Virginia Living Museum

Virginia Living Museum Connecting you to nature by visiting more than 250 living species native to VA. Celebrating 60 Years of Wild Wonder! 1966-2026
(4366)

Don't let the word "museum" fool you. Much of what you see at the Virginia Living Museum is very alive and interactive. There is no better place to experience Virginia's rich natural heritage from the mountains to the sea. Located just 20 minutes from Williamsburg, the VLM is part zoo, nature park, aquarium, botanical garden, planetarium and science center. Visitors can view 700 plant and animal s

pecies including the red wolf, bobcat, otter and bald eagle. Discover native Virginia animals in naturalized habitats including a limestone cave, mountain cove and cypress swamp. Explore the underwater world of the Chesapeake Bay with a loggerhead sea turtle and touch a horseshoe crab. Enter an aviary of coastal birds, See spectacular views of the sun from the observatory and voyage across the galaxies in the state-of-the-art planetarium theater Learn how to build, live and garden "green." Young kids particularly enjoy the Nature Playground and the "Wild & Well" exhibit where kids can role play to be a vet and zoo keeper. Explore our new permanent outdoor Dinosaur Discovery Trail with 16 life-like dinosaurs, paleo camp and dig pit. Explore Virginia's natural world while creating lifetime memories with your family!

On Juneteenth, we recognize a pivotal moment in American history and honor the resilience, strength, and contributions o...
06/19/2026

On Juneteenth, we recognize a pivotal moment in American history and honor the resilience, strength, and contributions of Black Americans throughout generations.

Just beyond our museum grounds, Virginia's natural landscapes hold stories that extend far beyond the wildlife that call them home. Places like the Great Dismal Swamp serve as reminders of both the beauty of the natural world and the courage of those who sought freedom within it. For generations, freedom seekers found refuge in these wetlands, creating communities and forging lives beyond the reach of slavery.

As a museum dedicated to connecting people with Virginia's natural heritage, we also acknowledge the human stories woven into these landscapes. The forests, waterways, and wetlands we explore today are not only vital habitats but also places of history, perseverance, and hope.

We invite our community to take time today to learn, reflect, and honor the enduring legacy of those whose pursuit of freedom continues to inspire us.

Frogs. Fairies. Pajamas. And a summer night your kids won't stop talking about.This Friday, the Virginia Living Museum t...
06/16/2026

Frogs. Fairies. Pajamas. And a summer night your kids won't stop talking about.

This Friday, the Virginia Living Museum transforms into a magical world of dancing, discovery, and imagination.

Slip into your favorite pajamas and join us for Pajama Jam: Frogs & Fairies, where little dreamers can:

• Dance the night away with a live DJ
• Explore frog-themed adventures and fairy-inspired fun
• Create magical crafts to take home
• Complete a scavenger hunt filled with surprises
• Enjoy light snacks and lemonade

It's the perfect blend of nature, play, and summer magic for families looking to make unforgettable memories.

Tickets are on sale now:
https://thevlm.org/events/pajama-jam-frogs-fairies/

$10 Members | $15 Non-Members
Day-of: $12 Members | $18 Non-Members

Don't wait. This enchanting evening only happens a few times this summer. Grab your tickets before they disappear like fairy dust.

06/15/2026

How’d they do? Should we do a part 2? 👀

Due to the storm last night, the Virginia Living Museum is on a two hour delay to allow staff to get operations up and r...
06/15/2026

Due to the storm last night, the Virginia Living Museum is on a two hour delay to allow staff to get operations up and running after extended power loss. Staff are actively working with Dominion on a solution.

This will not affect our summer camp groups. Thank you for your patience!

Today on World Environment Day, we're celebrating one of the many ways conservation happens right here on our campus.As ...
06/05/2026

Today on World Environment Day, we're celebrating one of the many ways conservation happens right here on our campus.

As part of an ongoing effort by the Virginia Living Museum's Conservation Committee to improve the health of our lake ecosystem, staff recently expanded our floating wetland system with the addition of new floating wetland structures. Native plants grown by our horticulture team were carefully installed before the wetlands were launched from our dock.

