Cape Henry Lighthouse Thanksgiving Weekend Historic Dune Family Walk

About this adventure

Standing sentinel at the entrance of the Chesapeake Bay since 1792, the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse was the first federal construction project authorized by the newly formed U.S. government under President George Washington. Located on the active military base of Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, the lighthouse grounds offer breathtaking coastal vistas during Thanksgiving weekend. Families can explore the dune boardwalks and outdoor interpretive exhibits chronicling centuries of maritime navigation, shipwrecks, and lighthouse keepers who tended the oil lamps. Visitors meeting the 42-inch height requirement can climb the 191 spiraling iron steps to the lantern deck for a 360-degree panorama of the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay, while younger siblings and strollers explore the brick courtyard, gift shop, and scenic dune overlook. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Wooden boardwalks and paved perimeter walkways accommodate strollers; folded strollers can be parked near the base before tower climbs. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Air-conditioned visitor center and museum store feature seating, historical exhibits, and clean restrooms; dune benches offer quiet ocean breezes. • Age Suitability: Engaging for all generations; tower climb is restricted to children 42 inches and taller, but the historic grounds and museum captivate all ages. • Sensory Tips: Outdoor dune atmosphere with coastal wind and ocean surf sounds; interior tower stairway is narrow with echoed footsteps.