Zip Code Map Virginia Beach
Introduction
Virginia Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the East Coast, and for good reason. With its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful coastal city. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, or cultural immersion, you’ll find it all in Virginia Beach. In this travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more.
Top Attractions
If you’re visiting Virginia Beach, there are a few must-see attractions that you won’t want to miss. One of the most iconic is the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, which stretches for three miles along the oceanfront. Here, you’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum.
Another popular attraction is the First Landing State Park, which is located on the Chesapeake Bay and offers miles of hiking trails, swimming areas, and picnic spots. For a more historical experience, check out the Military Aviation Museum or the Old Coast Guard Station Museum.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are certainly worth visiting, there are also plenty of hidden gems in Virginia Beach that are off the beaten path. One of these is the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, which spans 17.6 miles and offers stunning views of the bay. Another hidden gem is the False Cape State Park, which is only accessible by foot, bike, or boat and offers pristine beaches and untouched wilderness.
Food Scene
Virginia Beach is home to a thriving food scene, with a variety of restaurants that cater to every taste and budget. For seafood lovers, there’s no better place than Waterman’s Surfside Grille, which offers fresh seafood and ocean views. If you’re looking for something more upscale, check out Terrapin Restaurant or Catch 31 Fishhouse & Bar.
For a more casual dining experience, head to the ViBe Creative District, where you’ll find a variety of food trucks and street vendors serving up everything from tacos to Thai food. And don’t forget to try some of the local specialties, like Chesapeake Bay crab cakes and Virginia ham.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Virginia Beach without breaking the bank. One of the best ways is to visit during the off-season, when hotel rates and airfare are typically lower. You can also save money by eating at local markets and food trucks instead of restaurants, and by taking advantage of free attractions like the beach and the boardwalk.
Outdoor Adventures
With its beautiful coastline and natural parks, Virginia Beach is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the best ways to explore the city is by bike, and there are plenty of scenic routes to choose from, including the Cape Henry Trail and the Virginia Beach Trail.
If you’re looking for water activities, head to the Chesapeake Bay or the Atlantic Ocean for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. And for a unique experience, try horseback riding on the beach with Virginia Beach Horseback.
Historical Landmarks
Virginia Beach is rich in history, with several landmarks that date back to the colonial era. One of the most notable is the Cape Henry Lighthouse, which was built in 1792 and is the oldest surviving lighthouse in the country. Another historical site is the Adam Thoroughgood House, which was built in 1680 and is one of the oldest surviving homes in Virginia.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, Virginia Beach has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. One of the most popular is the Virginia Beach Aquarium & Marine Science Center, which features over 800,000 gallons of exhibits and interactive displays. Another family-friendly attraction is the Ocean Breeze Waterpark, which has over 30 rides and attractions.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, Virginia Beach has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to discover. One of these is the Military Aviation Museum, which features a collection of rare and restored military aircraft. Another is the Beach Eco Tours, which offers guided tours of the local waterways and wildlife.
Natural Wonders
Virginia Beach is home to several natural wonders that are worth exploring. One of these is the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which covers over 9,000 acres of marshes, beaches, and woodlands. Another natural wonder is the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, which covers over 112,000 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears and bald eagles.
Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Virginia Beach comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. One of the most popular spots is the Oceanfront District, where you’ll find a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Another option is the ViBe Creative District, which has a more laid-back vibe and features art galleries, craft breweries, and wine bars.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for a taste of local culture, be sure to visit some of the local markets in Virginia Beach. One of the most popular is the Virginia Beach Farmers Market, which is open year-round and features local produce, crafts, and baked goods. Another market worth checking out is the Old Beach Farmers Market, which is open on Saturdays from May to October and features over 40 vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to handmade jewelry.
Beaches and Mountains
One of the best things about Virginia Beach is its proximity to both the beach and the mountains. If you’re looking for a beach getaway, head to Sandbridge Beach, which is located south of the main tourist area and offers a more secluded and peaceful experience. And if you’re in the mood for some mountain adventures, head to the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains for hiking, skiing, and scenic drives.
Cultural Immersion
Virginia Beach has a rich cultural scene, with a variety of museums, galleries, and cultural events throughout the year. One of the most notable is the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, which features a collection of contemporary art and hosts several exhibitions and events throughout the year. Another cultural attraction is the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and dance performances.
Art and Music Scene
Virginia Beach has a thriving art and music scene, with several galleries, studios, and live music venues throughout the city. One of the best places to experience the local art scene is the ViBe Creative District, which features several art galleries, murals, and public art installations. For live music, check out the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater or the NorVa, both of which feature a variety of national and local acts.
Walking Tours
If you’re looking to explore Virginia Beach on foot, there are several walking tours available that will take you through the city’s history and culture. One of the most popular is the Tasting Trolley Tour, which takes you through the ViBe Creative District and includes tastings at several local breweries and distilleries. Another option is the Virginia Beach Ghost Walk, which takes you through the city’s haunted history and legends.
Architectural Marvels
Virginia Beach is home to several architectural marvels that are worth seeing. One of the most notable is the Cavalier Hotel, which was built in 1927 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Another architectural gem is the Chrysler Museum of Art, which features a collection of over 30,000 works of art and includes a variety of architectural styles.
Historical Sites
Virginia Beach has a rich history, with several sites that date back to the colonial era. One of the most notable is the Jamestown Settlement, which is located just outside of Virginia Beach and offers a glimpse into the life of the early settlers. Another historical site is the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum, which features exhibits and artifacts related to the city’s maritime history.
Biking Routes
If you’re a biking enthusiast, Virginia Beach has several scenic routes to explore. One of the most popular is the Virginia Capital Trail, which stretches for 52 miles from Richmond to Williamsburg. Another option is the Cape Henry Trail, which takes you through First Landing State Park and offers stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, Virginia Beach has plenty of options to choose from. One of the most popular is the Edgar Cayce’s Association for Research and Enlightenment (ARE), which offers holistic workshops, conferences, and retreats. Another wellness destination is the Founders Inn and Spa, which features a variety of spa treatments, yoga classes, and wellness programs.
Adventure Sports
For adrenaline junkies, Virginia Beach is the perfect destination for adventure sports. One of the most popular is parasailing, which takes you high above the ocean for a bird’s-eye view of the coastline. Another option is jet skiing