definitely recommended. Buy tickets online to beat the croud. Lots of parking. Clean restrooms. Mist stations & water filling stations located throughout the park. Cafe inside the park.
Deepak P — Google review
A fun park for all ages. Rode the train which runs along the park boundary, it was a short lovely ride. This beautiful park has a lake with fountain and boat riding activity, walking paths, bridges, playing areas, kids activities, carousel, shelters, benches, kiddies boat ride etc. Well maintained restrooms. Parking available but may gets busy on weekends. It has no entry fee but activities are chargeable.
Chanchal — Google review
Had a lovely experience at Pullen Park over Labor Day weekend. We were able to ride the train, carousel and Kiddie boats. The cost is $2 per ticket and it's easiest to use your smartphone to buy tickets in advance. There are several different playground areas all designated to fit different ages. Gorgeous flowers and plants. Beautiful landscaping. They also have paddle boats for rent and a nice walking trail around the lake.
Chelsy L — Google review
Kids love this park! Can’t ask for more. A full playground, a train that you can ride around the park, a carousel, and a concession stand! During the warmer months there’s boats and other activities that we weren’t able to do, while visiting during January but there’s still a good amount of attractions for kids of younger ages.
Park is extremely clean, staff is friendly. A good place to come and take a stroll too. Dogs can’t come into the playground area but it would be a nice place to walk them around the pond.
Katie Bevacqua — Google review
Our favorite park in the triangle! $2 tickets per person for the rides (train, boats, and carousel). And a fun play area for kids. The peddle boats in the pond were not open when we went at the end of March even though it was a warm day.
Allyson Urling — Google review
The park is beautiful and I'm absolutely in love with the cypress trees around the grounds. However, one really big problem that we encountered is that there was music playing over a loud speaker. I imagine that for most kids, that would be fine. Unfortunately for us, my daughter is autistic and music triggers meltdowns. It's a sensory thing. We were trying to walk to the park area to see if we could get her to play a little bit, and as we got closer to the music she got upset and we had to leave. It took over an hour to calm her down. I know that our experience isn't normal, but it would be amazing if more places considered children that aren't neurotypical and maybe could skip the music or have sensory friendly days or times without it. It's so hard to go anywhere outside of our home and parks are usually a safe place.
I don't imagine that we'll be back because of this.
That being said, it's a lovely little park and I think most kids would really enjoy it.
Holly — Google review
Beautiful family park. There is 3 mins train ride, kids boat ride, carousal within park.
Manoj Jagtap — Google review
a beautiful place to walk around… the train ride was $2/person - if you go during the week, the wait isn’t long at all.
the big swans are picture worth as well.
the playground looked great, but we didn’t have anyone with us to test it!
Brittani Atkins — Google review
Excellent place to bring the family.Clean and well kept. Lots to do and the employees were super friendly and helpful. Carousel, train, paddleboats and a kiddie boat ride. The playgrounds are awesome too!
Dina Hanson — Google review
We came here in mid February. The playground is very crowded yet a place to cool down. Train ride is entertaining with kids, and the same with the carousel. At this time, the carnival games were closed, but I’m sure they are as good as everything else. A great way to relieve your kids, and having fun yourself at the same time.
The North Carolina Museum of Art is a world-renowned art museum located in Raleigh, North Carolina. The museum attracts more than two million visitors annually and houses a permanent collection spanning 5,000 years. The museum also features traveling exhibits and an outdoor monument park and amphitheater.
What a nice community resource! The grounds are lovely. This is both an indoor and outdoor experience. The West Building has the permanent collection, and it's very decent with a few big names (Raphael, Monet, Rodin). Loved that everything is free. Lots of outdoor space designated for events and short walks/hikes.
Michael Stephens — Google review
Gorgeous place! We usually go there to walk outside and there is lots of space to spread out from other people. What I especially love is that the grass is all natural (not an urban desert like many people’s lawns) and they have wild flowers planted throughout the area. Not only the wild environment looks absolutely stunning but it also supports bees and other insects. If you look closely, the grass has wild clover mixed in which is a native flower and feeds rabbits and other wildlife plus it’s drought resistant and stays green all summer long. It doesn’t grow long so you don’t have to mow as often if at all. We need more (or all) lawns to be natural to support our wildlife. Plus it’s healthier for people too.
Another great thing - the NC Museum of Art is dog-friendly! There is a creek in the woods so dogs can quench their thirst there if you forgot water. I recommend all people who are travelling and need a place to stop and stretch their legs and give a break to their dogs/kids to stop at this place! Take advantage of this beautiful place and don’t forget to take pictures!
Love this place! Breathe fresh air not pesticides!
Katya ????? — Google review
Amazing outdoor art in rolling hills where one can picnic, fly kites etc. New building is big glass metal one, old is brown one. Both incredible with insane amount of very famous art. Great to go hang out and do own sketches/art of what you see or feel. They have wee seats one can borrow as well a wheelchairs and walkers for those with impairments
Amanda Babuin — Google review
Beautiful museum. We came for the Dutch Art exhibit- it was spectacular. I generally prefer 1-2 hours at the museum, here I was happy to stay for several hours to take it all in and I’d happily return. Our local family purchased memberships which seem really worth it. Cafe was decent- great cappuccino, sandwiches were not bad, salad had great dressing. The outdoor grounds are beautiful and lots of fun for kids and adults!
elana woolf — Google review
This place is free all throughout the week The common ground is the free access. there are paid parts of the museum there are paid exhibits. But there is enough there to view for 3 hours of free fun and that's not including outside or reading all of the notes we came in about 12:00 and still left as they were closing. We had a great time. There are also two different buildings that have different exhibits in them. Will definitely be back soon. My favorite part was probably the cigarette machine or the old Roman statues. The cigarette machine has several different artists concept of art. It can arrange from pictures to portraits to sculptures. Definitely read signs around the exhibits some say don't touch some even say do not enter PLEASE READ THE SIGNS AS WE DEFINITELY MADE SOME MISTAKES AS WE WALKED AROUND THE MUSEUM FOR OUR FIRST TIME.
Anthony Conwell — Google review
The entire experience at this museum was exceptional!
Outdoor areas are great, very peaceful and lots of sculptures. There is a lot of walking involved, so wear comfortable shoes.
There are multiple nature trails as well as the outdoor exhibits, they are very relaxing and you can rent a bike. We also had lunch at the cafe and would recommend.
The indoor exhibits are simply amazing! There is something for everyone, from Renaissance portraits to the ancient Egyptian collection to the Roman mosaic to the modern art. There is so much to look at and I would have spent a whole week there wandering around. There is also an interactive area that is fun for little and big kids, and even adults.
Everything about this museum is great, and I would definitely recommend this for any art lover.
Maya Brogan (MayaB) — Google review
This art museum was under construction when we went but they still had a lot to see. We saw the very cool exhibits inside and they have a vending machine to purchase little handmade art pieces, which was a lot of fun and we got some cute things. The best part was the outdoor exhibits. They have amazing architecture and I want to return soon! It is also a great walking track for families and pets. Tons of parking.
Brave Root — Google review
This is a fabulous walking area. Dog and bike friendly too. There are benches and vistas aplenty.
A gorgeous combination of meadow, shady woodlands, pond, hills, and resting spots with large scale sculptures and native floral. There is a lovely bee garden with hives and plenty of healthy activity.
