Fun doesn’t stop in Virginia Beach at the end of the summer. Coastal Virginia’s mild temperatures allow outdoor activities to continue through the four seasons in Virginia Beach. And while summer is just getting started, now is the absolute perfect time to plan a fall trip to the resort city. From more top-notch events to local flavors to pet-friendly activities, Virginia Beach is a destination where you can experience it all, year-round!
Virginia Beach’s extraordinary events calendar extends into fall and beyond. A true celebration of beach life, the Annual Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend is a must, especially this year since it marks its 50th anniversary. From Sept. 27-29, the Virginia Beach Oceanfront will be loaded with incredible events as part of the festival. Boardwalk Weekend will include the following: International Sandsculpting Championship, Neptune Festival Art & Craft Show, Neptune’s Surfing Classic, Neptune’s 8K race, Neptune Festival Grand Parade, Hometown Heroes: Neptune’s Final Toast, Neptune’s Atlantic Regatta, plus a variety of youth activities such as the Youth Art Show, Poseidon’s Playground and more.
Another top annual event at the oceanfront in the fall is the Old Point National Bank Wicked 10K Weekend presented by Bon Secours. Celebrating 15 years, this is Coastal Virginia’s largest Halloween race and party. Register now to participate in this year’s activities happening October 25-26 at the Virginia Beach Convention Center and at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.
Aviation fans and history buffs will be interested in the Military Aviation Museum and its Warbirds Over the Beach events. For those seeking adventure, spend time at one of the stunning nature parks in Virginia Beach, such as First Landing State Park, False Cape State Park and Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge where there are many opportunities to hit the trails and waterways. Recreational activities such as hiking, biking and kayaking are all favorites in Virginia Beach. Or explore at an adventure park and experience ziplines, challenges and more.
Another wonderful way to spend time outdoors is to dine al fresco, whether having a meal, snacks or drinks. Relaxing on an outdoor patio while enjoying refreshments is the ultimate coastal experience, and Virginia Beach is loaded with high quality restaurants offering outside seating with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Chesapeake Bay and the area’s other scenic waterways. The City’s culinary scene has something for everybody, and seafood is definitely a staple on restaurant menus. An array of entrees including blue crabs, Lynnhaven Oysters and other fresh catches, from flounder to rockfish, fill local restaurant menus. Virginia Beach is a foodie haven not only because of its fresh seafood; thanks to its strong agricultural heritage, the farm-to-table movement is widely embraced in this coastal community. Area chefs create meals from the freshest ingredients and as a result diners are treated to spectacular cuisine, including global flavors as well. Along with Virginia Beach’s elevated dining options, family-friendly beach bites—from pizza and burgers to tacos and wraps—are also a mainstay on local menus. Complement a tasty locally-sourced meal with a high-quality local libation, whether a craft beer or a handcrafted cocktail, and experience a full taste of the region. Or discover new favorite flavors by taking a tasting tour at a distillery or brewery in Virginia Beach for an inside look at how local libations are made.
If shopping is more your style, then Virginia Beach is also the right place for you. Back-to-school shopping, early holiday shopping or “just because” shopping, you’ll find what you’re looking for here. Of course, the Virginia Beach Oceanfront is full of beach shops with all kinds of souvenirs to beachwear. Several blocks away, the ViBe Creative District is where you want to go to shop local. In this artsy neighborhood, you will find unique treasures from artwork and jewelry to leatherwork and much more. The Old Farmers Market on 19th Street, held on Saturday mornings, is a must for those interested in supporting local businesses. For upscale boutiques and other premier shops, head over to the nearby Hilltop area. Town Center is another popular shopping section in the resort city. A diverse mix of retail stores line the city streets alongside restaurants and other businesses. Fans of antiques will want to stop in at the 22,000 square foot antique mall in the Town Center district.
Another great reason for a fall getaway to Virginia Beach is it’s a fabulous time of year for a beach vacation with your pet. We know pet owners love their pets like family, and the resort city is a very pet-friendly destination, offering many opportunities to include dogs in fun activities, from beaches and parks to dining and drinking establishments. After Labor Day until before Memorial Day weekend, pets are allowed to join their owners on Virginia Beach’s public beaches and the boardwalk any time. (For pet-related information click here.) Furthermore, Virginia Beach has numerous pet-friendly accommodations and vacation rentals. (Visit virginiabeachhotelassociation.com for more information.)
Virginia Beach is ready for your visit, whether this summer or any other season.