Things to Do

Rich with historic and cultural attractions, outdoor activities, shopping and dining options, Hampton Roads offers an abundance of entertainment for visitors and locals alike. From world-class museums to the the downtown Norfolk waterfront, there is always something to do.

History

The Hampton Roads region is steeped in history. During the Revolutionary War, many battles were fought here, ending with Cornwallis' surrender at Yorktown. In addition, the harbor was the site of the famous Civil War battle between the ironclads, the Union Monitor and the Confederate Virginia, commonly known as the Merrimac. In more modern times, the region's large military presence and shipbuilding industries have continued to play a major role in American history and defense.

Sports and Recreation

State and city parks, public beaches, and other recreational facilities are open to the public for camping, hiking, boating, surfing, fishing, swimming, tennis and golf. The region boasts university sports, professional hockey, professional soccer, and AAA minor-league baseball, and Hampton Roads is one of the most active yachting areas in the nation.

Arts, Culture and Cuisine

History buffs can visit the restored villages of Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown. Foodies will enjoy the many fine and casual restaurants and cafes throughout the area that offer coastal and diverse ethnic cuisines. Arts and culture enthusiasts will enjoy a number of diverse offerings throughout the region, including Virginia Symphony, Virginia Opera, Virginia Stage Company and the Chrysler Museum of Art, located just blocks from EVMS’ main campus.

‌Special Events

The region plays host to a number of seasonal festivals, including the Virginia Arts Festival (along the entire Virginia waterfront), Virginia Beach Boardwalk Art Show, Hampton Bay Days, Virginia Beach Neptune Festival, Norfolk Azalea Festival, Suffolk Peanut Festival, Chesapeake Jubilee, Norfolk's Harborfest, Portsmouth's Seawall Festival, Octoberfest, and Norfolk's Holidays in the City.

Near the EVMS campus, on the downtown waterfront, special events are presented most weekends, sometimes including fireworks and boat parades. Several tour boats set sail nightly throughout the year, providing tours of the waterfront.

Easy Getaways

Hampton Roads also offers many opportunities for weekend getaways. The cultural attractions of Washington, D.C., the windswept beaches of North Carolina's Outer Banks, and the scenic beauty and ski resorts of the Blue Ridge Mountains are only a few hours' drive away.