A- Overview:
Located on the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay, Virginia Beach borders North Carolina and ranks as the largest city in Virginia.
This major East Coast resort city welcomes college students and other travelers with a scenic boardwalk bustling with ice-cream shops, fast-food outlets, nightclubs, and places to rent water-sports equipment. There are excellent beaches north of town and thousands of hotel and motel rooms to suit every budget.
Visit the landing site where the first colonists touched shore, enjoy an IMAX theatre presentation, explore a nature trail and hundreds of interactive exhibits at the Virginia Marine Science Museum, and experience various marine habitats. In winter, the museum organizes trips to see the humpback whales that congregate off the coast.
Nearby, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and First Landing State Park are excellent places to ride bicycles, observe the migrating waterfowl, and explore coastal dunes.
On April 26th 1607 Admiral Christopher Newport set a landing party ashore at the present site of Virginia Beach. Fearing the area was too susceptible to attack from the native people and the Spanish, Admiral Newport chose a small island on the James River (Jamestown) on which to establish the first permanent English Colony in the new world. Fourteen years later, some of the colonists returned to the original landing site and settled in the area that is now Virginia Beach.
Abundant fishing and fertile soil assured the area’s success. In the late 1800s, Virginia Beach developed as a resort following construction of a hotel and a railroad linking it with Norfolk. After World War I it became an important base in the national coastal-defense system and today is home to Little Creek Naval Amphibious Base, Oceana Naval Air Station, and Fleet Combat Direction Systems Warfare Training Center at Dam Neck.
With its excellent beaches and many fine hotels, Virginia Beach is one of the most popular resort destinations on the east coast and one of the fastest growing cities in the United States.
B- City Information:
Population : 433,934
Elevation: 15 feet
County: Virginia Beach
Land area: 248.3 square miles
Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time Zone
Average weather in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Based on data reported by over 4,000 weather stations
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Average temp. (°F)
40.2
42.1
49.0
57.4
66.1
74.4
79.0
77.4
72.2
61.3
52.4
44.3
High temperature (°F)
48.1
50.6
57.9
67.0
74.7
82.7
86.7
84.8
79.5
69.6
61.1
52.5
Low temperature (°F)
32.2
33.6
40.0
47.7
57.4
66.1
71.3
70.0
64.9
53.0
43.7
36.2
Precipitation (in)
4.0
3.4
4.1
3.3
3.8
3.7
5.0
4.9
4.2
3.5
3.0
3.1
Normal climate around Virginia Beach, Virginia
Based on data reported by main weather stations
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Days with precipitation
11
10
11
10
10
9
11
10
8
7
8
9
Wind speed (mph)
11.4
11.8
12.3
11.8
10.4
9.7
8.9
8.8
9.6
10.2
10.3
10.9
Morning humidity (%)
75
75
74
74
77
79
81
84
84
83
79
76
Afternoon humidity (%)
59
57
54
51
56
57
59
61
61
59
57
59
Sunshine (%)
53
56
60
63
62
67
62
62
61
59
56
54
Days clear of clouds
9
8
9
9
8
7
7
8
9
12
10
9
Partly cloudy days
7
6
8
9
10
12
12
12
9
7
8
7
Cloudy days
16
14
15
12
13
11
12
11
11
12
12
15
Snowfall (in)
3.0
2.9
1.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.9
Climate :
Ocean breezes moderate the humidity and make for a mild climate in Virginia Beach. Air temperatures range from 40 Degrees in the winter to 80 in the summer. Spring and fall shorten winter(with an average snowfall of 8 inches) and drift into Summer (average July/ August temperatures 78 Degrees F)
Getting Around
Once in Virginia Beach, enjoy the convenience and fun of the trolley service from 2nd Street to 42nd Street on Atlantic Avenue; 19th Street and Pacific Ave. South on General Booth Boulevard; Lynnhaven Mall via the 44 Expressway; The Entertainment Express runs until 2.30am to all the major nightspots.
Tidewater Regional Transit (TRT) provides area bus transportation. Call (757) 640-6300 for information on routes, schedules and fares
By Car
All roads lead to Virginia Beach. When approaching from the west, the easiest routes are Interstate 64, U.S. 460 or U.S. 58. From the north and south, convenient routes are Interstates 85 or 95, U.S. 17 and U.S. 13 (crossing the world-famous Chesapeake Bay-Bridge Tunnel, a 17-mile span connecting Virginia’s Eastern Shore with Virginia Beach). These routes intersect with Interstate 64, which connects with the Virginia Beach-Norfolk Expressway, Interstate 264, and leads directly to the Virginia Beach oceanfront.
Alternate Driving Routes
Travelers driving to Virginia Beach can avoid the tension of driving and relax right away, thanks to the many routes leading to the resort city. Rather than the traditional and trafficked Interstate 64, explore the breathtaking scenery, wildlife and historical monuments found along routes 13, 17, 60 and I-664 in Virginia.
