8 Things to Do When Visiting Hampton Roads, VA

Courtesy of Visit Virginia Beach

If you’re visiting the Hampton Roads region of Virginia for the first time, you’ll have a variety of fun options to explore. It’s one of those places where you can experience historical sites, appreciate nature and then have a night of music or a delicious meal. The region takes its name from the colonial-era shipping lanes. Today, it’s a community that includes iconic cities like Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk and Williamsburg. Here are eight things to do while you’re there:

1. Oceanfront Boardwalk

One of the most popular places to visit in the U.S. is Virginia Beach. Besides swimming in the ocean or basking on the beach, you can also enjoy the famous boardwalk. Voted one of the best boardwalks in the U.S. by National Geographic and USA Today, it stretches for three miles from Second Street to 40th Street, allowing you to appreciate the ocean views alongside live music, amusement rides, shops, hotels and restaurants. If you’re an early riser, it’s also a great spot to catch the sunrise. While you’re there, don’t miss Grommet Island Park or the iconic King Neptune statue.

2. Scenic Trails

Nature walks are another way to experience beautiful scenery in Hampton Roads. Some popular places to stroll along a path and appreciate wildlife are the Elizabeth River Trail, First Landing State Park and the Norfolk Botanical Garden. The Elizabeth River Trail has a unique 10.5-mile urban path along the waterfront that features a “Glowline” using bio-luminous technology. The special stones on the path absorb sunlight during the day and emit a soft green glow at night, making it a standout destination for evening walks.

Courtesy of Norfolk Botanical Garden

3. The Arts Scene

Named one of The New York Times’ “52 Places to Go in 2026,” the ViBe Creative District is a must-see destination. Located just west of the Virginia Beach oceanfront, this district allows you to experience the work of local artists and a variety of creative endeavors. Other essential art stops in the region include the NEON District in Norfolk, the Chrysler Museum of Art and the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA).

4. Farmers Market

Get a true taste of the local scene at East Beach, Old Beach and Ghent farmers markets. At these markets, you can find everything from heirloom vegetables to handcrafted artisan creations directly from the people who made them. It’s more than just a shopping trip – it’s an opportunity to connect with the farmers and makers who give their neighborhoods a sense of character.

Nathan Lambrecht

5. Nightlife in Norfolk

There is a range of nightlife options to choose from at the Waterside District in Norfolk, which has been a primary spot in the area since 1983 but underwent a $40 million renovation in 2017. If you’ve always wanted to ride a mechanical bull, you can head over to PBR Norfolk A Coors Banquet Bar. Or, if you’d rather just relax and listen to some live music, then try the Blue Moon TapHouse.

6. Craft Breweries

One of the best ways to experience local craft beverages is by taking the Toast the Coast Brewery Tour. Using either a paper guide or a mobile passport, you can collect stamps at each stop to earn exclusive swag like T-shirts and glassware. Popular spots include Oozlefinch Beers & Blending, Smartmouth Brewing, Back Bay Brewhouse Farmhouse, New Realm Brewing and Tarnished Truth Distilling.

Nathan Lambrecht

7. Historic Landmarks

If you are a history buff, there are plenty of options to visit, such as the famous Colonial Williamsburg, Historic Jamestowne and the Yorktown Battlefield. You can also explore the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, which features immersive films and a re-created Revolution-era farm. Together, these sites form the Historic Triangle.

8. Scientific Experiences

For those interested in exploring science, there is a range of scientific experiences to visit, such as the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and the Virginia Air & Space Center, which is one of only 15 official NASA Visitor Centers in the U.S. These places offer everything from deep-sea exploration to the history of flight, providing hands-on learning for all ages.