Brett Meliti@bmeliti
As one of the top cities in the state, Virginia Beach is a great place for seniors – and with 13.4% of people living here aged between 65 and over, it’s a senior-friendly place too. And as America’s 43rd largest city, it’s full of things for people of all ages to do without being too bustling or too busy for seniors to get around. From a day out at the Aquarium to a trip to the boardwalk, there are all sorts of activities to choose from. This article will share some top tips for older people and their families who are on the hunt for a great experience here in Virginia Beach.
Virginia Aquarium
On the face of it, heading to the Aquarium sounds like something more suited to younger people or families. But as many seniors are discovering, discovering new things in later life is great for both physical and mental health – and the Virginia Aquarium on General Booth Boulevard is a good place to do this. The Aquarium offers everything from indoor collections of marine life to dolphin discovery trips. It also has a number of senior-friendly facilities, too, such as parking for people with disabilities and wheelchair hire provision – so it’s clearly a destination where plenty of older people are made to feel at home.
Virginia Beach boardwalk
The boardwalk in Virginia Beach is one of the finest in the country: at 28 feet wide and about 3 miles long, it’s full of great things to do. There are four different stages with live music on them, so there’s plenty to keep you entertained. If you’re feeling active, it’s possible to rent a bike for yourself or rent a four wheeled bike that holds up to six people. Perhaps one of the best things to do, though, is a simple one: the bronze King Neptune statue located near Atlantic Avenue and 31st Street is a popular place to hang out and take a photo. If you enjoy people watching then this is a great place to sit and watch the world go by and listen to bands at the adjoining park. Heading out for a day trip is a good way for all members of the family to enjoy themselves, too, and the boardwalk is a great destination for everyone.
Military Aviation Museum
Finally, the Military Aviation Museum on Princess Anne Road is a fantastic place to visit. Many seniors have memories of the wars of the later twentieth century: for those who are interested in going back in time, this collection has everything from World War Two aircraft to interactive aircraft ride experiences. Seniors aged 65 and over get a two-dollar discount on entry prices, too, and any World War Two or Korean War veterans can enter for free.
Virginia Beach, then, is clearly a hotspot for all sorts of events and experiences. Days out here are plentiful, and with everything from military aircraft collections to undersea experiences available, there’ll be something for you or your elderly relatives to do. It’s pleasing to note, too, that many Virginia Beach attractions now optimize their buildings to be senior-friendly – so you don’t have to worry too much about access and mobility.
by contributing writer Jennifer Dawson
writing.jennifer.dawson@gmail.com