Know Where to Park, Enter and Go Before Your Virginia Beach Event
The Virginia Beach Convention Center is a major exhibition and meeting venue at 1000 19th Street, close to the Oceanfront district. Whether you are attending a public show, a professional conference, a competition or a private function, the most important details are your event’s entrance, parking arrangements, ticket instructions and hall assignment.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Planned paid parking postponed until April 1, 2027.
General venue and event-planning inquiries.
Approximately 20 minutes by car under favorable traffic conditions.
Public entry, admission and registration schedules vary by organizer.
On-site meeting, exhibition and visitor facilities.
Virginia Beach Convention Center Parking: Current Rules and Future Rates
For visitors arriving in 2026, the most important update is that the City of Virginia Beach has postponed the proposed paid parking program for the Convention Center and Virginia Beach Sports Center until April 1, 2027.
| Parking detail | What visitors should know |
|---|---|
| Current regular parking | Free during the paid-parking postponement |
| Future implementation date | April 1, 2027, according to the city update |
| Parking entrances | Access around 19th Street and the 1000 block of Virginia Beach Boulevard |
| Parking supply | Venue’s public pages describe over 1,300 spaces; the March 2026 facility guide identifies 2,478 shared spaces with the Sports Center |
| Accessible spaces | Use designated accessible parking and accessible building approaches |
| Oversized vehicles | Trucks, trailers, RVs and oversized vehicles are prohibited in the facility’s regular parking lots under the venue user’s guide |
| Loading docks | Not public parking; loading arrangements require event coordination |
Parking Fees Planned for 2027
The city has published the following standard pricing schedule for the postponed paid parking program.
| Parking duration | Additional charge | Cumulative amount |
|---|---|---|
| First hour | $1 | $1 |
| Second hour | $2 | $3 |
| Third hour | $3 | $6 |
| Fourth hour | $4 | $10 |
| Daily maximum | — | $10 |
Simple Parking Strategy for Event Day
- Set your destination. Use 1000 19th Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 for navigation.
- Check the event notice. Some shows provide specific attendee entrances, designated lots or drop-off instructions.
- Approach via 19th Street. Follow current traffic signs and event staff rather than assuming every parking entrance is available.
- Choose an appropriate space. Accessible spaces require the appropriate permit; do not use service, freight or loading areas.
- Save your lot location. Take a photo of your parking row or nearby sign before entering.
For current parking-policy verification, visit the City of Virginia Beach Convention Center and Sports Center parking page. Open the postponement section first, then review the operating rates and any special-event notice.
Parking office: 757-385-2900 | parkinghelp@vbgov.com
Address, Driving Directions and Airport Access
The convention center sits near the western side of the Virginia Beach Oceanfront district, close to I-264’s eastern end. The main venue address is 1000 19th Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
From Norfolk or Hampton Roads
Travel east on I-264 toward the Oceanfront. Near the interstate’s end, turn onto Parks Avenue and then onto 19th Street. Follow signs for the convention center entrance and parking.
From Richmond or Western Virginia
Connect to I-64 East and then I-264 East toward Virginia Beach. Follow the Oceanfront approach and use Parks Avenue/19th Street for venue access.
From the Eastern Shore
Travel via the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, then use Shore Drive/Route 60 toward the resort area. Follow the official 19th Street approach.
From Norfolk International Airport
Use Norview Avenue to connect with I-64 East, then I-264 East toward the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. The venue estimates roughly 20 minutes, but allow more during peak traffic.
Which Arrival Option Fits Your Trip?
| Travel type | Practical recommendation |
|---|---|
| Driving | Use the official address and confirm event-specific traffic instructions. |
| Uber/Lyft/taxi | Use the venue’s 19th Street address and follow the organizer’s designated drop-off location. |
| Flying | Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is the practical major-airport option; account for road traffic and baggage collection. |
| Public transit | Check Hampton Roads Transit routes and current Oceanfront service. Do not assume a bus operates directly to your entrance. |
| Walking from a hotel | Confirm the exact pedestrian route and expected weather, especially with luggage or mobility needs. |
Virginia Beach’s official directions page also recommends checking live traffic conditions and the city’s parking information before traveling during major events.
Virginia Beach Convention Center Map
Map destination: 1000 19th Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. Event-day entrances and parking assignments may differ from the generic map pin.
