While we’re obviously a destination in our own right (one of the country’s most popular, in fact) Virginia Beach is also part of a metropolitan area called Hampton Roads, named for the shipping lanes that ran through this region in colonial times. Hampton Roads contains seven independent cities: Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Poquoson, Suffolk and Williamsburg. When you visit Virginia Beach, you’re just a short drive away from the rich history and adventurous offerings of the entire region — here’s a quick overview of what to see and do.
The Historic Triangle: Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown
The settlers who landed in Virginia Beach in 1607 traveled up the James River to create America’s first permanent English colony: Jamestown. Today, you can walk through the reconstructed settlement to get an idea of what it took to survive during Pocahontas’ time. In nearby Colonial Williamsburg, you can experience pre-Revolution America through a living history area that’s world-renowned for authentic detail. Shopping and dining are just as charming, thanks to cobblestone streets, gracious hospitality and stylish goods inspired by colonial life.
Colonial Williamsburg: the nation’s largest living history museum
Colonial National Historical Park: Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown Battlefield
American Revolution Museum at Yorktown: our nation’s fight for independence
Busch Gardens and Water Country: world-class theme-park fun for the whole family
Kingsmill Resort & Spa: 36 holes of championship golf; one of many courses nearby
Norfolk: Our Neighborly Port City
Virginia Beach has more than a border in common with the neighboring harbor town of Norfolk; we share a love of the water and how it connects us to great adventures. As home to Naval Station Norfolk, the world’s largest naval installation, Norfolk has a storied past and a vibrant local arts scene. Whether you’re exploring walkable downtown Norfolk’s eclectic food scene and high-end shopping or taking advantage of cultural attractions like the Chrysler Museum of Art and Norfolk Botanical Garden, you’ll be treated to a vibrant, constantly evolving city.
Naval Station Norfolk: the world’s largest naval installation
Chrysler Museum of Art: free art museum with 50+ galleries
Norfolk Botanical Garden: Virginia’s largest botanical garden
Hampton Roads Naval Museum: nearly 250 years of naval history
Nauticus: a maritime science museum; home to Battleship Wisconsin
Maritime Culture: Newport News, Hampton & Portsmouth
Like much of this storied region, Newport News, Hampton and Portsmouth are all known for their place in our nation’s earliest history — and their part in our country’s military presence. If there’s a history dad in your crew, be sure to check out the fascinating and informative attractions below.
The Mariners’ Museum and Park: America’s National Maritime Museum
Virginia Living Museum: home to more than 150 species of native wildllife
U.S. Army Transportation Museum: 50,000 square feet of transportation history
Virginia Air & Space Center: 30 historic aircraft and 100+ years of flying heritage
Naval Shipyard Museum: a treasure trove of local naval history and memorabilia
Children’s Museum of Virginia: the largest children’s museum in the state of Virginia