Hampton Roads Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, food, culture, transportation and more in Hampton Roads, Virginia, with this comprehensive travel guide. Plan your trip today!


Introduction to Hampton Roads

Hampton Roads is located in Eastern Virginia, situated on the Chesapeake Bay and known for its rich history and culture. The region includes a group of cities and towns, such as Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Newport News, and Hampton. With its mix of beach retreats, outdoor opportunities, historic landmarks, and modern attractions, the area is an ideal destination for all kinds of travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Hampton Roads

Here is a list of must-see attractions in the Hampton Roads region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Virginia Beach History Museums: A collection of museums focusing on the history and culture of Virginia Beach, including the Thoroughgood House, Princess Anne County Training School/Union Kempsville High School Museum, and Francis Land House.
  • Mariners’ Museum and Park: Explore the world’s largest maritime museum, featuring over 35,000 artifacts, a 550-acre park, and a trail that winds through the woods and along the shoreline.
  • USS Wisconsin and Nauticus: Tour the battleship USS Wisconsin, learn about naval history, and explore interactive exhibits on science and technology at Nauticus.
  • Fort Monroe National Monument: Visit the historic fort, which dates back to the early 1600s and played a significant role in the Civil War and American history, and explore the fort’s moated lands and beaches.

Natural Attractions of Hampton Roads: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • First Landing State Park: Go fishing, hiking, biking, or swimming at this 2,888-acre park, featuring 1.25 miles of sandy beach, campgrounds, and scenic trails.
  • Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge: A 9,000-acre protected area with marshes, dunes, and a forest, where visitors can hike, bike, fish, or go birdwatching.
  • Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel: Drive over the 20-mile bridge-tunnel complex and experience some of the best views of the Chesapeake Bay.
  • Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center: Discover the diversity of marine life, including sharks, sea turtles, and playful otters, at the Virginia Aquarium.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hampton Roads

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Hampton Roads has numerous trails and paths to explore perfect for hiking, biking and more. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Elizabeth River Trail: A 10.5-mile paved trail, offering scenic views of the Elizabeth River, historic sites, and modern developments.
  • Virginia Capital Trail: A 52-mile trail that connects Jamestown to Richmond, taking cyclists and hikers through historic plantations, picturesque countryside, and bustling towns.
  • Newport News Park: With over 30 miles of trails, this park is the perfect place to explore nature by foot or bike.

Best Things to Do in Hampton Roads: Activities and Tours

Hampton Roads offers ample options to keep everyone entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

  • Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour: Explore downtown Norfolk on an open-air trolley, stopping at major attractions and landmarks.
  • Skydiving: Take a leap of faith and enjoy the thrill of a lifetime by skydiving over Virginia Beach.
  • Dolphin Watching Tours: Take a guided boat tour and watch amazing dolphins playing in their natural habitat.
  • Seafood Sampling Tour: Savor the coastal flavors of the region on a food tour, with stops at the best seafood restaurants and markets in the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hampton Roads

Here’s an itinerary to help you plan a fun-filled week in Hampton Roads:

Day 1: Visit the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and Oceanfront, enjoy a day on the beach, and watch the sunset at First Landing State Park.

Day 2: Explore history at Fort Monroe National Monument and tour the USS Wisconsin at Nauticus.

Day 3: Take a stroll around the Norfolk Botanical Garden, followed by a visit to the Virginia Zoo.

Day 4: Go hiking or biking at Newport News Park or take a tour of the Mariner’s Museum and Park.

Day 5: Enjoy a day on the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge or take a boat tour for dolphin watching.

Day 6: Visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, and end your day with a sunset paddleboarding or kayaking tour.

Day 7: Take a day trip to Jamestown or Williamsburg and experience a slice of early colonial American history.

Food and Drink Scene of Hampton Roads

Hampton Roads is a foodie’s paradise, offering cuisine influenced by the coastal region. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crab Cakes: Tasty and authentic, Hampton Roads is famous for its crab cakes. Try them at the local restaurants or seafood markets.
  • Virginia Ham: A local specialty, this salty ham is a must-try for meat lovers.
  • Seafood Bisque: A creamy soup made with local seafood and seasonings.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: The region is famous for its craft breweries and the unique selection of beers. Take a brewery tour and enjoy a tasting session.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit the wineries in the area for the best wine tasting experience in Hampton Roads.
  • Virginia Peanut Martini: A mixed drink that is a favorite of the local beach bars, made with peanut-infused liquor.