Virginia Beach Convention Center Events, Tickets and Hours
The venue hosts conventions, trade shows, public consumer exhibitions, professional meetings, competitions, banquets and private functions. Entry conditions are set by each event organizer, so the building does not operate as a single ticketed attraction with one universal admission price or opening schedule.
Look for the official event name, entry time, ticket type, parking notice and bag policy.
Check your registration confirmation, badge pickup, conference sessions and hall assignment.
Confirm the correct venue: events may use the nearby Virginia Beach Sports Center rather than the Convention Center.
Follow the event invitation for arrival time, entrance, parking and guest eligibility.
How to Find the Correct Event Information
- Open the official convention center portal. Find the Event Calendar or Events section.
- Select your event. Match the exact name and date, not just a similar show title.
- Read the event listing. Check whether admission is free, paid, limited to registered participants or restricted by age.
- Check organizer instructions. Ticket delivery, refunds, bag rules and re-entry policies can be event-specific.
- Complete ticket purchase or registration. Use the organizer’s authorized checkout or registration platform.
Confirmed Example of a 2026 Event
The City of Virginia Beach lists a Fall Conference and Expo at the Virginia Beach Convention Center for Thursday, November 5, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., featuring professional networking, procurement information and breakout sessions.
Anyone interested should verify the registration requirements and event status through the city’s official event listing before attending.
Floor Plans, Exhibit Halls, Meeting Rooms and Capacities
The convention center offers more than 250,000 square feet of programmable meeting space according to its official floor-plan resources. Its configuration includes four principal exhibition halls, ballrooms, meeting suites and tower spaces.
Exhibition Hall Capacities
| Event space | Approximate area | Published theater capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Exhibit Hall A | 37,503 sq ft | 2,240 |
| Exhibit Hall B | 37,503 sq ft | 3,680 |
| Exhibit Hall C | 37,503 sq ft | 3,680 |
| Exhibit Hall D | 37,503 sq ft | 2,240 |
| Halls A–D combined | 150,012 sq ft | 13,440 |
| Ballrooms 1–3 combined | 31,029 sq ft | 3,108 |
These are official published configuration capacities, not guaranteed ticket inventory. Actual attendance limits depend on seating, booths, equipment, room layout, fire-code approval and the event’s approved plan.
Exhibition Level
Large halls accommodate consumer shows, trade exhibitions and sizable events. Hall assignment matters for exhibitor unloading and attendee walking distance.
Meeting Suites
Smaller rooms support conference sessions, seminars, workshops and breakout meetings. Suites can be combined for larger functions.
Ballroom Areas
Designed for banquet seating, general sessions, formal events, receptions and other large-format gatherings.
Tower Spaces
Specialty areas include a boardroom, VIP lounge, café lounge and observation deck, subject to event booking and access permissions.
Exhibitor Loading Information
The official facility plan identifies 21 cargo bays and five loading ramps. The exhibition halls use large overhead access doors, with published exhibition hall ceiling heights of approximately 40 feet. Loading docks are controlled working areas rather than regular attendee entrances.
- Find your assigned hall. Confirm Hall A, B, C, D, ballroom or meeting-suite location in the organizer’s exhibitor package.
- Check setup times. Confirm the authorized move-in and move-out schedule.
- Arrange dock access. Work with the event manager or general service contractor before arriving with freight.
- Separate freight from personal vehicles. Vendor delivery and regular parking are not interchangeable.
View official Virginia Beach Convention Center floor plans and capacities. Choose the floor-plan section, identify your assigned space and review the corresponding configuration.
Visitor Rules, Payments, Food and Event-Day Essentials
The venue’s March 2026 user’s guide provides detailed operating requirements. Certain policies are primarily directed at organizers and exhibitors, while public attendees must also follow individual show rules.
