Most people think of Virginia Beach, Virginia as a summer vacation destination. While this true, there are plenty of things to do in the off-season as well. Some travelers find the autumn through spring months to be just as fun and relaxing, and take the time to enjoy the less crowded resort city located on the Mid-Atlantic Coast of the US. The Virginia Beach hotels are open and give their guests an opportunity to see many local sights and check out the year-round attractions.

Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel

Selected as One of the Seven Engineering Wonders of the Modern Times, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel spans 17.6 miles from shore to shore and connects Virginia’s rural Eastern Shore and the Delmarva Peninsula with Southeastern Virginia and the seven Hampton Roads cities nestled near the Chesapeake Bay, including Virginia Beach. Built in 1964, a second span was added and opened in 1999 to increase usage. The bridge-tunnel includes four man-made islands, two bridges and two tunnels. The structure also features a restaurant, fishing pier, souvenir store and rest stop.

Virginia Beach Amphitheater

This outdoor concert venue seats 20,000 and opened its doors in 1996. Musical tours include rock, hip hop, country and Christian musical artists. National and international artists such as Coldplay, Jimmy Buffet, Rascal Flatts, Billy Idol and Kenny Chesney have all played at this venue.

Museums and Lighthouses

The Virginia Marine Science Museum on General Booth Boulevard offers an up-close look at creatures of the Atlantic Ocean, Chesapeake Bay and surrounding tributaries. Exhibits include fun, educational features on rays, fish, mammals and other marine life. The Lifesaving Museum and Old Coast Guard Station on Atlantic Avenue focuses on the history of ships, shipwrecks and rescues along the Virginia coast. The Cape Henry Lighthouses are located on Fort Story military base. One is retired and open to visitors. The other is an active aid for maritime navigation.

Ocean and Bay

The Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay offer a tranquil and scenic setting for the many Virginia Beach hotel, restaurant and shopping venues overlooking the beaches and waterways. Charter fishing, sightseeing, and dolphin and whale watching trips are also featured. In January, the Polar Plunge takes place. It is a fundraiser for Virginia Special Olympics where sponsored participants gather on the beach and run into the chilly Atlantic Ocean for a brief dip.

Holidays

Wintertime activities include the Holiday Lights at the Beach, where visitors can drive on the boardwalk and see festive light displays for several blocks. The City also hosts an annual Breakfast With Santa for the kids.

Regional Attractions

There are many activities to experience within a short drive from Virginia Beach. They include ride on the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry for a visit to the Jamestown Settlement and Colonial Williamsburg, or taking in a football or basketball game at Old Dominion University in neighboring Norfolk. Olde Towne Portsmouth and historic Smithfield yield prime antiquing. A ride up the coast to the Eastern Shore yields a look at natural beaches, wild ponies and local farmers’ produce stands.