Must See Sights and Landmarks in Chesapeake Area

"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 a beautiful combination of nature and history. It is named as such because it is here that colonists from England first arrived on American shores centuries ago in 1607, making it one of the top Virginia Beach attractions for its contextual importance and natural serenity alike. First Landing State Park was built in the 1930s and is situated in Virginia Beach’s heart, where it has become the wider state’s most-visited park."

"National & State Parks2500 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23451MoreLess Info. The site of the First Landing State Park is considered to be the location where the Jamestown colonists first arrived. The park itself offers several trails, picnic areas, and the potential for a wide range of birdwatching."

"It opens up a great discussion about our responsibilities to be great stewards of this earth. You see, Mount Trashmore was created by compacting layers of solid waste and clean soil. Mount Trashmore Park is a whopping 165 acres and is comprised of two man-made mountains, two lakes, two playgrounds, a skate park, paths, and so much more."

"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."

"Perfect for family activities in Virginia Beach, the Mount Trashmore Park is a great bonding experience for the whole tribe."

"Activity Type:Historical Sites, Museums, Sightseeing & Tours. The Cape Henry Lighthouse stands near the "First Landing" site of the Jamestown settlers, and was authorized by George Washington and overseen by Alexander Hamilton. Completed in 1792, the construction of the Cape Henry Lighthouse was one of the first acts of the newly formed Federal government."

"The Cape Henry Lighthouse is a long standing landmark on Chesapeake Bay. Built in 1792, it was the first US-government-funded lighthouse, and it was authorized by George Washington. You can climb the stairs to the top of this National Historic Landmark for beautiful views out over the coast."

"Hunt Club Farm, about 35 acres in size, features a petting zoo, an aviary, tour packages, and seasonal farm festivals."

"The Naval Aviation Monument pays tribute to Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard aviation from the early 1900s through the present and acknowledges the connected and vital role of the Virginia Beach and greater Hampton Roads area. Next to the Norwegian Lady monument, the Naval Aviation Monument features bronze sculptures by renowned artist Mike Maiden and laser-etched granite storyboards of historic aviation events."

"As a homeschooling, roadschooling, education fanatic, I try to incorporate as many educational activities as possible into every trip we take. I usually do this on the downlow, meaning I research interesting, remarkable and mostly free things for us to visit. The Naval Aviation Monument is one of those free things to do in Virginia Beach I could not pass up."

"A compelling memorial to recognize and honor the rich naval aviation heritage that is an integral part of the city’s history and culture. 25th Street and oceanfront on the boardwalk"

"The Ferry Plantation House is an old brick house that sits on Old Donation Farm and it’s a must-see in Virginia Beach. It is a brick house that dates back to 1642, named after the Hampton Roads’ second ferry service, which brought passengers to a county courthouse down to Lynnhaven River – or simply to visit other plantations on the water. There are a total of 11 stops along the way, and a cannon was used as a signal for the ferry."

"The Ferry House carries the history of the Lynnhaven area in Virginia Beach. The current building that stands today was built in 1830 after the previous one burned down. By the time that one had burned down, the site had seen three courthouses overlooking the ferry service that made use of the nearby waterway."

"Sandbridge Little Island Park, located at 3820 Sandpiper Road, is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the park and beach 4.5 stars out of 30 reviews."

"Located in the Southern end of Sunny Sandbridge, Little Island Park is a great family destination. Here are just a few of..."

"To start off, the Thoroughgood House was once the home of an indentured servant who became a prominent member of the community and the House of Burgesses. This place’ll give you a pretty good idea of what life was like in Virginia Beach in the early days. Other historic homes in Virginia Beach open to the public include the Lynnhaven House, the Ferry Plantation House, and the Frances Land House. One of them is bound to be haunted, speaking of which…"

"Although the building is named Adam Thoroughgood House, historians think that the man it was named for might not have ever lived in the building. Instead, they think that a grandson of his built the home during the late 1600s or early 1700s. No matter its origin, this historic building is among the oldest houses within Virginia and is a cozy brick building with a high-pitched roof and white-washed walls."

"This circa 1719 National Historic Landmark is one of the earliest examples of permanent Virginia architecture and features a collection of period English antique furniture and a colonial revival garden designed by Alden Hopkins. 1636 Parrish Rd., (757) 460-7588 or www.museusmsvb.org"

"A casual restaurant perfect for a midday meal, No Forks CheeseSteaks & More is a unique sandwich shop that specializes in ‘cheesesteaks with a twist.’ Don’t miss the signature JoJo – featuring ribeye steak and melted provolone on a toasted roll topped with Cajun seasoned fries and warm Cheez Whiz!"

"Little Dog Diner, a diner and breakfast and brunch and traditional American spot, is another go-to, with four stars out of 169 Yelp reviews. Head over to 1917 Colley Ave. to see for yourself."

"As you can see I had already started before thinking to take a picture. It's diner fare, done right. Fast service, companionable servers, happy talkative..."

"Good things are in store at this small brewery in the Hilltop area of Virginia Beach. Featuring German-style beer ( thumbs up for their Citrus Wheat and Dunkel) as well house-made artisan pizza and beer sausages, Wasserhund offers a taste of Duetschland with a beachy twist. Wasserhund Brewing Company is located at 1805 Laskin Road Suite 102 Virginia Beach, VA 23454"

"If you want to enjoy German Beer culture at Virginia Beach, Wasserhund is where you can do just that. Wasserhund means “water dog” in German. This place was inspired by the love for beaches, dogs and of course, German beer!"

"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."

"As the newest addition to the Virginia Beach craft beer scene Vibrant Shore Brewing Company brings a passion for good beer to the VIBE Creative Arts District. Grab a pint of the Future (a juicy IPA) or the Spectral Signature Milk Stout and enjoy the view from Vibrant Shore’s rooftop beer garden. Vibrant Shore Brewing Company is located at 505 18th St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451"

"Great Thai Food on the beach offering casual dine in or take out with local delivery service on the ground floor of the Country Inn and Suites on the oceanfront at 18th Street."