If you’ve recently moved to a house in Virginia Beach, or are new to the area and renting an apartment, you might be looking for ways to explore the city without straining your budget. Whether you’re a little low on cash after buying a house or just getting accustomed to renting in this vibrant coastal city, there’s an array of free activities to help you discover the city’s charm. From serene beachfront strolls to encounters with aviation history, here are 10 fantastic experiences that won’t cost you a dime.
1. Virginia Beach Boardwalk
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk stretches for three miles along the oceanfront and offers not only stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean but also a vibrant atmosphere. You can find outdoor art installations, public sculptures, and themed play areas for kids. During peak seasons, there are often live music performances, magicians, and other street entertainers to keep you entertained as you walk. Plus, there are numerous benches and picnic spots where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
2. First Landing State Park
This First Landing State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. With over 20 miles of hiking trails, you can explore diverse ecosystems, including forests, marshes, and dunes. The Osprey Trail is a popular choice, leading you through maritime forests and offering great bird-watching opportunities. You can also enjoy fishing in the park’s freshwater ponds or swimming and sunbathing on the Chesapeake Bay beach.
3. Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
The Chesapeake Tunnel complex is an engineering marvel that connects the Eastern Shore of Virginia to the mainland. As you drive along this 17.6-mile-long structure, you’ll pass over water, through tunnels, and over artificial islands. Keep an eye out for dolphins, sea birds, and other wildlife while enjoying the panoramic views.
4. Sandbridge Beach
Sandbridge offers a quieter and more serene beach experience compared to the main Virginia Beach oceanfront. The beach is surrounded by natural dunes and offers opportunities for shelling, beachcombing, and bird-watching. It’s a great place for anyone looking for a peaceful beach getaway.
5. Military Aviation Museum
While the Military Aviation Museum itself may have an admission fee, the museum is known for its flying events, where historic aircraft take to the skies. These events, often referred to as “Warbird Weekends,” occasionally feature free flyovers that can be observed from various vantage points in the Virginia Beach area. It’s a unique chance to see these vintage planes in action without having to pay an admission fee.
6. Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
While there may be an admission fee for the galleries, the museum’s outdoor sculpture park is free to explore. The MOCA park features an array of contemporary sculptures in a beautiful garden setting. It’s a great place to appreciate modern art in a serene and open environment.
7. Cape Henry Lighthouse
While there might be a fee to enter the lighthouse itself, you can still explore the surrounding area for free. The Cape Henry Lighthouse is located within Fort Story, a military installation. The area offers historical information and markers, and you can enjoy the sweeping views of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse is historically significant as it was the first federally-funded lighthouse in the United States.
8. False Cape State Park
Accessible by foot, bike, or boat, this park is a hidden gem for those seeking a more secluded beach experience. The False Cape State Park offers a variety of trails through marshes, maritime forests, and dunes. You can also explore the remnants of the Wash Woods community, an abandoned fishing village. It’s an excellent place for hiking, wildlife observation, and beach relaxation.
9. Pleasure House Point Natural Area
Pleasure House Point Natural Area offers a unique blend of habitats including tidal marshes, tidal creeks, and maritime forest. There are several trails that wind through the area, offering beautiful views of the surrounding waterways and an opportunity for bird-watching. The area is especially known for its bird diversity and is designated as an “Important Bird Area” by the National Audubon Society.
10. Local Festivals and Events
Virginia Beach also hosts a variety of free festivals and events throughout the year. These can include music festivals, art shows, cultural celebrations, and outdoor markets. One notable example is the Neptune Festival, a popular annual event that features a sand sculpting competition, live music, and a grand parade along the boardwalk. Keep an eye on local event calendars to discover these free community gatherings and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Holly Hooper
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