I have a confession to make- I often fall into the trap of feeling like I need to jet off to some far flung destination to truly feel like I’ve traveled neglecting some hidden gems that are literally right under my nose. So when a friend told me I needed to check out Hampton, a mere 30 minutes from my home in Virginia Beach, I was intrigued. What I found was an under-the-radar town that has played a pivotal role in American history, and will find any reason to throw a party along with some seriously good eats. An easy drive from both Virginia Beach and Williamsburg, Hampton is an easy addition to any Coastal Virginia vacation. Here are my recommendations for what to do in Hampton, Virginia.
Hampton University Museum
Hampton University is widely regarded as one of the top historically black universities in the country, but did you know that the Hampton University Museum is the oldest African-American Museum in the United States? Founded in 1868 the museum houses a diverse 9,000 piece collection featuring African, African-American, Native American, Asian and Pacific Island artists.
The Hampton Carousel
On any given day you can find families and those looking to relive their childhood taking a spin on the Hampton Carousel. This beautifully resored antique carousel was originally built in 1920 and is one of less than 100 wooden carousels in the United States. Open year round, the Hampton Carousel is sure to bring a smile to your face whether you’re young or young at heart.
The Hampton History Museum
Located in the heart of Downtown Hampton, the Hampton History Museum tells the fascinating story of the oldest continuous English-speaking settlement in the United States. From the villages of the Native American Kecoughtan tribe, pivotal roles in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars to being at the forefront of air and space research; the fascinating history of Hampton closely parallels the greater story of the United States itself.
Virginia Air & Space Center
Hampton is home to both Langley Air Force Base and NASA Langley Research Center so the city’s aviation roots run deep. The Virginia Air & Space Center is a must visit by anyone captivated by flight with a collection that includes a replica of the 1903 Wright Flyer to a DC 9 passenger jet and a number of military jets and helicopters. What I found fascinating was the the collection of spacecraft, ranging from the Apollo 12 (the second manned spacecraft to the moon) to a replica of the Mars Rover. You can even take a look at an actual moon rock!
Festivals
On any given weekend there is sure to be some kind of celebration going on in Hampton. From May to September Saturday nights heat up with the weekly Downtown Hampton Block Party featuring music from local and national acts as well as tasty treats from local food vendors. Don your finest pirate garb and get your “Arrggh” on at the annual Blackbeard Pirate Festival that celebrates all thing pirate with food, music and even a full scale sea battle in Hampton Harbor. Satisfy your need for speed in August at the Hampton Cup Regatta, the oldest continuous hydroplane boat race in the world.
Fort Monroe National Monument
Standing sentry at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay since 1609 Fort Monroe has played an integral role in America’s early history. Fort Monroe provided protection to the settlers of the Jamestown settlement and during the Civil War, as a Union held stronghold in the Confederate South, Fort Monroe provided a safe-haven to runaway slaves. In 2011 Fort Monroe was declared a National Monument, you can learn about the Fort’s fascinating history at the Casemate Museum.
Paradise Ocean Beach Club
With palm trees, powder white sand and tropical drinks flowing you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in Key West. Situated on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay the Paradise Ocean Beach Club boasts an Olympic size swimming pool, beach volley ball courts, VIP cabanas and features live music from local and national artists all summer long.
Venture Kitchen and Bar
Venture Kitchen and Bar serves up elevated bar food and creative cocktails in the heart of downtown Hampton. Choose from their extensive menu of eclectic pizzas and inventive sandwiches that pair pefectly with thier artfully crafted cocktails. Make sure you get an order of their handmade tots served with an all too addictive spicy mayo.
St. George Brewing Company
Virginia’s craft beer scene has never been hotter and Hampton’s St. George Brewing Company has been at the forefront of the craft beer boom since 1996, making them the second oldest craft brewery in Virginia. Visit the brewery to sample their award winning European-inspired brews, the Golden Ale and Winter Scotch are personal favorites.
