First constructed in 1888, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk has received national acclaim in recent times as one of America's favorite boardwalks by the Discovery Channel, and in magazines such as Coastal Living, Southern living, and National Geographic Traveler.
In its various forms, the thoroughfare has seen it all: Prohibition and German U-boats, Big Bands and surfer girls, shag contests and roller blades. Throughout time, the Boardwalk has remained an enduring symbol of Virginia Beach. Built from wooden planks during the nation's "gilded age," the five-block promenade attracted thousands of Victorian vacationers. At the famed Peacock Ballroom, couples swooned to the music of legendary artists such as Duke Ellington, Cap Calloway and Tommy Dorsey.
Today's Boardwalk is now 28-feet wide and stretches three-miles featuring a seperate bike path, making it ideal for strolling, rollerblading and biking. Entertainment is offered nightly during the summer months and four oceanfront stages at 7th, 17th, and 24th and 31st Streets provide live musical acts. Along the boardwalk there is a variety of quaint outdoor restuarants and vendors offering bike and surrey rentals. Nautical sculptures adorn many of the side streets which lead to Atlantic Avenue. While there, don't forget to swing by and see King Neptune which is a twenty-four foot, twelve ton bronze statue that stands at the gateway to Neptune Festival Park on 31st Street. This is perhaps one of the most popular photo oportunities in the resort area.
For handicapped, accessibility ramps from the boardwalk to the beach are available at every block. Located at 8th, 17th, 24th and 30th Streets are eight-foor wooden walkways that reach the water's edge. Accessible restrooms are located at 17th, 24th and 30th Streets. Handicapped parking can be found along the main thoroughfare.