A must if you are in the area. Open dawn to dusk, plenty of parking. Over 5 miles of trails, I didn't even cover half.
The general art museum is free as well, but I didn't have enough time for that.
Sarah B — Google review
Absolutely beautiful museum with stunning outdoor spaces. Saw a family having a picnic and people strolling (and biking) around. I was fortunate enough to see Ruth E Carters exhibit and it was so captivating to see her career accomplishments laid out with thorough background information. The amount of research she does for her costume design is above & beyond. I ran out of time to finish seeing the exhibits in the second building, so I'll have to return!
Roars — Google review
Free admission !! Best museum I have ever been to. There are so much rare ancient pieces in the West building. There’s also a large park outside where you can walk around, or ride bicycle. Huge parking lot with some shaded trees. You can spend the whole day there. Highly recommend it, we really love it there.
Khem Eamolarn — Google review
We had a great time at this museum! We went with a school group with the Expedition School. The focus was on art made by women and on art made of recycled and found objects. The NC Art Museum offered a excellent docent who taught us about many of the works on display. Our teacher had worked with the museum in advance to create a scavenger hunt for the kids to find the art that will fit into their future science, ELA and Art projects. I’ve been to this museum many times before on my own, but I really appreciated how they handled having a slew of middle school kids trying to navigate their assignment. Excellent space and we loved the art!!
Amy Gelber — Google review
An awesome experience if you're looking for something free to do during the week. The art selection is diverse so I feel like there is something for everyone. Take a moment to enjoy the artwork and then head outside for a walk around the museum park pathways. Any day of the week you will find locals going for walks, having picnics, or hanging out with friends.
Renee Adamonis — Google review
Easily one of the most incredible museums I’ve ever been to! Top 5 for sure. Such a hidden gem. Really thoughtful curation, juxtaposing contemporary & classical art with interesting text. Gorgeous space. Epic permanent collection.
Miriam Carothers — Google review
This place is free? I just don't understand how this huge place is free for all to enjoy. Amazing grounds, fun sculptures, interactive art,nature beautifully maintained, extensive walking trails... I could go on about the unique gem that this place is, but instead I say go see for yourself.
All the amenities too, free parking, access to a cafe, bicycle rental, great places to relax and take a break.
The only thing that it might be worth knowing before going is if you mainly want to stay indoors call before you go, on our particular visit the west building was closed and the east building has a large number of exhibits getting redone, so if you plan was not to be outside and walking around talking it all in you may not have enjoyed it as much as there would be limited things to see.
Simi — Google review
We went to see one exhibit and quickly realized we should have allowed more time to see the rest of the museum. Loved Afrofuturism. We also had tickets to the outdoor concert featuring Samara Joy. Rain was predicted for the day and hours before the concert was to start I got an email that arrangements were made to change the venue indoors. Brilliant! Bravo to the museum and staff for making this happen.
ericha thompson — Google review
This is a great thing to explore with your family in Raleigh. They have a lot of knowledgeable staff that works here as well. There is a never ending amount of things you can learn about in these museums. It’s very clean and very cool. It is also free entrance so if you have a big family and looking for something cheap/free to do. I would highly recommend the art and science museums!
In the science museum there is a live butterfly exhibit!!
Anna Fox — Google review
We honestly only walked around outside. But it is a beautiful stroll with plenty to see, read, and do. You can bring your little ones and see sculptures and nature combined for free. It was a great walk on a fall day.
Ariel Smith — Google review
Came here with my boyfriend about a month ago and had a great time. Their were two different buildings, one consisting mainly of art, and the other with a dining area, store, and more art. There were also several outside areas to explore. All the art was very unique and engaging. I would like to mention, their is no admittance fee or anything, unless you want to view the private room. Would definitely like to come back and see more of what the outdoor areas have to offer.
Lilie Wilkinson — Google review
Art in bloom was spectacular! My nephew blessed me with behind the scenes experience. A lot of work, but worth every smile you saw!
Rosa Tilley — Google review
A multifaceted place with both indoor and outdoor options. It was just a tad cold for us, so we did not explore the trails (but would very much like to.) It definitely seemed like a regular destination for local folks to visit for outdoor walks with families and with their dogs!
Inside it has both the formal/historical, and the more current/local, types of exhibits —in the west and east buildings, respectively.
The range of the formal presentations is impressive (I.e., African, European, American, Egyptian). Also, their use of unified/simplified large digital touchscreen displays is both very attractive (less clutter) and very effective. They have even used technology to make ordering food at the restaurant/cafeteria easy, right from your seat. Pretty cool.
Being slightly out of town makes them easy to get to and easy to park, all for free.
If you like museums at all, this is an easy choice to be sure to include in your visit to Raleigh.
e baerwald — Google review
Awesome museum. Today, I visited the park that's next to the museum. It's prom season, kids flying kites and dogs being walked on a gorgeous 70 degree day.
Norika Fisher — Google review
For a free place to visit it was outstanding. I was shocked to see so much art from so many different places and times. Requires quite a lot of time to properly enjoy it all. Nice grounds too, for a good walk
Alex Voronov — Google review
This museum is amazing. We didn't realize how big it was, and came after 12 pm on a Saturday and only had time for the West building. We came back on Sunday and spent the whole day doing the East building and outdoors. You can easily spend days here. There's so much to look at, and the paths outside are great, mostly all paved, and extensive.
The bathrooms are clean, and each building has a free locker area to lock up your jackets/bags while you're walking around.
Dani Drugan — Google review
Absolutely stunning. I was impressed, both by the exhibitions and the park. You'll need a full day if you really want to delve into the collections. The staff is extremely friendly and the lighting is most of the time ideal, which really stimulates our contemplation of the pieces of art on display. Plus we were warmly welcomed, we really appreciated the passion that the staff showed.
Leopold Bouzard — Google review
From history to modern art, paintings to sculptures, metal to fabric, visuals to audio, indoor and outdoor - here's a little of everything! Must visit for a rejuvenating experience. Choose a day when the temperatures are comfortable for a long walk outdoors to make the most of your day
Sneha H S — Google review
Visited during my first time in Raleigh and I was blown away by the quality and the quantity
of art on display. While the more contemporary artists were my favorites (especially Kehinde Wiley's Judith and Holofernes), there are also ancient and classical works as well. That includes a few Monet paintings, a Botticelli, and others.
Rain prevented us from checking out the sculpture garden, but I'd love to go back and see it on a future visit. The café and gift shop were nice as well. The best part is that admission is free!
Hal Hughes — Google review
A museum that hits WAY above its weight. 🎨 10/10 worth going, not least because it's 🆓! (Donation suggested) Great variety of art. It has a surprising amount of antiquities too. It's a beautiful place to take a stroll around the museum grounds.
Durham Performing Arts Center is an incredibly modern and well-known theater in the American Tobacco Historic District. It regularly showcases Broadway shows and major performing artists, like Hamilton. The theater has a capacity of 2,800, making it one of the top attractions in Durham.
Amazingly beautiful venue, not a bad seat in the house. Very clean. Lots upon lots upon lots of the color RED. Sound system was great. Bathrooms were clean, drinks were easily accessible and a wide variety of drink choices. I also like that the venue is within walking distance of good food.
Business AsUsual — Google review
I had to take away another star for the seating and the fact that they ran out of pretzels within minutes of the 20 minute break. The seats are definitely not good. They hurt your butt after about 30 minute so I definitely recommend a seat crushing come with you.
