Established in 1979, this historic theater is named for its original proprietor, the Father of Vaudeville, Jake Wells. Today, the Wells is home to the Virginia Stage Company and regularly hosts productions. The Wells and the VSC in the past have put on such productions as My Fair Lady and A Christmas Carol. Besides theatrical productions, workshops, residential programs for artists and performers and summer camps at the theater are also organised by the company.
As part of a tribute to all that have served in our nation's military, and especially those that died in battle, sits the Armed Forces Memorial in Norfolk. The memorial is located on a port that carried servicemen and off to war and then returned them home to their family and friends. Also found at this memorial are 20 letters written by servicemen to their families, all of whom eventually lost their lives in battle. Each of these letters are cast in bronze and found all across the memorial.
Naro Expanded Cinema is a charming old-fashioned cinema with an always eclectic line-up. From independent indie films to documentaries, it shows left-field theater, usually neglected by multi-plexes. The cinema itself is a little dated and run-down but for many loyal patrons, that's part of its charm. Check the website for details of upcoming shows.
The Virginia Living Museum is Hampton Road's own natural history museum. Learn all about the different habitats of Virginia and the animals that live in them, from Chesapeake Bay to swamps and mountains. Kids will love the large aquariums and running around the beautiful gardens. The Touch Tank is an especially popular exhibit where kids can get hands on with different tidepool creatures. The museum also has a planetarium that can be visited for an additional price.
The Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a freshwater refuge located in Virginia Beach, right on the Atlantic coast. The refuge provides a place for migratory birds to feed and rest during their long, seasonal journeys. Because of this, Back Bay is a bird-watcher's paradise. With over 9000 acres, there is more wildlife to be spotted than just birds, so grab your binoculars and head down for a day in the great outdoors.
Grommet Island Park is a fun park for both adults and kids. It is a great place for a family outing as it has play area along the beach, ice-cream parlours, boat ride, and many more activities to make your day fun and worth remembering.