At Atlantic Homecare Services, we understand the importance of mental and physical health, no matter your age, in sustaining a long and healthy life. We have instilled this type of thinking in our caregivers and encourage them to participate in such mental and physical activities with our clients, both inside and outside of the home.
There’s a reason Virginia Beach was named one of the fittest cities in the U.S. and our active senior community is no exception to that! Here is a list of some of our favorite local activities in Hampton Roads that are safe and beneficial for seniors to try with your loved ones!
1. Take a walk on the beach
Virginia Beach has plenty of beautiful beaches to enjoy. Head over to Chic’s Beach for breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Chesapeake Bay. Take a stroll on the Boardwalk at Virginia Beach’s Oceanfront and be sure to check out some of the entertainment featured along Beach Street USA.
Virginia Beach
2. Listen to some live music
Hampton Roads has plenty to offer when it comes to live music. The Virginia Beach Oceanfront offers free live music most days of the week during their Summer Concert Series at Neptune’s Park on 31st street or on various smaller stages along the Boardwalk. The Hermitage Museum in Norfolk features live music from locals’ favorites every Thursday during the Summer as part of their Sunsets on the River Concert Series. Looking for something a little more centrally located? Check out Ynot Wednesdays Free Summer Concert Series & Farmer’s Market at Town Center in Virginia Beach. For other local live music listings, visit vbnightlife.com or JamBase.com.
Outdoor concert Hampton Roads
3. Go out for a movie
There’s just something about seeing a movie on the big screen. Enjoy dinner and a movie at the new Beach Cinema Ale House. Head over to the historical Naro Cinema in Downtown Norfolk for some eclectic movie showings. Looking for a real blast from the past? The newly restored 1945 Art Deco style Commodore Theater in Portsmouth is stunning! Download the Fandango App to view your local theaters and show times. Don’t forget to ask about Senior Discounts!
4. Visit your local aquarium or zoo
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is a great place to take Grandma, Grandpa, and the kids. They offer both Children and senior discounts! If the weather permits, the Virginia Zoo is another great activity the entire family will enjoy. They offer children, military, senior and AAA discounts! Want to see some mammals in their natural habitat? Go whale watching or for a dolphin tour.
5. Visit your local farmer’s market
Farmer’s Markets not only allow you to support your local businesses, but also offer healthy, locally grown food options for your weekly meals. Enjoy exercising at your own pace as you walk around to each vendor booth. Often times, you are able to meet the owners themselves of your favorite local spots. Just about every city in Hampton Roads offers one or more farmer’s markets. Here is a full list by city.
6. Be a tourist for a day and check out some of your local historical sites and museums
As one of the original 13 colonies, Virginia sure isn’t lacking in the history department. Visit the Cape Henry Lighthouses or the Adam Thoroughgood House in Virginia Beach; tour the Battleship Wisconsin at Nauticus or have afternoon tea at the Pagoda in Norfolk; visit the Virginia Air & Space Center in Hampton; the Planetarium in Chesapeake; the Seaboard Station Railroad Museum in Suffolk; the Children’s Museum in Portsmouth; or the Virginia War Museum in Newport News. For a full list of museums and historical sites click here.
7. Check out some local art
Arts districts are popping up all over Hampton Roads and we are loving it! These districts not only feature local artists and shops, but also some pretty great locally sourced food. The ViBe Creative District in Virginia Beach features farm to table restaurants, antique shops, coffee shops, local craft breweries, a distillery, the Museum of Contemporary Art and much more! Have you seen the Neon District in Norfolk recently? This vibrant arts neighborhood is home to longtime residents such as the Chrysler Museum of Art and Harrison Opera House as well as new art venues like Glass Wheel Studio and Work|Release.
8. Take a walk through your local park
If you’re lucky enough to call Hampton Roads home, then you know it includes many beautiful parks. Take a bike ride or simply stroll through First Landing State Park located in Northeast Virginia Beach. Walk across the Virginia/ North Carolina border in False Cape State Park. Wake up and smell the roses at Norfolk Botanical Gardens. You may even catch a wedding!
Time spent alone can be one of the more difficult adjustments for those in their golden age. We hope this encourages you to spend time with those special to you, enjoying the many wonderful activities Hampton Roads has to offer. Did we forget to mention one of your favorite activities? Please leave us a comment below or check out virginia.org for more things to do.
