Looking for a new adventure in Virginia Beach? Owl Creek Landing offers something for everyone—whether you’re climbing, sliding, strolling or simply soaking in nature. Here are some fun ways families, couples, teens, exercisers, nature lovers and groups can make the most of their visit.
Families with Children
Owl Creek Landing is packed with activities to keep kids moving and imaginations soaring! Let them get some of their energy out by running to the base of the Nautilus Lookout Tower and then up the spiral ramp to the top. Once they’ve caught their breath, they can choose to run down the spiral ramp or take the Whorl Slide for a faster ride.
Next up: head over to the Treetop Trail Canopy Walk from the Tower, a 1/3-mile loop approximately 30-40 feet above the ground! Parents, don’t worry: about 40% of the trail is accessible, so you can bring strollers. Then explore the Children’s Treehouse Village, where kids can climb, pretend and play in an outdoor setting made for adventure. Take a quick tour of the Treehouses.
Look for the signs on the ground-level Forest Trail to learn about the Wood Wide Web with Fungy the Fungi and Rootsy the Tree. Even little ones will enjoy the fun artwork on these educational signs. Bring a pair of binoculars or magnifying glasses to search for and take a deeper look at wildlife, plants and bugs.
To make a full day of it, head over to The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium, which is a short walk from Owl Creek Landing. Climb, zipline and soar your way through the forest for an experience for the whole family. Pro tip: Purchase a combo ticket to save money on both attractions.
Couples & Grandparents
Retirees or grandparents looking for a relaxed yet meaningful day out can stroll hand-in-hand along the accessible Treetop Trail Canopy Walk, pausing to search for birds or other wildlife along the way. A gentle ramp leads up the Nautilus Lookout Tower, where the reward is a sweeping view of the surroundings.
With picnic tables and shaded benches throughout the property, couples can unpack a simple lunch and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the forest—or watch their grandkids chase each other in the forested area. And for those who want to stretch the day a little longer, a trip to the Virginia Aquarium just down the road makes a wonderful companion outing.
Teen Explorers and Young Adults
Teens and young adults looking for independence and fun will find plenty of Insta-worthy moments around every corner. Race your friends to the top of the Nautilus Tower, and then have a photo session on the lookout deck with the forest backdrop.
After posting your photos on social media, grab a sack for the Whorl Slide. Take turns recording each other swirling down for TikTok before sliding yourself. You’ll get unlimited rides and plenty of time for enjoying the thrills.
For an added challenge, race each other to the top of the Tower by taking the stairs—the winner gets the bragging rights!
Not ready to call it a day? Skip to The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium, where you can climb and zipline to your heart’s content! Purchase a combo ticket for both attractions.
Exercisers
Give the gym a break—instead, head outside in nature for your workout! Turn Owl Creek Landing into your outdoor gym with these suggestions for a heart-pumping exercise session.
If you’re into running, you have plenty of options at Owl Creek Landing. For starters, take a light stroll or jog to reach the Nautilus Lookout Tower from the parking lot. It’s about ¼-mile, depending on where you park, to get to the Tower.
Next, sprint up the Nautilus Lookout Tower’s stainless-steel stairs – 80 stairs in all. Your reward will be the forested view at the top! Take a recovery stroll down the spiral ramp to let your heart get back to its resting pace. Ready to go again?
Start with a warm-up jog along the ½-mile Forest Trail. Then elevate your run by heading up the Tower’s inclined ramp until you reach the Treetop Trail Canopy Walk. From there, take a lap or two around the 1/3-mile path—you’ll be running through the trees on suspended bridges—much more exciting than pounding step after step on a treadmill.
Add on some laps on the Forest Trail or take another stab at the stairs—however many miles or steps you need to hit your goal. That cool-down walk to your car will be your reward!
Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will find endless ways to slow down and reconnect with the outdoors. Arrive early in the morning, before the day gets busy, and meander through the peaceful ground-level forest trail. You can even pause and do some yoga poses as the sun shines through the forest.
Pack a picnic lunch or purchase a snack and beverage, then settle down at one of the picnic tables located throughout the grounds. As you nourish your body, use your senses to observe the area: listen to leaves rustling, watch for birds overhead and take in the fresh, pine-scented air.
Another option is to arrive late in the day to unwind and let the stress of life melt away. Wander up the ramp of the Nautilus Tower, stopping to appreciate the view of the forest as it expands beneath you. Take your time at the top of the Tower to pause and reflect on the day, and watch the sky’s sunlight slowly fade. On the way back, take a side stroll along the Canopy Walk and explore the interpretive panels to learn about Virginia Beach’s native species..
Group Outings
Planning a birthday party, field trip or reunion? Owl Creek Landing is an ideal spot for a group adventure. Gather at the Tower’s observation deck for memorable group photos with a stunning forest backdrop. Younger ones can let their imaginations run wild at the Children’s Treehouse Village.
Owl Creek Landing is a fully ADA-accessible attraction, so visitors of all abilities can enjoy the area. With a ramp for Tower access and accessible portions of the Treetop Trail Canopy Walk, families and those in wheelchairs can participate in activities. It’s the perfect inclusive adventure for school field trips, camps, faith groups, families and more!
We can accommodate groups of 10 or more. Please call us at 475-988-0988 or email us at groups@owlcreeklanding.com.
Learn More About Owl Creek Landing
No matter your age or interest, Owl Creek Landing invites you to step outside and explore. From playful treehouses and thrilling ziplines to peaceful forest trails and birdwatching, it’s a place where memories are made in nature. Plan your visit today!