Hampton Travel Guide

Visit the culturally and naturally rich city of Hampton in Virginia. Explore the museums, outdoor adventures, and culinary scene, and learn about the local customs and dos and don'ts.


Introduction to Hampton

Hampton is a historic city located in the Eastern part of Virginia in the United States. The city is situated on the southern part of the Virginia Peninsula and along the Chesapeake Bay. It has a rich history dating back to the colonial era and has played an integral role in the development of the country. Today, Hampton is a hub of cultural and natural attractions, ranging from historical buildings to outdoor adventures, making it an exciting place to visit.

List of Places to Visit in Hampton

Hampton has an abundance of attractions and activities for tourists to explore. Here is a list of must-visit places in Hampton:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort Monroe National Monument: A former U.S. Army base, Fort Monroe has a history dating back to the colonial era and played a critical role in the Civil War. Today, visitors can tour the fort and several historical military buildings, including the Casemate Museum.
  • Virginia Air and Space Center: This popular museum features interactive exhibits on aviation and space exploration and displays actual aircraft and rockets.
  • Hampton History Museum: The museum showcases the rich history and heritage of the city of Hampton, including the contributions of African Americans, Native Americans, and European settlers.
  • St. John’s Episcopal Church: This historic church, dating back to 1728, is the oldest continuous English-speaking parish in the country and the site of several significant events in American history, including the Virginia Convention of 1775.

Natural Attractions of Hampton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Buckroe Beach and Park: This lovely beachfront park offers a host of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
  • Grandview Nature Preserve: This scenic preserve spans over 500 acres and is home to over 200 species of birds, making it a prime location for bird watching. Visitors can also hike the various trails and enjoy the stunning views.
  • Sandy Bottom Nature Park: A beautiful park with over 400 acres of nature trails and fishing, boating and camping opportunities. The park is a must-visit for those who want to experience the outdoors and also want the convenience of a comfortable campsite.
  • Langley Speedway: Auto racing fans shouldn’t miss the chance to see some thrilling races at this racetrack, a fast and heart-pumping experience for all adrenaline seekers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hampton

Hampton has some fantastic hiking and biking trails that’ll take you through vast stretches of nature and history. Some notable routes include:

  • The Virginia Capital Trail: a 50-mile scenic trail connecting Richmond and Williamsburg, passing through Jamestown and the stunning Virginia countryside.
  • The Buckroe Beach Bike Path: a picturesque trail of seven miles along the waterfront that connects Buckroe Beach to Fort Monroe, passing across neighborhoods and parks along the way.
  • The Chesapeake Avenue Trail: A beautiful urban trail of 2.5 miles that runs parallel to the Chesapeake Bay. The trail offers beautiful views and easy access to several popular attractions close to it.

Best Things to Do in Hampton: Activities and Tours

Hampton offers a variety of activities and tours to cater to all visitors. Some of the best things to do in Hampton include:

  • Take a Bus Tour of Hampton: For those who want to explore the city hassle-free, a bus tour of Hampton is an excellent way to do so. The tours cover all the essential landmarks and attractions of the city, including visits to historical sites such as Buckroe Beach and St. John’s Church.
  • Tour the Hampton Harbor on a Ferry: Explore the scenic beauty of Hampton’s coastline from the water by taking a ferry boat tour through the harbor. The tour offers views of lighthouses, luxurious waterside homes, and dolphins, all from the comfort of a boat.
  • Taste the Local Wine: Taste the wines and visit the vineyards located within an hour’s drive from Hampton. The focus around the Chesapeake Bay is on Muscadine wines due to the regions climate and geography

Week-Long Itinerary for Hampton

To get a taste of all that Hampton has to offer, here is a week-long itinerary that will help tourists make the most of their visit:

Day Activity
1 Visit Fort Monroe National Monument, tour its historical military buildings, and the Casemate Museum
2 Explore the Virginia Air and Space Center
3 Go for a hike or nature walk in the Grandview Nature Preserve and enjoy panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay.
4 Visit Buckroe Beach and Park for some sunbathing, swimming, or picnicking
5 Tour Hampton History Museum and learn about the city’s rich history and heritage
6 Chose a vineyard and take a tour, learn the story of wine making in Virginia.
7 Spend the day at Sandy Bottom Nature Park, walking its nature trails or fishing, boating and camping in the lake.

Food and Drink Scene of Hampton

With abundant seafood options and local specialties, Hampton’s food and drink scene has something for everyone.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chesapeake Bay Seafood: Crab cakes, clam chowder, and fresh oysters are some of the delicious seafood dishes to try in Hampton.
  • Peanut Souffle: A regional dessert, peanut souffle is a light and creamy specialty made with peanuts grown in the surrounding region.