The Deadrise
End your day in Hampton with a waterfront sunset dinner at The Deadrise. Located near Fort Monroe The Deadrise offers up classic steaks and the freshest seafood with stunning marina views.
valerie says
Wow looks like a beautiful place to visit..I am like you working the day job and trying to travel when I can! thanks for sharing!
Valerie
Brianna says
I definitely enjoyed Hampton!
noel says
Well there certainly a lot going on in your back yard, so much history and culture rolled into one fantastic place to visit and also a gorgeous beach to boot, lovely!
Brianna says
don’t forget the food!
Salini says
What you said is quite true. I too tend to miss local places in my urge to venture to the distant lands. I keep postponing the closer locations. Great that you found such amazing places around you. I especially liked the carousel and the history museum.
Brianna says
How can you not love the carousel?
Carol Colborn says
We can be surprised by awesome places right in our neighborhood. Hampton certainly sounds like one of those. I have to do like you and visit some of them.
Brianna says
Any places on your list?
Leah says
I’m with you on looking past some great things right under my nose. Looks like you found a pretty spot in Hampton.
Brianna says
I think a lot of us always get caught up in looking for the exotic,but the familiar can be just as fascinating.
Holly says
I have been there a good amount of times or at least in the area but never have done any of this. I will have to keep this in mind. Especially that Ocean Beach Club.
Brianna says
The Ocean Beach Club is so unexpected, its a blast!
Jennifer Coleman says
Great ideas! I may have to check it out for the Pirate Festival alone! 😉
Brianna says
Arrrggghhh!
Indrani says
Covers almost everything from festivals to monuments to nature!! This can be an ideal family vacation destination. I would prefer the monuments and museums any day.
Brianna says
Fort Monroe is awesome!
Christina says
It looks like there’s a good mix of things to see and do in Hampton. My husband would love the Virginia Air and Space Center. I’m sure I could drop him off and go to the beach.
Brianna says
The space capsules were fascinating!
Francesca says
I know what you mean! That’s why I’ve been trying to see more of the U.S., especially the Midwest. Looks like you found lots of fun stuff in Hampton! The breweries are up my alley, of course, and I think I’d also have to pay a visit to Fort Monroe.
Brianna says
It’s amazing how much cool stuff is around us.
Sia says
I think we are all guilty of neglecting the travel destinations that are close to us and prioritizing the famous spots instead. Sometimes it is a real win to find such a place! I can almost imagine the sunset dinner with this view! I would love to ride on a wooden carousel like that! I have only seen them in (American) movies and tv shows and they are so common. Wondering if there are any in Europe and where.
Brianna says
I remember seeing a carousel in Marseille
Rob says
I have never been to Virginia but Hampton looks like a great place. We really enjoy festivals and the Blackbeard Pirate Festival sounds like a lot of fun. My son would love to see the Virginia Air & Space Center and my wife and I would love to have cocktails at the Paradise Ocean Beach Club, If we are ever down that way we will definitely have to check out Hampton
Brianna says
Hampton has something for everyone!
Reginia Cordell says
I’m always interested in air and space history. I didn’t know that Hampton had such museum. The most familiar that I am with Hampton is Hampton University.
Brianna says
That goes for most people but there are so many hidden gems here!
Charles McCool says
Ooooh, that carousel looks pretty and fun. I gotta do some Hampton exploring!
Brianna says
come on down!
Eric || The Bucket List Project says
Great post…my entire family lives up in or around Fairfax, Virginia and thus everytime I visit them I tend to either stay up there or just head North to Northern VA, DC, Maryland, or Penn. I think the next time I need to go south and visit Hampton if not just to ride that beautiful Carousel! That is amazing alone!
Brianna says
Hampton is an easy add on to Williamsburg and Virginia Beach as well!
Terry says
Wow! If i come here, it is certain that i will do all 10 things you mentioned.
Brianna says
good to know!
Sarah Stierch says
I enjoyed my visits to Hampton Roads when I lived in Williamsburg and DC. Glad to see more things to explore – I LOVED Fort Monroe. So spooky and surreal – i.e. Jefferson Davis Memorial Park and the pet cemetery. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
Brianna says
Seriously, Fort Monroe is the best!