Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum de Witt Cottage
Discover antique wildfowl decoys and history in a charming 1895 oceanfront cottage on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Peaceful and uncrowded
Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum de Witt Cottage
Best Time
Peaceful and uncrowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover antique wildfowl decoys and history in a charming 1895 oceanfront cottage on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk.
"A quaint little museum for anyone interested in the history of fowl hunting and the rifles and wooden decoys used in the past."
Free Lower Floor Access
Explore the lower level for free; a small donation is requested for the upper gallery. :moneybag:
Accessible Upper Gallery
A stairlift provides access to the upper gallery for those with mobility concerns. :wheelchair:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hand-Carved Decoys
Upper Gallery
Admire the intricate craftsmanship of antique wildfowl decoys, a testament to a bygone era of hunting.
Historic de Witt Cottage
The entire building
Step back in time in this beautifully restored 1895 oceanfront cottage, offering a unique historical setting.
Oceanfront Rocking Chairs
Front Porch
Relax and enjoy the Atlantic breeze while gazing at the ocean from the charming front porch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Quaint Coastal Gem
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Lower Floor Access
Explore the lower level for free; a small donation is requested for the upper gallery. :moneybag:
Accessible Upper Gallery
A stairlift provides access to the upper gallery for those with mobility concerns. :wheelchair:
Gift Shop Treasures
Find unique souvenirs like postcards, books, art, and of course, decoys. :gift:
Ocean Views & Breezes
Don't miss the chance to relax on the porch and enjoy the sea air. :ocean:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Lower Floor Access
Explore the lower level for free; a small donation is requested for the upper gallery. :moneybag:
Accessible Upper Gallery
A stairlift provides access to the upper gallery for those with mobility concerns. :wheelchair:
Gift Shop Treasures
Find unique souvenirs like postcards, books, art, and of course, decoys. :gift:
Ocean Views & Breezes
Don't miss the chance to relax on the porch and enjoy the sea air. :ocean:
Check for Events
Look out for special events like the Gingerbread House Competition. :cookie:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum de Witt Cottage for its unique collection of hand-carved decoys and the charm of the historic 1895 cottage. Many appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, oceanfront location, and the opportunity to relax on the porch. While not a large museum, it offers a delightful glimpse into local heritage for those interested in the subject.
"Nice little museum in a historic home on the beach front. There were several men there actively working on some decoys. Some beautiful craftsmanship but sad to realize that it was started to hunt birds."
leah hendee
"Quaint little museum for anyone interested in the history of fowl hunting and the rifles and wooden decoys used in the past. Clean restrooms. Never any wait or crowds. May be a few families walking throughout during peak summer months, but never crowded. Nice walkway for handicap access and rocking chairs on the wooden front porch facing the Atlantic Ocean. Also a the Dewitt Cottege is adjacent & sometimes has good local live music very visible from the porch of the museum. Recommended if you enjoy the museum topic, want to learn about it, or just enjoy sitting in a rocking chair staring at the sea."
Christopher Johnson
"Built in 1895, beautifully restored almost 100 years later in 1994, the de Witt Cottage features a large collection of wildfowl decoys, as well as a wide variety of old photographs, newsclips, and antiques. Lower floor free, $2 donation requested for upper gallery, which is accessible via stairlift for those who may have difficulty climbing. Video lecture provides a brief history of the Virginia Beach boardwalk. Great lens back in time for those interested in the area's history. Curator was knowledgeable and gregarious without being pushy. Souvenir postcards 3-for-$1. Gift shop also featured books, art, jewelry, and (of course!) decoys. Purchase came with complimentary reusable state-branded canvas tote. Would recommend checking it out if you're in the area."
EM Jeanmougin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, making it easily accessible by foot if you're already in the area. Parking may be available nearby, but it's best to check local parking regulations for the boardwalk.
Parking availability can vary, especially during peak season. It's recommended to look for public parking lots or street parking along the boardwalk and be prepared for potential fees.
Absolutely! If you're staying or visiting the main Virginia Beach strip, the museum is a pleasant walk along the boardwalk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The lower floor of the museum is free to enter. A small donation is requested for access to the upper gallery, where more exhibits are displayed.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's always a good idea to check the museum's official website or call ahead to confirm their current operating schedule before your visit.
Given that the museum is generally uncrowded, advance booking is typically not necessary. You can usually purchase access to the upper gallery upon arrival.
Yes, the upper gallery is accessible via a stairlift, making it easier for visitors with mobility challenges to explore the exhibits.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a fascinating collection of hand-carved wildfowl decoys, antique hunting artifacts, old photographs, and historical news clippings related to the region's heritage.
Definitely! The de Witt Cottage is a beautifully restored 1895 oceanfront home, offering a glimpse into historical coastal living.
While primarily focused on history and artifacts, children might enjoy seeing the carved decoys and the historic cottage. Special events, like the Gingerbread House Competition, can also be family-friendly.
Take your time to appreciate the detailed decoys and historical displays. Don't forget to relax on the porch and enjoy the ocean views.
Information on Wi-Fi availability is not widely publicized. It's best to assume it might not be available and download any necessary information beforehand.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, the museum itself does not have a restaurant or cafe. However, being located on the boardwalk, there are numerous dining options nearby along the oceanfront.
It's generally advised to consume food and drinks outside the museum to preserve the historical artifacts and exhibits. Please check for specific policies upon arrival.
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk offers a wide variety of dining choices, from casual seafood shacks and pizza places to more upscale restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with museum staff upon entry. Personal photos for memory-keeping are often permitted, but commercial or flash photography might be restricted.
The exterior of the historic cottage, the ocean views from the porch, and the intricately carved decoys inside are all great subjects for photos.
While personal photos are usually allowed, it's always respectful to ask staff if there are any specific restrictions on photographing certain artifacts, especially if using flash.
Morning light can be lovely for exterior shots of the cottage and the ocean. Inside, the lighting is generally good for viewing the exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a special event like the Gingerbread House Competition for added family engagement. The oceanfront location and the rocking chairs on the porch also provide a pleasant spot for a brief rest with a view, making it a manageable and enjoyable addition to a day exploring the Virginia Beach Boardwalk.
🏛️ History Buffs & Art Enthusiasts
The de Witt Cottage itself is a historical artifact, offering a well-preserved example of late 19th-century coastal architecture. Exploring the cottage and its exhibits provides a rich, immersive historical experience. The knowledgeable curator also adds value with engaging insights.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Relaxed Explorers
Don't miss the opportunity to spend some quiet time on the front porch rocking chairs, enjoying the ocean breeze and the serene surroundings. It's an ideal spot to unwind, reflect, and enjoy a moment of tranquility away from the bustle of the boardwalk.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Wildfowl Decoys
Many of the decoys on display are antique, representing a significant piece of American folk art and sporting history. The museum's collection provides a unique educational opportunity to understand the cultural significance of hunting and the craftsmanship that supported it. It's a chance to see firsthand the dedication and talent that went into creating these functional works of art, often made by local artisans.
A Step Back in Time at de Witt Cottage
Visitors often comment on the beautiful restoration and the sense of stepping back in time. The cottage's location on the boardwalk also provides a picturesque setting, with rocking chairs on the porch offering serene views of the Atlantic Ocean. This blend of historical architecture and coastal beauty makes the de Witt Cottage a unique and memorable part of the museum experience.
Experiencing the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
Visitors can easily combine a visit to the museum with other boardwalk attractions. After exploring the decoys and the historic cottage, take advantage of the nearby rocking chairs on the museum's porch to relax and soak in the ocean atmosphere.
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