Red Wing Park

A Glimpse Into the Past

Red Wing Park has roots stretching back to 1879 when it was known as the rather grimly named "Old City Poor Farm." Fast forward to 1966, and the City of Virginia Beach transformed the property into the green oasis we enjoy today.

Now, the park has become famous for its gorgeous gardens and the Cherry Blossom Festival that happens each year from late March to early April. When those trees bloom, the park fills with pink and white flowers creating a beautiful spring landscape.

Garden Getaways

Positioned in the park is the Miyazaki Japanese Garden - a little glimpse of zen where you can wander across charming bridges, listen to the soothing sounds of a waterfall, and admire plants that are thoughtfully labeled for the curious minds among us.

You'll also find the Reba S. McClanan Fragrance Garden, a collaborative creation between Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation and the Council of Garden Clubs of Virginia Beach.

In 2021, the park welcomed its newest addition: a Bee City USA® Pollinator Garden designed to give bees, butterflies, and moths a helping hand. This garden reflects Virginia Beach's commitment to supporting pollinators after the city earned its Bee City USA certification in 2020.

Play Your Heart Out

If you're feeling active, Red Wing Park offers tennis courts, pickleball courts, basketball hoops, sand volleyball courts, and handball courts. The shared-use paths winding through the park make for pleasant walks, jogs, or bike rides surrounded by nature.

For families with little ones, there are two playgrounds - one near the entrance past the Japanese garden and another toward the back beyond the tennis courts. Both have the usual swings and slides that will keep kids entertained for hours.

Planning a gathering? Several covered pavilions equipped with picnic tables and BBQ grills can be reserved. And if you're looking for something casual to do, there are permanent cornhole setups waiting for you to show off your skills.

For the Fur Parents

Red Wing Park is something of a doggy paradise with its large dog park split into two fenced areas. One section offers plenty of shade from tall trees - a blessing on hot summer days. Your four-legged friends can stay hydrated thanks to the water stations, and there are waste bags available to keep the park clean and pleasant for everyone.

You're welcome to bring leashed dogs throughout most of the park, but the Japanese Garden remains a dog-free zone.

Into the Woods

Short nature trails meander through wooded sections and connect to Malbon Swamp. While they won't satisfy serious hikers, these paths offer a quiet escape from the bustle of the city. Keep your eyes peeled for birds and other wildlife - the numerous birdhouses around the park have created quite the avian community.

Just a heads up: during summer, you might want to bring bug spray as mosquitoes can be quite enthusiastic along the wooded trails.

The Practical Stuff

Spanning 97 acres in Virginia Beach, Red Wing Park blends natural beauty with modern amenities. You can find clean restrooms in two locations and vending machines when you need a quick snack or drink. There's plenty of parking, and the park staff does a great job keeping everything in good shape.

Regardless of whether you're a local or just passing through, Red Wing Park offers that perfect mix of natural scenery, recreational activities, and cultural experiences that make it worth visiting in any season.