Things to Do at Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

Complete Guide to Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center in Virginia Beach

About Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center stands as one of Virginia Beach's premier family destinations, featuring over 800,000 gallons of aquarium space housing thousands of marine animals from around the world. This world-class facility combines education, conservation, and entertainment through immersive exhibits that showcase everything from local Chesapeake Bay wildlife to exotic species from tropical coral reefs and the open ocean. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is renowned for its hands-on approach to marine education, offering visitors the chance to touch stingrays, observe massive sea turtles, and walk through tunnel exhibits surrounded by sharks and other predators. The center's commitment to marine conservation is evident throughout its exhibits, which highlight both the beauty of ocean ecosystems and the importance of protecting these fragile environments for future generations.

What to See & Do

Norfolk Canyon Aquarium

Walk through the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center's massive 300,000-gallon exhibit featuring sand tiger sharks, stingrays, and hundreds of fish species in a recreated deep-sea canyon environment

Sea Turtle Aquarium

Observe loggerhead and Kemp's ridley sea turtles in the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center's 70,000-gallon habitat, learning about these endangered species and conservation efforts

Touch Tank Experiences

Get hands-on at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center's interactive touch tanks where you can feel the smooth skin of cownose rays and bamboo sharks under expert supervision

Restless Planet 4D Theater

Experience immersive films at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center's state-of-the-art theater featuring moving seats, wind, and water effects that bring marine adventures to life

Chesapeake Bay Exhibits

Explore local marine life at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center's regional displays showcasing native species like river otters, harbor seals, and various fish from Virginia's coastal waters

Practical Information

Opening Hours

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center operates daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended summer hours until 6:00 PM from Memorial Day through Labor Day

Tickets & Pricing

General admission to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center costs $29.95 for adults, $27.95 for seniors (62+), and $24.95 for children (3-11). Annual memberships start at $89 and include unlimited visits plus discounts

Best Time to Visit

Visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center on weekday mornings for smaller crowds, or during winter months when admission prices are slightly reduced and exhibits are less crowded

Suggested Duration

Plan to spend 3-4 hours exploring all exhibits at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, with additional time if you choose to experience the 4D theater or participate in special programs

Getting There

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is located at 717 General Booth Boulevard in Virginia Beach, easily accessible via Interstate 264 East to the General Booth Boulevard exit. The facility provides free on-site parking for over 1,000 vehicles. From Norfolk International Airport, the drive takes approximately 30 minutes via Interstate 64 East and General Booth Boulevard. Public transportation options include Hampton Roads Transit bus routes that connect to the General Booth Boulevard corridor.

Things to Do Nearby

First Landing State Park
Virginia's most visited state park featuring hiking trails, beaches, and the site where English colonists first landed in 1607, located just 10 minutes from the aquarium
Virginia Beach Boardwalk
A 3-mile oceanfront boardwalk with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, offering classic beach resort atmosphere 15 minutes away
Military Aviation Museum
World's largest private collection of warbirds in flying condition, showcasing vintage aircraft from both World Wars, located 20 minutes south
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
9,000-acre refuge protecting migratory birds and maritime forest, offering hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities 25 minutes away

Tips & Advice

Purchase tickets online in advance for the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center to save money and skip entrance lines during busy periods
Time your visit to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center's feeding demonstrations, which occur throughout the day and provide excellent photo opportunities and educational content
Bring a light jacket as the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center maintains cooler temperatures in exhibit areas to keep marine animals comfortable
Download the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center's mobile app before your visit for interactive maps, feeding schedules, and exclusive content about exhibits and animals

Tours & Activities at Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center