Beyond the boardwalk and beaches, Virginia Beach reveals a rich cultural layer full of artistic discovery. Whether you’re drawn to contemporary exhibitions or traditional masterpieces, the area’s art museums and galleries invite you to explore creative expression in many forms. While well-known Virginia Beach art museums anchor the scene, galleries like the Stravitz Sculpture and Fine Art Gallery (the largest fine art gallery in Hampton Roads) contribute deeply to the city’s artistic heartbeat — offering free tours and the chance to connect directly with fine art and sculpture in a more personal setting. We are proud to share its home with the following arts and cultural establishments.
Explore the Vibrant Art Scene in Virginia Beach
Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art – Virginia Beach, VA
Located just a mile from the Stravitz Sculpture and Fine Art Gallery, the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) showcases ever-changing exhibitions of modern art from regional and national artists. With a focus on thought-provoking and innovative work, MOCA is a cornerstone of Virginia Beach’s creative community and one of the most recognized Virginia Beach Art Museums.
The Sandler Center for the Performing Arts – Virginia Beach, VA
Located in the heart of Virginia Beach’s Town Center, the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts stands as a cornerstone of Virginia Beach’s cultural district. This venue offers an array of performances, from symphonies to contemporary dance. The center’s commitment to the arts extends beyond the stage, with curated art exhibits displayed throughout its public spaces, fostering a dynamic environment for both performing and visual arts.
The Loggias at The Historic Cavalier Hotel – Virginia Beach, VA
The Great Lawn Loggia and Raleigh Loggia at The Historic Cavalier Hotel offers more than cocktails and ambiance — they feature an impressive display of visual art that changes with the seasons. Less than 10 minutes from the Stravitz Sculpture and Fine Art Gallery, they are a unique blend of history, hospitality, and local creativity.
Virginia Beach Arts Center and The Artists Gallery – Virginia Beach, VA
At 532 Virginia Beach Blvd, the Virginia Beach Art Center invites visitors to engage with the arts through classes, exhibitions, and artist interactions. Within its walls, The Artists Gallery offers a welcoming space where over 50 local artists display their works, including ceramics, sculptures, jewelry, and paintings. It’s an ideal stop for those exploring the rich tapestry of Virginia Beach’s art offerings.
Beach Gallery – Virginia Beach, VA
Just a short stroll from the bustling Virginia Beach boardwalk, Beach Gallery offers a vibrant selection of fine art pieces. Visitors can explore works ranging from contemporary paintings to classic sculptures, all curated to reflect the coastal charm of the area. The gallery also hosts regular exhibitions and events, fostering a dynamic space for both emerging and established artists.
21st St. Gallery – Virginia Beach, VA
Situated just minutes from the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, 21st Street Art Gallery combines a curated collection of local art with top-tier custom framing services. Visitors can explore a range of artworks, including prints, sculptures, and handcrafted jewelry, all while receiving expert advice on preserving their cherished pieces.
CoastalMod Gallery – Virginia Beach, VA
CoastalMod Gallery stands as a beacon for lovers of mid-century modern design and contemporary art. The gallery features a thoughtfully curated selection of vintage furniture and regularly hosts art exhibitions, offering a dynamic experience just a short walk from the oceanfront.
The Garage in the Vibe Creative District – Virginia Beach, VA
Just a short walk from the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, The Garage offers a unique blend of art exhibitions and creative workshops. As a key player in the ViBe Creative District, it provides a platform for artists to showcase their work and for the community to engage in artistic endeavors. The space is also available for private events, adding to its versatility.
Jones Art Gallery – Virginia Beach, VA
Situated in the vibrant Town Center of Virginia Beach, the Jones Art Gallery is a testament to the enduring creativity of the Jones family. Featuring a collection that spans from traditional landscapes to contemporary pieces, the gallery invites art enthusiasts to explore the evolving styles and themes that define this family’s artistic journey.
Shore Gallery & Designs – Virginia Beach, VA
With a focus on coastal-inspired elegance, Shore Gallery & Designs blends fine art with interior design to help you create spaces that feel both refined and relaxed. From original paintings to bespoke home décor, the gallery offers curated pieces that reflect the beauty of seaside living. You’ll find it tucked inside Virginia Beach’s Hilltop East Shopping Center on Laskin Road.
Art Galleries and Museums in Norfolk
Chrysler Museum of Art – Norfolk, VA
Since its founding in 1933, the Chrysler Museum of Art has been instrumental in cultivating an appreciation for the arts in Hampton Roads. Boasting a collection of over 35,000 objects, it offers visitors a journey through 5,000 years of art history, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. Not far from many Virginia Beach art museums, the Chrysler’s extensive glass collection and the adjacent Perry Glass Studio provide unique insights into the art of glassmaking, attracting visitors from across the region. Its presence enriches the cultural fabric of the region, offering free admission to all.
