Submerge Yourself into The ViBe

The ViBe Creative District in Virginia Beach boasts art, eclectic shops, local bites & events 

By Kelsey Thomas

The vibrancy of Virginia Beach’s ViBe Creative District stems from the heart of artistic locals – from restaurateurs and coffee roasters, to shops, museums and artists. Each establishment has its own individual personality, but as a community they come together to create a hub that attracts locals and tourists alike. 

The streets are lined with various forms of public art, which make you feel like you’re submerged into a real-time, life-sized exhibit. Sidewalks, roads and parking lots are often covered in bright chalk drawings and beautiful hand painted murals can be found on just about every building in the district. Utility boxes and parking meters have also been reimagined with bold designs and bright colors. You can explore the ViBe District in a variety of ways, whether it be by embarking on the neighborhood’s First Friday Walking Tour or renting a street legal golf cart or stylish Moke at Moke America Virginia Beach. 

The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) exhibits some of the most significant and impactful art of our time, showcasing modern pieces offering insight into the age we live in. The Virginia Beach Art Center provides an educational and supportive environment for artists of all ages, as it is a place where they can engage and create. Housed inside of The Art Center, The Artists Gallery is an artists’ cooperative that provides an intimate setting when viewing original fine art. You can also get to know the artists behind the work, as the space is used for creating, exhibiting and showcasing.

While there is so much beauty to behold, there are also so many things to do in the area. The one-mile ViBe Mural Walking Tour educates participants on the district and really dives deep into the artists who make it all happen. The Old Beach Farmer’s Market is a weekly event during most of the year and allows consumers to shop local. Second Saturdays occur monthly and is a way for people to enjoy entertainment, stock up on local products and get a taste of the town. 

When it comes to satisfying your hunger, you’re in the right place when you’re in the ViBe. There are a variety of restaurants that all offer something different. Barrel 17 serves mouthwatering wagyu beef burgers piled high with an array of toppings for you to choose from and other locally owned restaurants have farm-to-table offerings.

Bad Ass Coffee is exactly as it sounds, as they are wildly popular for their vibrant blue building and delicious coffee and bites. They are just one of many local coffee roasters that make the ViBe a go-to destination for some of the best coffee in Virginia Beach. 

Don’t be fooled though – there are more sips to savor in the ViBe than just coffee. Locally brewed craft beers and spirits are on the rise and this district is buzzing with locals and visitors who are dying to try what’s new. Vibrant Shore Brewing brews adventurous, flavor-packed American ales and refined, balanced European lagers and ales, made with locally sourced ingredients. Create your own trail by visiting all the breweries and distilleries located in the ViBe. 

Aside from arts and dining, you can’t ignore the retail options available in the ViBe District. Find everything from antiques to fine jewelry at Superior Pawn. Or explore the charming boutiques and shops that offer handcrafted products. Gypsy Soul Boutique offers unique items with a bohemian flare, making it the perfect place to look for anything from a day at the beach to a night out. 

There is never a dull moment, sight or bite in Virginia Beach’s most artistic district. It brings diversity and vitality the Oceanfront and offers a unique experience that is filled with art, dining and retail. Get ready to explore the district and feel the ViBe.