Where to Stay in Hampton Roads: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hampton Roads offers accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, ranging from beachfront resorts to cozy guesthouses. Here are some of the best accommodation options located in the region:

  • The Cavalier Virginia Beach: A luxury hotel located in the heart of Virginia Beach, offering stunning ocean views, elegant decor, and modern amenities.
  • Norfolk Waterside Marriott: A downtown hotel with fantastic views of the Elizabeth River, comfortable rooms with great amenities, and easy access to major attractions in Norfolk.
  • Newport News Marriott at City Center: A modern and stylish hotel located in Newport News, featuring excellent amenities, outdoor pool and an on-site restaurant.

What to Buy in Hampton Roads: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bring a piece of Hampton Roads home with you by purchasing some local products. Here’s what to consider:

  • Peanuts: Virginia is known for its peanuts, so grab a bag or two to take home with you.
  • Chesapeake Bay Art: You can find local artwork inspired by the region’s beaches, wildlife, and landmarks.
  • Military Souvenirs: The area’s rich military history means there are plenty of souvenirs available in shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Hampton Roads

Visitors to Hampton Roads will find a rich cultural heritage, influenced by the area’s Native American, African American, and immigrant populations. Some customs and practices that you should be familiar with include:

  • Military Respect: With its many military bases, Hampton Roads is a hub for military personnel. Show respect for all military service and customs.
  • Southern Hospitality: Southerners are known for their hospitality and warmth. Expect people to be friendly and welcoming.
  • Beach Culture: Since the area is known for its beaches, expect to see casual dress codes and laidback attitudes.

Best Time to Visit Hampton Roads

The best time to visit Hampton Roads is from April to May and September to October, when the weather is mild and pleasant. July and August are peak tourist seasons, but can be hot and crowded. Winter months are generally less popular and colder.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hampton Roads

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Hampton Roads:

Do:

  • Visit the Beaches: Hampton Roads is famous for its beaches. Make sure you pack sunscreen and plenty of water.
  • Taste the Local Cuisine: Hampton Roads cuisine is delicious and varied. Try as much as you can!
  • Respect Military Presence: With so many military bases in the region, show respect and keep in mind that security measures can be strict.

Don’t:

  • Overlook Historic Sites and Monuments: Hampton Roads has a rich history. Don’t miss out on it!
  • Ignore the Local Customs: Be kind and courteous to everyone you meet, and respect local customs and traditions.
  • Miss the Sunsets: The sunsets in Hampton Roads are magical. Make sure to witness them at least once!

Safety and Health

Safety in Hampton Roads

Hampton Roads is a safe region for visitors. However, tourists should keep in mind the following:

  • Beach Precautions: Keep an eye on the weather and ocean conditions when at the beach.
  • Keep Your Belongings Secure: Petty thefts do occur in tourist areas. Keep valuables like wallets, cameras, and phones in a secure place.

Health in Hampton Roads

Hampton Roads is home to several hospitals and medical facilities. Tourists should note that the region can be humid, and hygiene precautions should be taken.

Getting to Hampton Roads: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hampton Roads

  • Norfolk International Airport
  • Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport

Bus Stations Near Hampton Roads

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Hampton Roads Transit

Other Options

There are also many car rental agencies and ride-share services available like Uber, Lyft and Taxis, making it easy for travelers to get around Hampton Roads.

How to Get Around in Hampton Roads

To get around Hampton Roads, shuttle bus services and rental cars are available at affordable rates. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also common means of transportation. Alternatively, renting a bike can be an enjoyable way to explore the city and its surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Hampton Roads: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the nearby destinations from Hampton Roads include:

  • Colonial Williamsburg: A historic district that replicates life in the early 18th century, it’s a perfect place to experience the life of colonial America.
  • Chincoteague Island: A beautiful island located off the coast of mainland Virginia and a perfect beach retreat for nature lovers.
  • Assateague Island: Another island situated in Maryland, Assateague Island is a wildlife refuge where visitors can observe feral ponies and wildlife in their natural habitat.

Conclusion

From cultural attractions and outdoor adventures to cuisine and beaches, Hampton Roads offers something for everyone. With this comprehensive tour guide, we hope you’re ready to experience the best of this Virginia region. Plan your visit today and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.



    Busch Gardens Williamsburg
    Colonial Williamsburg
    Hampton
    Newport News
    Norfolk
    Virginia Beach
    Williamsburg