Virginia Beach is a coastal playground brimming with ancient history and exciting attractions, including the iconic Boardwalk and Oceanfront
Students can learn about everything from maritime history and diverse aquatic life to the vibrant artistic expression painted on facades throughout town. Miles of pristine coastline and hiking trails, along with exciting boat tours, provide outdoor experiences for every age and interest.
1.) Visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and Adventure Park
Embark on an aquatic adventure at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and Adventure Park. From engaging educational programs that bring students face-to-face with underwater creatures, to the thrill of the Adventure Park’s outdoor activities, there’s something to pique every student’s interest. The Aquarium’s Adventure Park is a thrilling outdoor experience that challenges students’ agility and fosters team-building and leadership skills in a fun environment.
2.) Tour the ViBe Creative District (art mural tours)
Discover impressive art murals on a group tour of the ViBe Creative District, located near the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. ViBe is a place where creativity and artistic expression come together in brilliant works of art adorning all sorts of surfaces. From window murals, painted parking lots and utility boxes to vibrant displays on business and storefronts, Virginia Beach is one of the most colorful and artistic places in the area.
3.) Visit the Military Aviation Museum
Immerse yourself in the world of aviation at the Military Aviation Museum. With over 70 planes from the first 50 years of aviation history, authentic artifacts, and planes from WWI and WWII, the museum offers a unique learning experience. Tailored educational programs for students, including STEM Exploration Tours, Hangar Tours, and Specialty Tours, provide hands-on learning opportunities that bring aviation history, aerodynamics, and cryptology to life.
4.) Explore Cape Henry Lighthouse
Cape Henry Lighthouse, located on the active Fort Story Military Base, is the first lighthouse authorized by the newly founded US government and has been standing since 1792. Groups can climb its 191 steps to the top for a stunning 360-degree view of Virginia Beach and the Chesapeake Bay. Learn the lighthouse’s history, situated near the “First Landing” site, which was the first settlement formed in 1607.
5.) Visit a U-Pick Farm
Experience the joy of picking your own fresh produce at Virginia’s U-Pick Farms. From strawberries and blueberries to peaches, apples, grapes, and pumpkins, these farms offer a fun and educational experience for students. Some working farms provide additional educational aspects, special events and fun activities for kids, making the visit both enjoyable and enriching.
6.) Visit the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum
Boasting a prominent spot on the Boardwalk, the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum is a cherished keeper of coastal Virginia history. Built in 1903 (originally the Seatack Life-Saving Station), students will learn about the VB community and water-related heritage, hear firsthand stories about Coast Guard heroes, discover surf culture, and participate in fun scavenger hunts. Groups will also learn about the Dictatorship wreck and understand how beach patrols operate under extreme weather conditions.
7.) Explore First Landing State Park
In 1607, three small ships brought the first English settlers to America, deboarding at what is now historic First Landing State Park. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places and considered a National Natural Landmark, the park encompasses 2,888 acres of salt marsh habitats, freshwater ponds, dunes, a cypress swamp, and 19miles of hiking trails. The on-site Chesapeake Bay Center provides educational exhibits, an outdoor courtyard, a pavilion, and an amphitheater where student groups can gather and learn about why the maritime forest is one of the most endangered habitats in the world, along with First Landing history and more.
8.) Take a Boat Tour (dolphin-and whale-watching; fishing; sightseeing)
Virginia Beach is positioned geographically near the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay, providing a wide range of water recreation, dynamic local wildlife and stunning scenery. Virginia Beach boat tours allow groups to immerse themselves in maritime culture and explore the sparkling waters and shorelines with epic views. Groups can enjoy dolphin-and whale-watching tours, fishing charters, thrilling speedboat voyages, and spins around Cape Henry Lighthouse. Watch out for local wildlife, including wake-surfing bottlenose dolphins.
9.) Tour Historic Homes & Museums of Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach’s historic homes and museum tours offer a glimpse into the past and what the first settlers accomplished after landing here. Students can learn about the rich heritage of the region and colonial life at places like the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum, the Thoroughgood House (1719), the Lynnhaven House (1725), the Francis Land House (1805), and the Ferry Plantation House (1642).
10.) Enjoy a Show at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts
From magic shows and Master Chef live entertainment to Motown and Jazz musical performances, the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts is Virginia Beach’s world-class performance space, perfect for students. Groups of 10 or more can receive discounts on select shows that add fun to field trips. Explore the Sandler Center Gallery, boasting local and emerging artists through paintings, drawings, photography, collages, and printmaking masterpieces. Virginia is for lovers, but Virginia Beach is for student groups! Start planning your next field trip to a coastal classroom brimming with educational and fun opportunities for any grade level.
Contact
Jim Coggin
757-385-6642
jcoggin@VisitVirginiaBeach.com
