When you and your family first step into the Children's Museum of Virginia, it will be very clear that you are about to embark on a truly special experience. The facility has the distinction of being the largest children's museum in the state of Virginia. Over the course of its impressive 64,000-square-feet, the whole family will find much to capture their interest. There are dozens of interactive exhibits and attractions, a model train collection, and a stunning planetarium that are sure to capture the imagination of every visitor.
The John Cary Weston House is a structure that figures significantly into the area's history. Upon first glance, you will be struck by its Richardson Romanesque Revival architecture which is adorned by a granite ashlar with brownstone trim. The building has served many purposes, some of which were a Presbyterian church and a Christian Science center. Tours are available during regular business hours.
Fans of history will not want to miss the opportunity to visit the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum in Portsmouth. This is much more than a history lesson–this impressive facility houses an incredible collection of military artifacts, pictures, weapons and many historic ships including the CSS VIRGINIA (EX-MERRIMAC) as well as the world's first aircraft carrier, the LANGLEY.
The Lake Smith Reservoir in nearby Norfolk offers outdoor lovers an excellent chance to make a big splash! Lake Smith is an impressively large body of water that takes up nearly 193 acres, but offers safe aquatic fun as it is only five feet deep all the way around. In addition to fishing and sunbathing, anglers can enjoy catching some highly desirable largemouth bass.