Had to take away a star because someone decided to kick and beat my seat. Not happy with that.
Show is good so far, though.
Very nice, crazy but nice.
The bathroom is definitely nice. Complimentary lady products are available in the bathroom also. The entrance is crazy definitely going through a good search.
Drug dog
Metal detector
Tickets scanned
People are available to help around every corner
Erica Hill — Google review
I was there for the recent STYX concert and my family and I have no complaints. The staff was extremely kind and helpful. We were pretty much escorted to my handicap spot and my wife and son were shown the seats in front of me. Heck, I even had one of the staff, a bubbly, cheerful woman on the second floor interior of venue help me pull on my concert t-shirt I bought. I usually have to complain about handicapped service because it's just not very good most places. Here I felt just like another concert goer. They saw me the person and not the guy in a wheelchair.
Soulful Archer — Google review
This is such a nice venue. There really is NO bad seat in this place! We sat in Section 10, Row A which was the 2 level balcony for the musical WICKED. It was fantastic.
The parking deck was very close to the venue with only a short walk. And checking in was seamless.
Loni Aycock — Google review
First time guest here, and this venue has the most amazing customer service of any concert hall I have been to. Top notch all the way. Beer and food were very reasonably priced as well. Most places like this, you’re just another customer, but DPAC was so welcoming and made me feel like an appreciated guest! THANK YOU!!
MARY CAY — Google review
My husband and I drove 2.5 hours to see Bert Kreisher perform here. It was totally worth it! Entering the venue was a breeze and so was finding our seats. The servers at the concession stands were very friendly and the food and drinks were pretty good! The bathrooms were also very clean and the venue staff were very helpful with guiding us out of the venue towards the parking lot. We will certainly return here!
Brittany Zorn — Google review
The first picture is the orchestra pit. The second one is the stage for Hamilton. What an amazing show. The theater is of course fairly new and just beautiful on the outside. They have several parking lots, so parking was easy. The interior is beautiful also oh, and very very clean, and very secure, with lots of service people two man the food and refreshment stands. Drinks and food all right bit cheaper then they would be at the Ballpark. All the employees are extremely helpful. And friendly. I'd go there all the time if I could afford a season pass.
Patrick Nalley — Google review
Beautiful venue. Parking was so easy. They had all kinds of snacks, clothing apparel for WICKED. We went with a group. Seating was very comfortable. Staff was Amazing.
Martha Martel — Google review
DPAC is a nice venue, the staff is friendly and everything moved smoothly before we were seated. They offer drinks and simple snacks, there are alcoholic beverages from beer to a bar as well as a coffee station. The seats were nice and the bathrooms were clean. My husband and I really enjoyed our experience!
Abby Normal — Google review
Got great tickets to the jinx and dela holiday show. The show was right up my alley, a parody about religion, politics, consumerism, climate, miserable conflict, and people forgetting to look out for others... everything that make people appear and be ignorant. DPAC staff are super pleasant and helpful, crowd is fun and eclectic, and the view is pretty good from the lower levels, even the side section 4/Q/213. There seems to be complimentary coffee and tea. Bathrooms are big and clean. Multiple entrances and exits. The venue holds a huge crowd. The volume is a little too loud so that some of the singing numbers are difficult to understand and distinguish. Parking is nearby for $12, but honestly you can find street parking free just a few blocks around. It's nice to arrive to park around 45 minutes before the show, though this one started 10 minutes late, and lasted a total of 1 hr. 45 min.
Neha Patel — Google review
Came to see the Nutcracker for a Christmas present. It was a well put on show, beautiful costumes and sets. The doors opened about 10 min later than it said so that felt a little frustrating as it became more of a mad dash frenzy to get to seats. However everything is clearly marked, so it was easy to find where you were supposed to go.
The staff was friendly and attentive, happy to help and answer questions.
It was nice that DPAC sent out quite a few emails in the days before the show regarding parking and traffic with specific rates and locations. I’m sure we could’ve found some free street parking, but we used one of the parking garages for $10 and it was safe and easy to get in and out.
Tayler T — Google review
First here for Kem concert featuring Niito Band for Mother's Day! My mom, sister, and I had a phenomenal time. Beautiful place and great sound system. The concert was awesome! We are already looking at the next concert to come back!
LaTonya A. — Google review
Fantastic venue for an extraordinary 2Cellos Concert! All the staff were efficient, friendly and welcoming and the area of Durham was great. Had dinner at Tobacco Road Cafe and the food was plentiful and delicious!
Sherry Bevins — Google review
This was my first time seeing a musical. I didn't know what to expect.
This place is super nice and so clean! The lone tends to build during intermission but it went pretty quickly. They direct you which stall to go to and have hygiene products available. We were were on the third row on the balcony and we loved our seats! We could see everything. There were a few moments when I couldn't hear the audio. The cast and music was phenomenal. One thing to note about the stairs: they can be hard to maneuver. I am an aptuee and they made me nervous. Not unsafe... Just nervous. Wonderful time and sweet staff! Huge range of snacks and drinks. Highly recommend. I am getting a pretzel next time! They looked SO good.
Tiffany Anderson — Google review
Convenient and they have the most amazing acts that come to perform never disappointed! We just saw Wicked, it held up to performances I've seen in New York. Can't wait for our next adventure there.
Lysa Britt — Google review
Great venue, not a bad seat in the house. Very affordable garage parking $7, they didn’t take cash 10/14/23. Coming back, only one elevator was working and the line was long. If you are using the elevators at the theater, usually a long line, and it may take 4-5 waits until you can board, so plan the extra time. Staff are always friendly and helpful. Used the vending machine to get soda, 20 ounce bottle, charged $5. And don’t forget to visit the box office if buying tickets to other shows to save the extreme handling online fees from TM.
E M — Google review
I personally feel it isn't a bad seat in this facility. I sat in the Grand tier for this event. I have truly enjoyed all the events I've gone to here. The staff is awesome. Here are some pics of Dru Hill from the Ladies R&B Kickback Concert Part 2 last night.
Karen Warrick — Google review
Just outstanding! We saw the Lion King. Great location. All seats are good. The acoustics were excellent! Highly recommend.
kenneth & belinda Holley — Google review
What a superb venue!! I saw an amazing musical done so well!! The people here are incredible, from waving us into the parking area, to scanning tickets or ushering us to our seats...everyone was super friendly and pleasant! Loved that you could bring food and beverages into the theater to eat at your seat. Rows are situated at a height where the rows below do not obstruct your view. Great place!
Karina Romanelli — Google review
Great place for live music and musicals. The facility is very comfortable with good views and acoustics except for the occasional big head in front of you. Try for seats near the middle sections 5 and 6 of the Grand Tier for the best value but the balcony view is also very good.
Brian Hammill — Google review
I went to see The Grinch The musical and everything was awesome! I really enjoyed watching an amazing performance. Please be kind and explain to children that it is rude to kick those sitting in front of you. Educate your children before you take them to an event. And don't start getting in the way when the performers are still on stage, I was impressed to see how many people started to leave when the performers were saying goodbye.
Noelia Bautista — Google review
This place is beautiful inside and out, so easy to navigate and so many bathrooms and food counters. The acoustics were great! All you could hear was the performer, not a peep could be heard from the raucous crowd while the music was playing. A lovely place to enjoy a concert.