Route 13 For a truly picturesque drive from the north, consider Route 13 – a scenic stretch of open road through Virginia’s eastern shore. A trip through Cape Charles offers a look at some of Virginia’s most untouched nature, as tall trees and grasses line the highway and sea gulls glide in the sky.
Route 17 Another alternative route to Virginia Beach from the north is Route 17, leading drivers through the heartland of Virginia. Historic towns like Fredericksburg and Yorktown dot Route 17, ensuring visitors a healthy dose of American history while on their way to the beach resort.
Route 60 Route 17 also affords travelers the opportunity to connect with Route 60, and experience yet more American history with a stop at Colonial Williamsburg or the 1607 Jamestown Settlement. Williamsburg, in addition to the historical attractions, boasts unique shopping experiences and theme parks, such as Busch Gardens and Water Country USA.
Route 460 Visitors also can travel Route 460 through the Virginia countryside, through Petersburg and Lynchburg, to stop and explore the Civil War monuments.
Interstate 664 Those eager to get to the beach as soon as possible – and, who can blame them – can pick up Interstate 664 in Newport News and experience Hampton Roads’ other bridge-tunnel, the Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel. Interstate 664 connects with Interstate 264 in Portsmouth, just minutes from the Virginia Beach oceanfront.
By Air
Virginia Beach is served by Norfolk International Airport and the Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport. The airport is a quick 20-minute ride from the oceanfront, is serviced by almost every major U.S. carrier and offers close to 200 flights daily.
By Train
An Amtrak train connection is available in Newport News, a neighboring city to Virginia Beach. Amtrak bus service is available between the train station and 19th Street and Pacific Avenue. Reservations are required. Call Amtrak at 800-USA-RAIL (800-872-7245).
By Water
Water is never far away in Virginia Beach. The city contains 51.3 square miles of water, which takes form in the dozens of rivers, bays, lakes, marsh areas and fingers of water that flow into the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay. Linking the Chesapeake Bay and James River estuaries is the Hampton Roads harbor, one of the finest natural harbors and home port to the world’s largest naval base. Here, the Intracoastal Waterway begins at mile marker 1. From Virginia Beach, recreational boaters can travel as far north as Boston and south to Brownsville, Texas.
Navigators along the East Coast can reach Virginia Beach by plotting a course on the Intracoastal Waterway or Atlantic Ocean. For more information about local marinas and slip fees, call 1-800-VA BEACH.
C- Attractions/Things To Do:
The Virginia Marine Science Museum
717 General Booth Boulevard, Virginia Beach
Tel:717-425-FISH
The States largest aquarium with 800,000 gallons of aquariums and live habitats this is one of the top ten most visited aquariums in the country . A must see for all ages.
Oceana Navel Air Station
Oceana Boulevard or London Bridge Rd
Tel:757-433-3131
One of the U.S Navy’s four master jet bases with 22 squadrons. Seasonal tours are available
Historic Cape Henry
Atlantic Ave/Fort Story, Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-460-1688
Come see and stand where perhaps your ancestors first set foot on the New World back in 1607. The first landing cross marks the place. Also, here you will see the oldest government built lighthouse in the USA, dating back to 1791.
The Pavilion, Virginia Beach Convention Center
1000 19th Street
Tel: 757-437-7629
The convention center is in a wonderful building of interesting architecture, which hosts a variety of events each year. A great location for a trade show or meeting.
Association for Research & Enlightenment
67th Street/Atlantic Ave., Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-428-3588
Now here’s a unique place to visit. It’s the International headquarters documenting the works of psychic Edgar Cayce.
Seashore State Park
2500 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-481- 2131
With more than 27 miles of hiking trails, camping and picnic areas this 2700-acre area is a nature lovers paradise.
Upper Wolfsnare House
2040 Potters Road, Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-491-3490
If History is your passion this house is a must. Built in 1759 by Thomas Walke III it gives a wonderful insight into life at that time.
Adam Thoroughgood House
1636 Parrish Road, Virginia Beach
Tel: 757- 460 0007
Step back in time and visit this 17th Century house in the style of an old English Cottage and discover historic herbs and flowers in the gardens.
Contemporary Art Center
2200 Parks Ave, Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-425 0000
Although specializing in the presentation of 20th century art styles, the Art Center also presents an eclectic mixture of fine Art forms.
Tidewater Veterans Memorial
19th Street, Virginia Beach
In appreciation of the contributions of the military in the area, a magnificent sculpture/waterfall has been erected here.
Rudee Inlet 7 Marina
Winston-Salem Ave, (Nr. Pacific Ave)
Fun for all if you plan a day out here. Whether it’s a Chesapeake Bay and Virginia Beach tour of 2 hours or a full days sports fishing you’re after, you’ll find it here.
