A Day Full of Fun at Virginia Living Museum
Active
2h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Virginia's spectacular ecosystems in the only place where museum, zoo, aquarium, garden, and planetarium combine into one unforgettable adventure for all ages. Journey from indoor touch pools and a 32,000-gallon aquarium to a real cypress swamp with live alligators, then venture outside to our ¾-mile boardwalk trail featuring playful river otters, endangered red wolves, and 16 lifelike dinosaurs. Experience hands-on learning at our Wild Care Center, Conservation Command Center with seahorse nursery, interactive dig pits, and butterfly gardens, while discovering sustainable living at our Conservation Garden and Green House. Cap off your visit with a cosmic journey at the Abbitt Planetarium, where full-dome shows reveal how we're all connected in one big ecosystem—all proudly accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and certified as a Virginia Green attraction.
Available options
A Day Full of Fun at Virginia Living Museum
What's included
Admission ticket to Virginia Living Museum
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Take a natural history tour of Virginia with indoor and outdoor live animal exhibits and hands-on activities. Stroll the elevated boardwalk to view coastal birds, bald eagles, beavers, bobcat, river otters, red wolves and other animals in naturalized habitats. Explore the outdoor Dinosaur Discovery Trail with 16 life-like dinosaurs, interactive paleo camp and dig pits, plus dinosaur and ice age fossils. Role play in out Wild and Well Clinic. Exhibits correlate with and reinforce national science standards.
The museum is located at 524 J. Clyde Morris Blvd.
Newport News (I-64, exit 258-A). Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.daily. Outdoor areas open until 4:30pm.
Cafe and Museum Store available.
What's not included
Behind-the-Scenes tours are offered for an additional fee.
Planetarium shows are available onsite for additional fees.
Saté Café offers breakfast, lunch and snack items plus outdoor seating in a patio area.
Photo booth is offered in lobby for additional fee.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Audio guide
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.1
7 reviews
5★
4
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.6
28 reviews
5★
20
4★
6
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Wheelchair accessible
Limited number of wheelchairs and strollers available for no extra fee.
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Important notes
This ticket provides direct entry into the attraction
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.
About Norfolk
Norfolk, Virginia, is a vibrant coastal city rich in maritime history and modern attractions. Known as the 'Maritime Diamond,' it offers a unique blend of naval heritage, cultural diversity, and scenic waterfront views, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Nauticus National Maritime Center
A maritime museum featuring interactive exhibits, a large aquarium, and the historic battleship USS Wisconsin.
Museum
2-3 hours
$15-$20 for adults, discounts available
Virginia Zoo
A 53-acre zoo with over 500 animals, including lions, giraffes, and red pandas.
Zoo
3-4 hours
$15-$20 for adults, discounts available
Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
A 23-mile bridge-tunnel that connects Norfolk to Virginia Beach, offering stunning views and unique engineering.
Engineering Marvel
1-2 hours for a round trip
Toll fees apply
Must-Try Local Dishes
Oysters Rockefeller
A classic dish featuring fresh oysters topped with a rich, creamy sauce made with spinach, butter, and breadcrumbs.
Appetizer
Contains shellfish and dairy
Virginia Ham
A cured and smoked ham with a sweet and savory flavor, often served with biscuits or as part of a breakfast spread.
Main Course
Contains pork
Peanut Soup
A creamy and flavorful soup made with peanuts, chicken broth, and various spices, often served with sherry or bourbon.
Soup
Contains peanuts and dairy
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Sailing
Hiking
Beachcombing
Spa treatments
Waterfront dining
Museum visits
Art gallery tours
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5:00)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Norfolk is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or rideshare services
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
Getting there
By air
- Norfolk International Airport • 5 miles (8 km) from city center
By train
Norfolk Station
By bus
Norfolk Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and reliable, with real-time tracking available.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Norfolk
Ghent
Ocean View
Day trips
Virginia Beach
30 miles (48 km) • Half day to full day
A popular beach destination with a long stretch of sandy shores, boardwalk, and waterfront attractions.
Williamsburg
50 miles (80 km) • Full day
A historic city with colonial-era attractions, including Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens.
Chesapeake Bay
Varies by location • Full day
A large bay with scenic views, wildlife, and waterfront activities.
Festivals
Norfolk Harborfest • Early June
NEON Festival • Mid-November
Pro tips
- Visit Nauticus and the USS Wisconsin for a comprehensive maritime experience
- Explore the vibrant arts and culture scene in Ghent
- Take a day trip to Virginia Beach for a relaxing beach getaway
- Try local seafood dishes, such as oysters Rockefeller and Virginia ham
- Use public transportation or walk to explore downtown and the waterfront
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