Alana Schmitt — Google review
This marked my inaugural visit to the DPAC, driving from Greensboro to catch the performance by Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith. Despite having secured tickets months in advance, a curveball came our way when my wife required foot surgery just 1 1/2 weeks prior to the concert. Concerns loomed over logistical challenges, including drop-off/pick-up and navigating her limited mobility at the venue.
Our apprehensions swiftly dissipated thanks to the extraordinary assistance of Nancy, an outstanding parking attendant. Addressing all my questions, she guided us to optimal parking to ensure proximity to the front door. Even before entering, multiple staff members inquired about our needs, offering to provide a wheelchair or any necessary assistance. Upon entering, we were efficiently ushered to the elevator and directed to our seats.
Enter Donna – truly exceptional! She engaged with us, discussing options to enhance my wife's comfort and guiding us to the most convenient route to the restroom. I cannot praise her enough for the stellar service provided. From beginning to end, it felt like a Red Carpet experience. And, of course, the show was nothing short of amazing in this fantastic venue. :)
Jared NoneYa — Google review
Ledisi tour was great. Saw her a few years ago. She really gives a great performance. Her new music is on target for today.
Looking glamorous and sounding even better than soft butter on perfectly brown toast.
Gail Bryant — Google review
Good acoustics, great show, the typical tight rows of seating. No enforcement of not using cellular devices during the show. My neighbor was watching gymnastics throughout the first act, the filter did not make it less distracting.
Reuben Moore — Google review
Well, we came to see JP and when I bought the tickets, I didn't see anything indicating a handicapped or companion, so I bought aisle seats thinking I could be ok there. I didn't realize there were stairs leading to the seats when I bought them and was stuck. Fast forward to our wonderful usher, ZEDA, coming over to ask if we needed any help. She immediately took charge, radioed to the others and asked if there were any more open handi spots and got us situated in no time flat. Plus, I inquired about what spots to book for future shows since this was our first time here and she pointed them all out!! She went above and beyond to help us and I will be booking many more shows here just because of her. Y'all made a wonderful choice hiring this young lady and even though we didn't converse with many other ushers, they all seemed very happy to help when necessary. Thank you for making this a wonderful evening!!
Durham Bulls Athletic Park is a well-known baseball stadium in Durham, North Carolina. The 10,000 seat venue has a unique bull statue on top and impressive architecture that matches the original Durham Bulls stadium. The ballpark is home to the Durham Bulls minor league baseball team and provides an unforgettable fan experience.
Beautiful ballpark within a great setting. Not a bad seat in the house. Plenty of services for food, drink, and souvenirs. Parking was easy with multiple parking garages close by. A must see park for AAA baseball fans.
Theodore Melton — Google review
We used to love going to the DBAP multiple times each season. Since covid, things have changed for the worse in my opinion. DBAP has gone cashless.
My first minor issue was at the parking deck, getting slowed down by paying with a card because my card tap didn't work. When attempting to enter the park, we were close to an opening that we weren't allowed to enter through. We later exited though those gates. Would have been more convenient to have a ticket scanner there at the beginning. We had to walk halfway around to another entrance where there was a ticket scanner.
Moving on to food ordering..keep in mind that we are 36 & 43, so we are familiar with electronics and screens. Our tickets were preloaded with $5 so we attempted to order at one of the first few stations we saw. There are now screens to replace people. 👎 We selected our orders and tried scanning our tickets multiple times and it wouldn't work. My husband tried and still couldn't get it to scan. We ended up cancelling after being there several minutes and moving on to another area since no one was there to help. We actually found an area where a person took our orders, but we forgot to order a drink and were looking for the discounted Bull Durham beer (on Thursdays), which wasn't available at the normal food places. Wasted a few more minutes getting one soda and the tickets actually scanned there. Discount beer wasn't available there either. There was a little area with fridges on the opposite side as the food places (near a bar), which had the discounted canned Bull Durham beer. This was the 4th stop we made! Ridiculous.
Once you make it to the seats, everything was perfect. The opposing team (Jumbo Shrimp) would throw a ball over the net after each inning for the kids to catch. My son loved this, but wasn't able to catch one. He later walked up to their dugout and was handed a ball. Very nice guys! We noticed the the Durham Bulls quickly went inside, not allowing time for signatures, but the Jumbo Shrimp remained outside for a little while. If we had a marker, we would have asked them to sign the ball.
After we walked back the the parking deck, we saw that we were unable to exit. Parking deck was gridlocked at our location (level 5) and cars blocked us in. We decided to go back down the stairs and took some photos near the Lucky Strike towers and the water. There must have been some event at the neighboring DPAC, which led to an extremely congested exit. We took about 20 minutes down near the water and it was clear when we returned to the deck.
Overall, this is still a great family experience, but not cheap if you're on a limited budget. On discounted food Thursday, this was still about $120 with tickets.
Francesca — Google review
Great facility to see a game, so much energy in the crowd. Love the atmosphere the organization and the guy that gets the crowd involved during the game is awesome. Day there was the kids got to run the field. Also as a fan of the movie, you won't be disappointed of the experience. WAY TO GO BULL'S... ya bunch of lollygaggers!!!!!🦬⚾️🧢
Matthew Le Sage — Google review
Amazing ballpark and atmosphere. For being a AAA ball club, this place is a lot of fun. There are a ton of food options as well as lots of draft beer stands. You will not be disappointed coming to a ball game here, every seat in the house is fantastic. Next time you are in or around the Durham area, definitely plan a trip here! 10/10
Tyler Tubbs — Google review
The seats were great and the concession has great selection of food and drinks.
It's a fun and great atmosphere to take a family and friends out to enjoy a nice game during the weekdays or over the weekend.
The Athletic park has great access and walkway from the parking structure located on each side. The fountain on the main entrance was great spot to meet and take photos.
Sam Fantaye — Google review
I LOVE going to see the Bulls play! I grew up in Durham and have been going to games my whole life. The field and stadium are very nice. The eating areas, seating, and bathrooms are clean. They have a lot of activities for kids and adults. The fireworks on Fridays nights are awesome.
Ashley S. — Google review
Great stadium, felt like a major league ball game! 😃 The prices are super reasonable. There isn't a bad seat in the stadium. The view of the park is spectacular from any angle. We decided to not sit in our seats and stood in all different areas during the game and it was great being able to walk the whole park and see the game form all different ways. It was one of the last games of the season and it was almost sold out, but the layout made it not seem that croweded. It is wide open and spacious. Great night of baseball and a fun spot to take the family for a night of entertaiment that won't break the bank!
Michelle — Google review
I have been to this baseball stadium twice with my brother. The atmosphere has been great. I played baseball as a kid. The Bulls mascot Wool E. Bull is loved by the fans. If you are ever in North Carolina during baseball season this is a fun place with great food.
Ken Harris — Google review
Had a great time. It was dog night! How fun to see all of the dogs! Such a great idea! Mine will come next time for sure! He loves being out in public. The weather was perfect! Parking was easy.
Amy Hodge — Google review
This stadium is one of my favorite places to be. No matter who plays, the atmosphere, food, beer, and of course the Game are just the best experience ever. I get 10 game passes every year now and don't regret any of them! I pray Durham can get this mess with the MLB handled so we can continue to enjoy visiting!
