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70+ Fun Things to Do in Virginia Beach This Summer (Besides Going to the Beach)

  • Writer: Scott Westfall
    Scott Westfall
  • May 19
  • 8 min read

Updated: 3 hours ago

Looking for the best things to do today, this weekend, or during your trip to Virginia Beach this summer? Summer is the most fun time of year to visit Virginia Beach, and there are countless events and activities to enjoy!


Things to Do in Virginia Beach This Summer

There’s no shortage of reasons we love Virginia Beach. You’ll quickly see why when you explore the fun around Hampton Roads. Below are the best things to do around Virginia Beach in the coming months.


Skip to:

  • Fun Things for Kids

  • Things to Do at Oceanfront and Boardwalk

  • Romantic Things for Couples in Virginia Beach

  • Things to Do at Night

  • Concerts This Summer

  • Other Things to Do in Virginia Beach


Fun Things for Kids to Do in Virginia Beach


Watch a Movie on the Beach

Join the fun at the Beach Blanket Cinema Series! This free outdoor cinema experience takes place on Thursday nights. Bring your blankets and chairs for a family-friendly movie under the stars.


Soak Up Some Fun at the Sea Summer Solstice

From June 13-15, 2025, the Virginia Beach Public Schools will present an extravaganza on the beach. Enjoy inflatables, food trucks, foam parties, and more!


Color the Boardwalk at Chalk the Walk

On June 14th, 2025, you can participate in Chalk the Walk on the boardwalk. Bring your own chalk and unleash your inner child and artist! Registration is free, with trophies and cash prizes available.


Try Sketch Comedy at FFX Camp

FFX Theatre offers Sketch Comedy and Content Creation day camps for kids and teens this summer. No previous media or theater experience is required!


WRV Surf Camp

Master the Waves at Surf Camp

Help your kids conquer the Atlantic Ocean at the WRV Surf Camp! They can choose from either a 5-day or 3-day option, where professional surfers will teach them how to ride the waves in a safe, fun environment.


Complete the ViBe District Art Scavenger Hunt

Enjoy the brilliant spring weather by touring the art of the ViBe district via a scavenger hunt! Use this printable walkthrough to find local sculptures and paintings.


Find Out Whodunnit with You Sleuth!

Unleash your inner detective with You Sleuth’s augmented reality mystery game! It's a fun mix of Clue and Pokémon Go, where your smartphone becomes your detective tool!


Challenge Yourself at the Adventure Park

Conquer the treetop trails and ziplines at the Adventure Park at the Virginia Aquarium. With numerous trails available, everyone from beginners to experts can have a great time!


Things to Do at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront and Boardwalk


Have Fun at Live! On Atlantic

Formerly known as BeachStreetUSA, Live! On Atlantic fills the sidewalks of Atlantic Avenue with free entertainment. This evening program features jugglers, musicians, magicians, and more!


Live! on Atlantic

Roam the Virginia Legends Walk

Dig into the history of Virginia’s notable residents as you stroll along the Virginia Legends Walk at 13th Street at the Oceanfront. From presidents to athletes, you’ll learn plenty about Virginia pride!


Challenge Yourself with Puzzling Adventures

Turn your walk along the boardwalk into an adventure! Participate in Puzzling Adventures™. Your mobile device will guide you through trivia and puzzles while enjoying the beautiful scenery at Virginia Beach Oceanfront.


Grab a Seat at the Oceanfront Concert Series

Enjoy free concerts throughout June at the oceanfront featuring nationally recognized artists. It’s the perfect way to conclude a day at the beach!


La Fiesta Virginia Beach

Get the Full Latin Experience with “La Fiesta”

On June 27-28, 2025, enjoy La Fiesta Virginia Beach, a celebration of Latin food, culture, and music at the Oceanfront.


Feel the Rhythm at the Virginia Beach International Carnival

From July 17-20, 2025, the Virginia Beach International Carnival brings the vibrance of Caribbean culture to the oceanfront at 24th Street Park!


Get Funky on the Beach

On August 22-23, 2025, Funk Fest returns with electrifying music right on the beach, promising a fantastic experience!


