Embracing Charm and Culture: Exploring Virginia Beach's Old Beach Neighborhood

Nestled in the heart of Virginia Beach, Old Beach is a historic and vibrant neighborhood that marries timeless charm with modern allure. Boasting tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a thriving arts scene, this submarket offers residents a unique lifestyle filled with culture, creativity, and a strong sense of community. In this blog post, we'll take an in-depth look at the captivating lifestyle of Old Beach, explore its popular attractions, reveal the plethora of activities to enjoy, discover the best local restaurants, and highlight top-rated schools within this dynamic and picturesque neighborhood.

1. The Old Beach Lifestyle: A Blend of Past and Present

The Old Beach lifestyle is one of seamless blending between the past and present. Residents here cherish the neighborhood's historic character, as many homes boast stunning architecture from a bygone era. Quaint cottages, renovated Victorian houses, and charming bungalows contribute to the neighborhood's nostalgic ambiance. In celebration of newness and rejuvenation, Bishard Homes brings new construction builds to the historic streets of Old Beach. Known for our distinctive and thoughtful exterior elevations, we bring new life with rich character to the homes we craft in this beloved community. This submarket appeals to creatives, young professionals, and families alike, as it fosters a vibrant arts and cultural scene. Artists, writers, and performers find solace in the numerous galleries, studios, and performance venues that dot the streets of Old Beach.

2. Popular Attractions in and Nearby Old Beach: A Cultural Haven

The Old Beach Farmers Market: A popular Saturday morning activity, the Old Beach farmers market offers a wide selection of fresh seasonal fruits and veggies, baked goods, meats, spices, artisan breads, cheeses, eggs and more. Although not technically in the heart of Old Beach, it’s only a few blocks over on 19th street and within 6 blocks of the ocean, great for a short morning walk or bike ride.

Old Beach Park: Old Beach Park is the area’s biggest outdoor park, featuring a playground, grassy areas, picnic tables, and tennis and pickleball courts. Residents can enjoy an abundance of activities and outdoor space for the whole family to enjoy. 

ViBe Creative District: The ViBe Creative District, neighboring Old Beach, boasts a diverse arts scene, showcasing an array of local artists and artisans. This district hosts regular events, art walks, and craft fairs, making it a cultural haven for both residents and visitors.

Old Coast Guard Station Museum: This historic museum offers insight into the maritime history of Virginia Beach, featuring exhibits, artifacts, and tales of shipwrecks and rescues.

Virginia Beach Boardwalk: Though technically outside Old Beach, the nearby Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a major attraction, providing a bustling waterfront experience with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

3. Things to Do in Old Beach: Embracing Creativity and Community

Get Out Your Bike!: Old Beach is the perfect community for those who love a bike ride around the neighborhood, enjoying the fresh coastal air and warm Virginia sunshine. With plenty to see and do around the community all within a few blocks, locals love riding their bikes to dinner, shops and more.

Art Galleries and Studios: Immerse yourself in the local art scene by visiting the numerous galleries and studios within the ViBe Creative District. Attend art walks and exhibitions to connect with local artists and their creations.

Theaters and Performing Arts: Catch a live performance at The Little Theater of Virginia Beach or other nearby venues, where theatrical productions, concerts, and storytelling events take center stage.

Farmers Markets: Engage in the community spirit by visiting farmers markets in Old Beach. Buy fresh produce, artisanal goods, and support local vendors.

4. Best Local Restaurants: Savoring the Flavors of Old Beach

Esoteric: A popular choice among locals, Esoteric is known for its inventive farm-to-table cuisine, craft beers, and specialty cocktails.

Terrapin: With its focus on locally-sourced ingredients and creative dishes, Terrapin offers a delightful dining experience in a cozy setting.

Commune: Embracing a healthy and organic approach, Commune offers a variety of wholesome meals, smoothies, and vegan options all sourced from local regions.

5. Top-Rated Schools within the Neighborhood: Nurturing Young Minds

Old Donation School: As a National Blue Ribbon School, Old Donation School provides a gifted education program for students in grades 2 through 8, nurturing young minds in a challenging and supportive environment.

Virginia Beach Middle School: With a variety of extracurricular activities and advanced courses, Virginia Beach Middle School prepares students for high school and beyond.

Frank W. Cox High School: As a top-rated high school, Frank W. Cox High School offers rigorous academic programs and a diverse array of extracurricular opportunities, ensuring students are well-prepared for their future endeavors.

Conclusion

The Old Beach area of Virginia Beach stands as a testament to the harmonious marriage of history and modernity. This vibrant and artistic neighborhood embraces its past while actively shaping its future, making it an enticing destination for residents and visitors alike. From immersing yourself in the thriving arts scene to savoring the culinary delights of local restaurants, Old Beach offers a dynamic lifestyle that celebrates creativity and community- all just a walk or bike ride away! With top-rated schools in the area, families can rest assured that their children will receive an exceptional education within this charming and cultured neighborhood. Explore Old Beach to discover the hidden treasures that await and experience the allure of a community that preserves its heritage while embracing the present with open arms.