Major Landmarks in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach, located on the southeastern coast of Virginia, is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and outdoor recreational opportunities. With a population that swells during the summer months, this coastal city is a popular destination for vacationers seeking sun, sand, and surf. Virginia Beach is renowned for its expansive oceanfront boardwalk, a three-mile stretch that attracts visitors from across the nation. The city’s location at the confluence of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean makes it a key point in maritime history, and its landmarks reflect its colonial past, military significance, and natural beauty. From historical sites dating back to the earliest days of the American colonies to wildlife reserves and pristine parks, Virginia Beach offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors to explore.
Historical Landmarks in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is steeped in history, with many sites that commemorate the city’s colonial roots, military history, and maritime significance. These landmarks offer insights into the past, providing a glimpse of life during the early settlement period and the city’s role in shaping American history.
1. Cape Henry Lighthouse
Landmark Overview
The Cape Henry Lighthouse, located at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, is one of the most significant historical landmarks in Virginia Beach. Constructed in 1792, it was the first lighthouse commissioned by the U.S. government under President George Washington, making it a critical part of the country’s early maritime navigation system. The original octagonal sandstone structure still stands and is open to the public, offering visitors the opportunity to climb to the top for stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay. A newer lighthouse, built in 1881, stands nearby and is still in operation today. The site also commemorates the First Landing of English colonists in 1607 before they moved on to establish Jamestown.
Location
Cape Henry Lighthouse is located at 583 Atlantic Avenue, Fort Story, Virginia Beach, VA 23459.
Ticket Price
Admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors and military, and $8 for children ages 6-12. Children under 6 enter for free.
Nearby Airports
Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is approximately 15 miles from Cape Henry Lighthouse.
Highways
The lighthouse is accessible via U.S. Route 60 (Shore Drive) and Interstate 264 (I-264).
Special Attentions
Visitors need to pass through security at Joint Expeditionary Base Fort Story, as the lighthouse is located on an active military base. Be sure to bring a valid ID for entry. Climbing the lighthouse requires navigating narrow, steep stairs, so it may not be suitable for all visitors. The site offers incredible photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.
2. First Landing State Park
Landmark Overview
First Landing State Park marks the location where English settlers first landed in April 1607 before heading inland to establish the Jamestown colony. Originally known as Seashore State Park, the park was renamed to honor this historical event. Today, the park covers over 2,800 acres and features a wide variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and swimming. The park’s historical significance is complemented by its natural beauty, with scenic trails winding through dunes, tidal marshes, and maritime forests. The visitor center includes exhibits on the park’s history and ecology, providing context about the area’s significance to early American colonization. The park also has designated camping areas, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Location
First Landing State Park is located at 2500 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
Ticket Price
Parking fees are $7 on weekdays and $10 on weekends. There is no additional admission fee to enter the park.
Nearby Airports
Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is located approximately 12 miles from First Landing State Park.
Highways
The park is accessible via U.S. Route 60 (Shore Drive) and Interstate 264 (I-264).
Special Attentions
The park is open year-round, but certain facilities, such as the visitor center, may have seasonal hours. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially along the beach and in the marsh areas. Visitors should also be mindful of wildlife, as the park is home to a variety of species, including snakes and shorebirds.
3. Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum
Landmark Overview
The Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum, located along the Virginia Beach boardwalk, is housed in a historic 1903 Life-Saving Station that once played a crucial role in protecting the city’s coastline. The museum preserves the history of Virginia Beach’s maritime heritage, focusing on the U.S. Life-Saving Service and its successors, the Coast Guard, and the local surfing culture. Through exhibits, photographs, and artifacts, visitors can explore the history of shipwrecks, rescues, and the people who worked to save lives along the Atlantic coast. The museum also features displays on the evolution of surfing and lifeguarding in Virginia Beach, celebrating the city’s connection to ocean sports. The building itself, with its weathered shingles and distinctive architectural style, adds to the historical charm of the experience.
Location
The Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum is located at 2401 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
Ticket Price
Admission is $5 for adults and free for children under 6.
Nearby Airports
Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is located about 17 miles from the museum.
Highways
The museum is accessible via Interstate 264 (I-264) and U.S. Route 60 (Atlantic Avenue).
