Google Maps Ocean View Travel Guide

Google Maps Ocean View Travel Guide

Discovering the Best of Ocean View

Top Attractions

When it comes to top attractions in Ocean View, Google Maps is the perfect tool to help you explore some of the must-visit places. Start by visiting the Ocean View Beach Park, which offers a beautiful beach for swimming and sunbathing, as well as a fishing pier, boardwalk, and picnic areas. Other top attractions include the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, the Military Aviation Museum, and the First Landing State Park.

Hidden Gems

While Ocean View has plenty of well-known attractions, there are also many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Check out the Hermitage Museum & Gardens, a historic home and museum set in 12 acres of stunning gardens. The Chrysler Museum of Art is another hidden gem, with a world-class collection of art and exhibitions, as well as a glassblowing studio. For a unique experience, visit the Mermaid Factory, where you can create your own mermaid sculpture.

Food Scene

Ocean View has a diverse and delicious food scene, with plenty of options for all tastes and budgets. Some of the best restaurants include the Ocean View Fishing Pier Restaurant, which serves fresh seafood and stunning ocean views, and the The Dirty Buffalo, which offers delicious wings and a lively atmosphere. For a taste of local cuisine, try the traditional Virginia ham biscuit at Doumar’s Cones and Barbecue.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget? Ocean View has plenty of free and low-cost activities to enjoy. Take a stroll along the beach or boardwalk, explore the local parks and gardens, or visit the historic Fort Monroe National Monument. You can also save money on food by checking out the local farmers’ markets and food trucks, or by packing a picnic to enjoy in one of the many public spaces.

Outdoor Adventures

If you love the great outdoors, Ocean View has plenty of opportunities for adventure. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the Chesapeake Bay, go fishing or crabbing, or take a bike ride along the many scenic trails. For a unique experience, try gliding over the treetops on a zipline at the Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium.

Historical Landmarks

Ocean View has a rich history, and there are many historical landmarks to explore. Visit the Fort Monroe National Monument, a historic military installation that played a key role in the Civil War, or the Cape Henry Lighthouse, the first lighthouse built by the US government. You can also visit the Hampton History Museum to learn more about the area’s past.

Family-Friendly Activities

Traveling with kids? Ocean View has plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, where you can see a variety of sea creatures, or take a pirate adventure cruise with Pirate’s Paradise Adventures. The Ocean View Fishing Pier also offers family-friendly fishing and crabbing, as well as a playground for kids.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

For a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the Norfolk Botanical Garden, a stunning 175-acre garden with beautiful plant collections, lakes, and trails. You can also take a ghost tour of the historic Fort Monroe, or explore the Virginia Living Museum, which showcases the state’s diverse wildlife.

Natural Wonders

Ocean View is surrounded by natural wonders, from the Chesapeake Bay to the nearby mountains. Visit the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to see a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, or take a hike through the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. You can also take a scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains, which offer stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities.

Vibrant Nightlife

For a night out, Ocean View offers a variety of options for dancing, live music, and drinks. Check out the Waterside District, a lively entertainment complex with a variety of bars and restaurants, or the Granby Theater, a historic venue that hosts live music and events. You can also visit the Vanguard Brewpub & Distillery, which offers craft beer and cocktails in a stylish setting.

Local Markets

If you love shopping and exploring local markets, Ocean View has plenty of options. Visit the Old Beach Farmers’ Market, which offers a variety of fresh produce and artisanal goods, or the Ghent Market, a popular indoor market with a variety of vendors. You can also explore the Norfolk Botanical Garden’s gift shop, which offers a variety of unique gifts and souvenirs.

Beaches and Mountains

Ocean View offers both beautiful beaches and nearby mountains, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visit the Ocean View Beach Park for swimming and sunbathing, or explore the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor adventures.

Cultural Immersion

For a cultural immersion experience, visit the Chrysler Museum of Art, which showcases a variety of art and exhibitions from around the world. You can also explore the Virginia Beach Cultural Arts Center, a vibrant hub for the local arts community, or take a walking tour of the historic Ghent neighborhood.

Art and Music Scene

Ocean View has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, venues, and festivals to explore. Visit the d’Art Center, a local arts center that offers classes, exhibitions, and events, or check out the Virginia Beach Amphitheater, which hosts a variety of concerts and performances. You can also attend the Virginia Arts Festival, a popular annual event that showcases a variety of music, theatre, and dance performances.

Walking Tours

For a unique and informative experience, take a walking tour of Ocean View’s historic neighborhoods and landmarks. The Norfolk Tour Company offers a variety of walking tours, including a ghost tour of the historic Fort Monroe and a food tour of the local culinary scene. You can also take a self-guided walking tour of the historic Ghent neighborhood, which features beautiful architecture and charming streets.

Architectural Marvels

Ocean View is home to many architectural marvels, from historic homes to modern buildings. Visit the Moses Myers House, a historic home that showcases the city’s colonial past, or explore the Chrysler Museum Glass Studio, a modern building that features stunning glass sculptures and exhibits. You can also take a walking tour of the local architecture, which features a variety of styles and periods.

Historical Sites

Finally, Ocean View is home to many historical sites that offer a glimpse into the city’s past. Visit the Hampton History Museum to learn more about the area’s history, or explore the historic Fort Monroe National Monument, which played a key role in the Civil War. You can also visit the Cape Henry Lighthouse, the first lighthouse built by the US government, or the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum, which showcases the city’s maritime history.

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a music lover, Ocean View has something for everyone. With the help of Google Maps, you can explore all the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that this vibrant city has to offer.