By Isabel Prontes
Virginia
beach, Virginia, is one of the most popular beach
resort cities on the eastern seaboard. There is no shortage of things to do and see while in Virginia Beach, such as relaxing on the beach, strolling along the boardwalk, hanging out at water parks and even going to aquariums. Virginia Beach is full of exciting activities and recreation.
Virginia Aquarium
The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center consists of over 700,000 gallons of animal habitat and aquarium. The aquarium is full of interactive exhibits, marshlands (with seahorses, river otters, snakes and much more), nature trails (be sure to check out the observation tower and get a look at Owls Creek) and even an outdoor aviary. Whether you want to see stingrays up close, go birdwatching, watch animals onscreen at the 3-D IMAX theater or touch horseshoe crabs, this vast aquarium has something for everybody. (717 General Booth Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23451 - Tel: 757-385-3474.
Boardwalk
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk spans 3 miles and is full of vitality and entertainment. In existence since 1888, the boardwalk is an oceanfront promenade that is ideal for activities such as skating, walking and cycling. It also is great for shopping, food (there are many street vendors) and outdoor live entertainment. There is also a fishing pier, several historic sculptures and monuments and arcade-style games. This boardwalk epitomizes the heart of Virginia Beach. (2400 Atlantic Ave.,
Virginia Beach, VA 23451 - Tel: 757-437-4888)
First Landing State Park
First Landing State Park is the most popular state park in all of Virginia. It is historically relevant because it is the first place where a permanent English settlement was established back in 1607. There are tons of fun recreational activities to partake in at First Landing State Park, including boating, swimming, bicycling (there is a bike trail), picnicking, hiking (the park has over 19 miles of trails) and much more. The park also offers a variety of history and nature programs as well. (2500 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 - Tel: 757-412-2300)
Contemporary Art Center of Virginia
The Contemporary Art Center of Virginia concentrates on art from the 20th century and is the state's largest fine art institution. In existence since 1952, the center exists to promote awareness and understanding of crucial artworks of the modern day. The exhibitions at this center are constantly changing and include art forms such as sculpture, video, glass, photography and many other varieties of visual media. (2200 Parks Ave., Virginia Beach, VA 23451 - Tel: 757-425-0000)
False Cape State Park
False Cape State Park is in southern Virginia Beach and is a barrier split that is approximately 1 mile wide. It divides the Atlantic Ocean from Back Bay. The park consists of camping grounds and has an environmental educational program. Some popular recreational activities at this park include boating, cycling and hiking. False Cape State Park is particularly notable for being one of the last untarnished coastal areas on the East Coast. (4001 Sandpiper Road Virginia Beach, VA 23456 - Tel: 757-426-7128)
About the Author:
Isabel Prontes is a freelance writer and traveler residing in Manhattan, NY. She has traveled to five continents and counting. Her work has appeared on a number of websites, such as Travels, eHow.com and "Happy Living Magazine." Prontes has a professional background in public relations; she received a bachelor's degree in communication studies from Pace University.
