Interesting Facts

The first documented European explorer to set foot on Virginia Beach was Captain John Smith, who arrived on April 26, 1607. However, unlike other Virginia towns that are steeped in history, Virginia Beach is geared more toward the present. It has evolved into the quintessential beach town, lined with high-rise hotels, tourist shops, seafood restaurants and a bustling boardwalk.
The Cape Henry Memorial and Lighthouse commemorates the site where the first Europeans arrived in 1607. The settlers named the spot after Henry, the Prince of Wales, and erected a huge cross in his honor. The Cape Henry Lighthouse was built in 1791 by the first US Congress, which makes it the first federally commissioned public building in the nation.
The old Cavalier Hotel, often referred to as "the hotel that made Virginia famous," was once a retreat for the rich and famous � former Presidents, celebrities, and a host of dignitaries have stayed here. Originally spread out over some 250 acres, the hotel is now confined to roughly 20 acres, yet still displays the splendor and charm of its heyday.
Although most people flock to Virginia Beach during the summer months, January and early February are a good time to go as well � especially if you're into whale watching. The Virginia Marine Science Museum sponsors tours enabling visitors to witness the humpback whales that gather just off shore each winter.
Virginia Beach is the 34th largest US city by population. It encompasses about 258 square miles, and averages just 12 feet above sea level.
To escape the crowds flocking the boardwalk, head out to the nearby Seashore State Park. Located on some 3,000 acres, this popular destination offers hiking, biking, boating, water skiing, and a host of other water sport activities. Cabins are also available for visitors who want to spend the night.
The Virginia Marine Science Museum is one of Virginia Beach's top attractions. Adults and children will be treated to a number of high-tech interactive exhibits, a 700,000-gallon aquarium, as well as an IMAX theater. The museum frequently sponsors oceangoing sightseeing tours as well.
The historic Thoroughgood House, which is the former home of early settler Adam Thoroughgood, is recognized as one of the oldest brick homes in America. The home is open to the public and houses a number of antique treasures, as well as a seventeenth century garden. Incidentally, Thoroughgood is generally credited with naming the nearby city, Norfolk.
Virginia Beach's Oceana Naval Air Station is one of only four US Navy master jet bases. Airplane buffs can catch a glimpse of the F-14 Tomcat and several medium-sized bombers, including the A-6 Intruder. Tours of the base are available during the summer months.
Should you tire of walking and fighting the often dense beach crowds, Virginia Beach offers a convenient and fun beach trolley system that will take you wherever you would like to go (within reason, of course). It's also relatively inexpensive � a one-day pass is only a couple of bucks.