A Local's Guide To Virginia Beach's Hidden Gems

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center: Located near the Virginia Beach oceanfront, it's educational fun for the whole family.

Virginia Beach Boardwalk: Filled with kid-friendly activities, it offers the best access to Virginia Beach's Main Beach.

Rent bicycles: Explore Virginia Beach by bike on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk's bike path. You'll discover so many amazing restaurants, ice cream and coffee shops, and it's a cheap way to get around the city. Rent bikes hourly for the best price. Family tandem-bikes are available for rent along the boardwalk as well.

Lynnhaven Mall: A great shopping center featuring Macy's, Forever 21, Pandora, Pacsun and so many other stores. If you visit during the holidays, you can get your picture taken with the Easter Bunny or Santa for $20. This mall is decorated beautifully during the holidays too, and has a large food court with an AMC Movie theater behind it.

Ocean Breeze: The best waterpark in Virginia Beach. Adults and kids of all ages are welcome to the wave pool, and, if they are tall enough, they can ride any of the water slides and water tubing rides.

Neptune Festival: One of Virginia Beach's most famous festivals. The sculpture of Neptune on 31st Street at the oceanfront is a must-see. This festival features local and famous artists that are set up along the board walk. Neptune Festival varies in dates every year, but it is usually held in September.

Motor World: This Park is located next to Ocean Breeze, and has everything from bumper cars and go-kart racing to arcade games This park has it all. Motor World is perfect for both kids and adults, as there are kid-friendly race tracks and faster tracks for adults.

Oceana Air Show: Usually in September, spectators can watch the Blue Angel Jets fly around Virginia Beach and demonstrate aerobatic performances. Get there early, as this is a local-favorite way to support the growing military community.

Dave & Buster's: Situated in Lynnhaven Mall, it's a popular destination for both kids and adults. This modern arcade offers plenty of fun for everyone! Be sure to sample some of their world-famous drinks while you're there. Additionally, ordering food before purchasing your game card can help you save money!

Rudee's Seafood Restaurant: Located on 5th street, One of Virginia Beach's hidden local seafood spots. Get there around noon to eat on the patio with swings, or before 6 pm when the dinner crowd arrives.

Waterman's: Also located on 5th Street, this restaurant is popular with adults due to its famous Orange Crush. This hand-squeezed drink is so good, they even named a marathon after it. This restaurant also serves local seafood, and has an upscale dining experience.

Pizza Chapel: Located on 10th Street, Pizza Chapel is a hidden gem that locals rave over. Stop in on Tuesday or Thursday for "Slice Night," when they serve $1 slices of pizza from 5 pm to 7 pm.

Lucky Oyster: This casual spot is perfect for seafood lovers, offering a great selection of oysters and a fun, laid-back atmosphere.

Doc Taylors: A popular breakfast and brunch spot. Doc Taylor's is known for its hearty portions of delicious comfort food, and for its weekly music nights.

Becca: A farm-to-table restaurant that prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients. Becca offers a rotating menu of seasonal dishes.

Il Giardidino Ristorante: For Italian cuisine lovers, Il Giardino offers authentic dishes in a cozy setting, perfect for a romantic dinner or family gathering. This restaurant is known to have long wait times, so it's best to make a reservation ahead of time.

Catch 31: Located on the boardwalk at 31st Street, Catch 31 specializes in seafood with a twist, featuring a lively bar scene and stunning ocean views. During winter months, eat your meal next to their fire-pitted tables. In the summer, catch a free concert next door at the stage. Don't forget to see the Famous King Neptune Statue while you're there!