10 Things to do in Virginia Beach with Kids!

Virginia Beach is one of those places where families can enjoy the outdoors, history, and fun activities all in one trip. The mix of beaches, parks, museums, and family‑friendly attractions makes it easy to plan days filled with adventure and relaxation. In this guide, we’ll take you through 10 best things to do in Virginia Beach with kids, explain each spot in detail, what makes the activity special, how families can enjoy it, and tips to make the most of the experience.

1. Dolphin and Whale Watching Tours

Dolphin and whale watching tours in Virginia Beach give families and visitors a chance to see these animals living freely in the ocean. Companies such as Rudee Tours or Patriotic Excursions take guests out on the water, where dolphins often leap beside the boats or swim close to the surface. Dolphins can be spotted throughout the year, but whale watching is more seasonal, with the colder months being the best time to see whales slowly moving along the coast. These trips are guided by experienced crews who share facts about the animals and their habits, making it both a fun and learning experience.

2. Virginia Beach Oceanfront

The Virginia Beach Oceanfront is the center of the city, where the wide sandy beach meets a busy boardwalk. The shoreline stretches for miles, giving families and visitors plenty of space to relax, play, or take long walks by the water. Summer is the liveliest season here, with people enjoying the waves, soaking up the sun, and trying water sports like surfing, paddleboarding, or jet skiing. The boardwalk runs right next to the beach, offering a place to bike, stroll, or simply enjoy the ocean view. Nearby streets are filled with restaurants and cafes, serving fresh seafood with a clear view of the coast.

3. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center gives families the chance to see ocean life up close, from sharks and sea turtles to stingrays and colorful fish. Inside, the glass tunnels let visitors watch sea creatures swimming overhead, creating an exciting view. Touch tanks add a hands‑on element, where kids and adults can gently feel stingrays and other small marine animals. Boat tours are also offered, taking guests beyond the aquarium to spot dolphins in their natural waters. The center focuses on conservation, teaching visitors about protecting the ocean and how human actions affect marine life.

4. Military Aviation Museum

The Military Aviation Museum holds one of the largest collections of restored military planes from World War I and World War II. Unlike many museums where aircraft are only displayed, several of the planes here are still able to fly. Inside, visitors can see bombers, fighter planes, and training aircraft from different nations. Guided tours are available, where staff share stories about the planes, the pilots who flew them, and the battles they were part of. Outside, special events often include live flight demonstrations, giving guests the chance to watch these historic planes soar through the sky.

5. Beach Party Ponies & Barnyard Petting Zoo

The Beach Party Ponies & Barnyard Petting Zoo is a simple and fun place for families and anyone who enjoys being around animals. It’s a small place where families with kids can play with farm animals and enjoy pony rides in a scenic outdoor setting. Kids especially love spending time with goats, rabbits, chickens, and pigs, while pony rides are always a highlight. The petting zoo lets guests gently interact with the animals, making it a hands‑on experience that feels enjoyable. Pony rides are offered for younger children, giving them the chance to sit on a pony and take a short ride around the area.

6. Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum

The Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum shares the story of the ocean, the people who protect it, and the city’s long connection with surf culture and lifeguards. Set inside a former Coast Guard station near the boardwalk, the museum reminds visitors of the risks the sea can bring and the brave men and women who step in when help is needed. Inside, visitors can find old photographs, rescue gear, and more stories about shipwrecks, storms, and lifesaving efforts. One of the most interesting parts is learning how beach safety started in the early days and how rescue methods have changed over time.

7. Adventureworks Zipline Virginia Beach

The Adventureworks Zipline Virginia Beach is an exciting spot for families or anyone those who wants outdoor fun mixed with a little thrill. The park has several zipline courses that let visitors glide above the trees while enjoying fresh air and open views. The higher platforms give wide views of the area, making the climb worth it before each ride. Friendly guides help guests feel safe and comfortable, whether it’s their first time or they already enjoy adventure sports. The mix of thrill and safety makes it a good choice for families with kids or groups looking for something fun to do together.

8. Atlantic Fun Park

The Atlantic Fun Park is a lively spot for families, groups, or anyone who wants a simple day of amusement park fun. The park has rides, games, and food stands, making it easy to spend a few hours enjoying the atmosphere. The Ferris wheel is one of the main attractions here, giving guests a wide open views of the beach from the very top. For those who like more excitement, there are roller coasters and spinning rides that move faster, and younger kids have their own smaller rides. Walking through the park, the sounds of laughter, music, and rides create a playful energy that makes the visit enjoyable.

9. Mount Trashmore Park

The Mount Trashmore Park is one of the city’s most creative outdoor areas, built on vast land that was once a landfill and turned into one of the popular parks for the community. The wide grassy hills make it a nice place for walking, jogging, or simply sitting back and enjoying the view. Families often come here for picnics, giving kids plenty of room to run and play in the open space. A big highlight is the skate park, where skaters and bikers practice tricks on ramps and rails. Fishing is allowed in certain spots, and visitors also enjoy watching ducks, herons, and other birds around the lake.

10. Ocean Breeze Waterpark

The Ocean Breeze Waterpark is a fun place for families to spend the day, with a mix of slides, pools, and play zones. One of the main attractions is the big wave pool, where visitors can enjoy the feeling of ocean waves without going to the beach. For those who like more excitement, there are tall slides that twist and turn before splashing into the water. Families with younger kids can explore splash areas and smaller slides, making it enjoyable for all ages. Around the park, there are plenty of spots to sit in the shade or grab snacks from food stands, making it easy to relax between activities.

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