# Cape Henry Lighthouse Historic Winter Coastal Views & Maritime Heritage > Place to go for families in the Virginia Beach–Chesapeake–Norfolk area (VA / NC). Times are Eastern Time. - When: Open on its own schedule - Where: Cape Henry Lighthouse, 583 Atlantic Ave, Fort Story, VA 23459 - Ages: All ages on grounds; lighthouse tower climb requires minimum height 42 inches - Price: $14 adults; $10 children (ages 12 and under); military discounts available - Organizer: Preservation Virginia - Official page: https://preservationvirginia.org/historic-sites/cape-henry-lighthouse/ - Last checked: Thu, Nov 5 Source: Grassy Knees is a directory of real family events, places and programs for kids across major U.S. metro areas, where every listing is researched from the organizer’s own page and shows the date we last checked it. https://grassyknees.com covers 42 metro areas as of Nov 11, 2026, with more added regularly. About: https://grassyknees.com/about Freshness: listings are re-checked on a daily research run (latest check 2026-11-10), and new events are added as organizers post them. Sell-outs, weather cancellations and time changes show up on the live page first: https://grassyknees.com/virginia-beach/activities/cape-henry-lighthouse-historic-winter-coastal-views-and-maritime-herit--listing-f0cd99d0f6c2f2150b7bc79e ## About Perched on the windswept sands of Fort Story at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia Beach, Cape Henry Lighthouse is an iconic beacon of American maritime history. Authorized by George Washington in 1789 and completed in 1792, it was the first federally funded public works project undertaken by the newly formed United States government. During the winter, crisp clear skies provide breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the bay and ocean, where children can watch mammoth cargo ships and naval vessels transit the shipping channels. Families can explore the historic grounds, touch the original aquia sandstone blocks, and learn about lighthouse keepers through engaging educational panels. Children meeting the 42-inch height requirement can climb the 191 spiral iron steps to the top lantern room with a guide, creating an unforgettable historical adventure perched high above the Atlantic shoreline. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Ground-level pathways and the museum gift shop are accessible for strollers; strollers must be parked outside the historic tower before climbing the narrow spiral staircase. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Climate-controlled gift shop and orientation pavilion offer comfortable indoor seating and modern restrooms with baby changing stations. • Age Suitability: All ages welcome on the historic grounds and exhibits; lighthouse tower climb requires children to be at least 42 inches tall and able to climb independently. • Sensory Tips: The top observation lantern deck can be windy and brisk in winter; secure hats and hoods; the historic spiral stairway has a gentle echoing quality that older kids find exciting. ## Similar picks in Virginia Beach - [First Landing State Park Winter Bald Cypress Trails & Coastal Forest Stroll](https://grassyknees.com/virginia-beach/activities/first-landing-state-park-winter-bald-cypress-trails-and-coastal-forest--listing-d2f8fae29baa5548a337fd6f) — Open on its own schedule · First Landing State Park - Trail Center · All ages · From $7 · checked Nov 5. 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