Located on the Atlantic coast of Virginia, Virginia Beach is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and rich history. However, there’s more to explore beyond the city limits. The surrounding areas offer a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and exciting activities that are worth visiting. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the best places to visit near Virginia Beach.
Why Visit the Surrounding Areas?
While Virginia Beach is an amazing destination in its own right, exploring the surrounding areas can add a new dimension to your trip. You can experience the natural beauty of the Virginia coast, visit historic sites, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking. The surrounding areas also offer a chance to experience the local culture, try new foods, and shop at unique boutiques.
Top Places to Visit Near Virginia Beach
Here are some of the best places to visit near Virginia Beach:
- Chincoteague Island: Known for its wild ponies and beautiful beaches, Chincoteague Island is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
- Williamsburg: Step back in time and visit Colonial Williamsburg, a historic city with restored 18th-century buildings and costumed interpreters.
- Newport News: Explore the Virginia Living Museum, a unique attraction that combines a zoo, aquarium, and natural history museum.
- Outer Banks: Head to the Outer Banks for a day trip or a longer vacation, and enjoy the beautiful beaches, lighthouses, and outdoor activities.
- Yorktown: Visit the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, which tells the story of the final battle of the Revolutionary War.
These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit near Virginia Beach. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, there’s something for everyone in the surrounding areas. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the best of what Virginia has to offer!
Best Places To Visit Near Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and rich history. However, there are many other exciting places to visit near Virginia Beach that offer a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and relaxation. Here are some of the best places to visit near Virginia Beach:
Outdoor Adventures
Virginia Beach is surrounded by natural beauty, with many parks, nature reserves, and wildlife refuges offering opportunities for outdoor adventure. Here are some of the best places to visit for outdoor enthusiasts:
- First Landing State Park: Located just a few miles north of Virginia Beach, this park offers camping, hiking, and biking trails, as well as kayaking and paddleboarding rentals.
- Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge: This protected area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, turtles, and alligators. Visitors can hike, bike, or take a guided tour to explore the refuge.
- False Cape State Park: Accessible only by foot or bike, this park offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a great spot for surf fishing and beachcombing.
Cultural Experiences
Virginia Beach is rich in history and culture, with many museums, galleries, and historic sites to explore. Here are some of the best places to visit for culture lovers: (See Also: Places To Visit Near Uttarakhand)
- Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art: Located in nearby Virginia Beach, this museum features a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art.
- Chrysler Museum of Art: Located in nearby Norfolk, this museum has a collection of over 30,000 objects, including European and American paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts.
- Historic Ghent Neighborhood: This charming neighborhood in Norfolk is filled with historic homes, antique shops, and art galleries.
Relaxation and Leisure
After a day of exploring, visitors can unwind at one of the many spas, resorts, or beachside restaurants near Virginia Beach. Here are some of the best places to visit for relaxation:
- The Sanderling Resort: Located in nearby Virginia Beach, this resort offers luxurious accommodations, a spa, and a variety of recreational activities.
- The Cavalier Virginia Beach: This historic hotel has been restored to its former glory and offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and a variety of dining options.
- Seaside Market: This beachside market in Virginia Beach offers fresh seafood, local produce, and a variety of prepared foods.
Day Trips
Virginia Beach is a great base for exploring the surrounding region, with many exciting day trip options within a few hours’ drive. Here are some of the best places to visit for a day trip:
| Destination | Distance | Time | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Williamsburg | 70 miles | 1 hour 15 minutes | Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens theme park |
| Norfolk | 20 miles | 30 minutes | Nauticus National Maritime Center, USS Wisconsin battleship |
| Chesapeake Bay | 30 miles | 45 minutes | Fishing, kayaking, and sailing |
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or relaxation, there are many exciting places to visit near Virginia Beach. From historic sites to natural wonders, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.
As we conclude our journey to explore the best places to visit near Virginia Beach, we hope you’ve been inspired to plan your next adventure. From the historic charm of Williamsburg to the natural beauty of the Outer Banks, there’s something for everyone in this region.
In this article, we’ve highlighted the top destinations to visit near Virginia Beach, including the scenic coastal towns of Cape Charles and Chincoteague, the vibrant city of Norfolk, and the historic sites of Jamestown and Yorktown. We’ve also provided insider tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your trip.
Whether you’re looking for history, culture, outdoor adventure, or simply a relaxing getaway, the places we’ve featured offer a unique blend of experiences that are sure to leave you with lasting memories. So why wait? Start planning your trip today and discover the best places to visit near Virginia Beach. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Danville Pa)
Before you go, don’t forget to check out our additional resources for more information on each of the destinations we’ve featured. With our expert advice and insider knowledge, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your trip and create an unforgettable experience.
Thank you for joining us on this journey to explore the best places to visit near Virginia Beach. We hope you’ve enjoyed this article and will return soon for more travel inspiration and advice.
Here are five FAQs related to “Best Places To Visit Near Virginia Beach”:
FAQs: Best Places To Visit Near Virginia Beach
What are some popular beaches near Virginia Beach?
Some popular beaches near Virginia Beach include the Outer Banks in North Carolina, the Eastern Shore of Virginia, and the Delaware Beaches. These destinations offer a range of activities such as surfing, fishing, and swimming, as well as beautiful scenery and relaxation.
Are there any historical sites to visit near Virginia Beach?
Yes, there are several historical sites to visit near Virginia Beach. The First Landing State Park is a great place to learn about the region’s history, with exhibits on the Native American tribes and European settlers who inhabited the area. The Cape Henry Lighthouse is another historic site that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Peterborough Uk)
What are some fun outdoor activities to do near Virginia Beach?
There are many fun outdoor activities to do near Virginia Beach, including hiking, biking, and kayaking. The First Landing State Park offers several hiking trails, including the 1.5-mile Cape Henry Trail that takes you through a variety of landscapes. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the waters of the Chesapeake Bay.
Are there any museums near Virginia Beach that are worth visiting?
Yes, there are several museums near Virginia Beach that are worth visiting. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is a great place to learn about the marine life of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The Norfolk Museum of Arts and Sciences is another great museum that features a range of exhibits on art, history, and science.
Can I visit any theme parks near Virginia Beach?
Yes, there are several theme parks near Virginia Beach that are worth visiting. The Busch Gardens Williamsburg theme park is a great place to visit for roller coaster enthusiasts, with 10 roller coasters and a range of other thrill rides. The Water Country USA water park is another great destination for families, with water slides and a wave pool.