Flipper McCoys

Play Laser Tag and Arcade Games at Flipper McCoys

If it rains, head to Flipper McCoys Family Entertainment Center for a fun day indoors! Choose from laser tag, retro arcade games, skeeball, and more to keep everyone entertained!


Symphony by the Sea

Savor the Sounds of the Symphony by the Sea

On select Thursdays during summer, enjoy concerts by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and Symphonicity Orchestra at 31st Street Park. Attend for free, or purchase a VIP pass for additional perks like valet parking and reserved seating.


Romantic Things to Do for Couples in Virginia Beach


Cook Together with Fresh Produce

Start your romantic Saturday at the Shore Drive Farmer’s Market. It’s the ideal spot to grab pastries and fresh produce for a lovely homemade brunch!


Waterman's Surfside Grille

Indulge in Sunday Brunch at Waterman’s

If cooking isn’t your thing, enjoy brunch at a local favorite. Waterman’s Surfside Grille offers outdoor seating with lovely ocean views and a menu featuring fresh local seafood.


Light the Night at the Water Lantern Festival

On August 2, 2025, grab your tickets for the Water Lantern Festival at Mount Trashmore Park! This unique event includes conversation cards and a floating lantern kit.


Swap Brews at the Coastal Craft Beer Festival

On August 23, 2025, enjoy the Coastal Craft Beer Festival together. Sample over 60 beers from 30 different breweries!


Share a Kiss in the Cape Henry Lighthouse

Visit Fort Story and climb the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse. Here, you can reenact romantic moments like those from The Bachelor while enjoying a breathtaking 360° view.


Beachside Social

Make it a Date at Beachside Social

Looking for a fun night out? Visit Beachside Social, where you can enjoy a delightful menu and games like bocce ball and shuffleboard!


Dance the Night Away at Neptune’s Seniors Gala

On September 3, 2025, seniors aged 62 and up can enjoy Neptune’s Seniors Gala. This festive event includes big band music and a delicious buffet.


Have a Picnic at First Landing

Stroll through First Landing State Park on one of its nine beautiful trails. Find a cozy spot to open your picnic basket and enjoy quality time outdoors.


Bridal Expo

Taste Seasonal Wines at the VB Winery

Visit Virginia Beach Winery for daily wine tastings and special events throughout the month. Experience some of the best wines in the region!


Plan Your Dream Wedding at the Bridal Expo

On June 8, 2025, check out everything you need for the perfect wedding day at the Bridal and Wedding Expo at the Virginia Beach Convention Center!


Things to Do at Night in Virginia Beach


Master Pub Trivia at Murphy’s Irish Pub

Join in on trivia night every Tuesday at Murphy’s while enjoying a delicious burger! Teams and solo players are welcome—compete for prizes, including a spot on the Champions Trophy.


Sing Along at Totally Tribute Music Fest

From July 3-5, 2025, experience Totally Tribute Music Fest featuring tribute bands performing blues, rock, and pop classics!


Stars and Stripes Celebration

Celebrate Independence Day with Beachside Fireworks

On July 4, 2025, don’t miss the Stars and Stripes Celebration at the Oceanfront, featuring live entertainment and fireworks viewed from several parks along Atlantic Avenue.


Hit the Dance Floor at Omega Bar

Known for its tapas, drinks, and vibrant Latin dance atmosphere, Omega Bar is perfect for a night of fun. Visit on Friday or Saturday for “Latin Nights!”


Take the Stage at Open Mic Night

Show off your musical skills at Open Mic Night every Tuesday at Barbeque by Froggies on Shore Drive. Don’t forget your instrument!


Access Free Concerts with Summer Fest

Join Town Center’s Summer Fest for live music every night from 5-9 pm. Enjoy food, drinks, and local talent under the stars.


Cruise Down the Elizabeth River

Take in the beautiful Norfolk skyline on a dinner cruise aboard The Spirit of Norfolk. Experience dining, dancing, and games as you sail alongside impressive ships.


City Cruise

Concerts in Virginia Beach this Summer

Here’s a list of must-see concerts taking place in Virginia Beach this summer!


Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater

  • Wynonna Judd (June 20, 2025) - The Dome

  • James Arthur (July 1, 2025) - The Dome

  • Diana Krall (July 6, 2025) - The Dome

  • Dierks Bentley (July 10, 2025) - Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

  • Styx & Kevin Cronin + Don Felder (July 11, 2025) - Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

  • KEM (July 11, 2025) - The Dome

  • Michael Franti & Spearhead (July 15, 2025) - The Dome

  • The Offspring (July 18, 2025) - Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

  • Big Time Rush (July 19, 2025) - Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

  • Chicago (July 22, 2025) - The Dome

  • Nellie with JA Rule, Eve & Special Guests (July 25, 2025) - Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

  • Whiskey Myers (July 25, 2025) - The Dome

  • Graham Nash (August 1, 2025) - Sandler Center for the Performing Arts

  • Kesha and Scissor Sisters (August 2, 2025) - Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

  • Cody Jinks (August 11, 2025) - The Dome

  • The Doobie Brothers (August 12, 2025) - Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

  • Cypress Hill & Atmosphere (August 13, 2025) - The Dome

  • Luke Bryan (August 16, 2025) - Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

  • Thomas Rhett (August 23, 2025) - Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

  • Alison Krauss & Union Station (August 28, 2025) - The Dome

  • Chevelle with Asking Alexandria and Dead Poet Society (August 30, 2025) - The Dome

  • Def Leppard (August 31, 2025) - Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

  • Simple Plan (August 31, 2025) - The Dome

  • James Taylor and His All-Star Band (September 3, 2025) - Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

  • Blink-182 (September 4, 2025) - Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

  • Breaking Benjamin & Three Days Grace (September 8, 2025) - Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

  • Pantera (September 10, 2025) - Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach

  • Ryan Adams (September 13, 2025) - Sandler Center for the Performing Arts

  • Maren Morris (September 16, 2025) - The Dome

  • Papa Roach & Rise Against (September 17, 2025) - The Dome


Other Things to Do in Virginia Beach This Summer


Jam, Listen, and Learn at the Vocal Jazz Summit

From June 5-8, 2025, the Zeider’s American Dream Theater presents the Vocal Jazz Summit. Enjoy performances, workshops, masterclasses, and jam sessions.


Immerse Yourself in the Fascinating World of Bees with The Nature Bus

On June 23, 2025, hop on the Nature Bus for a “Bee-utiful Experience”. Learn about beekeeping and the fascinating lives of bees.


Hear the Best of Country, Folk, and Rock at Outlaw Fest

On June 16, 2025, enjoy the Outlaw Music Festival featuring iconic artists such as Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Robert Plant, and Alison Krauss!


Visit the Historic DeWitt Cottage

Explore the oldest remaining private structure on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront at the historic DeWitt Cottage. It houses the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum, gift shop, and Back Bay Wildfowl Guild.


Witness Vintage Warbirds Take to the Skies

Visit the Military Aviation Museum and enjoy narrated flight demonstrations showcasing historical military planes. Admission includes access to the museum and the day’s events!


Military Aviation Museum

Try Primitive Camping on the Beach at False Cape State Park

Reconnect with nature at one of the primitive campsites at False Cape State Park. With six pristine miles of the Atlantic Ocean, it's a truly unique retreat.


Ferry Plantation House

Tour the Ferry Plantation House

Experience the historical and paranormal stories of the Ferry Plantation House. Discover the tales of the infamous “witch of Pungo” and other local legends.


Get Inspired by MOCA’s New Exhibitions

This July, the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art will open exciting new exhibitions by Virginia artists, including a statement on the importance of bees and surprising art.


Attend the East Coast Surfing Championships

From August 17-24, 2024, witness the excitement of Coastal Edge’s East Coast Surfing Championships—the oldest continually run surfing competition in the world!


Run in the Virginia Beach 10-Miler

Join the Virginia Beach 10-Miler on August 30-31, 2025, for a race and beach party hosted by Chartway!


Kiss Summer Goodbye at the End of Summer Bay Bash

On September 6, 2025, enjoy nonstop dancing, delicious food, and fantastic music at the End of Summer Bay Bash! Proceeds will support Toby’s Dream Foundation, helping children with life-threatening illnesses.


End of Summer Bay Bash

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