Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Virginia Beach

"First Landing State Park is a 2,888-acre park that fronts the Chesapeake Bay and features 1.25 miles of beach and more than 19 miles of interpretive hiking trails through protected salt marsh habitat, freshwater ponds, beach, dunes, forest, tidal marsh and cypress swamp. A registered Natural Landmark, First Landing is the most visited state park in Virginia and contains one of the most endangered habitat types in the world, the maritime forest community. Campers can find refuge within the park, as well."

"First Landing State Park is brimming with exciting and relaxing activities for the whole family. The nearly 3,000-acre park boasts 20 miles of trails to explore on foot. While traversing First Landing’s trails, you’ll come across cypress swamps, maritime forests, freshwater wetlands, dunes, shoreline on the bay and salt marshes."

"First Landing State Park was the first planned state park in Virginia and is listed as a Seashore State Park Historic District."

"Activity Type:Amusements and Amusement Parks, Outdoor and Adventure Tours. Once a landfill, over 60 feet high, 800 feet long and 165 acres. Home to Kids Cove playground, skate ramps, and many special events."

"World-renowned Mount Trashmore Park encompasses 165 acres and is comprised of two man-made mountains, two lakes, two playgrounds, a skate park, vert ramp and multi-use paths."

"Distance/Time: The massive, 9,200-acre Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge closes its longer East and West Dike Trails for wildlife protection from November through March, but the shorter Kuralt, Bay, Seaside, and Dune trails remain open in winter for half-mile to one-mile round-trip hikes from the parking area. If you don’t mind getting a little sandy, there’s also access to 3 miles of beachfront hiking down to the neighboring False Cape State Park.Admission: Free, November-MarchWhat to expect: Established by the US Fish and Wildlife Service as a protective habitat in 1938, Back Bay is a secluded destination for encountering nature, away from distractions of modern technology. (Well, besides maybe your phone -- you’re gonna want a way to capture all the interesting animals you’ll spot.) Its oceanfront beaches, woodland forests, and fertile marshes serve as a migratory location for thousands of varieties of Atlantic waterfowl during the winter, and beached seals have also been known to make appearances."

"In Virginia Beach, you’ll also find Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park. Both have miles of pristine beaches, barrier islands, dunes, freshwater marshes, maritime forests, and ponds. On False Cape, hop on a bike tour with Surf & Adventure Co. — there’s no better way to get acquainted with the more remote areas of these sands."

"Nature & Wildlife Areas4005 Sandpiper Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456MoreLess Info. The completely natural environment at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers many outdoor activities along Virginia Beach. Visitors are able to fish, bike, and hike within designated segments of the area."

"Distance/Time: During the colder months, False Cape State Park can only be accessed by hiking, biking, or taking small boats along 3.5 miles of beach from the Back Bay Visitor’s Center. (That or hopping aboard the park’s Terra-Gator beach transporter, a massive rover that looks like it could navigate the surface of the moon. Operated on weekends only in the off-season, rides are $8 per person and require reservations and a minimum of 10 passengers.) While its interior trails close for winter, there are nearly 6 miles of hikeable beachfront within the park’s 4,321 acres. Make sure to give yourself at least a few hours due to the remote location and intermediate-level, sandy trails.Admission: Free, November-March (enter through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge)What to expect: There is a certain charm to the lore surrounding False Cape."

"In Virginia Beach, you’ll also find Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park. Both have miles of pristine beaches, barrier islands, dunes, freshwater marshes, maritime forests, and ponds. On False Cape, hop on a bike tour with Surf & Adventure Co. — there’s no better way to get acquainted with the more remote areas of these sands."

"Tucked between the Atlantic Ocean near Sandbridge Beach and the Back Bay, False Cape State Park is one of the few remaining undeveloped areas on the Atlantic Coast. False Cape State Park has a total of 15.3 miles of trails for hiking. Each trail varies in length and difficulty."

"The Hermitage Museum and Gardens is another famous art museum in Norfolk, Virginia featuring pieces of art that date back 5,000 years. Visitors will also be able to check out indoor and outdoor exhibitions that change regularly, as well as the Visual Arts Studio and the 12 acres of land outside where it is possible to view art and culture. Check out the website frequently to see the different events that are hosted by the museum, many of which are child-friendly."

"Join the Hermitage in celebrating summer with their Sunsets on the River events, every other Thursday from June 7 to August 19. Relax on the shoreline and listen to live music by the region’s hottest bands. Enjoy drinks from a cash bar featuring craft beer and wine and grab some grub from a variety of food vendors that will be on location."

