Smooth: Virginia Beach

There is no question that dinosaurs capture the imaginations of people of all ages. What is known about these compelling prehistoric creatures is equal parts fact and imagination. Those two elements are brilliantly combined and displayed at the Dinosaur Discovery Trail. Guests will marvel at the lifelike detail that has gone into the creation of these unforgettable exhibits. The museum is presented in an amphitheater that features five automated dinosaurs as well as a 40 minute cinematic production that gives even more detailed information about these amazing creatures.

Enjoy a whale of a time when you get on board for a Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Trip in Virginia Beach. See bottlenose dolphins and humpback whales play in their natural environment when you observe them from the unique vantage point of Rudee Tours. The tour is led by respected naturalists and professionals from the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center who will point out several interesting pieces of information about the dolphins and whales that you will see on this unique excursion. The season runs April to October to see dolphins and December through March to see whales. Beverages are available on the trip, too.

Embrace nature in a truly amazing way when you visit the False Cape State Park. This incredible slice of land is located at the southern end of Sandbridge Beach. You will immediately be struck by the area's rich outdoor beauty, and also by the fact that this area is the gateway to over 12,000 acres of protected coastal marsh habitat that offer a dramatic (and rare) opportunity to see nature in its purest form. You can get even closer to it all when you let the professionals at Back Bay Getaways lead you on an informative and entertaining trek through the area.

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center offers visitors not only a chance to get familiar with some of the ocean's most amazing creatures, but to also get closer to them. In addition to offering various seasonal whale and dolphin watching tours, the facility also provides something even more unique. When the aquarium's researchers bring back the assorted haul of various fish and invertebrates from their latest deep sea collection trips, you can be there to see what unusual creatures they have brought back for further study. There is also an opportunity to take a pontoon trip around the Owls Creek Salt Marsh. Let your imagination be stirred by not only the many creatures and exhibits at the aquarium, but also by the science and oceanic-themed features that are available here. Not only will you gain a deeper knowledge and appreciation for the many forms of underwater life that you will experience here, you will also be impressed with the theater's cutting edge presentation and sound.