Boasting interactive exhibits, animal habitats, an IMAX theater and so much more, there’s always something new to discover at the Virginia Aquarium.
Discover Something New at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
There’s so much to do in Virginia Beach. From exploring the boardwalk to having fun on the water, you could spend your whole Virginia Beach getaway at the Oceanfront. Just a few miles from the Oceanfront, you’ll find 800,000 gallons of water and countless intriguing exhibits. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is one of the best aquariums in the country, located right here in Virginia Beach. Boasting interactive exhibits, animal habitats, an IMAX theater and so much more, there’s always something new to discover at the Virginia Aquarium.
Virginia Aquarium Exhibits
The Virginia Aquarium features thousands of animals from over 300 species. View their coastal habitats through entertaining and educational exhibits, and travel along an aquatic journey.
Visit one of the three aquariums, Light Tower Aquarium, Norfolk Canyon Aquarium and the Chesapeake Bay Aquarium, to get up close and personal with the aquatic life. Meet several species of sea turtle at the Light Tower Aquarium, sharks at the Norfolk Canyon Aquarium and an array of wildlife found here in the bay at the Chesapeake Bay Aquarium.
Visitors can also learn about the aquarium’s harbor seals from the animal care team, or get to know the friendly stingrays at the Ray Touch Pool.
Guests will get a mere glimpse at what life was like millions of years ago when they visit Restless Planet. Restless Planet consists of four immersive habitats showcasing exotic animals and fish from around the world. View everything from Komodo dragons to Tomistoma crocodiles, and even get hands-on with a few species. The Red Sea Tunnel allows you to walk through an aquarium featuring colorful fish from across the globe.
Virginia Aquarium IMAX Theater
In addition to the amazing exhibits and interactive activities, the Virginia Aquarium also has a state-of-the-art IMAX theater. The six-story Virginia Aquarium Giant Screen Theater features a massive 3D screen to enhance your viewing experience. Shows run throughout the day and explore life underwater and in more natural settings.
Tickets for the Giant Screen Theater movies are not included in museum admission.
Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium
Located on-site at the Virginia Aquarium, you can have a totally different experience in the treetops. Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium is an eco-friendly zipline and aerial tour. All ages can climb and zipline through the trees near the Virginia Aquarium’s Marsh Pavilion. With 16 trails across six acres, this is a great way to have some fun outdoors when you visit the Virginia Aquarium.
Events at the Virginia Aquarium
Throughout the year, the Virginia Aquarium hosts a number of events for children, adults and everyone in between. Kids will love the themed events, including Mermaid Mondays, Monster Madness and more. Adults can explore the aquarium without the kids during a sleepover, or indulge in a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner or succulent seafood during the Sensible Seafood Fest. The Virginia Aquarium also holds inclusive events for guests with special needs to enjoy the exhibits in a calm, comfortable environment during Special Needs Under the Sea.
Featured events also include speakers, creek cleanups, boat trips and more.
Hosting an Event at the Virginia Aquarium
The Virginia Aquarium is a great place to host your private event. From birthday parties to weddings, the Virginia Aquarium is a one-of-a-kind venue. Choose from one of the seven spaces to hold your event and let the aquarium’s event coordinator and aquatic inhabitants help make your event truly special.
Food at the Virginia Aquarium
While there are plenty of Virginia Beach restaurants near the Virginia Aquarium, you can also choose to grab a bite to eat right inside the main building.
The Aquarium Café, is located next to the Nature Trail entrance. This newly-renovated café serves a number of sandwiches, salads, hot entrees and desserts. When you see a movie at the Virginia Aquarium Giant Screen Theater, make sure to get a snack. Popcorn, pretzels, nachos, candy, Icees and more are all available to purchase at the Snack Stand right outside the theater.
Outside food and drink are not permitted in the aquarium.
More Information About the Virginia Aquarium
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is located at 717 General Booth Blvd., Virginia Beach. The aquarium is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Hours
The Virginia Aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Virginia Aquarium Parking
Free and handicap parking are available near the main building. Additional parking can be found across General Booth Boulevard in the East Lot.
Membership
Those who frequently visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center should consider becoming a member. Membership includes benefits such as: free admission, exclusive events, exhibit previews and special discounts.