Experience · Virginia Beach
Family Fun at Virginia Aquarium & Park
Dive into the wonders of marine life at the Virginia Aquarium, home to various exhibits and an IMAX theater. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxed family lunch. Conclude your day with some outdoor playtime at a nearby park.
A 4.5-hour Virginia Beach afternoon plan for families — Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, Waterman's Surfside Grille.
- Duration
- 4h 15m
- Cost
- $50–$100
- Stops
- 2 stops
- Area
- Dam Neck + 1 more
- Walking
- Light walking · Total 1.1-mile driving route
- Best time
- 12:00 – 5:00 PM
- Ideal for
- Families · Kids · Adults · Solo
The plan
The plan
- 1Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center(2 hrs)→
- 2Waterman's Surfside Grille(1 hr 15 min)
Why this plan works
The 2 stops cover about 1.1 miles total, which keeps you in one pocket of Virginia Beach instead of crossing town between them. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is the main event and takes the biggest block of time; the other stops are built around it. Best suited to families, families with kids, adults, and solo who want a planned Virginia Beach outing without improvising between stops.
The story
Overview
Dive into the wonders of marine life at the Virginia Aquarium, home to various exhibits and an IMAX theater. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxed family lunch. Conclude your day with some outdoor playtime at a nearby park.
The itinerary
2 stops, one great day
- 12 hrsVirginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
Family · Dam Neck
Aquarium focused on Virginia marine life, past & present, with an IMAX theater, boat tour & aviary.
What to do — Spend a couple of hours exploring the diverse exhibits and interactive displays. Check the schedule for any animal feedings or shows upon arrival.
1.1 mi · 5 min drive
Then Drive a short distance to the North Virginia Beach area for a casual lunch.
21h 15mWaterman's Surfside GrilleFood & Drink · North Virginia Beach
Landmarked cottage serving Chesapeake seafood & grill fare amid black & white photos & beach views.
What to do — Grab a table at Waterman's Surfside Grille for a family-friendly lunch. Their menu offers a variety of options that cater to different tastes.
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The route
On the map
Common questions
Planning this outing
- Is this a good Virginia Beach itinerary for families?
- Yes. It's built for families, families with kids, adults, and solo and runs about 4 hr 15 min across 2 stops, starting at Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center.
- How long does this outing take?
- Plan on 4 hr 15 min door to door, including time between stops.
- How much does this Virginia Beach itinerary cost?
- Roughly $50–$100 per person, before parking and tips. Free and low-cost stops are marked on each card.
- Is this itinerary walkable?
- Not entirely. The stops cover about 1.1 miles, so you'll drive or rideshare between at least one pair.
- Do I need reservations?
- No. Every stop on this plan takes walk-ins, though weekends move faster if you arrive early.
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