Chazney — Google review
This is a great family friendly place! The staff is always friendly and helpful! I been going to Bulls game for many years and there is always a great time!!! Even when it's not a MLB game it feels like it and before/after the game there are may options around!!! If you haven't already seen them playing, I'll highly recommend you to try it!!! It's worth it!!! Friday night games always have fireworks!!!
Luis Marcano — Google review
We love the Durham Bulls. And we made it a girls night out. The hubby could not make it. We had great seats but all the seats are great in the stadium. We enjoyed the fireworks at the end of the game. The Durham Bulls is a great family, group or company outing. Win or lose the game is a joy to watch.. Go Bulls!!!
Brenda Gilliam — Google review
Nice upper end minor league park. Opened in '95 and has been continuously upgraded since. Bathrooms are decent, access is good, seeing is good from the box seating to the grass field GA in the outfield. Good concession variety at a ok price. One major restaurant can be frequented over behind left field above the "blue monster".
Joseph “Joe” Caruth — Google review
Bulls games are fun for even casual baseball fans like me. The ball park is beautiful, food options are plentiful, attractive extras like post-game fireworks are frequent, & attendees are usually cheerful & pleasant to be around. My family typically attends a few games each season, & we always enjoy ourselves. Going as a group is a terrific outing for a church group
Kathryn Sobel — Google review
We love love the ballpark. Lots of parking garages. Well managed exterior and interior. Right next to American Tobacco complex. So many food options. Watching the Durham Bulls is quickly becoming my favorite leisure activity
RobertsMom NC — Google review
What a wonderful night of baseball (even thou the Bulls lost😔)! Easy parking at the South lot with prepaid tickets - worth buying ahead. We had dinner at Tobacco Road Sports Cafe above left field. When we were done we just walked through the small gate in the patio - showed our tickets and walked down stairs and into the stands. We were in Section 207 Row T under the overhang which put us between home plate and 3rd base. The stadium was clean with plenty of staff if you needed assistance. Great place for families and anyone wanting a reasonably priced night out to enjoy some ⚾️!!
Diane Mason — Google review
We picked the perfect night for a game on May 11. Slightly cool and low humidity, just perfect for a night out for baseball. And the Bulls started like a rocket with 5 runs in the first including a grand slam. It doesn't get much better. This is still America's pastime with folks of all ages and lots of families. Highly recommend.
Jim Williamson — Google review
We had not been in years. They have added whole new sections to the ball park! Many are suited to those that don't want to sit through a whole game. Great addition. Adds more views of the ball park too.
This night the home team lost but a fun time was still had by all! Hats off for the Durham Bulls! Thanks for autographs and posing for pictures. And thanks for a banging fireworks display!!
Louise Martin-Carpenter — Google review
Great stadium with a good selection of typical ballpark food options. Free admission for military, just show your ID at the ticket window. Parking was $10 at all the parking decks around the area and it was easy to get in and out with minimal traffic or delays.
Warren Korges — Google review
The Durham Bulls is an absolute MUST for anyone passing through the triangle. I've recently seen several games here and can't wait for next season! Food, drinks, and service are all exceptional and the atmosphere is very family friendly.
John-Stuart O'Neill — Google review
Probably one of the best minor league parks and experiences around. I've been to games with my kids over the past few years. This year we hosted 22 5th graders for my son's 11th birthday and the group sales folks were amazing. Highly recommend for birthdays, group parties etc.
Peter Weishaar — Google review
The most beautiful stadium I have ever been to. It is such a fun environment and we have been lucky that the Bulls have also been very good in recent history. Makes going to games even more fun when the home team wins. Also really cool to see players who will almost certainly be playing in the major leagues in just a few years. Even if you don’t live watching baseball, the his is just a fun experience. I highly recommended
Brennan — Google review
One of the best Minor League parks around. Not a bad seat in the house. Besides the usual ball game food, you have got to try the pulled pork bbq and a margarita. Great venue for the whole family.
Damon Taylor — Google review
They are the most iconic minor league team for a reason.
They have their own "Bull Durham" beer available at the grab and go kiosks throughout the park. They also have dollar dog nights on Thursdays. I like to get one of the $10 outfield tickets and just roam around and post up at some of the bar/picnic areas.
The Friday and Saturday night fireworks shows are better than some of the major league parks I've been to. Wool E. Bull is also the best mascot in the league!
Sarah P. Duke Gardens is a large botanical garden with many attractions, including a wildlife garden, koi pond, and amphitheater. The gardens are located on the Duke University campus in Durham, North Carolina.
It's absolutely stunning, and it's a fantastic spot for a scenic stroll and photography. There's a lot to see, so you'll probably need to come back a couple of times depending on your mood for a long, long walk. A beautiful body of water with this adorable red bridge is only a small part of the scenic beauty that this park has to offer. It's also completely free. ( Parking is only $2/hr) unfortunately gift shop was closed because of private even.
nitish deshpande — Google review
This place is amazing! Fun for the whole family if they are able to appreciate beauty. Notice: Wear walking or supportive sportswear because there's lots of different attractions and trails. Might be too large of a walking area for toddler's and young children.
paisleygirl — Google review
Probably one of the most well laid out parks I’ve visited, and this was my first time visiting. The only bummer was that there were some areas closed off due to landscaping so I wasn’t able to get photos there, but this park is a nature enthusiast or photographer’s dream. There’s such a broad spectrum of plants throughout the garden that you just have to see. The ground along the paths are pretty even which makes for comfortable walking since you will find something eye catching down every path. I wasn’t planning on going on a misty day, but the photos I took still came out amazing. Would love to do photoshoots in this location.
Dana Dane — Google review
This botanical garden took me by surprise! It looks small from the road but it is quite large with plenty of walking paths. Even though it was moderately busy when i went it didn’t feel like it since there’s so much space to walk around in!
All the flowers, bushes, and other plants are meticulously maintained and it truly is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens I’ve ever been to.
Tayler T — Google review
Nice walk through various regions themed gardens and woodland. Not busy, pay to park. Staff very helpful and polite. It has a children's discovery area with staff supervision indoors and out.
Great place to chill with tree coverage providing shade.
John Turnbull — Google review
This place is such a beauty to behold! You literally feel like you enter a place of enchantment. There's various gardens with different themes. Many places to sit and enjoy your surroundings during your exploration. The gardens are massive, so rest areas are great! There's workers riding golf carts who you periodically see to answer any questions and give directions. Definitely an amazing experience.
Deidra — Google review
*LOVED* this place!! We moved here from Idaho in September and have been exploring a lot. This has been our favorite place so far. If you are from here, you might not realize how special it is to have banana trees and bamboo just growing outside in nature under pine trees and elms and maple trees. In Idaho, there was only pine so you didn't see leaves change colors with the seasons at all. I can't believe how colorful everything is here!! It's the thing I had been looking forward to the most, and it didn't disappoint.
There's a smell outside as you walk around. It's this earthy tree smell that is my absolute favorite smell in the whole world (tied for the #1 spot with my daughter's head and my dog's feet). It was a 76 degree day with a light breeze and it felt like walking around in a rainbow heaven. The grounds are beautiful and there's lots to see. I'm certain we'll come back frequently.
