Virginia Beach is a key tourist spot. It is the largest city of Virginia. The city has approx 35 miles of coast line and boasts about 200 parks, several military bases, thriving high-tech industries and booming tourism sector. Relax by the shore, walk on the beach, go for hiking, biking or boating, surf and sail, explore the city’s rich and unique history, and enjoy the splendid views of the city. Come and explore this slice of heaven!
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History of Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is full of history! There are many events and happenings that have shaped this beautiful city. The city’s history started in 1607 when English explorers came here, which is now called The Chesapeake Bay. The foremost English settlers came at the Cape Henryat under the leadership of Captain Christopher Newport and Captain John Smith. In 1621, the first permanent settlement was done at Lynnhaven Bay. When the Englishmen reached on the shore, they formed a cross and named this place as Cape Henry. Cape Henry tuned into a crucial port for British merchant ships. It took fourteen years for the Virginian settlement to be successful and colonists began to live in what is now called as “Virginia Beach”. In the nineteenth century, Virginia Beach became a popular vacation spot, following the construction of a railroad linking its oceanfront with the Norfolk and the building of its foremost hotel in 1883. In 1906, it was formed as a town and in 1952 as a city. Virginia Beach and Princess Anne merged in 1963. The economy relies majorly on tourism. It is also supported by diverse industries, such as technical, agriculture and engineering services, and by four military bases. Every year, many people visit this beautiful diverse town-the Virginia Beach.
Important Locations of Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is brimming with beautiful attractions to please every traveler! There is no dearth of things to do and see in VB. The city has lots of water sports for your adrenalin fix, from kayaking and fishing to wake boarding and flyboarding. The city also pleases the land lovers through plenty of museums, shopping spots, live music, amusement parks, and other world-class attractions. The city is fun all year-round! Here’s the list of some of the important locations you must visit when in Virginia Beach-
The Cape Henry Lighthouse: The
Cape Henry Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse that offers a magnificent 360 degree view. This spot has tower climbs with great ocean views.
Ocean Breeze Water Park: The
Ocean Breeze Water Park is a beautiful water park for all ages with a huge wave pool and many water slides. It features aquatic attractions, and several fun and amusement rides to entertain and thrill.
Adam Thoroughgood House: Adam Thoroughgood house is a seventeenth century old-English style house that features the story of Virginia’s first colonist, Adam Thoroughgood. A peek into colonial life at
Adam Thoroughgood house.
Mount Trashmore: It is a city park that features nature trails, Skate Park, and play courts for basketball and volleyball. Enjoy the nature and learn about the environment at
Mount Trashmore Park.
First Landing State Park: The
First Landing State Park offers a bounty of outdoor enjoyment and fun, including hiking, boating, biking, swimming, history and nature programs, and about 20 miles of canoe trails.
Virginia Beach Boardwalk: The Boardwalk is a 3 mile stretch that surrounds the town’s wonderful sand. It offers parasailing, surfing, jet skiing, swimming, bicycle rentals and lots of sand. A great spot for tourists and locals alike!
False Cape State Park: False Cape State Park offers beautiful views and coastline, maritime forest and biking trails.
Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art: The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art features interesting works of art by talented artists from across the world, paintings, sculptors and photography.
To know in detail about the important locations in Virginia Beach, click here.
Time Zone and Phone Codes of Virginia Beach
Time Zone
Virginia Beach is in the Eastern Time Zone.
Standard time zone: UTC/GMT -5 hours
Daylight saving time: 1 hour
Current time zone offset: UTC/GMT -4 hour
Time zone abbreviation: Eastern Standard Time (EST) and Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
Phone Codes
Dialling Code: 1
Area Code: 757
People and Culture of Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach, popularly called as the “party town” has plenty of cultural attractions, including the art museums, the town’s military history and marine science centers. The city is home to performing arts, historical and scientific spots. In recent years, the city has welcomed visitors from around the world. Multitude of festivals and events are held in this party town, such as the Neptune festival, American music festival, Boardwalk Art Show & Festival, and many more.
Best Time to Visit Virginia Beach
The best time to visit Virginia Beach is spring (April to May) and fall (September & October). Take in the oceanfront culture from May to September in Virginia Beach. Summer is the busiest time of the year with music festivals and events abound, and plenty of outdoor fun and activities.
High season commences from late May and ends in early September
Shoulder season commences from mid-September and ends in mid-May
Travellers can enjoy a myriad of events and festivals held throughout the year-
Important Location Map Guide of Virginia Beach