Special Attentions
The museum is located along the Virginia Beach boardwalk, making it a convenient stop for beachgoers and tourists. Parking can be limited during peak tourist seasons, so visitors are encouraged to arrive early or use public transportation. The museum occasionally hosts special events and educational programs, so check the schedule in advance.
Natural Landmarks in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is not only known for its historical significance but also for its beautiful natural landscapes, which include beaches, state parks, and wildlife refuges. These natural landmarks offer visitors the chance to explore the area’s diverse ecosystems and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and water sports.
1. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Landmark Overview
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a 9,200-acre coastal sanctuary located on the southern tip of Virginia Beach, near the North Carolina border. Established in 1938, the refuge protects diverse habitats, including freshwater marshes, dunes, beach, and maritime forest. The refuge is an important resting and feeding area for migrating birds along the Atlantic Flyway, with species such as snow geese, tundra swans, and various shorebirds frequenting the area. Visitors can explore the refuge via walking trails, observation points, and boardwalks that provide access to the scenic landscapes and wildlife. Popular activities include birdwatching, photography, and kayaking, with the refuge offering guided tours and educational programs to enhance the visitor experience.
Location
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is located at 4005 Sandpiper Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23456.
Ticket Price
Admission is $5 per vehicle and $2 for pedestrians or cyclists. Federal Duck Stamp holders and those with National Parks passes may enter for free.
Nearby Airports
Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is located about 24 miles from Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
Highways
The refuge is accessible via U.S. Route 60 and Sandbridge Road.
Special Attentions
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is open year-round, but some areas may be closed seasonally to protect nesting wildlife. Visitors should bring binoculars for birdwatching and be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in the more remote areas of the refuge. Bug spray is also recommended, as mosquitoes can be prevalent in warmer months.
2. False Cape State Park
Landmark Overview
False Cape State Park is a remote and pristine natural area located between Back Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Covering over 4,000 acres, the park offers unspoiled landscapes of dunes, forests, and marshes, and provides visitors with a rugged outdoor experience. Due to its isolated location, False Cape can only be accessed by hiking, biking, or boating, making it a quiet and peaceful destination for those seeking solitude and adventure. The park’s name comes from its history as a dangerous navigation point for ships, which would often mistake it for Cape Henry, resulting in shipwrecks. Today, False Cape is a haven for wildlife, and visitors can explore its extensive trail system, camp in designated areas, and enjoy the park’s untouched beaches.
Location
False Cape State Park is located at 4001 Sandpiper Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, adjacent to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
Ticket Price
There is no admission fee to enter the park, but visitors must either hike or bike in from Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge or take a boat to reach the park. Parking fees apply at the refuge.
Nearby Airports
Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is approximately 30 miles from False Cape State Park.
Highways
The park is accessible by foot or bike through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge via Sandbridge Road.
Special Attentions
Due to its remote nature, visitors should plan carefully when visiting False Cape State Park. Be sure to bring sufficient water, food, and supplies, as there are no services within the park. Camping is allowed by reservation, but visitors should be prepared for primitive conditions. The park’s isolation provides a unique opportunity for wildlife viewing, so keep an eye out for foxes, deer, and a variety of bird species.
3. Mount Trashmore Park
Landmark Overview
Mount Trashmore Park is one of Virginia Beach’s most unique and popular recreational areas, known for its transformation from a former landfill into a beautifully landscaped park. Opened in 1974, Mount Trashmore is now a vibrant community space featuring two man-made mountains, two lakes, a skate park, playgrounds, and walking trails. The larger hill, known as Mount Trashmore, stands 60 feet high and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, making it a popular spot for picnicking, kite flying, and exercise. The park also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, attracting both locals and visitors. Mount Trashmore is a testament to environmental innovation, turning a once-polluted area into a green space that serves the community.
Location
Mount Trashmore Park is located at 310 Edwin Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23462.
Ticket Price
There is no admission fee to enter Mount Trashmore Park.
Nearby Airports
Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is located about 9 miles from Mount Trashmore Park.
Highways
The park is accessible via Interstate 264 (I-264) and Independence Boulevard.
Special Attentions
The park is open year-round, but it can get crowded during weekends and holidays. Parking is free but may be limited during large events or festivals. Visitors should be prepared for windy conditions at the top of the hill, especially during kite-flying season. The park also has a skate park and playground, making it a great destination for families.
