Virginia Beach History & Landmarks

Virginia Beach History & Landmarks

Filtered Photo of The Cavalier on the Hill

Virginia Beach is known for its unique history. In 1607, Captain John Smith and a group of explorers landed at Cape Henry, located at the northern end of Virginia Beach where they saw sand, dunes and pine forests. This took place shortly before the explorers landed in Jamestown.

Virginia Beach was established as a resort town in 1880 when a clubhouse was built on the ocean. However, it wasn't fully established until a railroad was built to accompany passengers from the busy port of Norfolk to the Oceanfront as well as to the Princess Anne Hotel; both structures were built in 1883. By the early twentieth century, Virginia Beach became one of America's most popular vacation spots, bringing in visitors to experience the gold coast.

Some of the early attractions that increased tourism in Virginia Beach included Seaside Park, with amusement attractions, such as roller coasters, a carousel and a Ferris wheel as well as salt and freshwater tubs, a casino, and numerous dance halls and saltwater pools. Other attractions included the Princess Anne Country Club, Linkhorn Park neighborhood casinos, the Surf Beach Club, and The Cavalier on the Hill, all of which delighted tourists who were searching for recreation.

Virginia Beach officially became a city on January 1, 1963 when it merged with Princess Anne County. Since then, it has increased its population dramatically by over 150 percent. Today Virginia Beach is not only a tourist destination, but it is a place with vibrant economic growth happening daily.