Name: City of Virginia Beach Web Team
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One of Virginia Beach’s Oldest Surviving Homes

Built in the early 18th century, the Thoroughgood House is one of Virginia Beach’s oldest surviving colonial homes and a National Historic Landmark. The house is associated with generations of the Thoroughgood family and with the development of Princess Anne County, which later became the independent City of Virginia Beach.

Discover Thoroughgood House

The house was likely circa 1719 by Argall Thorowgood II. After his death, his wife Susannah completed the work. Their son John later made changes that helped give the house the appearance visitors recognize today, including extensive Georgian woodwork and the dramatic central staircase.

Guided tours explore the lives of the Thoroughgood family, enslaved people who lived and worked on the property, and the Indigenous history connected to the landscape. Architecture, furnishings, archaeology and material culture help reveal the complex world of colonial Virginia and the people whose lives intersected at this place.

Begin at the Education Center

Start your visit at the Thoroughgood House Education Center, where exhibits introduce the history of Princess Anne County, the Thoroughgood family and the changing community that grew around the site.

From there, stroll through the landscaped grounds and gardens before entering the historic house for a guided tour.

Thoroughgood House Tours

The Thoroughgood House is open for free tours! Sign up for tours online . Walk-ins will also be welcome as space allows. Tours run every 45 minutes during open hours. If you are planning to bring a tour of 10+ guests, please give us 24-48 hours advance notice by calling 757- 385-5100 or emailing vbhistory@vbgov.com .

Visiting Thoroughgood House

Hours & Admissions

Current Hours:

Monday-Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Friday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Sunday: 1 - 5 p.m.

Closed on City of Virginia Beach holidays.

Admission

Admission is free. Reservations are encouraged , but not required. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows.

For groups of 10 or more, please provide 24–48 hours’ advance notice by calling 757-385-5100 or emailing vbhistory@vbgov.com .

Location

1636 Parish Road
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23455
757-385-5100
vbhistory@vbgov.com

Tours

Free guided tours of the Thoroughgood House are offered every 45 minutes during regular open hours. Reservations are encouraged, and walk-ins are welcome as space allows.

Tours invite visitors to look closely at the architecture and furnishings while considering the experiences of the different people who lived, worked and moved through the property.

Reserve a Free Tour

Programs & Events

Musicians performing at the Thoroughgood house

Special programs and events throughout the year offer new ways to experience Thoroughgood House, from focused history tours and seasonal special events to family activities and community events.

Programs draw on the house, gardens, archaeology and broader history of early Virginia Beach to connect visitors with stories that extend beyond the standard tour.

Upcoming Programs & Events

Group Visits & Educational Programs

Educational programs are available for schools, homeschool families, scouts and other youth groups, and special experiences can be arranged for community and travel groups.

Groups of 10 or more should contact Virginia Beach History Museums at least 24–48 hours in advance so staff can help plan the visit.

Learn About Group Visits

Private Events

Surrounded by historic architecture and landscaped gardens, the Thoroughgood House offers a distinctive setting for select private events. The gardens and grounds can accommodate tented gatherings, and the Thoroughgood House Education Center is available for select indoor events and meetings.

Contact the Virginia Beach History Museums Programs & Events team to learn more about available spaces, capacities and rental options.

Learn About Private Events

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