9 Reasons Fall Is Actually The Best Time To Visit Virginia Beach

Though the appeal of Virginia Beach is certainly cross-seasonal, some activities are simply more enchanting set against the brisk, colorful backdrop of a Virginia autumn.

1. Horseback riding on the beach.

VB Horseback

Horseback riding is an exciting, unique experience on its own. When you layer that with sprawling, idyllic shores and crisp autumnal accents, you've got an adventure as aesthetically stimulating as it is genuinely fun.

2. Tours with Pleasure House Oysters.

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With three different boat tours to choose from, the Lynnhaven River truly becomes your oyster when you're aboard a Pleasure House tour. Renowned for their size and complex flavor, Lynnhaven oysters were once considered a royal delicacy. But this isn't about only the food, of course: Pleasure House tours are a cultural adventure set against the natural allure of the Lynnhaven River (made all the more enchanting in its fall splendor).

3. Warm offerings from Three Ships Coffee Roasters.

Echard Wheeler

A crisp fall morning and a warm, soothing mug of coffee? Well, that's the best thing since sliced Greek yogurt muffins — both of which can be found at Three Ships Coffee Roasters of Virginia Beach. Ethically sourced and locally brewed, Three Ships' Scandinavian-influenced offerings are a delicious, cozy antidote to the most frigid of autumn days.

4. Excitement at Virginia Aquarium's Adventure Park.

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With 15 different trails and several zip-lining opportunities, Adventure Park — the country's largest forest-climbing park — has earned its moniker. For the curious, intrepid vacationers, the park offers unparalleled opportunities to catch gorgeous autumnal views of transitioning treetops while completing thrilling aerial challenges.

5. Exploring Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

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Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers an insightful glimpse behind the curtain of Virginia's indigenous wildlife. Sure, we're all relatively familiar with the shallow of the Atlantic in the summer, but this well-preserved refuge allows visitors to immerse themselves in an entirely new environment — one that's home to snakes, frogs, and turtles alike.

6. Refining your critical eye at Virginia’s Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA).

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When you've had your fill of chilly outdoor activities, few things feel more soothing than a wistful stroll through your favorite museum. And because Virginia's MOCA showcases a variety of modern mediums, it's poised to satisfy every critic in your crew.

7. Catching a show at the Sandler Center of Performing Arts.

The Sandler Center of Performing Arts

Seasonal offerings abound at the Sandler Center, where you can catch everything from lithe ballet performances to head-banging rock concerts. The theater's expansive space and intricate architecture only add to this art center's well-rounded cultural lineup.

8. Diving headfirst into adventure with Surf & Adventure False Cape bike tours.

John Mactavish / Via Surf & Adventure Co.

You never know what you might find on a False Cape bike tour: boundless undeveloped beach, refreshing fall breezes, careening dolphin pods... For those seeking a deep dive into Virginia Beach's outdoors bookended by a little physical activity, this bike tour's got it all.

9. A whimsical shopping experience at North End Bag Co.

North End Bag Co.

"Tailor-made" takes on new meaning at North End Bag Company, where gorgeous leather goods are handcrafted on location. North End's irreverent ethos provides a welcoming flourish to this truly one-of-a-kind sartorial experience — as well as a great opportunity to snag some complements to your fall wardrobe.

Virginia Beach: It's not just for summer anymore! For an autumn jam-packed with adventure, culture, and everything in between, book your VA getaway today.