What is America250 and Why It Matters
This year marks a historic milestone—America’s 250th birthday. Known as the semiquincentennial, this nationwide celebration honors the people, places, and events that shaped our country. Here in coastal Virginia, where so much of America’s story began, there’s no better place to experience the excitement woven into your summer beach vacation. From community events and cultural programming to coastal celebrations, visitors will find meaningful ways to experience America’s past while enjoying one of the East Coast’s most popular beach destinations. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, America250 events in Virginia Beach offer the perfect reason to visit.
Historic Cape Henry Lighthouse
One of the best places to start your America250 adventure is at the Cape Henry Lighthouse. Built in 1792 and authorized by President George Washington, this lighthouse is the first federally funded public works project in U.S. history. Climb the historic brick tower and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean—the same waters British ships once navigated in search of home.
Vacation tip: Visit on National Lighthouse Day, August 7, when admission is free, and you’ll have the opportunity to climb BOTH lighthouses. It’s the only day of the year the old lighthouse is open to visitors, and take it from us - it’s pretty cool.
First Landing State Park
Long before Virginia Beach became a beloved coastal getaway, this shoreline was where English settlers first landed in 1607 before moving on to Jamestown. You can tell folks back home you did America250 and 400 once you’ve hiked one of these trails.
Today, First Landing State Park offers miles of trails winding through maritime forest, cypress swamps, and sandy dunes. During your stay, you can celebrate America250 by:
- Hiking or biking along scenic historic trails
- Kayaking through peaceful coastal waterways
- Enjoying a sunset picnic along the Chesapeake Bay
It’s the perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and early American history. Need more hike ideas? Check out our family-friendly Virginia Beach hikes guide to plan your trek now!
Newly Reopened Francis Land House
History lovers will especially enjoy visiting the beautifully restored Francis Land House. Originally built around 1805, this plantation home recently reopened after renovations and offers a fascinating glimpse into life in early Virginia. Docents and exhibits bring the house to life with stories about the Land family, early American architecture, and daily life in the 19th century.
Adam Thoroughgood House
Another must-see historic site is the Adam Thoroughgood House, one of the oldest surviving colonial homes in the region. Dating back to the late 1600s, the home tells the story of Adam Thoroughgood, an English colonist who helped establish what would later become Princess Anne County. Guided tours reveal what life looked like for early settlers and how this coastal community grew over centuries. Plus, their beautiful gardens make this a must-see experience for all.
Sail250 in Norfolk
One of the biggest regional celebrations of America250 will happen just across the water in Norfolk from June 19-23. Sail250 will bring an incredible fleet of tall ships, naval vessels, and international sailing ships to the harbor in honor of America’s maritime history. The event will include:
- Ship tours
- Legendary parade of sail
- Fireworks and live entertainment
- Educational maritime exhibits
This event is part of a HarborFest weekend, a local favorite celebrating our maritime history and love of the water. For guests staying with us in Virginia Beach, Norfolk is just a short drive away—making this weekend festival an unforgettable day trip during your vacation.
The beauty of celebrating America250 in Virginia Beach is that you can mix history with vacation fun. Spend the morning exploring centuries-old landmarks, then return to your vacation rental for an afternoon on the sand. There’s something special about celebrating America’s history in the very region where so much of it began.
Plan Your Stay for America250 Events
Celebrate America250 while enjoying the best of coastal Virginia Beach from Atkinson Realty. From historic events and community celebrations to beach days and family-friendly activities, this milestone year is the perfect time to plan your visit. Choose from a wide selection of professionally managed vacation rentals near the ocean, boardwalk, and top event locations, all designed to help you make the most of your stay.