| Topic | Useful guidance |
|---|---|
| Payment | The venue introduced cashless payments in September 2026 for events and its Business Center. It lists cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay. Individual vendors may have their own rules. |
| Food and beverages | Venue policy restricts outside commercially prepared food and delivery. Event catering and exhibitor food service are controlled through venue arrangements. |
| Smoking and vaping | Prohibited in municipal facility spaces, including listed entrances and loading-dock areas. The user’s guide specifies restrictions near building entrances. |
| Confetti and glitter | Prohibited inside the building and on its grounds under the facility rules. |
| Animals | Trained service animals are permitted. Other animals generally require an approved event-related exception. |
| Security | Items and belongings may be subject to inspection. Organizer-specific entry screening may be stricter. |
| Outside deliveries | Exhibitors must coordinate service, freight and food deliveries rather than arranging unapproved access. |
| Public re-entry | Do not assume re-entry is allowed. Follow the individual event’s ticket and credential rules. |
What to Bring as an Attendee
- Ticket, QR code or registration confirmation
- Photo identification if your event requires it
- Event hall and registration location
- Charged phone and payment card or mobile wallet
- Any required participant credentials or approved documents
- Comfortable footwear for a large event facility
- Accessible accommodation confirmation, if previously arranged
For complex exhibitor rules, download the official March 2026 VBCC User’s Guide (PDF). Use its policy and procedures section for subjects such as docks, fire safety, equipment, insurance, food service, freight and setup requirements.
Accessibility, Mobility Assistance and Visitor Support
Guests who require step-free access, accessible seating, assisted listening, mobility support or communication accommodations should make arrangements before their event, particularly when special equipment or personnel are needed.
Use designated accessible spaces and check that the lot approach matches your event’s operating entrance.
The venue’s published accessibility guidance describes ramps, lifts and wheelchair assistance subject to availability and operational arrangements.
Assisted listening and interpreter-related arrangements may be available when organized in advance.
Qualifying service animals are welcome under applicable accessibility requirements.
Requesting an Accommodation
- Identify your needs. Note the event, date, access requirement and any specific arrival or seating concerns.
- Contact the event organizer. Ask which services are handled by the event and which are handled by the venue.
- Contact the convention center. Call 757-385-2000 or email vbcc@vbgov.com with relevant arrangements.
- Confirm your arrival route. Request the most suitable parking/drop-off and accessible entry instructions.
- Check again before traveling. If special equipment or assistance has been requested, confirm availability before the event.
During an event, the venue’s concierge or event staff can help direct visitors to appropriate assistance resources.
Where to Stay, Eat and Spend Time Near the Convention Center
Virginia Beach’s Oceanfront district is convenient for visitors extending their conference trip into a beach weekend. However, the closest beach hotels are not necessarily the closest properties to the convention center entrance.
Hotel Areas Worth Comparing
| Area | Best for | Consider before booking |
|---|---|---|
| 19th Street / Convention Center area | Attendees who prioritize a shorter event commute | Actual walking route, hotel parking, breakfast and nighttime return |
| Oceanfront / Atlantic Avenue | Visitors who want beach access, restaurants and resort amenities | Extra distance to the venue, hotel parking fees and seasonal congestion |
| Town Center | Business travelers seeking a broader urban hotel and dining district | Driving time to the Oceanfront and event parking |
| Norfolk / airport corridor | Flight convenience and different hotel pricing options | Additional driving time and possible rush-hour delays |
Calculate the Real Cost of Your Hotel
Compare the room rate plus taxes, hotel parking, transportation to the venue, cancellation terms and the location of your first morning session. A cheaper property farther away may become less convenient for a multi-day event.
For conferences with an official hotel block, compare the organizer’s published group rate with refundable direct-booking options.
Food and Nearby Activities
- Before an early event: Check breakfast opening times at your hotel or nearby cafés.
- Between sessions: Use venue food service or planned breaks rather than assuming you can leave and return quickly.
- After the event: Explore the Oceanfront and Boardwalk district, local seafood restaurants, beach shops and seasonal entertainment.
- Family trip: Allow additional time for activities such as the Virginia Aquarium and nearby coastal attractions.
- Peak season: Expect additional travel pressure during large public shows, beach festivals and summer weekends.
The venue advertises nearby dining resources through its official visitor portal. For event-specific meals or dietary accommodation, confirm arrangements with the organizer or venue catering staff.
How to Book an Event or Exhibit at Virginia Beach Convention Center
The venue is operated through the City of Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau. Event rentals are not generally sold through a universal fixed-price checkout because costs depend on room selection, timing, event scale, staffing, services and permit arrangements.
Choose the expected attendance, date range, seating configuration, preferred halls and service requirements before requesting a venue proposal.
First secure your booth with the event organizer. Then follow the exhibition service requirements for electricity, freight, internet, setup and dismantling.
Event Booking Process
- Outline your event. Prepare its name, purpose, preferred dates, estimated attendance, room needs and planned schedule.
- Compare layouts. Review official hall, ballroom and meeting-suite capacities to establish a suitable starting configuration.