That being said, I will give one suggestion. It's a little bit hard to get around with my daughter's wheelchair and it would be helpful if paths were marked with arrows showing which way to go if you're in a wheelchair. They had an info both but it was busy so we skipped it, and I'm sure they could have told us where to go. Alas! We had to backtrack a little bit here and there, but there were other ways to get around. We took a detour to the chapel which was about an 8 minute walk from the gardens, and we did have to go up some stairs for that part. It was so pretty though and barely out of the way. Worth seeing. I expected only one chapel, but the university has tons of buildings that look like ancient mini castles. I didn't expect it to be so utterly breathtaking.
Back to the gardens, there were some gravel areas inside the gardens that we decided to skip. Otherwise, the majority of the gardens were very accessible. We all loved this place so much.
Holly — Google review
Beautiful garden .My wife and I visited in February and we couldn't believe how fragrant everything was at that time of year. We will definitely return in spring. Very nice walking paths with maps and signage. Dogs allowed in yhe mornings and evenings, which is awesome.
Highly recommend.
Brian Maynard — Google review
One of my favorite gardens! So beautiful and much bigger than I anticipated. I loved the educational section on growing produce/farming for children. If I lived in Durham, I’d come here all the time to read, picnic, and take a stroll. And it’s free! (Just $2/hr for parking). Photos were taken 10/31/21, so some of the flowers weren’t blooming. Would visit again in the Spring.
Greeshma James — Google review
Beautiful gardens with even more various colors of flowers and plants all over the place. Gardens is maintained well and walking through gives you good feel all the way through. It's most famous for its natural light and scenery views for capturing your beautiful memories of any events or occasions😍 better carry strollers if you going with kids or toddlers as the walk can be easy with it instead of carrying them all the time.definitely makes you feel good and worth visiting this place.
B Keerthi Naragoni — Google review
Yes, please go there and enjoy the breathtaking gardens. Different plants and flowers, they decorate everything in a beautiful way. It was super hot, but we enjoyed every single stop. The entry is free, but you have to pay 2 dollars/ hour for the parking.
Areen dhoon — Google review
Wow!! We were blown away by how beautiful and well kept everything was. You do have to have cash for parking. It was $2.00 per hour.
It would be a great place for family pictures and can’t wait to go back to have a picnic there. Lot’s of shade and areas to place picnic blanket and sit with the family.
They do have restrooms around the area and it is very helpful with little ones.
Arelys Delgado — Google review
Duke Gardens are a beautiful and tranquil oasis in the heart of Durham, North Carolina. The gardens are home to a wide variety of flowers, plants, and trees, from the Japanese Garden to the Discovery Garden. There are also walking trails, a lake, and a chapel.
The Japanese Garden was particularly stunning, with its koi pond, waterfalls, and bamboo groves. The Discovery Garden was also a lot of fun, with its interactive exhibits and play areas.
The gardens are free to visit, but there is a fee for parking. There is a small parking lot at the entrance to the gardens, but it can fill up quickly. There is also street parking available, but it can be difficult to find.
If you are visiting the gardens in the off-season, be aware that some of the trees may be dry and without flowers. However, the gardens are still worth a visit, as the beauty of the architecture and landscaping is still evident.
Sasank Gadiko — Google review
Visited with my boyfriend last Spring and the scenery was gorgeous. Lots of different kinds of flowers to view, as well as walking trails. We also stopped at the little shop and bought popsicles to cool down. Great place to visit and lots you can do!
Lilie Wilkinson — Google review
The visit to the Duke Gardens on the campus of Duke University was spectacular. Much of the gardens were still in bloom. The staff, volunteers and workers were quite pleasant, very knowledgeable as well as helpful. It was a beautiful day to spend walking amid such floral beauty. We brought a simple picnic lunch to enjoy at the conclusion of our walk. If you are in the area, leave at least an hour or more to enjoy this treasure.
Michael Cohen — Google review
Absolutely beautiful. Visited twice while in town and still didn't get to see everything because it was so big. My favorite was the vegetable garden which consisted of a compost and watering system and a bee keeping section. The workers and volunteers were super nice. There was a little building that sold snack and wraps that were delicious,fresh and reasonably priced. They also had a gift shop and area where you could purchase plants. The garden is free but you have to pay to park but the parking fee is reasonable but parking fills up quick.
Jacque 3777 — Google review
A most beautiful and delicate "World" of beauty, wonderment, joys, and serenity... filled with colors and textures and the miracles of Nature to feed our souls and hearts... while also offering to our eyes delightfully labeled plants and flowers to educate our minds as well...
Go there to walk around... or lay down on the grass... and rejoice in beauty and serenity all at once...
I so love that little heaven on earth...
Enjoy ❤️
Pascal Monmoine — Google review
Good place for relaxing. Lots of Verities of trees, flowers and plants. Good walking trail. Parking online $2 per hour. You can use free parking a few blocks away. Must visit between March 15 to 30 to see the full blossoms of cherry. 2 toilets, one in the main building and another in the middle of the park. A few free drinkable water fountains too.
Blaise C — Google review
I love Duke Gardens. It's my favorite garden in NC. I've been there many times in summer, fall, and spring. Every season has a different charm. The Asiatic Arboretum is my favorite part. It's like you're in Japan, walking around the pond, where you'll see a lot of wildlife: turtles, ducks, and I even saw a great blue heron, which was amazing!
I went there today 3/14/24 the cherry blossom trees at the entrance are in full bloom! It was so beautiful, like a cloud of blossoms. The blooms should stay intact for about a week, depending on the weather. I recommend stopping by for photographs no later than next week and also visiting on a weekday to avoid the crowd. No entrance fees!
Duke University Chapel is a neo-gothic building with a 210-foot tower and 77 colorful windows depicting scenes from the bible. It is located on the west campus of the university, and its 5,200 pipe Flentrop organ and 50-bell carillon are worth a visit.
Don't let the name "Chapel" fool you. This place looks like a straight up cathedral! If you love the architecture of a beautiful church make sure to go see this one if you are in the area.
Toward the altar on the left is the resting place of some of the notable Duke family members.
Also to the left of the altar is a staircase to the catacombs where some of the past university of duke presidents have been buried.
Roger L'Heureux — Google review
It the largest Church I have been to. It is roman catholic themed, it has a crypt with resting place for the founders of Duke University. You can light candles. Get your pictures clicked in the Hogwarts looking alleys. And at 5 in the evening you can here the bells rolling. It is truly mesmerising
HARSH OJHA 4-Yr B.Tech. Chemical Engg. — Google review
Historic landmark great to see. The historic Gothic chapel, standing at 210 feet and on the highest ridge of Duke's campus, features pointed arches and ribbed vaults. The stained glass windows help add color into the impressive structure.
Kevin Wang — Google review
Nestled within the heart of Duke University's sprawling campus, the majestic Duke Chapel stands as a testament to both architectural grandeur and spiritual reverence. As I ascended the steps leading to its colossal doors, the awe-inspiring beauty of the Gothic-style structure unfolded before me.
The exterior, adorned with intricate stone carvings and soaring spires, seemed to reach for the heavens. As I crossed the threshold, a profound sense of tranquility enveloped me. Sunlight filtered through the stained glass windows, casting a kaleidoscope of colors that danced upon the polished wooden pews.
The interior of Duke Chapel is nothing short of breathtaking. The vaulted ceilings create a sense of openness, and the air is filled with a hallowed stillness that invites introspection. The chapel's intricate details, from the ornate altar to the meticulously crafted organ, underscore the dedication and artistry that went into its construction.
