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 isn't your typical aquarium - it's actually one of the most comprehensive marine science facilities on the East Coast, and it shows. What started as a modest local aquarium has grown into a sprawling complex that genuinely balances education with entertainment, featuring everything from massive walk-through tunnels to hands-on touch tanks. The facility tends to feel more like a research institution that happens to welcome visitors, which honestly makes the experience more authentic. You'll find yourself moving between indoor galleries and outdoor habitats, with exhibits that range from local Chesapeake Bay ecosystems to far-flung coral reefs. The center's commitment to conservation and rescue work is obvious throughout - many of the animals here are rescues or part of breeding programs, and the staff clearly knows their stuff. It's the kind of place where you might plan to spend a couple hours and end up staying most of the day, especially if you're traveling with kids who get caught up in the interactive elements.

What to See & Do

Norfolk Canyon Aquarium

The centerpiece 300,000-gallon tank with a walk-through tunnel where sand tiger sharks, rays, and sea turtles glide overhead. It's genuinely impressive and never gets old, even on repeat visits.

Sea Turtle Aquarium

Home to several species of sea turtles, including loggerheads and Kemp's ridleys. Many are rescue animals with fascinating backstories that the staff loves to share during feeding times.

Touch Tank Experiences

Multiple interactive areas where you can actually touch stingrays, horseshoe crabs, and various local species. The stingray bay tends to be the crowd favorite, and for good reason.

IMAX Theater

Features rotating nature documentaries on a massive screen. The ocean-themed films work particularly well here and provide a nice break from walking around the exhibits.

Outdoor Aviaries and Trails

Often overlooked outdoor section with native birds, otters, and nature trails through marshland. It's surprisingly peaceful and gives you a sense of the local ecosystem beyond just marine life.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Generally open daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, with extended summer hours until 6:00 PM. Hours can vary seasonally and for special events, so it's worth checking their website before you go.

Tickets & Pricing

Adult tickets typically run around $30-35, with discounts for children, seniors, and military. IMAX shows cost extra. Online booking often offers slight discounts and guarantees entry during busy periods.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings tend to be quietest, especially during the school year. Summer weekends can get quite crowded, but the energy is fun if you don't mind the crowds.

Suggested Duration

Plan for 3-4 hours minimum, though you could easily spend a full day if you catch shows, do all the interactive experiences, and explore the outdoor areas.

Getting There

The aquarium sits 15 minutes south of Virginia Beach's main resort area on General Booth Boulevard. Drive straight down First Colonial Road if you're staying near the oceanfront. Easy to spot from the road. Parking is free and usually plentiful, though summer weekends might force you into overflow lots for a short walk. Public transportation barely exists here. You'll need a car or rideshare to get there.

Things to Do Nearby

First Landing State Park
Beautiful state park with hiking trails, beaches, and the site where English colonists first landed. Great for extending your nature-focused day.

Virginia Beach Oceanfront
The main resort strip with the famous boardwalk, beaches, and typical seaside attractions. About 15 minutes north and a completely different vibe.

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Pristine barrier island ecosystem perfect for birdwatching and photography. Much quieter than the main beach areas and surprisingly close.

Military Aviation Museum
Impressive collection of vintage aircraft, many of which still fly. Appeals to a different crowd but it's well-regarded and just down the road.

Tips & Advice

Download their app before you visit - it has interactive maps and feeding schedules that actually enhance the experience rather than feeling gimmicky

The touch tanks are most active and engaging during scheduled feeding times, which tend to draw smaller crowds than the main tank feedings

Bring a light jacket even in summer - the indoor areas can be surprisingly cool, and you'll be doing a lot of walking between air-conditioned spaces

If you're planning to see an IMAX show, book it for mid-visit rather than at the end when you might be tired - the theater seating is comfortable and makes for a nice break