Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum, Virginia Beach (must see)

The Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum, nestled in the historic De Witt Cottage, serves as a captivating repository of the region’s wildfowl heritage. Built in 1895, this two-story, L-shaped brick cottage exemplifies the Queen Anne style with its decorative detailing and expansive porches. Recognized for its historical significance, the cottage was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.

Transitioning to a museum in 1995, the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum now showcases an extensive array of exhibits. These include a diverse collection of bird decoys, intricate bird art, and sculptures, as well as vintage shotguns and hunting memorabilia. Additionally, the museum offers visitors a pictorial history of Virginia Beach, enriching their understanding of the local heritage and evolution of wildfowl hunting in the region.

Visiting the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum offers a unique glimpse into the pastimes and artistic expressions connected to wildfowl in the Atlantic region. It stands as a cultural beacon in Virginia Beach, drawing enthusiasts of history, art, and nature, and preserving the legacy of the de Witt family, who occupied the house from 1909 to 1988 before it was repurposed into this specialized museum.