During my visit, the chapel hosted a choir rehearsal, and the melodic strains of the music reverberated through the sacred space, adding a celestial soundtrack to the ambiance. The acoustics of the chapel are renowned, and it's easy to understand why as the harmonies swirled and resonated, creating an ethereal experience.
Venturing outside, the chapel's expansive grounds provided a peaceful retreat. The well-manicured gardens and quiet courtyards offered a serene escape, a stark contrast to the bustling academic life just beyond its gates.
Duke Chapel isn't merely a place of worship; it's a sanctuary that transcends religious affiliations, welcoming all who seek solace and inspiration. Whether one comes to marvel at its architectural splendor, attend a service, or simply find a moment of quiet reflection, Duke Chapel stands as an enduring symbol of beauty, grace, and the pursuit of higher understanding.
Sajib Aninda Dhar — Google review
Duke University Chapel is one of oldest and prestigious campus with an awe inspiring view and place to relax on a spring day. Enjoy the architectural beauty around you.
MindfulLiving Bellevue — Google review
Duke University Chapel is a must-see for anyone visiting Durham. It is a beautiful and inspiring building that is full of history and tradition. The chapel offers free tours that last about 30 minutes. Tours are available Monday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm. There's no need to rush through your visit. Take your time to explore the chapel and admire the beautiful architecture and stained glass windows.
Sasank Gadiko — Google review
One of the most prestigious and historical places in Durham, NC we recently visited Duke University Campus and it was absolutely inspiring . we visited in March and the weather is just perfect, The atmosphere was incredible it’s like you are visiting one of London or UK universities. the Dormitories are well planned, The Brian Center is absolutely a place. Where you will be in Awe, The restaurant are modern and built in high standard.
The Duke Chapel is incredibly built with Class in Gothic -nd impressive Architecture, If you have not been the. You are missing a lot , Hughly recommends for everyone.
Raco medal — Google review
Beautiful, wonderful campus. Parking was a bit of a hassle, had to download an app with sketchy phone service because the meter won't work but that was forgotten when walking through the Beautiful campus.
There were not as many AA students seen while walking, as compared to our visit to UNC chapel hill that same morning ... we did see a group of 20-30 having a meeting in the courtyard right in front of the chapel, so there's hope.
Chi-Chi Anike — Google review
If you haven’t been to the Duke University Chapel, it is an absolute must! This was my second visit. Growing up Catholic my mother and her family frequently visited beautiful churches around the world. She is gone now but I know she would have put this chapel at the top of the list in beauty! There is a crypt. In fact, five Duke dignitaries are buried in the basement of the chapel.
Take your time and walk around. This place was meant for meditation and reflection.
Check out my videos and pics.
Enjoy!
JOSEPHINE — Google review
It's a nice chapel, with beautiful buildings around. There was a bride and groom taking engagement photos. A must visit when you are in Sarah P Duke gardens. Yes, go and enjoy
Areen dhoon — Google review
Absolutely stunning architecture! Beautiful and well maintained. The choir sounded so good you just sit in awe for a little while
Milana K — Google review
Obviously this place is historic and gorgeous, but the real trick is to follow their calendar and see when there are free musical performances. I saw an Organ specialist play a recital and although it was not exactly my cup of tea it was still really cool, especially when he played the second set on the older, more traditional Organs (they were louder). There are upcoming free choir performances. Definitely worth checking out.
Fit Gear Hunter — Google review
We did the Duke Chapel guided tour which is free and open to the public. We were introduced to the beautiful history, architecture, significance, and traditions of the Duke Chapel and truly enjoyed it. The chapel is known for its gothic style architecture but one has to go inside to be able to appreciate the intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, the organs, carillon, and more! Parking is available at the Bryan Center garage on a first come first serve basis.
Sampada Chavan — Google review
Duke Chapel is stunning. Wonderful place to visit if you're in the area or walking from Duke hospital. It is such a warm welcoming Chapel. A respectful receptionist was waiting offering assistance and a great information on the Chapel and also a cute story about the two mice ( I won't tell you the story you'll have to go see for yourself). The offerings of this chapel is quite amazing. The public is free to enter and be a part at anytime. Be sure to check of the music events etc. Go and pray 🙏❤️
Suzie Jackson — Google review
Such a prestigious place. Historic. Top scholars. I don't believe you can take a bad photo of this place. Duke will forever possess a legacy of excellence. From those who teach to those who learn.
Corbin B — Google review
It is the Jewel of the Duke campus and if you are lucky enough you will get to experience the organ being played on your visit. Take your time and enjoy the ornate glass, wood and stone while taking in the music. Explore all the chapel has to offer with its many nooks and crannies. From the side chapel to the vault in the basement and the exterior is as spectacular as the interior which includes a cloister like courtyard to the right.
Christopher Kearney — Google review
This Chapel is just so beautiful. What an incredible experience. I've attended both church services and concerts/musical events here. The acoustics are perfect for choral events. If you haven't seen Handel's Messiah here, then you absolutely must. Just beautiful.
Damon Taylor — Google review
Beautiful church. There was organ music playing while we were there. On the he campus of beautiful Duke University .
Swimming beaches & hilly hiking trails around 9 lakes, plus campsites & boating excursions.
Very much enjoyed camping here with my son's. Campsites are nice enough and easy to get to, clearly marked. Bathouses we're better than expected. We camped right on the lake and the boys fished all day and night. Caught plenty of channel catfish. Will go again!
Mark Conneway — Google review
This was a fun stay. Was there for 7 days and it went fast with lots to do in the area. Staff was easy to work with and kept the park up well. Our spot (B9) was secluded with the neighbors a ways away, and an easy walk to the lake! Will go back if in the area.
Jim McMichael — Google review
A wonderful group camping location on the lake....very spacious and cared for... Staff are responsive and understanding... Water pressure on site is plentiful... Views from the campsite are what we hoped for... Unfortunately, there are planes from time to time overhead... But not bad... Bathrooms and showers are well kept and hot water is plentiful... We will definitely be rebooking again...
John Jones — Google review
A nice relaxing area. Currently free to enter. The sign says no charge to enter until March 31st. Plenty of parking . Plenty of kids were there on a weekday. There are places to change clothes, grill, relax and have a good time. Alot of trees for shade and open area if you want to get some sun.
ladi da — Google review
Great water front campsites (tents) and nice spacious pads with power just behind them (have power hookup). Can’t beat the cost for a couple night rental. Swimming was good and the water is super warm (it was early August), great to lounge and just relax in, just don’t expect to take a dip and cool off 🤣
Zachary Parchomenko — Google review
The water level is too high because of recent storm. The ramp was completely flooded and in some places parking spaces are completely submerged in water.
Madhu — Google review
Great Day Trip! $7 parking fee for all day long. Grilled right next to the beach at a picnic table. Parked in the first entrance and i love that the water was shallow enough for my 5 year old to play in. She ad a great time at the park as well.