- Open the official planning portal. Visit the VBCC event planning page and choose the event inquiry or booking option.
- Submit the request. Provide the organizer details, expected guest count, required spaces and anticipated service needs.
- Review the proposal. Check rental costs, staffing, catering, security, insurance, equipment, deadlines and permitted activities.
- Coordinate with your Event Manager. The official guide encourages sharing pertinent event information at least 30 calendar days before load-in to qualify for its referenced incentive pricing.
Main booking contact: 757-385-2000 | vbcc@vbgov.com
Exhibitor Service Preparation
Before move-in, confirm these five items: assigned booth and hall, contractor instructions, electrical/internet needs, loading dock schedule, and approved handling of promotional or food-sampling materials.
The official exhibitor portal links to floor plans, services and vendor resources. Select your service category and follow the organizer’s exhibitor kit for deadlines and authorization.
Planning Other Convention Trips? Compare These Visitor Guides
If your schedule also includes conventions in other cities, these related guides explain how parking, venue size, connected hotels and airport travel can differ from Virginia Beach.
Greater Richmond Convention Center
A useful comparison for convention travel elsewhere in Virginia, including downtown Richmond hotel access, garages and venue logistics.
Philadelphia Convention Center
Compare urban transit connections, hotel proximity, complex entrances and city-center convention planning.
Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Explore large-venue hall navigation, published parking details, nearby hotels and attendee-versus-exhibitor arrival differences in New Orleans.
George R. Brown Convention Center
Useful for comparing large exhibition halls, downtown Houston parking options, hotel skybridges and event travel logistics.
Virginia Beach Convention Center FAQs
1. What is the Virginia Beach Convention Center address?
The Virginia Beach Convention Center is located at 1000 19th Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. Use this address for navigation, then follow any event-specific entrance or parking directions.
2. Is Virginia Beach Convention Center parking free?
Yes, regular venue parking remains free during the city’s postponement of paid parking until April 1, 2027. Parking is subject to available spaces and applicable event arrangements.
3. How much will parking cost when paid parking begins?
The city’s published future schedule is $1 for the first hour, $3 cumulative after two hours, $6 after three hours and a $10 daily maximum. These are planned rates for the postponed program, not ordinary parking charges currently in effect in October 2026.
4. Where can I find upcoming Virginia Beach Convention Center events?
Use the official convention center Event Calendar and select the event you want to attend. Check the individual organizer’s details for ticket prices, dates, start times and registration rules.
5. What are the Virginia Beach Convention Center opening hours?
Public access depends on the scheduled event. There is no single daily admission schedule for every exhibition, meeting or private function. Check your event’s announced entry time.
6. How far is the convention center from Norfolk International Airport?
The venue advertises an approximate 20-minute drive from Norfolk International Airport under favorable conditions. Actual travel time varies with weather and traffic.
7. Does the Virginia Beach Convention Center have Wi-Fi?
Yes. The venue advertises complimentary Wi-Fi in pre-function areas. Exhibitors or event organizers may require separate internet services for booths, production or dedicated connectivity.
8. Is the Virginia Beach Convention Center accessible?
The venue provides accessible visitor facilities and describes accommodations such as ramps, lifts and assisted listening arrangements. Contact the venue or organizer in advance for specific mobility, hearing, seating or communication needs.
9. Can I bring outside food or pets into the convention center?
The facility restricts outside commercially prepared food and deliveries. Service animals are permitted, while other animals generally require event-related approval. Individual event rules can impose additional restrictions.
10. How do I book the Virginia Beach Convention Center for an event?
Use the official event planning portal to submit an inquiry with your dates, expected attendance, preferred spaces and service needs. The venue team can then discuss availability, requirements and event-specific rental costs.
Final Event-Day Checklist
Before Leaving Home
- Confirm venue and event date.
- Save the ticket or registration QR code.
- Check your event entrance and start time.
- Review parking and any special traffic advisory.
- Carry an accepted cashless payment method.
After Arriving
- Park in the correct public area.
- Keep your lot location saved.
- Locate registration or ticket screening.
- Confirm your hall or meeting-room number.
- Check whether you may leave and re-enter.
Official Resources and Contact Details
These official sources support the visitor information above and provide the final action points for tickets, venue booking or policy confirmation.
Venue telephone: 757-385-2000
Venue email: vbcc@vbgov.com
Parking management: 757-385-2900