Welcome to a joyful, art-infused weekend in Virginia Beach, where bold murals meet sun-washed shores and sparkling glass masterpieces punctuate boardwalks. Whether you’re simply strolling the Oceanfront or are seeking out artistic experiences, this itinerary highlights some of our brightest works.
A Storied Culture: Art in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach has been known for its art long before mural-brightened neighborhoods and boardwalks peppered with paintings. One of its earliest “public artworks” arrived by surprise: The Norwegian Lady, a ship’s figurehead that washed ashore after an 1891 storm. A bronze replica now stands in her place — an early reminder that art in Virginia Beach often begins at the water’s edge.
By the 1950s, a group of local artists formed the Virginia Beach Art Association, and their passion sparked an inaugural boardwalk art show in 1956. As the city grew, so did its commitment to celebrating art in everyday spaces. Whether you’re wandering through the ViBe Creative District or are simply walking from beach to brunch, you’ll discover that our city’s art is joyfully woven into the places you explore.
Day One | Oceanfront
King Neptune
Begin your morning in Oceanfront strolling the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, a three-mile promenade bordered with public art. At the gateway you’ll find King Neptune, a towering bronze figure by Paul DiPasquale — a perfect photo-op to kick off your trip.
Seashore Cathedral
Venture to Rudee Inlet and discover Seashore Cathedral, a series of vibrant murals by Giuseppe Percivati. This installation, which feels like the interior of a sanctuary, transforms concrete columns into stained-glass-style vignettes of Virginia Beach life, including several scenes representing our coastal culture.
The Wave
Next, pause at the dramatic stainless-steel installation, The Wave, by Indianapolis-based artist Jeff Laramore. This 35-foot sculpture, with sweeping curves that embody movement and arrival, is located at Laskin Gateway.
Anticipation
Finally, head to Grommet Island Park (the first beach playground designed for adults and children of all physical abilities) to see Anticipation, a bronze sculpture depicting two young surfers by Richard Stravitz. Dedicated to accessibility and the spirit of community, Anticipation was inspired by Josh Thompson, an avid Virginia Beach surfer diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2006
Day Two | Inland and Town Center
Mille Colori
On your second day, head Inland. Dedicate your morning to the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (Virginia MOCA), where you’ll encounter the stunning blown-glass chandelier, Mille Colori, by Dale Chihuly. This radiant installation contains 520 glass-blown elements and weighs more than 2,200 pounds. It’s suspended year-round from atop the Rodriguez Pavilion, which was purpose-built to showcase this piece.
Light Garden
Love conceptual art? See Light Garden in Princess Anne Commons Gateway Park. Created by Guggenheim Fellow Dale Eldred, this experimental installation — designed to look like a grove of trees — contrasts natural and generated light against towering slates of glass.
The Kiss
Finally, make your way to the sleek Town Center, where you’ll find The Kiss — a tender bronze piece by Gary Alsum based on a real photograph of a couple’s embrace, installed overlooking the pond in Central Park.
Wings
Located in front of Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Wings is a kinetic sculpture (a three-dimensional piece in constant motion) by renowned New Orleans artist Lin Emery. The highly-polished, aluminum creation is 23 feet tall.
Town Center Garage Murals
Located on three interior walls within Town Center’s Block 4 Garage, these well-hidden murals are worth the hunt. Painted by local muralist Richard Nickel, the three designs feature bold shapes and retro colors, like bubblegum pink and lightning-rod yellow.
Day 3 | ViBe Creative District and Hidden Gems
People and Plants
Dedicate your final day to the artistic pulse of the city: the ViBe Creative District, an expressive hub home to more than 500 public artworks. One standout? People and Plants, a mural by contemporary Irish artist Maser. Located on the back of MOCA, this mural highlights Maser’s signature abstract designs and bold swaths of color.
The Canoes
Finally, venture across Lesner Bridge to find The Canoes by Donald Lipski: a striking stainless-steel, star-patterned sculpture featuring ten canoes. This work celebrates the region’s waterborne heritage, offering an authentic end to your art-filled getaway.
Practical Tips for Viewing Art in Virginia Beach
- Many public art installations in Virginia Beach are free and outdoor. Mornings offer the best light (and fewer crowds) for photos.
- Virginia MOCA features rotating exhibitions. Check their website for current showings.
- Wear comfortable shoes — this itinerary invites you to move, pause and absorb.
In Virginia Beach, art is as integral to our community as sand and shoreline. Our works invite you to inhabit the present, remember the past and contemplate the future. Whether you prefer murals, sculptures or glass chandeliers, you’ll leave the weekend with stories worth the journey.
About the Author
As a native Southerner, writer Lindsay Pace is always on the hunt for a mile-high biscuit. She has a special appreciation for people and the places that shape them, but when she isn’t documenting their lives, she’s baking sourdough or taking her pup, Scout, for a walk.
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