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The Top Attractions in Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach has a varied past when it comes to its roots, so it is no wonder there are all sorts of activities for a visitor to enjoy. From the beaches to the museums to the cultural activities, one can learn a lot about the history of Virginia Beach and its beginnings from a look around the city. Virginia Beach has a temperate climate, making it a vacation destination year round for people in the region or across the country.

The Cape Henry Lighthouses were a big deal for a lot of years. Government officials couldn't decide on where to place one and then when they did and started construction of it, pirates figured out there temporary solution to guiding boats in. The structure at the entryway to the Chesapeake Bay was finally finished in 1792 and octagon shaped. It lasted for close to 100 years before a new taller structure was built nearby in 1881. The new structure is built out of cast iron and is available for visitors today.

The Old Coast Guard Station is a museum that chronicles the early days of the water rescuers in Virginia Beach. There are displays of old ships and rescuing supplies, pictures of the first rescuers and details on what the protocol was for rowing out to old ships. Lots of history to see and enjoy if you are a fan of maritime activities.

For a peek in to history on land, the Francis Land House offers a view that is 200 years old. The plantation is full of antiques and replicas of the era. The Adam Thoroughgood house is also a great look at the past. The house was built from bricks by the first settler to Virginia Beach. The house has been restored and is still standing today. The house is full of artifacts from the era. A garden out back allows visitors to stroll the grounds and appreciate the beauty of the early house and its surroundings.

When you seek to study something more modern, the Contemporary Art Center is a great location to stop. There are permanent and traveling displays which feature both world renowned artists and local artists. Oil paintings, water colors and sculptures and statues are housed in the large facility which has thousands of visitors annually. The center also acts as a staging ground for musical and theater performances.

The Naval Aviation Monument is a statue representing three eras in aviation. The statue resides in the middle of town and displays the importance of the Navy and the military in the area. The presence of the military is seen with ships entering and exiting the harbor, however many are not for tours and are still operational.

When you want to get outside and do something physical, Virginia Beach has much to offer. There is parasailing from the shore, there is canoeing, kayaking, water skiing, snorkeling and even fishing from the docks and the waters of Cape Henry. There are dinner cruises, sunset boat tours and old paddleboats for

To stay on land, you can enjoy miles of trails within the city parks. And since Virginia Beach is famous for being a resort town, there are miles of sandy beaches along the coast to enjoy the sun and get a tan. Restaurants, food vendors and stores lines the beaches for tourists to buy local trinkets or to get some ice cream on a hot day. Virginia Beach is popular with college aged kids as a spring break getaway because it remains an affordable place to find lodging and is accessible by driving and flying.

 

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