Extended Weekend Getaways 
By Norman Reed
Managing Editor
Some of the best family vacations aren’t measured by how many attractions you visit, but by the memories you make along the way. At Holiday Trav-L-Park in Virginia Beach, families discover that a campground can be much more than a place to park an RV or pitch a tent—it can become the starting point for exploring the great outdoors, discovering new adventures, and creating traditions that last for generations.
Located just minutes from the Atlantic Ocean and the famous Virginia Beach Boardwalk, Holiday Trav-L-Park offers one of the most complete outdoor family vacation experiences on the East Coast. Whether arriving by RV, tent, camper, or settling into one of the park’s comfortable cabins or cottages, visitors quickly find themselves immersed in a destination where beach days, wildlife encounters, outdoor recreation, and family entertainment come together naturally.
The adventure begins right at the campground. Families can spend their days swimming in one of four pools, playing miniature golf, joining organized activities, enjoying hayrides and bingo, or simply relaxing beneath the coastal sky. Weekend entertainment brings everyone together with live music and family-friendly events, creating the kind of atmosphere that transforms a simple camping trip into an unforgettable extended weekend getaway.
Of course, one of the greatest advantages of staying at Holiday Trav-L-Park is that some of Virginia Beach’s most memorable outdoor experiences are just minutes away. Spend the morning building sandcastles and swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, then set out to discover the attractions, wildlife, and adventures that make Virginia’s coast one of America’s favorite family destinations.
For families seeking a little extra excitement, Atlantic Fun Park offers classic seaside amusement just steps from the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. The brightly lit midway, thrilling rides, family attractions, and carnival games create the perfect evening adventure after a relaxing day on the beach. From traditional carnival favorites to exhilarating rides that light up the night sky, Atlantic Fun Park captures the nostalgic excitement of a classic American summer vacation.
Another must-visit destination for families is the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, where learning becomes part of the adventure. The aquarium’s nationally recognized wildlife rescue and rehabilitation programs provide visitors with an inspiring look at marine conservation efforts while interactive exhibits captivate guests of all ages. At the Virginia Aquarium, it’s always “Shark Week,” with fascinating exhibits and educational experiences centered around some of the ocean’s most misunderstood creatures.
Families looking for an even deeper experience can participate in behind-the-scenes tours, where they discover the hidden world of animal care, conservation science, and marine rescue operations. Educational boat tours and hands-on experiences offer children the opportunity to learn while having so much fun they hardly realize they’re in the classroom.
Whale watching with Rudee Tours, Virginia Beach
To complete the ultimate Virginia Beach family getaway, consider heading out on the water with Rudee Tours, whose slogan says it best: “The Only Way to See the Sea.” Their dolphin watching excursions give families the chance to witness Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat while enjoying spectacular views of the Virginia coastline. Few family vacation memories compare to the excitement of spotting a pod of dolphins surfacing beside the boat as the sun sparkles across the Atlantic Ocean.
Whether your ideal family vacation means camping under the stars, swimming in the Atlantic, enjoying live entertainment, discovering marine life, or searching for dolphins offshore, Virginia Beach is the kind of extended weekend getaway that families remember long after summer has ended.
The best part is: we’re headed there now! Check back next month in our August issue for a detailed report. To be continued . . .