The Hermitage Museum & Gardens, Norfolk, VA
The Hermitage Museum & Gardens is a historic Arts-and-Crafts estate that combines a rich art collection with stunning natural surroundings. Located in a quiet, riverside neighborhood of Norfolk, the museum features rotating exhibitions, a permanent global art collection, and stunning outdoor gardens that make it a favorite for artists, families, and explorers alike.
The d’Art Center – Norfolk, VA
The d’Art Center invites visitors to immerse themselves in Norfolk’s artistic community. Featuring three galleries with rotating exhibitions, over 30 resident artist studios, and a variety of educational programs, the center fosters a dynamic environment for both artists and art lovers. Its location in the NEON District makes it a central hub for cultural engagement in the city.
Barry Art Museum at Old Dominion University – Norfolk, VA
The Barry Art Museum serves as a bridge between Old Dominion University and the Hampton Roads community, fostering engagement through exhibitions, educational programs, and public events. Its role in promoting contemporary art and interdisciplinary collaboration has solidified its place as a cornerstone of the region’s cultural landscape.
The Glass Light Hotel & Gallery – Norfolk, VA
In the heart of Downtown Norfolk, the Glass Light Hotel & Gallery seamlessly blends boutique accommodations with a curated glass art collection. Housed in the reimagined 1912 Royster Building, the hotel features works by renowned artists like Dale Chihuly and Lino Tagliapietra, offering guests an immersive artistic experience. Its proximity to the NEON District and waterfront attractions makes it a cultural cornerstone of the city.
Rutter Family Art Foundation – Norfolk, VA
The Rutter Family Art Foundation plays a pivotal role in Norfolk’s NEON Arts District by providing spaces for exhibitions, performances, and artist residencies. Through its initiatives, the foundation aims to make contemporary art accessible to a broader audience, enriching the cultural fabric of the community.
Hampton Roads Naval Museum – Norfolk, VA
The Hampton Roads Naval Museum, located within Nauticus in Norfolk, serves as a repository for the U.S. Navy’s storied past in the region. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, including items from Civil War shipwrecks and exhibits on naval engagements throughout history. Its educational programs and interactive displays offer visitors a comprehensive understanding of naval traditions and innovations.
The Main Art Project – Norfolk, VA
The Main Art Project at Hilton Norfolk The Main elevates the guest experience by integrating a thoughtfully curated art collection into the hotel’s design. With over 100 pieces displayed throughout the property, including notable works by Brent Estabrook and JD Miller, the hotel offers a unique fusion of art and hospitality in Norfolk’s vibrant downtown.
Explore the Hampton Roads Peninsula Art Scene
Hampton University Museum – Hampton, VA
Established in 1868, the Hampton University Museum stands as the oldest African American museum in the United States and the oldest museum in Virginia. Located a short drive from Virginia Beach art museums, its extensive collection features over 9,000 objects, including African American fine art, traditional African, Native American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Island, and Asian art. The museum serves as a vital resource for preserving and interpreting the rich cultural heritage of diverse communities.
The Mariners’ Museum and Park – Newport News, VA
In the heart of Newport News, the Mariners’ Museum and Park offers a unique combination of maritime heritage and natural beauty. Inside, visitors can explore exhibits detailing centuries of naval history, while outside, the expansive park provides a peaceful retreat with wooded trails and scenic views of Mariners’ Lake. This harmonious blend makes it a must-visit destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The Torggler Fine Arts Center at CNU – Newport News, VA
The Mary M. Torggler Fine Arts Center at Christopher Newport University is a premier destination for visual arts in Newport News. Featuring four distinct galleries—including the Anne Noland Edwards Gallery for national and international artists, and the William M. Grace Community Gallery for regional talent—the Torggler offers a dynamic array of rotating exhibitions. The center also houses the Department of Fine Art and Art History, providing studio classrooms, a 150-seat auditorium, and educational programs for all ages. Admission is free, inviting the community to engage with art in a transformative setting.
Art has a unique way of connecting us—to places, to people, and to new perspectives. Here in Virginia Beach and across Hampton Roads, we’re fortunate to have access to some of the region’s most captivating museums and galleries. The Stravitz Sculpture and Fine Art Gallery is proud to be among them. We invite you to visit us, take a free tour, and discover a gallery experience that’s personal, inspiring, and distinctly coastal.