Alee Hernandez — Google review
Love this lake! My papa is a regular here he drives here from Durham. He goes to this lake almost every week. Caught some great fish here, lost my biggest fish I ever caught and made some awesome memories
Haley — Google review
It would have taken a 5 star review, if it was not for a situation we encountered on our second night there. Around midnight on Saturday (Sunday June 2, 2023), the campers in the campsite before ours began to argue loudly, screaming and using profane language. My daughter, a minor who has special needs and could not sleep, shouted "please shut up", to be answered by foul language. We contacted the park rangers and explained that their argument had become physical, also there had been statements of a knife or the threat of stabbing. 45 minutes later, rangers showed up, as the altercation had come to an end. Aside from this, we enjoyed the park and lake, my kids love the place and we will continue to go, but do recommend as an expert in the safety/security/enforcement field, to have a better response time for volatile situations as this, as this could have turned into a life threatening situation, without the involvement of other campers, not the rangers.
Ricky Bonilla — Google review
Love the set up of the sites and scenery. Facilities are very clean. Most campsites are level and are easily accessible for rv parking. Only gave a 4 rating due to no water at campsites as it is still winter. Currently here (February) and Temps are in the 70s. Attached pictures are of campsite C19 in Poplar Point.
Michelle Bayless — Google review
Just beautiful 😍 I stayed at the Poplar Point section.
The RV sites are far enough apart so as not to disturb your neighbors.
Many of them double as tent sites.
I was surprised to learn that they just installed 50 amp service as well⚡
Nice walking trail🥾🚶
Michael Scott — Google review
Really lovely campsites on Jordan Lake. We didn't have direct access to the water, but could have selected a site closer to the water if I wanted to.
This time of year, the bathrooms are locked during the week (which was on the posted info but we didn't really pay attention so it was a bit of surprise for us).
We love car & tent camping. Loved the clean and freely available bathhouse. Good privacy this time of year.
My only word of warning: be prepared to be "inside" of wherever you are sleeping when the sun sets. The yellow flies and other flying bugs came out and were relentless, even with our tried and true thermocell. It's not unexpected being out in the wilderness, but should be known in advance.
We will ABSOLUTELY be back for a longer stay next time!
Zoe Dean — Google review
It's a great place for a family outing, fishing,camping,They have 3 beaches. My grandkids loved it. You have to get there early in the morning,bring your food,drinks and don't forget the charcoal for the grill.
Vanessa Shepherd — Google review
This was my first time here. It's a beautiful spot! It's a very big area, and was also very clean. There was a nice playground area for kids, nice bathrooms, and even a pretty area for camping. It is definitely a great place to relax.
Amazing accredited Sanctuary with knowledgeable and friendly staff. Not my first visit and really hope it's not my last. They provide wonderful homes to these beautiful babies that have been rescued from folks who thought they could be pets instead of wild animals. Their love for all of the babies is noticeable throughout the facility, they have a ton of room to roam, they are happy and well cared for. You are within 6 feet of a majestic animal, how can it not be a wonderful place to visit?!
W Moody — Google review
This place is great! Clean and organized and the cats all look well cared for. The volunteers are friendly and passionate about what they do and tried to ensure we were able to see as many of the cats as possible. Parents need to be aware though, that our guide talked a lot about cats dying, being put down and cremated, and at one point told a story a man killing himself at one of the places they rescued from.
Christina Knutson — Google review
Incredible experience! We learned so much about large cats during our trip--super impressed with the knowledge of our guide!
This is a wonderful facility that I highly recommend for people of any age!
Lizzy Lovelace — Google review
The folks are, and the work that they are doing is absolutely amazing. The experience of getting to see these beautiful animals in an environment that belongs to them is truly beyond belief. It's definitely a stop worth making a North Carolina!
Brian LaRue — Google review
They clearly take very good care of the kitties and the tour was super informative and cool. Very happy big cats. Also they had a barn cat named Moldemort who stole my heart
Sylvia Mercer — Google review
Do not go when very hot and humid, the bigger cats are not active during this time at twilight tour. Then again you have to book some time ahead so you will not know the weather outcome that day of your visit. Tour guide is very passionate about the animals and very knowledgeable. I want to say his name is Tim but unsure.
Panther MS — Google review
Such an amazing experience! The grounds are nice, the staff is friendly, the gift shop reasonably priced, & the animals seem VERY well cared for! I learned so much on the Twilight Tour, but also heard really lovely stories about the cats because the volunteers leading it truly care for these big babies. My only regret is not visiting sooner. Will definitely be back when in the area!
Stephanie Gardner — Google review
This establishment is proof of the inherent goodness of humanity. The knowledgeable guide walked us through the tour, all the while pointing out not only the things that make the various animals unique, but more importantly speaking to the maltreatment of the same by less scrupulous entities. All in all, a great decision. And don't forget the gift shop! Everyone there is a volunteer, so please show support (ps...the tigers paint PAINTINGS!)
Knowledge Himself — Google review
It was a super hot day, so many of the large cats were not out. The benches and water spouts along the way were good (and needed). The tour guide was awesome! He answered questions and was a wealth of interesting information. He did a good job of addressing maltreatment of wild animals and how they came to Carolina Tiger Rescue in Pittsboro Small kids approx. 5yrs old and younger were fussy and too young to understand or appreciate the tour.
Jessica Martz — Google review
My personal experience.
This is a great place to go to learn ALL about the Tigers and other animals they house there.
This is not a great place to bring children younger than about 12 years old. Very rough loose gravel trails and rocky dirt roads. Challenging for little legs to walk or adults to push a stroller. Also, poison ivy and fire ant hills!
Bottom line, the animals are beautiful, the tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly, but the younger kids in the group definitely got bored.
Paul Petkanas — Google review
Loved our twilight tour of the big cats! Very educational. Recommend good walking shoes for rocky trails and best for older children and adults.
Cheryl Cleveland — Google review
Great place with great ppl. Not rushed at all and got to learn a lot about the animals. Some of the tigers are very sociable and like to roll around by the fence for the visitors. All the animals seem really happy and healthy, and the volunteers are very passionate. Also seemed safe and well organized.
Katie LC — Google review
Our tour guide was great, telling us the history of the animals we were able to see. Not every cat will be on the tour path as they are a rescue center. Some cats unfortunately are not comfortable around the public and Carolina Tiger Rescue does all they can to make sure their animals are happy and healthy.
The terrain is uneven as the rescue is built on an old farm and you will have to remain with your tour guide at all times both for your safety and the animals.
Tabitha Tomala — Google review
Did the enrichment tour and was very cool. Definitely worth it to watch the big cats open boxes and get fed. The servals were very cute too. My favs were Sheila and Saber, the white tigers.
I will say one of the tour guides we had was quite rude. She also seemed to make up facts and then follow it with “but i’m not sure if that’s true”.
Alaska Doran — Google review
The twilight tour (5:30pm) was an incredibly intimate and wonderful experience. Our tour guide was amazing and knowledgeable, the animals were breathtaking and the lions were super vocal! Well worth the price. Would come again. (Extra bonus, Pittsboro itself is a wonderful town, we made a whole weekend out of our visit and hope to be back soon!)
Jordan Gregg (iGreggers) — Google review
It's wonderful to see these beautiful animals living a peaceful life for the rest of their days. A lot of them have come from bad places so it's amazing to see them given a better life. Tour guides are super knowledgeable and able to answer any questions.
Ely Cervantes — Google review
This is a must see! So many great photo ops and stories about the animals. We went early in the morning when the cats were most active and waiting to be fed. Our tour guides were very knowledgeable. There are people cages on the trail in case an animal gets out, but our tour guide assured us that has never happened. The gift shop has a lot of great items.