Newport News, VA

Travel Guide

A building with multiple arches and a tower in the background.
A row of canoes on a wooden dock at sunset.
A paved road flanked by dense green foliage and trees.
A calm lake surrounded by autumn-colored trees reflecting in the water.
A gazebo with a reflection in the water at dusk.

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, theVirginia Living Museumis 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' Museumisone 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 thePeninsula Fine Arts Center. This institution has a variety of dance, theater and music programs.

The quaintHilton Villageis 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 Parkis 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.

Where to stay in Newport News

Find the best Newport News areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

Central Newport News

If you're spending some time in Central Newport News, Patrick Henry Mall and Virginia Living Museum are top sights worth seeing.

Riverside

While visiting Riverside, you might make a stop by sights like Mariner's Museum and Ferguson Center for the Arts.

Hilton Village

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Hilton Village and surrounding area, you can visit Huntington Beach and Virginia War Museum.

Kiln Creek

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Kiln Creek and surrounding area, you can visit Patrick Henry Mall and Hampton Roads Iceplex.

Downtown Newport News

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Downtown Newport News and surrounding area, you can visit Newport News City Hall and Huntington Beach.

Stay near popular Newport News attractions

Cities near Newport News