Get a Running Start at the Chartway Virginia Beach 10 Miler & 5K
Race into Labor Day weekend at the Chartway Virginia Beach 10 Miler & 5K, which begins on Saturday, August 31, with a 5K along the Oceanfront. If you’re looking for a bigger challenge, the 10-mile run on Sunday, September 1, passes iconic landmarks such as the King Neptune Statue and the Atlantic Avenue Ferris Wheel at the Atlantic Fun Park, crossing the finish line near the historic pier. Runners and walkers are welcome, and you can register for both races as part of the “Live the Life Challenge.” Each day will feature a post-race celebration with live music, cold beer and delicious food.
Enjoy Beach-Side Entertainment at Live! On Atlantic
Watch the evening come to life along the picturesque Oceanfront with Live! On Atlantic, when sidewalks and streets become stages for performance artists, magicians, jugglers, musicians and more. Suitable for all ages, Labor Day weekend will bring nationally recognized artists to Virginia Beach during this free signature music series under the stars.
Sip Cocktails at the Rooftop O Bar
Appreciate the long weekend during a relaxed evening in a rooftop garden, enjoying delicious craft cocktails. Head to Orion’s Roof Garden & Dining on Oceanfront and revel in panoramic rooftop views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay. Sip specialty cocktails at the O Bar, such as a Japanese Old Fashioned (a classic with a twist) or a Freedom of Peach (made with Cognac, peach, vanilla, pear, lemon and sparkling sake.) If you’re wanting a bite to go with your cocktail, it’s impossible to go wrong with any of Orion’s fresh sushi rolls. (Chef’s kiss!)
Tap into Your Daring Side at The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium
Get your heart pumping at The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium. Adjacent to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, the park features 17 treetop trails, 33 ziplines and over 250 adventure challenges like low-rope and high-rope courses, aerial obstacle courses and tree swings for the little ones. Opt for a group challenge and test your limits during a day of thrilling attractions.
Have Brunch at Rockafeller’s Restaurant
Perhaps your idea of a perfect vacation morning starts around 11 a.m. with tasty food and amazing views. If so, head inland to Rockafeller’s Restaurant for Sunday Brunch and savor fresh seafood dishes such as the Rock’s Seafood Omelet with shrimp and bay scallops; the Seafood Mac & Cheese with shrimp, bay scallops and lobster; or the Shrimp Hushpuppies – a playful take on a Southern classic. Request a table outside on the deck to watch boats come and go in Rudee Inlet.
Kayak Through Local Waters
From the Atlantic Ocean to Back Bay Wildlife Refuge, there are many wonderful waterways to kayak in Virginia Beach, each offering a memorable way to explore the scenic surroundings in the Chesapeake Bay District (known to locals as Chic’s Beach.) If a calm day paddle sounds ideal, book with Chesapean Outdoors, which offers a tour launching from First Landing State Park, and take in the scenery of Broad Bay and Linkhorn Bay as you paddle your way through quiet waters. If you’re hoping to spot marine life during your trip, there are tours that head to prime locations for dolphin spotting.
Feel Artsy at the ViBe Creative District
Bring out your inner artist at the ViBe Creative District, a unique arts and culture hub brimming with art galleries, restaurants and larger-than-life murals. Snap a photo in front of a colorful public art piece, or relax at a nearby coffee shop such as Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii or Three Ships Coffee for a caffeine boost or sweet treat. Don’t leave without stopping into a few artisan shops like Igor’s Custom, which creates impressive hand-painted signs, or Jars of Dust, where you can find handcrafted stoneware ceramic pieces.
Explore the Military Aviation Museum
Learn about the history of flight at the Military Aviation Museum in Pungo, one of the world’s largest collections of World War I and II military aircraft. History and aviation buffs can get up close to more than 50 aircraft at its 130-acre property, designed to mimic an actual airport facility. The museum offers group tours, story time for children, flight demonstrations and even open-cockpit flight experiences if you want to take your experience to new heights.
