Discover The Best Of Hampton Roads Virginia

Located in the southeastern part of Virginia, Hampton Roads is a vibrant region that has something to offer every type of traveler. From the stunning beaches and mountains to the rich historical landmarks and cultural immersion, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in this region. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and more.

Top Attractions

One of the top attractions in Hampton Roads is the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. Stretching for three miles along the oceanfront, the boardwalk is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Another must-visit attraction is the historic Jamestown Settlement, where you can learn about the early days of the first permanent English settlement in America. Other popular attractions include the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, the Chrysler Museum of Art, and the Virginia Zoo.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for some off-the-beaten-path experiences, be sure to check out the Norfolk Botanical Garden. This 175-acre garden is home to over 60 themed gardens and is the perfect place to relax and unwind. For a unique adventure, head to the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. Here, you can hike, kayak, and even take a guided boat tour through the swamp.

Food Scene

Hampton Roads has a diverse and vibrant food scene. Seafood lovers will want to check out the Crab Shack on the James in Newport News or the Dockside Restaurant and Marina in Virginia Beach. For a taste of Southern cuisine, head to Sweet Tea and Barley in Norfolk or the Ironclad Distillery Co. in Newport News for some locally distilled whiskey and bourbon.

Budget-Friendly Tips

For a budget-friendly day out, head to the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art in Virginia Beach. Admission is free, and you can explore a wide variety of contemporary art exhibitions. Another budget-friendly option is to visit the First Landing State Park, where you can enjoy hiking, fishing, and picnicking for just a small entrance fee.

Outdoor Adventures

Hampton Roads is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing, there’s something for everyone. For a thrilling adventure, head to the Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium in Virginia Beach, where you can test your skills on zip lines and ropes courses. You can also take a guided kayak tour through the Chesapeake Bay or go fishing on the James River.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check out the Children’s Museum of Virginia in Portsmouth. Here, kids can explore interactive exhibits and learn about science, math, and technology in a fun and engaging way. Another family-friendly activity is the Virginia Air and Space Center in Hampton, where you can learn about the history of flight and even see a real space shuttle.

Historical Landmarks

Hampton Roads is steeped in history, and there are many historical landmarks to explore. One of the most significant is the Colonial National Historical Park, which includes Jamestown, Yorktown, and the Colonial Parkway. You can also visit the Fort Monroe National Monument, which played a critical role in the Civil War and is now a popular spot for hiking, biking, and picnicking.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

For a unique and fascinating experience, head to the Virginia War Museum in Newport News. Here, you can learn about the various wars that the United States has been involved in and see a vast collection of military artifacts and vehicles. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach, where you can see rare and vintage aircraft up close.

Natural Wonders

Hampton Roads is home to many natural wonders, including the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, which we mentioned earlier. Another natural wonder is the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. This 17.6-mile long bridge-tunnel connects the Eastern Shore to the mainland and offers stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay. You can also visit the False Cape State Park, where you can explore pristine beaches, dunes, and maritime forests.

Vibrant Nightlife

After a day of exploring, you can unwind with some vibrant nightlife in Hampton Roads. Head to the Ghent neighborhood in Norfolk, where you’ll find a variety of bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Another popular spot is the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, where you can dance the night away at one of the many clubs and bars.

Cultural Immersion

For a taste of the local culture, head to the Virginia Beach Farmers Market, where you can sample fresh produce and local specialties. You can also visit the Hampton History Museum, where you can learn about the history of Hampton and the surrounding region. Another cultural immersion experience is the annual Virginia Arts Festival, which features a variety of performances, including music, dance, and theater.

Art and Music Scene

Hampton Roads has a thriving art and music scene, with many venues and galleries to explore. One of the top music venues is the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater in Virginia Beach, where you can see top acts perform under the stars. For a taste of the local art scene, head to the Chrysler Museum Glass Studio in Norfolk, where you can watch glassblowers at work and even try your hand at creating your own piece of glass art.

Walking Tours

For a unique way to explore Hampton Roads, take a walking tour. The Norfolk Tour Company offers a variety of tours, including a food tour of the Ghent neighborhood and a ghost tour of the historic Freemason District. You can also take a self-guided walking tour of the Virginia Beach Boardwalk or explore the historic streets of Colonial Williamsburg.

Architectural Marvels

Hampton Roads is home to many architectural marvels, including the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond, which was designed by Thomas Jefferson. You can also visit the Cape Henry Lighthouse in Virginia Beach, which was built in 1792 and is the oldest lighthouse in Virginia. Another stunning architectural marvel is the Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk, which features a blend of modern and classical architecture.

Historical Sites

As we mentioned earlier, Hampton Roads is steeped in history, and there are many historical sites to explore. One of the most significant is the Hampton University Museum, which is the oldest African American museum in the United States. You can also visit the Yorktown Battlefield, where the American Revolution was won, or explore the historic streets of Williamsburg.

Biking Routes

Hampton Roads is a great place for biking, with many scenic routes to explore. The Virginia Capital Trail is a 52-mile paved trail that runs from Richmond to Williamsburg and offers stunning views of the Virginia countryside. You can also explore the Virginia Beach Boardwalk on a bike or take a leisurely ride through the historic streets of Portsmouth.

Wellness Retreats

If you’re looking to unwind and relax, Hampton Roads has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. The Founders Inn and Spa in Virginia Beach offers a variety of spa treatments and wellness services, including yoga classes and meditation. Another option is the Cavalier Hotel in Virginia Beach, which has a rooftop infinity pool and a variety of wellness activities, including beach yoga and paddleboard yoga.

Adventure Sports

For the adrenaline junkies, Hampton Roads has plenty of adventure sports to get your heart pumping. You can go skydiving in Suffolk, rock climbing in Virginia Beach, or take a thrilling ride on a jet ski in the Chesapeake Bay. You can also try your hand at surfing, kiteboarding, or windsurfing on the many beaches in the region.

Hampton Roads is a diverse and exciting region that has something to offer every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, cultural immersion, or just a relaxing day at the beach, you’ll find it all in Hampton Roads.