Exploring the historical sites of Virginia Beach feels like stepping back through layers of American history from First Landing State Park to the Cape Henry Lighthouse. Transcendent Stays offers a wide variety of vacation rentals in Virginia Beach that will be the perfect base for your adventures. Each rental features a unique design and modern conveniences for a comfortable stay after a day of sightseeing. Our pet-friendly rentals in Virginia Beach also welcome your furry friends! We’ve curated some must-see historical sites and attractions in Virginia Beach to help you plan a trip you and your travel companions will treasure for a lifetime.
Explore 9 Historical Sites & Places in Virginia Beach
1. First Landing State Park
This historical park in Virginia Beach marks the 1607 landing of English colonists. It has also seen pirate legends like Blackbeard and military ships during the War of 1812 and the Civil War. Explore 20 miles of trails, a Chesapeake Bay beach, cypress swamps, and rare wildlife at Virginia’s most-visited state park and a National Natural Landmark. The Chesapeake Bay Center features exhibits, and event rentals are available for the pavilion and amphitheater.
2. Cape Henry Lighthouse
Visit the first public works project commissioned by the U.S. government under George Washington and overseen by Alexander Hamilton. Built with Aquia sandstone, the original lighthouse stands alongside the newer black-and-white lighthouse constructed in 1881. It guided ships for nearly a century near the site of the English settlers’ first landing.
3. Military Aviation Museum
This historical museum in Virginia Beach features one of the largest vintage collections of military aircraft, with over 50 planes displayed across 130 acres. Visitors can see iconic aircraft up close, watch live demonstrations, and even take an open-cockpit flight in a 1941 Boeing Stearman PT-17 Kaydet.
4. Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum
Situated at 24th Street on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk is this historical landmark on the National Register. It features exhibits and a gift shop that celebrates Virginia’s coastal heritage and the history of Virginia Beach.
5. Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum
In 1974, local carvers formed the Back Bay Wildfowl Guild to promote wildfowl art. Today, the historic de Witt Cottage serves as the Guild’s museum and gift shop. Visit to explore wildfowl art, meet skilled carvers, and learn about Virginia Beach’s history.
6. Francis Land House
Once part of a large plantation, this historical home belonged to Francis Land VI in early 1800s Virginia Beach. Its Georgian exterior contrasts with a Federal-style interior featuring furnishings from 1805 to 1819. Tours cover plantation life, the experiences of free and enslaved people, early American influences, and the house’s later role as the Rose Hall Dress Shop in the 20th century.
7. Thoroughgood House
Visit one of Virginia Beach’s oldest colonial homes, built around 1719 by Argall Thorowgood II and completed by his wife, Susannah. Their son, John, added the unique paneling and staircase. Begin at the Education Center to learn about the family, enjoy the English garden, and take guided home tours.
8. Lynnhaven House
Built nearly 300 years ago by Francis Thelaball, this is one of the most well-preserved examples of early Virginia architecture. Visit this historical spot in Virginia Beach to get a glimpse into the colonial life of the Thelaball family, their apprentice, and enslaved individuals.
9. Inn at Old Beach
The Inn at Old Beach offers a unique stay rooted in the area’s rich history, blending 1930s charm with contemporary comforts. This historical Virginia Beach building was first a private residence in Virginia Beach. In 2007, life was breathed back into this stunning piece of Virginia’s past when it was turned into a bed and breakfast. The Cape Henry House Suite inside the Inn at Old Beach pays homage to English settler’s First Landing at Cape Henry in 1607.
