This coastal Virginia town has beautiful parks, a fascinating history and a bustling downtown filled with museums, restaurants and theaters.
The history and prime location of Newport News make this coastal town one of Virginia's most popular destinations.
Regardless of your age or interest, the Virginia Living Museum is likely to have an exhibit that will delight you. See animals up close at the aquarium and aviary. Explore interactive exhibits at the science center and planetarium. Enjoy beautiful weather while you stroll on the elevated boardwalk outdoors, where you will see indigenous animals, coastal birds and lush native gardens.
The Mariners' Museum is one of the world's largest maritime history museums. View tens of thousands of artifacts ranging from ship figureheads to steam engines the exhibits could keep you busy for days. The museum also has a vast collection of maritime paintings.
Catch a show or take a class at the Peninsula Fine Arts Center. This institution has a variety of dance, theater and music programs.
The quaint Hilton Village is actually a memorial to a pioneering movement in urban planning. This neighborhood in the style of an English village was built during World War I as a response to housing demands for employees of the town's booming shipbuilding industry. Spend the day enjoying quaint shops, restaurants and cafés lining the streets of Hilton Village.
Newport News has 36 city parks. Newport News Park is one of America's largest city parks. Walk or bike along its miles of trails that meander through shady forests and green meadows. Rent a boat to paddle around the park's ponds or reserve a campsite for the evening.
Newport News is a great place to visit any time of year. From its central coastal location, it is minutes to Williamsburg and just a short drive to Virginia Beach. Whether you want to spend a day touring its many museums or exploring its natural beauty, this town is one not to be missed.
