Photo courtesy of Owl Creek Landing.
"The Whorl" is now open at Owl Creek Landing in Virginia Beach.
If you're a nature-lover planning a weekend getaway this fall to Virginia Beach (about a four-hour drive from Alexandria), there's a new attraction you might want to check out.
The new attraction is called Owl Creek Landing, an innovative outdoor attraction anchored by the nation’s first Nautilus Lookout Tower and “The Whorl,” the longest stainless-steel spiral slide in the United States.
Tucked into 38 acres of pristine coastal forest behind the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center’s South Building in Virginia Beach, this ADA-accessible haven invites visitors of all ages and abilities to immerse themselves in nature through panoramic views, treetop explorations and an exhilarating slide descent.
Educational stations identifying native trees and wildlife are displayed along the path, and an open-air observation deck at the summit provides 360-degree bird’s-eye views of the surrounding forest and waterways. With the addition of “The Whorl” spiral slide, visitors age 7 and older can opt for a thrilling twist down through the tower’s center for a unique descent.
Unlimited rides are included with standard admission, and participants use a specially designed slide sack for safety and comfort. Also extending from the tower, a one-third-mile loop of suspended canopy walkway, the Treetop Trail, is elevated up to 40 feet above the ground and connects guests to a children’s Treehouse Village with four interactive treehouses suitable for ages 2 and up (children under 10 require adult supervision).
On the ground, another scenic half-mile Forest Trail is dotted with educational signage, benches, picnic areas and opportunities to soak in the natural environment. An “I Spy” Scavenger Hunt engages children and adults in exploring the Forest Trail further. The attraction is ADA-compliant, welcoming strollers, wheelchairs, and visitors from toddlers to seniors.
“We’re thrilled to bring this groundbreaking outdoor experience to full life in Virginia Beach, blending accessibility, education and adventure in a way that connects people with nature like never before,” said Bahman Azarm, founder and CEO of Outdoor Venture Group. “The completion of ‘The Whorl’ marks a milestone, inviting families, thrill-seekers and nature lovers nationwide to discover the magic of Owl Creek Landing.”
Owl Creek Landing is now open daily, rain or shine, with seasonal operating hours and special events published on the attraction’s website.
Tickets are $13 for ages 3-9, $18 for ages 10-13, $28 for ages 14+, and are free for children 2 and younger, providing unlimited access to all amenities including “The Whorl.”
Discounts of 15% are available for military personnel, first responders, teachers, college students and seniors 55+ with valid ID.
Combo tickets pair an Owl Creek Landing visit with the neighboring Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium – featuring 17 aerial trails, 258 challenges and 33 ziplines – and provide a 20% total savings. Walk-ins are welcome, but timed advance reservations are recommended via www.OwlCreekLanding.com or by calling 757/330-0473. Group rates for 10 or more, season passes and private event options are also offered.
