Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center — Attraction in Virginia Beach

We ordered our tickets online the night before and because of that we're able to move right in with no wait.

It does what it can for its size. I do like that it has some reptiles and obove water creatures, but from what I understand there's a zoo in the area that should be able to support those exhibits which would free up a great amount of space. There are some fish and underwater environments, but there's a huge missed opportunity to be fully immersive with all things under water.

The "submarine" is out dated and just "there", but there's nothing really interactive with it. Again, a missed opportunity to make underwater exploration for the littles fun and something that I would want to come back to.

There are two small touch pools that a well supervised so that was neat and the fish and underwater life that is there is really fun to see.

There were interactive exhibits for kids to touch things, but I feel alot of it goes over their heads and even if the parents try to explain it, the 2, 3, 4 yrd Olds are mostly in the "squirrel" mentality to go press the next button that only changes something a different color.

The building is clean and appears to be well kept so that's nice especially with the idea of kids running around all the places.

The staff was polite and helpful in guidance and explanation of what to do and where to go.

And lastly, the prices in the gift shop were expected that they'd be a little high but not nearly as high as they ended up being. We got 2 items, 1 little shark hat for my 17 month old and a little hand held toy that ended up being just shy of $40 (they do offer military discount, but I didnt ask how much it was). Buying these things anywhere else would have been barely $20.

Now I understand that aquariums have to raise money somehow to continue to operate, and they would need to raise alot more if the "missed opportunities" I was referring to were to ever be improved upon, but I really can't see us going back more than twice in a year to make the $195 family membership price worth it.

It was very nice and a great time had by my family and that's why I gave it a 4/5, but it would be nice if there was something with more to offer as an "aquarium" in this area for how big it is and as close to the water as it is to try and tie it...

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Virginia aquarium that left me captivated by its beauty and variety. The combination of an extraordinary aquarium and an enchanting gift shop made for an unforgettable experience.

From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a world teeming with marine life, meticulously arranged to provide an immersive and educational journey. The aquarium's attention to detail was commendable, and I was fascinated by the diverse range of species on display. The exhibits were thoughtfully designed, allowing visitors to observe marine life up close and personal.

What truly took my breath away were the stunning views within the aquarium. Large, crystal-clear tanks provided panoramic vistas, giving the illusion of being submerged in the underwater realm. The vibrant colors of the corals and the graceful movements of the fish created a mesmerizing spectacle. It was like stepping into a different universe altogether.

The gift shop was an extension of this aquatic wonderland. Filled with an assortment of marine-themed merchandise, it was a delight for both children and adults. From intricate seashell crafts to captivating books on marine biology, the shop had something for every visitor to take home as a cherished memento.

However, as much as I adored my time there, I couldn't help but wish for a larger space, I didn’t want it to end ! While the aquarium was beautifully designed, it felt slightly constrained due to its size. With an expanded area, the exhibits could have been more extensive, accommodating an even wider array of marine species. This would have added further depth to the overall experience, leaving visitors with an even greater sense of awe and appreciation for the underwater world.

Nevertheless, this aquarium managed to create a magical atmosphere and provide an unforgettable experience. It's a place where one can marvel at the wonders of the ocean, learn about marine life, and find unique treasures at the gift shop. I highly recommend visiting this exceptional destination, even if it leaves you yearning for more space to explore. Parking all day was only...

My family and I had a nice visit to the Virginia Beach Aquarium, a charming and family-friendly spot that’s perfect for a day out with kids. This cute little aquarium is split into two buildings, connected by a scenic 10-minute trail walk (or a quick 2-minute drive), which adds a nice touch of adventure to the experience. We explored the building housing the sharks and sea turtles, and it was a hit, especially with the kiddos!

The aquarium offers plenty to see, do, and—most importantly for my kids—touch. For children who thrive on hands-on experiences, this place delivers with numerous interactive touch exhibits that kept my little ones engaged and excited. The fish walkway was favorite, with cute fish swimming all around us. We had a blast using a chart to identify different species, turning it into a fun family game. The shark tank was another highlight, with a sea turtle stealing the show whenever it made an appearance. Sitting and watching the sharks glide by was nice.

I loved how the aquarium seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor elements. You can step outside for stunning scenic views or take a leisurely stroll along the nature trail, which adds a refreshing break from the exhibits. The outdoor areas are thoughtfully incorporated, with spots to sit and soak in the surroundings.

The café was cute, though it can get hectic during peak lunch hours, so plan accordingly. Overall, the Virginia Beach Aquarium is a fantastic destination for families. With interactive exhibits, engaging displays, and a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor experiences, it’s a great museum that left us all smiling. Highly recommend for a fun,...