We were also grateful to have a Virginia Tech student join us as a volunteer. As part of her studies of floating wetlands, she was eager to gain hands-on experience and assist with the planting process.

As these wetlands continue to grow, their roots will provide valuable habitat for aquatic life, help filter and improve water quality, and support a healthier ecosystem overall. Later this month, the wetlands will be moved to their semi-permanent location in the lake, where they will continue contributing to the health of our waterways and serving as a visible example of conservation in action.

World Environment Day is a reminder that protecting our planet starts close to home. Through ongoing projects like this, local partnerships, and everyday stewardship, we can all play a role in creating healthier ecosystems for wildlife and people alike.

Happy World Environment Day!

Flutter into a world of wonder as we celebrate the opening of Butterfly Haven!Step inside our immersive walk-through but...
06/04/2026

Flutter into a world of wonder as we celebrate the opening of Butterfly Haven!

Step inside our immersive walk-through butterfly house, where native plants, colorful blooms, and free-flying butterflies create a magical experience for visitors of all ages. Watch butterflies sip nectar, rest among the flowers, and if you're lucky, witness one of nature's most incredible transformations as chrysalises prepare to emerge into beautiful winged adults.

As part of Wings & Wonders, enjoy a day filled with family-friendly activities, including fairy-led story times, meet-and-greets with our enchanting fairy character, nature-themed games, crafts, and special experiences throughout the Museum. Guests can create their own pipe cleaner butterfly, test their skills with Ladybug Toss and Nature Tic Tac Toe, and take home a Monarch Trading Card to remember their visit.

New this year, Pollinator Picnic Cups will be available for just $2, giving guests the opportunity to participate in butterfly feedings inside Butterfly Haven.

Fairy story times will take place at 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., with meet-and-greet and photo opportunities throughout the day.

Butterfly Haven will remain open throughout the season, offering a peaceful space to slow down, connect with nature, and learn how native plants and pollinators work together to support healthy ecosystems.

Wings & Wonders is included with Museum admission. Butterfly Haven is open daily during regular Museum hours.

Go beyond the exhibit and get face-to-face with two of Virginia's most beloved native animals, our white-tailed deer Art...
06/04/2026

Go beyond the exhibit and get face-to-face with two of Virginia's most beloved native animals, our white-tailed deer Artemis and Orion.

This exclusive behind-the-scenes experience gives you a glimpse into the daily lives of our deer and the dedicated care that keeps them healthy and thriving. Visit the animal care area where their browse and daily diets are prepared, and learn how our team uses enrichment, training, and specialized nutrition to encourage natural behaviors and support their wellbeing.

Then comes the highlight of the tour. Venture behind the deer habitat to a private viewing area where you'll meet Artemis and Orion up close at the fence line. You'll have the opportunity to hand them fresh browse, watch them nibble their favorite snacks, and discover their unique personalities in a way few guests ever get to experience.

Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, aspiring naturalist, or simply love animals, this memorable encounter offers a rare chance to connect with one of Virginia's most iconic species.

Available Sundays and Thursdays at 11:00 a.m. Book your experience: https://thevlm.org/encounter/deer-tour/

When the task requires 0 animals...Our keepers: "We're just going to do some routine habitat cleaning."The coyote pup: "...
06/03/2026

When the task requires 0 animals...

Our keepers: "We're just going to do some routine habitat cleaning."

The coyote pup: "Whatcha doing?"

The spider crab: "Can I inspect that?"

The alligator: "I'm going to stay right here and supervise."

The snapping turtle: "Have you considered cleaning around me instead?"

Some animals see habitat cleaning as a perfect opportunity to investigate, supervise, and generally make sure everything is being done to their standards. While our animal care team is hard at work, our residents are often just as interested in the process as we are.

Who do you think would be the most helpful coworker?

Address

524 J. Clyde Morris Boulevard
Newport News, VA
23601

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 9am - 5pm
Sunday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

(757) 595-1900

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Virginia Living Museum posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Establishment

Send a message to Virginia Living Museum:

Shortcuts

Share

Category