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Headed to the East Coast this summer? Virginia Beach may not be at the top of your mind when you think about destinations, but the combination of the beach, museums, and other outdoor options make it an amazing place to visit on a budget. Here are 25 free things to do in Virginia Beach!
25 Free Things to Do in Virginia Beach
Tour the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum
The museum is free for everyone, although they do ask for a $2 donation for adults. This museum is located in a historic house near the beach.
See the King Neptune Statue
This huge statue is located on the beach and has a park nearby.
Explore False Cape State Park
This state park has multiple hiking trails for all levels.
Walk the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
There are options to spend money along the boardwalk, but you can also just enjoy the scenic view!
Take the African American History Self Guided Tour
This tour is available for free and can be done on foot or in the car—could be a good option if rain ruins your beach plans!
See the statues at the Naval Aviation Monument Park
If you have a history buff in your family, you might enjoy learning the history of naval aviation from these monuments.
Catch live entertainment on the boardwalk
Check the calendar of events for what’s playing when you’re in Virginia Beach!
Play at JT’s Grommet Island Beach Park
This is a 100% accessible playground on the beach that is perfect for those of any and all abilities.
Explore Lake Lawson and Lake Smith
These lakes offer a beautiful view if you want to be somewhere other than the beach
Play at Mount Trashmore Park
This park with a very interesting name includes an amazing playground for kids.
Explore Great Neck Park
This park is located on Lynnhaven Bay and has picnic shelters, sports areas, and a playground.
See the Norwegian Lady Statue
This historical statue is one of the most popular landmarks in Virginia Beach.
Explore First Landing State Park
The cost to get in is $7 per car, and is the most visited state park in Virginia!
See the gardens at Red Wing Park
Depending on the time of year you visit, the gardens here are spectacular. Be sure to check out the Miyazaki Japanese Garden if you go.
Get wet at Sandbridge Beach
This is considered one of the better areas if you want to spend a day at the beach.
Take the Virginia Legends Walk
This is a self-guided tour that walks you through various famous Virginians.
Explore Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
The cost is $5 per car, but it would be worth it for the wildlife you’d get to see while you’re there. There are also hiking trail options.
Play disc golf at Bayville Farms Park
This park has a huge disc golf course as well as a playground, making it a good option for the whole family.
Enjoy the great outdoors along the Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail
You’ll need to do a little research to see which locations are closest to where you are, but this would be a great option for bird lovers.
Visit the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art
Tickets are free to this art museum, but you need to reserve them in advance.
Watch the East Coast Surfing Competition
If you’re visiting at the right time, this event would be amazing free entertainment!
Tour the Surf and Rescue Museum
This museum would be a great option to learn about a unique portion of history if the weather is bad!
Enjoy the Boardwalk Art Show
Check the calendar to see if this will be happening when you’re there!
Explore the Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge
This was the first national wildlife refuge made for bald eagles, which would be an amazing sight to see!
The Virginia Beach farmers market happens throughout most of the year!
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