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Discovering Hampton, VA: 10 Must-Visit Places for Every Traveller

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore Hampton, VA, ensuring reliable communication while discovering the city’s top 10 must-visit places, from historic sites to scenic attractions and vibrant cultural experiences.

Hampton’s charm sneaks up on you. This coastal Virginia city, where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic, packs fascinating history, pretty beaches, green parks, and a surprising wealth of family-friendly attractions into an unassuming package.

 

1. Dive into History at Fort Monroe National Monument

Fort Monroe National Monument is a must-visit for history buffs. This star-shaped stone fort, built in the early 1800s, has played pivotal roles in American history:

  • It was a key Union outpost during the Civil War

  • In 1861, three escaped slaves took refuge here, leading to the historic “Contraband Decision” that granted freedom to escaped slaves

  • Confederate President Jefferson Davis was imprisoned here after the Civil War

Today, you can explore the fort’s ramparts, visit the Casemate Museum to learn its full story, and enjoy stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay.

 

2. Get Hands-On at the Virginia Air & Space Science Center

Budding astronauts and curious minds of all ages will love the Virginia Air & Space Science Center. This Smithsonian affiliate museum is packed with interactive exhibits on flight and space exploration. Highlights include:

  • The Apollo 12 Command Module

  • A 3D IMAX theater

  • A hands-on space challenge simulation

  • Artifacts from the early days of aviation to the Space Race

Admission is Rs. 1331 for adults and Rs. 1064 for children ages 3-18.

 

3. Relax at Buckroe Beach and Park

When you need a break from sightseeing, head to Buckroe Beach and Park. This wide, sandy beach is a local favorite for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Amenities include:

  • Lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day

  • A playground and picnic shelters

  • Kayak and paddleboard rentals

  • A fishing pier (no license required)

Parking is free, making Buckroe an affordable spot for a family beach day.

 

4. Explore the Great Outdoors in Hampton Parks

Hampton takes pride in its parks and recreation facilities. With over 25 city parks covering 1,300+ acres, Hampton offers plenty of green space to hike, bike, fish, or just relax. Two standout parks in Hampton VA are:

Sandy Bottom Nature Park

This 456-acre park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife watchers. Amenities include:

  • 12 miles of hiking and biking trails

  • Two lakes for fishing

  • A nature center with educational exhibits

  • Campsites and cabins for overnight stays

Bluebird Gap Farm

Kids will love this unique city park, home to over 150 domestic and wild animals. Admission is free, and you can:

  • Pet and feed friendly farm animals

  • Enjoy a picnic in the shade

  • Let little ones burn energy on the playground

  • Learn about Virginia’s agricultural heritage

5. See Vintage Aircraft at the Air Power Park

Aviation geeks won’t want to miss the Air Power Park, an outdoor display of vintage military aircraft and missiles. Highlights of the collection include:

  • An RF-4C Phantom II reconnaissance plane

  • A T-33 Shooting Star trainer

  • An F-105D Thunderchief fighter-bomber

  • A Nike-Ajax missile and launcher

Admission is free, and the park has a playground and picnic area for families.

 

6. Take a Hampton Harbor Cruise

See Hampton from the water on a narrated harbor cruise aboard the Miss Hampton II. During this 3-hour tour, you’ll:

  • Cruise the Hampton River and Chesapeake Bay

  • Spot local landmarks like Fort Monroe and the Old Point Comfort Lighthouse

  • Learn about Hampton’s maritime history and wildlife from knowledgeable guides

  • Have a chance to see dolphins, osprey, and other marine life

Cruises depart from the Downtown Hampton Public Piers. Tickets are Rs. 2129 for adults, Rs. 1064 for children ages 6-12.

 

Compare Top Hampton Attractions

Attraction

Highlights

Cost

Location

Fort Monroe

Historical fort, Casemate Museum, bay views

Free

Old Point Comfort

VA Air & Space Center

Apollo 12 module, hands-on exhibits, IMAX

Rs. 1331 adults, Rs. 1064 kids

Downtown Hampton

Buckroe Beach

Swimming, kayaking, fishing pier

Free parking

4 miles from downtown

Sandy Bottom Nature Park

Hiking trails, fishing lakes, campgrounds

Free entry; fees for some activities

10 miles from downtown

Air Power Park

Vintage military aircraft, playground

Free

4 miles from downtown

 

7. Attend Hampton’s Annual Festivals

Hampton hosts several popular festivals throughout the year. Time your visit to experience:

  • Hampton Jazz Festival (June) – Top jazz, R&B and soul artists perform at the Hampton Coliseum

  • Blackbeard Pirate Festival (June) – Pirate-themed food, music and family activities in downtown Hampton

  • Hampton Cup Regatta (September) – One of the oldest hydroplane boat races in America, held on the Hampton River

  • Holly Days Parade (December) – Annual boat parade with festively decorated boats competing for prizes

Many festivals offer free admission. Check the Hampton Convention & Visitor Bureau website for current event schedules and ticket information.

 

8. Shop and Dine in Downtown Hampton

Downtown Hampton is a charming historic district filled with locally owned shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Unique shopping stops include:

  • The Hampton History Museum gift shop, stocked with Hampton souvenirs and history books

  • The Virginia Store, showcasing gourmet foods and handcrafts from over 100 Virginia artisans

When you get hungry, grab a bite at one of downtown’s many restaurants. Local favorites include:

  • Brown Chicken Brown Cow for gourmet burgers and milkshakes

  • Venture Kitchen & Bar for craft cocktails and seasonal dishes

  • Glazed Doughnuts for creative gourmet doughnuts (like maple-bacon and key lime pie)

On Wednesday evenings in the summer, don’t miss the Downtown Hampton Block Party with live music, food vendors, and a beer garden.

 

9. Visit the Hampton University Museum

The Hampton University Museum is the nation’s oldest African-American museum, with an impressive collection of over 9,000 objects and works of art. Exhibits span African, Native American, Asian, and African-American art and artifacts. Notable pieces include:

  • African masks, textiles, and sculptures

  • Traditional Native American garments

  • The Countee and Ida Cullen Collection of 20th-century African-American art

The museum is located on the historic campus of Hampton University. Admission is Rs. 532 for adults, Rs. 266 for children and seniors.

 

10. See a Show at The American Theatre

Catch a live performance at The American Theatre, a restored 1920s vaudeville house that now hosts concerts, plays, dance recitals, and more. The intimate 400-seat theater has exceptional acoustics and hosts a diverse lineup of local and national acts.

Ticket prices vary by event. Check the theater’s website for the current schedule and to buy tickets online.

 

Your Hampton Tour with Airtel

Hampton is easy to navigate by car, with most major attractions within a 15-minute drive of downtown. Parking is plentiful and inexpensive.

If you’re relying on your smartphone for directions or reservations, an international roaming plan is a must. Airtel’s Prepaid International Roaming Plans offer seamless connectivity, so you can stay connected while exploring Hampton’s attractions.

From historic forts to nature parks, Hampton VA offers a surprising array of things to do for all ages and interests. Use this guide to plan your perfect Hampton adventure. Soak up some history, enjoy the outdoors, and make lasting memories in this hidden gem of a coastal Virginia city.

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