Virginia Science Marine Museum and Aquarium, Virginia Beach (must see)

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Museum is a captivating destination for exploring marine life in the region. The museum's exhibits are spread across two main buildings: the Bay and Ocean Pavilion and the Marsh Pavilion. The Bay and Ocean Pavilion features the Norfolk Canyon aquarium, which replicates the local deep-sea environment and showcases sharks, stingrays, and other marine creatures. The Marsh Pavilion, on the other hand, is home to otters, seahorses, snakes, and various marsh inhabitants. Connecting the two pavilions is a nature trail that runs alongside the scenic Owls Creek Salt Marsh, offering an engaging outdoor experience.

At the Bay and Ocean Pavilion, visitors can marvel at the Norfolk Canyon aquarium's deep-sea environment, providing an immersive look at the underwater world with its diverse inhabitants. This section of the museum allows guests to get up close with the ocean's fascinating creatures, such as sharks and stingrays, in a setting that mirrors their natural habitat.

The Marsh Pavilion complements this experience by focusing on the unique ecosystems of marshlands. Here, visitors can observe playful otters, delicate seahorses, and various reptiles, offering insight into the rich biodiversity of these environments. The nature trail that connects the two pavilions adds an educational and recreational aspect, allowing visitors to explore the Owls Creek Salt Marsh and observe the flora and fauna of this important ecological area. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Museum provides a comprehensive and engaging experience for those interested in marine and marshland life.