Virginia Living Museum552

True to its name, the Virginia Living Museum's living exhibits encompass all of the state's geographic regions - from the mountains to the ocean.

Each exhibit tells a story: the predator-prey relationship between the chipmunk and the corn snake; the survival adaptations of the flounder and puffer fish; the endangered status of the once plentiful sturgeon; and the geological changes that help to create caves.

In addition to the World of Darkness, the Appalachian Cove & Cypress Swamp, and Virginia's Underground Gallery, the museum offers outdoor exhibits that include a boardwalk, an aviary, and a butterfly garden.

Birthday parties at the museum include a self-guided tour of the indoor and outdoor exhibits; a lightly decorated birthday room with balloons, tables, and chairs for a total of 30 people for one hour; and a 10-minute live animal show just for your group. You may choose two animals from a list available on the day of the party. To schedule a party (Saturdays at 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm, or 3pm; Sundays at 1pm, 2pm, or 3pm), call 757.595.9135, Monday through Friday, 9am to 4pm.

The museum offers half-day and full-day week-long summer programs for preschoolers and elementary school students. Kids can sign up for one week in either a morning or afternoon session.