Can I go to my local bank and buy a Visa gift card with cash?

You have to use cash.

You should be able to pay for it with cash. However, some of the banks only sell to their customers or members so check to be sure. If you are going to use the visa gift card to buy stuff online, you need to register the card with the bank before you use it online, otherwise it may be rejected. The problem with using Visa (or any other bank issued) gift card online is that there is no verifiable name and address associated with the card. When buying things online, most merchants want your name and billing address to match the name and address you have on file with your card (credit, debit, or bank gift card) issuer. Therefore, before you use your Visa or other bank issued gift card, call the merchant/financial institution that issued the card or go to their website and add your name and address to the card. This will ensure that when you use the card online, the name and address you provide to the merchant for billing will match the name and address on file for the card. Once you have registered your card, you can use it online just like you would use a regular credit card. If your information (name and address) has changed since you registered your Visa gift card, call the card issuer or go online and update your information before you use the card online.

I have purchased several visa gift cards and I have always paid cash for them or had the money taken out of my bank account.