Monday, July 7, 2025
Francis Land House Furniture Move-In, New Exhibits and Floorcloth, Museum Tours and More
Preserving the Past, Enhancing the Future
Francis Land House Community Day & Grand Reopening
Celebrate the grand reopening and restoration of the Francis Land House! Step back in time as the historic home and stunning grounds teem with the sights, sounds and smells of early 19th-century Virginia. There will be live artisan demonstrations, hearth cooking, music and more. Free event.
Register Online
Lynnhaven House Preservation Tour
Visit the historic Lynnhaven House and learn from Virginia Beach History Museums staff about the history and preservation methods of this unique, 300-year-old vernacular-style house. During these free, 30-minute guided tours, become part of our restoration journey and enjoy a unique opportunity to discover architectural secrets once hidden beneath the plaster, take a firsthand look at past and present preservation work, and learn more about our continuing efforts to protect and preserve Lynnhaven House for future generations.
Register Online
Candlelight Yule Tours
Celebrate the season by stepping back in time to experience some favorite colonial Christmas traditions. Costumed guides will escort you by candlelight through the home of Argall II and Susannah Thoroughgood and share stories of the decorations, traditions, foods, and festivities of 18th century coastal Virginia. With live instrumental music provided in the house by members of the Itinerant Band, the interior will come alive with holiday charm.
Get Tickets OnlineVirginia Beach History Museums
The City of Virginia Beach History Museums include the Francis Land House, Lynnhaven House, Princess Anne County Training School/Union Kempsville High School Museum and the Thoroughgood House. They are a division of the City’s Cultural Affairs Department.
As part of the municipal government of the City of Virginia Beach, the Cultural Affairs Department engages residents and visitors through meaningful arts, heritage, and cultural experiences to connect and strengthen communities.
*Note: Photos and videos may be taken by Virginia Beach History Museums staff during programs and throughout Virginia Beach History Museums buildings and grounds. If you do not wish to have your picture taken, please avoid the camera or tell the photographer.
About UsExperience the Museums
Tours
Individuals and groups are welcome to visit our historic museums, including free standard tours and special group packages.
Thoroughgood House
The Thoroughgood House is open for free tours! Sign up for tours online . Walk-ins will also be welcome as space allows.
PACTS/UKHS Museum
The Princess Anne County Training School/Union Kempsville High School Museum (PACTS/UKHS) is NOW OPEN for FREE, self-guided tours on Saturdays from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. There is no need to register in advance for self-guided tours.
Group Visits
The Virginia Beach History Museums offer several special programs for group visits, including for traveling bus groups. Please contact us at vbhistory@vbgov.com, or call (757) 385-5100, to book group visits and ask any questions.
Museum Blog
News & Articles
Wednesday, February 26, 2025
The Latest from the Virginia Beach History Museums
Preserving the Past, Enhancing the Future: Francis Land House’s Exciting Renovation, the Thoroughgood House Award Nomination, and other updates.
Monday, December 9, 2024
It’s the Holiday Season in Virginia Beach
Festive events are sure to get you in the holiday spirit and bring lots of good cheer!
Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Ghosts of Thoroughgood Past’ Paranormal Tours Return to Thoroughgood House in October
Spooky season is almost here, so join the Virginia Beach History Museums for the return of a seasonal favorite.