Local Beverages

  • Apple Cider: Enjoy hot or cold, locally sourced apple cider in function of the weather; it’s a popular drink in Hampton.
  • Craft Beer: Hampton has several excellent breweries that produce unique craft beers like Oozlefinch Craft Brewing Company, St. George Brewing Company, and Bull Island Brewing Company, to name a few.

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

There are plenty of options available for accommodation in Hampton, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.

  • Hampton Inn & Suites: Enjoy a comfortable and sophisticated stay in the heart of the city with amenities like a heated indoor pool and hot breakfasts.
  • Embassy Suites: Located near the airport, this all-suite hotel offers plenty of space and comfort after a long day of sightseeing.
  • The Chamberlin: A condo-style hotel located on Fort Monroe, The Chamberlin offers spacious accommodations with stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and plenty of leisure activities such as golf, tennis and swimming.
  • Airbnb: A great option for budget-friendly accommodation, you can choose from a variety of private rooms and apartments that suit your needs.

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

Bring home a piece of Hampton as a souvenir from the local shops and markets. Some perfect items to look out for include:

  • Peanuts and Peanut Products: Hampton is known for its fresh, locally sourced peanuts, and the local shops have a wide range of peanut products, including candy, brittle, and butter.
  • Seafood: One cannot leave Hampton without buying some fresh seafood, and the local markets and shops have a selection of fresh and frozen seafood available.
  • Handmade Crafts: Discover the local art scene by purchasing handmade crafts by local artisans, including pottery and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Hampton

The culture and customs of Hampton are a reflection of the history and heritage of the city. Greetings are of primary importance in the area, and Hamptonians are known to be very friendly and welcoming to visitors. The local faith community is diverse, including many different denominations actively working together to improve the quality of living for all Hamptonites. The community celebrates many festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing different aspects of the city’s rich heritage.

Best Time to Visit Hampton

Hampton is a year-round destination, with each season offering a unique experience. If you prefer warm weather and outdoor adventures, summer is the best time to visit. Spring and fall months are the best if you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds. But festivals run throughout the year from seafood to parades, so just choose the theme you prefer and come to see Hamptonlife in its full glory.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hampton

Do:

  • Do visit local markets and shops to buy local products such as peanuts, seafood, and arts and crafts.
  • Do greet locals with a smile and say “Hello” or “How are you?” as Hamptonians are known for being friendly and welcoming.
  • Do explore the history and culture of Hampton, as the city has a rich heritage worth learning about.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural attractions of Hampton, as the city makes significant efforts to preserve the beautiful heritage.
  • Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and reapply it regularly while exploring the outdoors in Hampton.
  • Don’t forget to tip in restaurants and cafés as it’s customary in the USA.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hampton

Hampton is generally a safe city for travelers and visitors. However, it’s always advisable to take the appropriate precautions like keeping the doors of your accommodations locked and monitoring your surroundings when in crowded areas or exploring outdoors at night.

Health in Hampton

Travelers are advised to have a travel medical kit with them, including the necessary medications, and consult a physician before visiting to prevent any avoidable health issues. The city has excellent healthcare facilities, and visitors can avail themselves of medical services in case of any emergency.

Getting to Hampton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hampton is well connected by road, air, and rail, making it easy for visitors to reach by any of these routes.

Airports Near Hampton

Newport News Williamsburg International Airport and Norfolk International Airport are within an hour’s drive from Hampton. Bus and taxi services are available to get to and from the airports.

Bus Stations Near Hampton

Greyhound operates bus services that stop in Hampton, and the Hampton Roads Transit bus service offers multiple options for getting around within the city.

How to Get Around in Hampton

The easiest way to get around in Hampton is by renting a car, as public transportation can be limited. Visitors who don’t want to rent a car can choose between the taxi, rideshare, and bus services available within the city.

Where to Go Next from Hampton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hampton is located near several other exciting destinations, making it an excellent base for exploring the region. Some must-visit destinations near Hampton include:

  • Williamsburg: An hour’s drive away, Williamsburg is a historic colonial town that takes visitors back in time to the 18th century.
  • Virginia Beach: Just a half-hour away, Virginia Beach is famous for its long beachfront boardwalk, freshwater lakes, and locally-owned restaurants.
  • Norfolk: A city rich in naval history and home to several museums, art galleries, and gardens is just a 20-minute drive from Hampton.

Conclusion

Hampton is Virginia’s hidden gem, offering an array of activities and attractions for all types of visitors. From historical landmarks and museums to outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, it’s an excellent place for exploring America’s rich history and natural abundance. With its warm hospitality and vibrant local culture, Hampton will ensure that you’ll have a memorable vacation.