If you are looking for a fun and educational family day out you need look no further than the wonderful Virginia Living Museum in Newport News.

Here the whole family can get really close to over 250 varieties of Virginian animals including birds, fish, reptiles and mammals.

The focus of the museum is to educate adults and children about natural habitats, ecology and conservation.

You will be able to attend feeding at various times during the day so please check the website to plan your visit.

The indoor galleries include an enormous aquarium, the Underground Gallery, a cypress swamp exhibit and fascinating hands-on discovery centers.

In addition there is an outdoor Boardwalk Trail (where you can see otters, bobcats, fox and even red wolves) and a Dinosaur Discovery Trail.

Virginia Living Museum, 524 J. Clyde Morris Blvd, Newport News, VA 23601, Phone: 757-595-1900

Ready to go?
Step 1: Visit the website and book directly and/or call ahead to confirm their hours.
Step 2: If you are spending the night, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Read the reviews, then call the hotel directly to book and ask for a romantic, kid-friendly or pet-friendly amenity if you need it.
Step 3: If you are flying, compare Flights. Book directly with the airline, add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).

Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.