Hampton
One of Coastal Virginia’s most historic cities, Hampton has so much going for it. Come spend the day exploring Fort Monroe, a decommissioned Army fort first established in 1607. Miles of bike trails and boardwalks right on the beach make for great scenery juxtaposed next to crumbling batteries built during the Civil War. Hampton is also home to historic Hampton University, one of the oldest African American colleges in America.
Hampton is a great location for military members, as it’s close to both Norfolk Naval Station, Ft. Eustis and Langley Air Force Base as well. With a diverse geography and population, combined with affordable housing, Hampton is a great choice for a first time homebuyer. Downtown Hampton, which features the Air and Space Center and Hampton University boasts a number of restaurants and shops. There’s also Blackbeard’s Pirate Festival every June, which is a really fun event for the whole family (it is odd that pirates and kids are buddies these days, but I digress). If shopping is more your speed, you will want to check out Coliseum Central. So many shops and restaurants to choose from, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for!