Old Coast Guard Station
24th Street/Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-422 1587
For those of you who come down to the sea, to dream of days gone by, this museum will transport you back in time with historical stories to tell of shipwrecks off the coast and a history of the area.
Virginia Zoological Park
3500 Granby Street
Norfolk, VA
Tel: 757- 441 2706
Located only about half an hour’s drive from Virginia Beach you will find this fine Zoo. The whole family will love it!
Colonial Williamsburg
Henry Street/Rt 199
Tel: 1-800 History
Williamsburg is a must if you’re staying in the Virginia Beach area. It’s about 1 hour’s drive away and there’s lots to see and do with 18th Century houses, a governors mansion, the capital plus Colonial restaurants and shops. Learn all about the history of the area from costumed characters who’ll stroll among you and put on wonderful plays. Special events are put on at different times of the day and evening.
D- Family Fun Attractions:
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
45 minutes from Virginia Beach
open from March through October
hours 10am-10pm most days
Tel:757 253 3350
Busch Gardens Williamsburg has four of the world’s top-rated roller coasters, including Alpengeist and the new Apollo’s Chariot. This hypercoaster will plummet riders a total of 825 feet. From awesome rides and spectacular shows to superb shopping and fabulous feasts, Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers a fun-filled adventure you’ll never forget.
Directions:
Take Interstate 64 West to Exit 242A, then follow SR 199 2 Miles to US 60, take US 60 east, 1.5 Miles to entrance
Water Country USA
45 minutes Virginia Beach
Open May through September
hours 10am-8pm, late summer 7pm and 6pm
Tel: 1 800-343-SWIM
With more than 35 wacky cool water rides, super shopping and tasty treats, Water Country USA is the coolest way to beat the heat. Directions:
Take Interstate 64 West to Exit 242A, then follow SR 199 ¼ Mile to Entrance
Colonial Williamsburg
Open March through August
hours 9.30am-5pm
Tel:1-800-HISTORY
Colonial Williamsburg is the world’s largest outdoor living history museum. Learn all about the history of the area from costumed characters who’ll stroll among you and put on wonderful plays. Special events are put on at different times of the day and evening. Directions:
About an hours drive from Virginia Beach midway between Richmond and Norfolk on I-64 (exit 238). After exiting, look for the green and white signs for the Visitor Center. Once you purchase your admissions pass, you can either take the shuttle bus or walk to the Historic Area.
Virginia Air & Space Centre
600 Settlers Landing Road,Hampton,Va
Tel: 757 727 0800
Less than an hour from Virginia Beach is the Air & Space museum which will bring excitement and fun for kids of all ages!
The Virgina Marine Science Museum
717 General Booth Boulevard, Virginia Beach
Tel:717 425 FISH
The States largest aquarium with 800,000 gallons of aquariums and live habitats this ‘Travel Attraction of the Year’ is one of the top ten most visited aquariums in the country . A must see for all ages.
Old Coast Guard Station
24th Street/Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-422 1587
For those of you who come down to the sea, to dream of days gone by, this museum will transport you back in time with historical stories to tell of shipwrecks off the coast and a history of the area.
Childrens Museum
221 High Street Portsmouth
Tel: 757-393 8393
Kids looking for something different to do? Well approx. 30 minutes form Virginia Beach is a fun museum. Watch them delight while playing with the big Bubble machine where they can make bubble as big as themselves! Or hold your breath as you watch them scale the indoor rock-climbing wall
Ocean Breeze Amusement Park
849 General Booth Boulevard
Tel: 757 422 4444
A traditional amusement park to complement a day at the beach.
E- Events & Entertainment:
Street Stages (all summer)
7th, 17th & 24th
Virginia Beach
Tel: 757- 491 SUNN
Head to these stages for entertainment at all times of day and night. Free for all! You’ll find a great variety to choose from such as musicians and singers, magicians and comedians.
The Hampton Roads Shakespeare Festival (all summer)
2000 Seatack Neighborhood Park
Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-425 1154
June
Latin American Festival
June-September
Beach Street USA
Nightly 8 – 11:30 p.m.
July 4
Stars and Stripes Explosion
Mid-July
Mid-Atlantic Hermit Crab Festival
Late July
Philippine-American Festival
August
Tiger Birthday Party
Virginia Zoo hosts a birthday party for its tigers.
Live Bird Café at the Virginia Beach Zoo
Ongoing Sat & Sun 12pm & 1pm
Late August
Soul Music Beach Festival
September
Labor Day Weekend
Verizon Wireless American Music Festival
Early September
Rock and Roll Half Marathon
Mid-September
Blues at the Beach
Annual Neptune Festival
Features a variety of competitions and entertainment
Early October
Virginia Beach Annual Film Festival
Mid-October
Annual Oktober Brew Festival
Halloween (Late October)
Screech Street Festival