Things To Do
in Hampton
Hampton, Virginia sits on the Hampton Roads harbor area with a rich history dating back to colonial times. It blends waterfront charm with modern attractions, from museums and Fort Monroe to beaches and family-friendly parks. The city acts as a gateway to the wider Virginia Peninsula, offering outdoor adventures, cultural events, and accessible coastal cuisine.
Rich in military and maritime heritage, Hampton makes for a relaxed yet engaging coastal getaway.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading to Fort Monroe. Explore the historic fortifications and learn about its role in American history through informative exhibits. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and take in the stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay.
After lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant, visit the Casemate Museum within Fort Monroe to delve deeper into its storied past. Enjoy some time outdoors at the surrounding beaches, where you can relax or take part in recreational activities like beach volleyball. As the afternoon winds down, consider renting a kayak to explore the waters around the fort.
For dinner, treat yourself to a waterfront dining experience featuring fresh, local seafood. After your meal, take a sunset walk along the beach, where the sky is painted with vibrant hues. End your evening with a visit to a local bar for live music and a taste of Hampton's nightlife.
Begin your day with a visit to the Hampton History Museum, where you can engage with exhibits showcasing the city’s rich history. Enjoy a guided tour that highlights key events and figures, including the area’s significant role in the Civil War. The morning is a great time to soak in the unique stories that shaped the community.
After a light lunch at a nearby deli, head to the Virginia Air and Space Science Center for an interactive afternoon filled with aviation and space exploration exhibits. Check out the IMAX theater for a thrilling documentary that takes you on a journey into the cosmos. Spend some time at the hands-on exhibits that are perfect for visitors of all ages.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a charming local restaurant that features Southern cuisine with a modern twist. Post-dinner, take a leisurely stroll through downtown Hampton, where you can appreciate the vibrant art scene and shop for unique souvenirs. Conclude your night with a visit to a local theater to catch a live performance or a movie.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay | $90-150 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline fill-up | $40-70 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $12-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal access and family-friendly attractions
- Rich history and cultural sites
- Humidity in summer and traffic around peak hours
Places to Visit in Hampton
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic fort ruins with panoramic bay views, ideal for sunset shots and silhouettes of the Chesapeake.
Wide beach views with a long pier and colorful sunsets over the water.
Architectural variety with stately buildings and tree-lined avenues perfect for campus photography.
Industrial-modern facade and museum grounds suitable for architectural and aviation-themed shots.
Food in Hampton
Hampton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Chesapeake Bay classic with crab meat and a touch of crab roe, served as a creamy, flavorful starter.
Must-Try!
Pan-seared, lightly seasoned crab cakes made with fresh crab meat and minimal fillers.
Crispy-soft-shell crabs piled on a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and tangy remoulade.
A nod to regional ham traditions with simple, hearty sides like coleslaw and cornbread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, local seafood, baked goods, and ready-to-eat bites from nearby vendors.
Casual bites such as fish sandwiches, fries, and local specialties along the Buckroe and Harborfront areas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple hello or good morning; polite conversation and basic manners are valued across the region.
Casual to smart-casual attire depending on venue; sunscreen and casual coastal wear are common in summer.
Respect local wildlife; do not feed wildlife and follow beach rules for safety and preservation.
Safety
Tipping in Hampton
Ensure a smooth experience
Typical gratuity is 15-20% at restaurants; rounds up for small checks. In quick-service spots, tipping is appreciated but optional.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for small vendors and markets; mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with peak beach activity; bring sun protection and plan for afternoon thunderstorms; water activities are most popular.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies; great for outdoor walks and harvest events; fewer crowds.
Mild winters relative to inland areas; chilly but rarely severe; indoor venues and museums are good options for rainy days.
Blooming landscapes and pleasant temps; outdoor festivals and farmers markets resume fully.
Hampton at Night
Hiking in Hampton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, mostly flat loop around Lake Maury suitable for easy hikes and birdwatching.
Coastal paths with bay views and historic ruins for scenic walks.
Varied trails appealing to all levels, located nearby in the broader region.
Airports
How to reach Hampton by plane.
Regional hub about 15-25 miles from central Hampton; easy drive via I-64 or taxi/rideshare.
Smaller regional airport about 25 minutes away with connections to several major hubs.
Larger airport about 90 miles inland; good for longer trips or international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Proximity to Langley Air Force Base and Joint Base Langley-Eustis brings a substantial military community.
Hampton University and regional colleges contribute a diverse city population.
Coastal neighborhoods with parks and cultural activities appeal to retirees seeking a relaxed lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
College and community football are popular, with games at Hampton University and local high schools.
Indoor courts and organized leagues are common in parks and recreational centers.
Coastal waters support sailing and kayaking with rental options along the Harbor and Buckroe areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hampton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Hampton restaurants offer meat-free options; look for veggie burgers, salads, seafood-free pasta, and plant-based entrees. Vegetarians should ask about broths and sauces to avoid animal-based stocks.