VIRGINIA BEACH
WELCOME TO VIRGINIA BEACH
Spend time in a classic resort town on the Chesapeake Bay
The town of Virginia Beach is located precisely where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic. This resort destination has one of the oldest boardwalks in the country, dating back to the late 19th Century, and many developers built early Grand Hotels in America along the beachfront. Due to the invention of the railway, Virginia Beach remained pertinent to travel and pleasure during The Victorian Age and beyond. Vacationers from the north headed to the beach for the mild climate, ocean access, early boardwalk, and the hotels and motels still occupying miles of coastline. Virginia Beach is the most populous city in the state and is known for its countless beachfront resorts, panoramic views, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Today, Virginia Beach is the most well-developed resort region in the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC Metro Area. Informally, this metropolitan area is referred to as Hampton Roads and includes both waterfront properties and the most extensive naval base in the world. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk has many beachfront hotels, but residents also preserved historic properties in the red brick Colonial style, lighthouses, and rescue stations that date back to this early part of American history in the Tidewater district. The vernacular style of homes in Virginia Beach often features or harkens back to this Tidewater architectural style. The Tidewater style included large porches and many places for occupants to revel in the fresh breezes from the ocean. Modern residents can appreciate the historical influence of Colonial-revival homes, enjoy life in oceanside condominiums, or find completely new construction.
WHAT TO LOVE
1. A gentle climate with warm winters
2 .Eight public golf courses and green spaces
3. Nature preserves that offer hiking, camping, and trails
4. 300-foot beach and oldest boardwalk
LOCAL LIFESTYLE
Many locals spend their leisure time outdoors fishing, golfing, cycling, kayaking, and enjoying nature preservations, beaches, and parks. Given the resort status of Virginia Beach, there are plenty of waterparks, restaurants with fine-dining selections, and new shopping developments.
DINING, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SHOPPING
The Town Center of Virginia Beach is a new mall and commercial district downtown that spans 17 city blocks. In the Town Center mall, locals will find designer brands, locally-owned boutiques, and deluxe shopping prospects. The Terrapin Restaurant is one of the most well-regarded restaurants in the area and offers heated outdoor seating. Other local favorites are Smokey Bones Virginia Beach for barbecue and smokehouse dishes. Many resorts like the Hilton have seating open to the public, and Catch 31 House & Bar is an excellent choice for seafood with indoor and outdoor seating. North Beach Bar & Grill has a famous deck and a fabulous drink and dinner menu. The Virginia Beach Farmers Market is a fresh-air market with leafy produce, meat, jams, and jellies. The Virginia Beach Farmers Market is one of the rare ones that are open all year, and anyone can appreciate the locally produced goods.
THINGS TO DO
Virginia Beach is one of the few places in America where fishing fans can enjoy brackish, freshwater, and saltwater spots. There are many activities outside that involve watersports, waterparks, or exploring the wetlands to fish, cycle, or camp. Down by the historic Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum, local kids can take up surfing with classes run by former surfing professionals and attend surf camp at places like VB Surf Sessions, Seth Broudy School of Surf, and many more. For those interested in the area's maritime history, the Military Aviation Museum contains one of the largest World War 1 and World War 2 aircraft collections. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center tells the history of Virginia marine life and offers visitors an IMAX theater, exhibitions, and a newfound appreciation for the ocean's creatures.