Best History Museum in Portsmouth

"Virginia Beach’s coastal and maritime heritage is honored by this museum just off the Boardwalk. It’s the type of attraction where if you’re strolling down the boardwalk and want to get out of the elements, there’s a neat spot to pop into. Another bonus is that it can be explored virtually, so you can fit it in from home or the hotel."

"1 pm – Learn about the coastal history of Virginia Beach at Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum, located next to Comfort Suites Beachfront on the Boardwalk (on the right on photo below). They also have great family programs including yoga, ghost walk, and more."

"The Military Aviation Museum is what it says on the tin – a cool and interesting museum dedicated to aircraft used in and by military organizations across the world. It’s one of the great things to do in VA Beach this weekend, boasting about 60 different aircraft, most of them flightworthy, from World War 1 and World War 2. Interestingly, the Military Aviation Museum doesn’t aim only to display the aircraft that it finds, but also to restore them so that they can fly again, whether for airshows or to bring guests on a ride on some of them!"

"For a taste of how Norfolk would have looked in the days of old check out the Hermitage Museum and Gardens, now a home and art museum. The Sloane House here stands on the banks of the scenic Lafayette River and dates from the beginning of the 20th century. The house has over 40,000 period objects on show and the gardens here spread for 12 acres that include lush forests as well as wetlands."

"Situated on North Shore Road, this historic home showcases opulent art pieces that date back more than 4,000 years ago."

"In 1961 General MacArthur executed a deed of gift in which he gave the City of Norfolk all his trophies, medals, prizes, decorations, uniforms, flags, swords, battle souvenirs, personal papers, documents, records and other personal memorabilia. The city restored the historic 1850 city hall to house this collection. The Jean MacArthur Research Center, an administration, archives, and education building serves as the repository for the MacArthur collection."

"Gain information on the museum and research center dedicated to preserving and presenting the story of the life of General of the Army Douglas MacArthur."

"Step into the Lynnhaven House for a firsthand glimpse of what life was like almost 300 years ago. The house was owned and occupied by a plantation owner and his family in 1725. Learn all about American homelife of the early 1700s, including family members and several enslaved people."

"Built in 1725, this home is one of the best preserved 18th century buildings in the United States. 4409 Wishart Rd., (757) 460-7109 (recording)  or www.museusmsvb.org"

"The Norfolk Police Department, established in 1797, is one of the oldest in the United States. The Norfolk Police Museum, established in 1919, is the oldest museum in Norfolk, and it serves to document and preserve the history of NPD and those who have served the department. Please call 757-441-1526 after 10am to see if the facility is open."

"The two museums, Fire-Rescue Museum and the Police Museum, are located at 401 E Freemason St. in the old Freemason Reception Center."

"The Virginia Air and Space Center traces the history of flight and space exploration. The nine-story, futuristic, $30 million center…"

"Pouring out of the ViBe Creative District, our newest brewery stays true to the artisan spirit of their neighbors by blending the fine art of brewing with locally-sourced ingredients and sustainable, nature-friendly brewing operations. The artistic vibes carry through to the taproom, which doubles as a venue for art events and exhibitions and a stage for local musicians to showcase their talent. Vibrant Shore features a consistently rotating menu of unique microbrews, including seasonal specials and a variety of flagship staples, to ensure that every trip through their doors is as unique as the last."

"Monday: CLOSED Tuesday – Wednesday: 4 PM – 10 PM Thursday – 4 PM – 10 PM Friday: 1 PM – 10 PM Saturday: 1 PM – 10 PM Sunday: 1 PM – 10 PM"

"Take your friends and your appetite and head for Gordon Biersch Brewing Company, located in the Virginia Beach Town Center. In this casual setting you’ll find beers that are brewed using the highest quality malt and hops straight from Germany. And to accompany your brews, dine on a full menu that’s a delicious mix of American with an Asian influence."

"At Virginia Beach’s Town Center, Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant is serving up delicious food from their kitchen and German-style draughts from the taps. While the restaurant has many locations, all beers are brewed in-house, creating signature sips for Virginia Beach."

"Customers love the apple fritters and doughnuts at Naa’s Bakery, an old-style, family-run establishment that also offers cakes, pies and cookies. Custom-made cakes are also available to order. I have fallen into HEAVEN🤪"

"This little bakery is the best every fresh homemade pastries friendly people and super great prices I love this place want great sweets go here…"

"Got a box of glazed ...mmmmm...they were thick and delicious .....would definitely recommend. Especially because they are a local business"

"Locally-owned Crazy Good Donuts and Ice Cream is a must-visit for any donut lover. Although donuts are traditionally considered morning fare, this shop is dishing out these sweet eats from dusk until dawn. For an insanely good nighttime treat, try a strawberry cheesecake donut sundae, complete with whipped cream and a cherry."