Hours
We are open daily for self-guided tours from 9:00am-5:00pm, closing only for Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and inclement weather. The last entry for general admission guests is 3:30pm, while the last entry for Members is 4:00pm.
Visitor Guide
Buy Tickets In Advance
Buy or reserve your tickets in advance! Purchasing in advance ensures you may enter the Aquarium on the day and time you want, as entry times may sell out.
Before You Visit
Know What's Open
Some exhibits may be under renovation. Keep an eye on our Renovation Progress guide to stay up-to-date!
Renovation Progress
Daily Events
We offer regular programming on a weekly and monthly basis, including toddler programs, animal presentations, and more.
Daily Events CalendarAccessibility at the Aquarium
Our Aquarium is fully accessible and welcomes people of all ability levels to enjoy our exhibits and animals.
Make Plans for Parking
The North Building is located at 717 General Booth Boulevard in Virginia Beach . The South Building is located at 801 General Booth Boulevard .
Parking is available at both buildings. Guests parking at the North Building may park both in the adjacent lot and across General Booth Boulevard in the East Lot. Guests parking at the South Building may park at the adjacent lot as well as the overflow lot just behind it across Ocean Breeze Parkway.
Following the regional resort parking schedule, the City of Virginia Beach charges a $5 daily parking fee per vehicle in Aquarium lots from April 1 through October 31. From November through March, parking is free.
Accessible Parking
Parking spaces are available for guests with disabilities at the standard rate mentioned (but free for Members!). The Aquarium is an ADA-compliant facility.
Buses
Buses and other larger vehicles should park at the North Building in designated spaces near the boat dock or in the East Lot across the street. The South Building does not have oversized vehicle parking.
Member Parking
Aquarium Members enjoy FREE parking in all Aquarium lots, year-round. Learn more about becoming a Member and other amazing benefits that come with Membership.
When You Arrive
North Building
At the North Building, guests without tickets must use the main entrance on the right-hand side to enter the line and buy tickets. This is also our accessible entrance. Guests with prepaid tickets and Aquarium Members may pass this line via the left-side entrance under the blue awning.
North Building Map
South Building
At the South Building, tickets are sold at the booth outside the main entrance. Guests with prepaid tickets may skip the booth and enter the main doors.
South Building MapDining & Shopping
Learn more about our cafés and Aquarium stores located in each building.
Tips & Tricks
Added Programs
Check out our Aquarium Experiences to see what kind of special programs we offer! Some experiences are included with admission, while others require an additional ticket.
Take Your Time
Plan to spend about 1.5 hours at the North Building, around 45 minutes at the South Building, and as much time as you like on our half-mile Nature Trail. Guests are not time-limited!
Skip the Crowds
The Aquarium sees higher numbers of guests on weekends and rainy days. We also welcome more field trips on weekdays between 9:00am and 2:00pm, particularly in April and May.
Still Have Questions?
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions for more information!