Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum is a Historical Gem
Virginia Beach is overflowing with interesting history and heritage, and fall is an ideal time to explore the City’s historical attractions. From intriguing museums to historic sites and old buildings to lighthouses and nature parks, make sure to build in a day or two into the itinerary to experience Virginia Beach’s captivating attractions showcasing the region’s rich maritime heritage, colonial history and more. History enthusiasts won’t want to miss out on these amazing spots!
Outdoor attractions
In the northern corner of Virginia Beach on the Fort Story Military Base, discover the Cape Henry Lighthouse, our nation’s first lighthouse. Built in 1792, the Cape Henry Lighthouse was the first federally funded project of the United States government. Made from Aquia sandstone, the lighthouse was used in buildings throughout Washington, D.C., and is located near the first landing site of the Jamestown colonists in 1607, which is now the location of the popular First Landing State Park. For a fee, visitors can climb the lighthouse’s metal staircase to the top and enjoy spectacular views of the Chesapeake Bay.
Adjacent to the original Cape Henry Lighthouse, approximately 350 feet away, is the “newer” lighthouse, which was built in 1881 and is still in use today. This black and white painted lighthouse remains in service, however, is not open to the public. Both lighthouses are on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and designated as a National Historic Landmark.
Local Museums
In the heart of the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, amongst its bustling streets, are two remarkable museums that are well worth a visit. On 24th Street and Atlantic Avenue is the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum, located in the Life-Saving Station built in 1903. This gem of a museum is free and offers a tremendous insight into the area’s maritime history thanks to its impressive collection of artifacts on display. (Note: Throughout the year, the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum hosts a number of community outreach events.)
Another interesting museum nearby is the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum, located in the deWitt Cottage, built in 1895 and today is the oldest remaining private structure on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. This unique museum showcases the history of wildfowl through a variety of displays including art and artifacts, and offers a quaint gift shop with unique items.
Head south to Virginia Beach’s Pungo district for a fun afternoon at the Military Aviation Museum, full of remarkable history and stories about military aircraft. Located on 130 acres, the Military Aviation Museum features more than 50 aircraft from World War 1 and II. Experience incredible demonstrations, displays, events and much more. Adventurous visitors can even take a ride on an open-cockpit flight!
Historic Places
For those interested in historic buildings and structures, Virginia Beach offers a number of superb history-focused attractions. A must-see is The Historic Cavalier Hotel, an iconic hotel listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Since 1927, this elegant hotel located at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront has hosted guests, including 10 Presidents, and is among the country’s most distinguished historic hotels. Come enjoy an elevated experience, whether staying at the hotel, dining or drinking at one of its establishments, such as the Tarnished Truth Distilling Company, the United States’ first distillery in a hotel.
Another idea is to take a guided tour of the Thoroughgood House, built in 1719 and one of the oldest remaining colonial homes in Virginia Beach. Here you will discover interesting facts about one of Virginia’s earliest colonists, Adam Thoroughgood. Also take time to visit these early buildings—Lynnhaven House and Francis Land House—still standing in the resort city.