Newport News Travel Guide

Tourist 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 theatres.

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 centre 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 artefacts 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 Centre. This institution has a variety of dance, theatre and music programmes.

The quaintHilton Villageis actually a memorial to a pioneering movement in urban planning. This neighbourhood 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.

Our guide on where to stay in Newport News

Find the best Newport News areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Newport News
Learn more about Newport News

Central Newport News

While visiting Central Newport News, you might make a stop by sights like John B. Todd Stadium and Patrick Henry Mall.

Riverside

If you're spending some time in Riverside, Mariner's Museum and Ferguson Center for the Arts are top sights worth seeing.

Hilton Village

While there might not be top attractions in Hilton Village, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Skiffes Creek Redoubt and Huntington Beach.

Kiln Creek

While Kiln Creek isn't home to many top sights, Patrick Henry Mall and Hampton Roads Iceplex are some notable places to visit nearby.

Downtown Newport News

While there might not be top attractions in Downtown Newport News, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Newport News City Hall and Huntington Beach.

Comfort Suites Airport

Comfort Suites Airport

2.5 out of 5
12570 Jefferson Ave Newport News VA
The price is AU$169 per night from 9 Aug to 10 Aug
AU$169
9 Aug - 10 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this beach hotel in Newport News. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
Comfort Suites Airport
James River Inn & Suites

James River Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
6045 Jefferson Ave Newport News VA
The price is AU$98 per night from 3 Aug to 4 Aug
AU$98
3 Aug - 4 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Newport News. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and daily housekeeping. Popular attractions Hampton Coliseum and Virginia War Museum are located ...
6/10 (173 reviews)
"The room was renovated and clean. It didn't look like much on the outside, so I was a little nervous from past bad experiences at other places, but I was pleasa"

Reviewed on 21 July 2026

James River Inn & Suites
Key West Inn - Newport News

Key West Inn - Newport News

2 out of 5
11845 Jefferson Ave Newport News VA
The price is AU$129 per night from 22 Aug to 23 Aug
AU$129
22 Aug - 23 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly motel in Newport News. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Popular attractions Cinemark City Center and John B. ...
Key West Inn - Newport News
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Vacation Village At Williamsburg

Vacation Village At Williamsburg

3 out of 5
4870 Longhill Road Williamsburg VA
Stay at this spa hotel in Williamsburg. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (2,647 reviews)
"We enjoyed the indoor and outdoor pool areas"

Reviewed on 21 July 2026

Vacation Village At Williamsburg
King’s Creek Resort by Spinnaker

King’s Creek Resort by Spinnaker

4.5 out of 5
191 Cottage Cove Lane Williamsburg VA
Stay at this luxury aparthotel in Williamsburg. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (218 reviews)
"We love the Chesapeake Cottages . They have the big porch and rocking chairs ,great for drinking your coffee in the morning and hanging out with the family. Great place all around."

Reviewed on 19 July 2026

King’s Creek Resort by Spinnaker
Marriott's Manor Club at Ford's Colony

Marriott's Manor Club at Ford's Colony

3.5 out of 5
101 Saint Andrews Dr Williamsburg VA
Stay at this golf aparthotel in Williamsburg. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, 2 outdoor pools and 2 hot tubs. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property condition ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,084 reviews)
"Had a great time at this resort. The pools were very nice, as were the hot tubs and saunas. We didn't have time to explore much as we were only there for one night, but we made full use of the amenities during that time. Would definitely stay again."

Reviewed on 19 July 2026

Marriott's Manor Club at Ford's Colony
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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