"Set on the Oceanfront, the Naval Aviation Monument is dedicated to the aviation of the Navy, the Marine Corps and the Coast Guard. The monument is made up of several beautiful bronze statues created by master sculptor Mike Maiden. There are also a number of other historical monuments here, including a statue of World War II pilot Eugene Ely, who was the first to land successfully on a shipboard."

"Stop by the Naval Aviation Monument along the boardwalk to learn about the heritage of naval aviation honoring our proud aviators, the Navy, Marine Corps, and the Coast Guard who defend our country. Stroll along the beach and boardwalk for the afternoon and evening."

"With 100-acres of lush greenery, at the south end of the Pungo Agricultural District, Munden Point Park is not your typical city park. Located on the North Landing River and far removed from the excitement of the Oceanfront and Inland areas of Virginia Beach, this park offers a unique coastal escape, complete with boat ramps and kayak launches, five large picnic shelters, fishing areas, playgrounds, various sports courts and fields, and an 18-hole disc golf course. Perfect for large family gatherings, or just a chance to get away from it all, Munden Point is one of our favorite hidden gems in Va Beach."

"Naval Station Norfolk is known as the largest station in the world, which is definitely something of a claim to fame. The base spreads for over six kilometers over the waterfront of Norfolk and 134 aircraft are housed here as well as an impressive 75 naval vessels. This is very much a working naval base and is actually home to the largest number of navy personnel in the United States, but despite this visitors can still tour the base with a member of naval staff who will explain the history and work of the navy, as well as offering a tour of some of the ships and aircraft carriers that are kept here."

"Naval Station Norfolk is the biggest Naval base in the world. Truly a sight to behold, this is one of the best things to do in Norfolk to get a great idea of our military history. Naval Station Norfolk supports the operational readiness and preparedness of the US Atlantic Fleet of ships."

"The largest naval station on earth occupies 11 miles of wharf and pier space as well as 4 miles of seaside space."

"The beautiful Norfolk Botanical Garden has over 60 themed gardens on the property and there is always something to explore. Most blooms can be spotted during the spring and summer months, but make sure to check out their year-round gardens too. The Sensory Garden is year-round and filled with plants that will please all of your senses."

"The Norfolk Botanical Garden, which is Virginia’s largest botanical garden, is a must-see when traveling to Norfolk. It is open every day from 9 AM-7 PM and a great place for both tours and as an event venue. The gardens feature 175 acres, 7 miles of paved paths, and 7 miles of unpathed paths that visitors can explore."

"The King Neptune Statue is situated at the entrance area of the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and is something that is worth the title of one of the city’s tourist attractions in its own right. Standing at 34 feet in height and fashioned from aesthetically pleasing bronze, it rises out of the Atlantic and stares down over Neptune Park. The money used to construct the King Neptune Statue was raised at the Neptune Festival, an annual event that has been held since 1973 as one of America’s greatest festivals."

"You don't need a lot of time to check out the King Neptune Statue along the boardwalk, but it is still worth adding to your checklist. This bronze statue is 34 feet high and seems to rise right out of the Atlantic Ocean from the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and 31st Street, where it overlooks Neptune Park. This statue honors the Neptune Festival held in September and volunteers from this festival raised the money to hire Paul DiPasquale to design and create this famous statue."

"I've been to this resturant more than once, however I don't think I'm going back anymore. I like the game room and the food is wonderful but the…"

"I have been going here for years and I have never been disappointed. The ladies on the bar side are always great and pizza..."

"Over a decade ago, we were inspired to create a restaurant that welcomes, entertains and nourishes our customers the Italian way … like family. Known to locals as Zia’s, this quaint neighborhood restaurant is located just blocks from Chesapeake Bay, nestled in the heart of Chic’s Beach."

"Discover a quiet, family friendly beach with soft sands and beautiful views, Croatan Beach, has all this and more for visitors. The site features a large, clean beach house, free parking before 10am and fun surf for swimmers."

"Croatan Beach looks towards the Atlantic Ocean and is near Rudee Inlet and Camp Pendleton. It is mostly found in a residential area."

"Ocean View and East Beach are stunning beaches located in Norfolk, Virginia and both beaches are filled with plenty of exciting activities for people of all ages to do. Some of the popular activities that people participate in at the beach include kayaking, sailing, fishing, crabbing, swimming, and relaxing. You can also check out the beach parks for live music performances and festivals."