10 Free Things to Do in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a popular vacation destination, with miles of beaches and plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy. But if you’re looking for a budget-friendly getaway, you’ll be glad to know that there are plenty of free things to do in Virginia Beach. Here are 10 free activities for visitors to enjoy in this coastal city.

1. Visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is one of the top attractions in Virginia Beach. The aquarium is home to more than 800 species of animals, as well as interactive exhibits and educational programs. Plus, admission is free for kids under 3 and active-duty military personnel. The center also offers a variety of free activities, including touch tanks, a stingray pool and animal shows.

The center also offers free guided tours that take visitors around the aquarium, allowing them to get up close and personal with some of the animals. Plus, the center offers a variety of free events and activities throughout the year, such as beach clean-ups and lectures.

Visitors can also explore the surrounding marshlands and boardwalks, which offer a unique outdoor experience. The marsh is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, turtles and other aquatic creatures.

2. Take a Stroll Along the Boardwalk

The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a 3-mile stretch of beachfront that runs parallel to the Atlantic Ocean. The boardwalk is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, and it’s full of attractions, restaurants and shops. Plus, the area is lined with free public beach access points.

The boardwalk is also home to a variety of free attractions, such as the Neptune Statue, the King Neptune Statue, the Neptune Memorial and the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier. The pier is open to the public and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The boardwalk is also home to a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Neptune Festival, the Virginia Beach Wine & Music Festival and the Virginia Beach Craft Beer Festival. You’ll also find free live entertainment on the boardwalk during the summer months.

3. Explore the First Landing State Park

The First Landing State Park is a 2,888-acre park located at the northern end of Virginia Beach. It’s the perfect place to explore nature, with miles of trails, a variety of wildlife and a beach. Plus, admission to the park is free.

The park is home to a variety of trails, from easy nature trails to more challenging trails. Visitors can explore the park by foot, bike or kayak. The park also offers a variety of educational programs and events, such as bird watching and nature photography classes.

The park is also a great place to relax and take in the scenery. Visitors can enjoy a picnic or take a stroll on the beach. Plus, the park’s visitor center offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities.

4. Visit the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art

The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is a non-profit art museum located in the heart of Virginia Beach. The museum features a variety of exhibits, from contemporary art to photography and sculpture. Plus, admission to the museum is free.

Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, which feature works from local and international artists. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events, such as lectures, workshops and art classes. Plus, the museum hosts a variety of free events throughout the year, such as film screenings and live music.

The museum also offers a variety of interactive experiences, such as a virtual reality lab and a 3D printing lab. Visitors can explore the museum’s digital collections and take part in hands-on activities.

5. Enjoy the Beach

Virginia Beach is known for its miles of beautiful beaches, and visitors can enjoy these beaches for free. The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing and beachcombing. Plus, visitors can explore the surrounding sand dunes and marshes, which are home to a variety of wildlife.

The beaches are also home to a variety of activities, such as beach volleyball and surfing. Visitors can also take part in a variety of free beach events, such as concerts and beach movies. Plus, visitors can explore the beach’s many attractions, such as the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier and the Neptune Festival.

The beach is also a great place to take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can enjoy spectacular sunsets, as well as the stunning natural landscape.

6. Explore the Historic Cape Henry Lighthouse

The Historic Cape Henry Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States. The lighthouse was built in 1792 and is still in operation today. Visitors can explore the lighthouse and learn about its history. Admission to the lighthouse is free.

The lighthouse is also home to a variety of events and activities, such as nighttime ghost tours and lighthouse keeper programs. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area, which is home to a variety of wildlife, such as birds, turtles and deer.

The area is also home to a variety of attractions, such as the First Landing Cross and the False Cape State Park. Plus, visitors can take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from the top of the lighthouse.

7. Visit the Virginia Beach Farmers Market

The Virginia Beach Farmers Market is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. The market is open year-round and features a variety of local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, arts and crafts and more. Plus, admission to the market is free.

The market also offers a variety of entertainment, such as live music and cooking demonstrations. Plus, visitors can explore the surrounding area, which is home to a variety of restaurants and shops.

The market is also a great place to explore local culture. Visitors can meet local farmers and artisans and learn about the area’s history and culture.

8. Tour the Old Coast Guard Station

The Old Coast Guard Station is a historic building located in Virginia Beach. The building was built in 1902 and is now a museum. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits, which feature artifacts and photographs from the Coast Guard’s history. Plus, admission to the museum is free.

The museum also offers a variety of activities, such as a scavenger hunt and a self-guided tour. Plus, the museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as lectures and seminars. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area, which is home to a variety of historic buildings.

The museum also offers a variety of interactive experiences, such as a virtual reality simulator and a 3D printing lab. Visitors can explore the museum’s digital collections and take part in hands-on activities.

9. Explore Mount Trashmore Park

Mount Trashmore Park is one of the most popular parks in Virginia Beach. The park is home to a variety of attractions, including a lake, playgrounds, a skate park and a nature center. Plus, admission to the park is free.

The park is also home to a variety of trails, from easy nature trails to more challenging trails. Visitors can explore the park by foot, bike or kayak. The park also offers a variety of educational programs and events, such as bird watching and nature photography classes.

The park is also home to a variety of unique attractions, such as the Kid’s Cove, a playground designed for children, and the Adventure Park, which features a variety of outdoor activities, such as zip lining and rock climbing.

10. Visit the Virginia Beach Town Center

The Virginia Beach Town Center is a vibrant shopping and dining district located in the heart of the city. The area is home to a variety of restaurants, shops and attractions. Plus, admission to the town center is free.

The town center is also home to a variety of events, such as live music and outdoor movies. Plus, there are a variety of free activities to enjoy, such as the Town Center Pavilion, which features a variety of free concerts and performances.

Visitors can also explore the surrounding area, which is home to a variety of attractions, such as the Virginia Beach Convention Center and the Military Aviation Museum. Plus, the town center is home to a variety of unique shops and restaurants.

Summary

Virginia Beach is a great destination for a budget-friendly getaway. There are plenty of free things to do in the area, from visiting the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center to exploring Mount Trashmore Park. Plus, visitors can explore a variety of attractions, such as the Historic Cape Henry Lighthouse and the Virginia Beach Town Center. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an exciting day of exploring, Virginia Beach is the perfect place to visit.