Welcome to Virginia Beach | Virginia Beach Visitors Guide (2024)

• April 28, 2023

Celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, the city of Virginia Beach has continuously proven to be a place for relaxation, exploration and fun.

By Kelsey Thomas

Ranked by Forbes as the second safest large city in the nation in 2023, Virginia Beach is an enticing place for locals and visitors alike and whether you come every year or if it’s you’re first visit, we are so glad to have you! You’ve probably already noticed the endless list of ways to spend your time while you’re here, from digging your toes into the sand of our wide-open beaches to taking advantage of the coastal cuisine or exploring one of our many attractions. The Virginia Beach Visitors Guide is here to provide you the perfect list of resources to make your family’s trip unforgettable.

Dive into the city’s culinary and craft beverage scene by dining al fresco at one of the many restaurants with a water view or partaking in your own Virginia Beach beer trail. Be sure to sip on an Orange Crush while you’re here, as it is a Virginia Beach staple co*cktail, and enjoy fresh local seafood that plenishes plates and delights the palate. Or imbibe international eats, as the area is a melting pot of various cuisine cultures.

Become one with nature by walking through the numerous trails or parks in the city and get a glimpse at wildlife in their natural habitats at one of the refuge centers. If you’re more on the adventurous side, go for a ride ziplining or try out indoor skydiving. Take a stroll down Atlantic Avenue at the Oceanfront for everything from live music and beach shops to unique activity centers and more. There are also plenty of opportunities to shop ’til you drop while you’re here.

Explore all there is to see and do within the artsy ViBe Creative District, the waterside marina district at Rudee Inlet and inland Town Center. Or take a short road trip to nearby Jamestown and Yorktown, where history and even more adventure awaits. You’ll quickly understand why we are one of America’s most scenic and historic travel destinations when you read all about Coastal Virginia’s incredible attractions.

Of course, let’s not forget to mention the beautiful beaches that we have here in Virginia Beach. Whether you enjoy the excitement of the Oceanfront or want to feel like one of the locals on Chic’s Beach, there are so many different places for you to lay your towel down and start catching the sun rays. Perhaps the thrill-seeker in you will want to hop on a jet ski or boat and explore out on the open waters.

No matter what suites your style, Virginia Beach has got it all. So, sit back and relax and start planning the rest of your itinerary. I can guarantee that you’ll be booking your next return before your departure.

THINGS TO COME

Virginia Beach is lucky to be a city that is always growing and evolving. Whether it be with new developments or new attractions, the area thrives off refinement and restoration. This year, it was officially approved for a huge project spearheaded by Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams to come to life.

Atlantic Park & The Dome

Atlantic Park, the world’s only human-made wave park this close to an actual ocean, is set to start its groundbreaking construction. It will be a palooza for people from all over, allowing guests to ride a wave any time of year in the same place that they can shop, dine and enjoy events. Included at the park will be The Dome, an indoor and outdoor facility that will host civic, entertainment and community functions as well as a public plaza that will be open on non-event days. The plaza, which will be lined with various shops and restaurants, may also play host to various arts fairs, markets, free performances and more. The project is expected to be complete in summer 2025.

Learn more at AtlanticParkVB.com

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