19 Best Things To Do In Newport News, Virginia

Stephen
Stephen 
Updated
| 9 min read

Named after Christopher Newport, Newport News is an independent city in the state of Virginia and boasts a rich history. From historical museums and historical buildings to art galleries and hidden gems, the city has features for an ideal vacation destination. You will be able to admire the romantic beauty of plantations and gorgeous geography. For those who love outdoor activities, you will find attractions such as parks, zoos, and animal preserves to explore. There are also a lot of theaters, museums, and many other exciting places for art lovers to visit. For a wonderful vacation, read on to know more about the top things to do in Newport News, Virginia.

1. Take a look at the exhibits in Virginia Living Museum (from USD 22.0)

Kids get excited and thrilled about outdoor adventures like visiting parks and museums. That’s why it would be nice to take the kids to explore the Virginia Living Museum during your vacation. With different animal exhibits both indoor and outdoor, there’s definitely something for the kids to be excited about. There’s rustic boardwalk which gives an opportunity to admire wild animals such as red wolves, bobcat, and river otters among many others. Birds such as bald eagles and coastal birds are beautiful to watch as you walk. Kids will be thrilled to see things like the Dinosaur Discovery Trail with life-like dinosaurs.

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Skip the Line: Virginia Living Museum Admission Ticket

Duration: 2 to 6 hours

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2. Hike the scenic and relaxing Noland Trail

Posted by Ryan Smith on Thursday, 19 September 2019

Located in Mariners’ Museum Park, the Noland Trail is a tranquil wooden trail that surrounds Lake Maury. This rustic lovely trail has been a small paradise for people who love hiking and mingling with nature. It’s well-maintained and cleaned and it would be a safe place to come with the kids for a nature walk. People always find it so inspiring to come and jog along this trail while they get to breathe fresh air as they exercise. You can also stop by the James River and enjoy the romantic sight of its calm waters.

Noland Trail

Address: Newport News, VA, USA

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3. Explore the maritime history at Mariners' Museum

Goodbye, Dorian ? Feeling thankful that we fared well here at the Museum and Park. We will be back to normal operating...

Posted by The Mariners' Museum and Park on Friday, 6 September 2019

Explore and learn about global maritime history at the Mariner’s Museum. Located along Museum Drive in Newport News, the museum boasts an enormous gallery space with a wide variety of maritime artifacts. The museum has some pieces of history in that it is one of the largest maritime museums in the continent. Inside you explore a large collection of artifacts including intriguing models of ships, maritime paintings, carved figureheads, and working steam engines among others. It also comes with a well-equipped research library and you can gather useful maritime information.

The Mariners' Museum

Address: 100 Museum Dr, Newport News, VA 23606, USA

Website: The Mariners’ Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm

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4. Soak in the culture at Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center

From dance classes and yoga to family arts workshops, check out what is coming to Downing-Gross this season! With...

Posted by Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center on Monday, 9 September 2019

As you get to interact with the local people during your vacation, learning their cultural practices would go a long way to enabling an easy, wonderful time in Newport News. Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center is a cultural museum residing in the southeast part of the city. The museum is wonderfully decorated and has a wonderful atmosphere. This is also where the Ella Fitzgerald Theater is and if you’re lucky enough, you can catch a live performance. This multi-purpose center also houses a dance studio, a music room, an art studio, and other spaces for different activities.

Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center

Address: 2410 Wickham Ave, Newport News, VA 23607, United States

Website: Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm; Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun)

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5. Pop in at the U.S. Army Transportation Museum

Posted by U.S. Army Transportation Museum on Monday, 17 June 2019

Have you ever asked yourself how the life of military soldiers is like? In Newport News, Virginia there is no better place to quench your curiosity. If you are a military enthusiast, the collections at this museum will excite you. The museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and showcasing military artifacts. There are different exhibits portraying different transport such as horse riding in the early days and sophisticated military engines today. There is a wide range of models of helicopters, trains, and boats. The museum has outdoor and indoor galleries showcasing eclectic antique equipment.

Army Transportation Museum Foundation

Address: 300 Washington Blvd, Fort Eustis, VA 23604, United States

Website: Army Transportation Museum Foundation

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 4:30pm (closed on Sun)

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6. Get a glimpse of American history at Endview Plantation


Endview Plantation used to be the home of Dr. Humphrey Harwood Curtis. Before this rustic structure was transformed into a hospital during the Confederate times, this is where the doctor used to carry out his medical business. Today, the building serves as a museum which showcases and teaches visitors how different historical and cultural practices have shaped this city. The name Endview comes from the direction in which you approach the residence from the west end. The museum sits in a lovely knoll with a beautiful flow of spring water at the foot creating a romantic sight.

Endview Plantation

Address: 362 Yorktown Rd #1017, Newport News, VA 23603, United States

Website: Endview Plantation

Opening hours: Mon, Thu & Fri: 10am - 4pm; Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Tue & Wed)

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7. Relax in nature's lap at Newport News Park


Your vacation just became more exciting because we have a wonderful option for you. Just pack your camping gear and drive to Newport News Park situated on Jefferson Avenue. It is the largest park within Newport News and has nice trails for hiking. It’s also a place where many bikers from the city come to ride and get a chance to interact with nature. Admire wildlife in their natural habitat and the different species of trees that make up this beautiful scenery. With the Mississippi River adjacent to the park, this also turns out to be a good spot for fishing, paddling, and canoeing.

Newport News Park

Address: 13560 Jefferson Avenue, Newport News, VA 23603, United States

Website: Newport News Park

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8. Relive the colonial days at Virginia War Museum

Updated Pear Harbor and Philipines Display

Posted by Virginia War Museum on Thursday, 9 August 2018

Virginia War Museum tells the history of the American military in the 18th century. The museum hosts a wide range of collections including pieces of art, military uniforms, weapons, and vehicles among many other intriguing artifacts. It is true that you should not judge a book by its cover because the size of the museum might deceive you. Once you step inside you will be surprised at the volume of historical artifacts and memorabilia being sheltered by the museum. There is a variety of war posters and features like the section of the Berlin Wall that will certainly catch your attention.

Virginia War Museum

Address: 9285 Warwick Blvd, Newport News, VA 23607, United States

Website: Virginia War Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm

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9. Catch a show at Ferguson Center for the Arts


Ferguson Center for the Arts is one of the many iconic landmarks in the city. If you are an art enthusiast, this theater is a place that should be on your to-do list during your vacation. Featuring some of the best works of art from all over the globe, the center is most popularly known for the live performances in the theater. The place is always flooded with visitors, both local and international, coming to enjoy a music concert or a dance performance. The lighting is perfect, the seats are luxurious, and the atmosphere is just right for enjoying a performance.

Ferguson Center for the Arts

Address: 1, Avenue of the Arts, Newport News, VA 23606, United States

Website: Ferguson Center for the Arts

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat: 10am - 2pm (closed on Sun)

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10. Step back in time at Lee Hall Mansion

Posted by Lee Hall Mansion on Tuesday, 29 May 2012

Lee Hall Mansion is a historic structure nestled in a gorgeous plantation that used to be the home of a prominent planter, Richard D. Lee. If you would love to roll back the years to the 1800s, this is a good place to start. The structure is a charming brick house built in the Victorian style with a lush green compound. Take a tour of the interior and explore a collection of amazing exhibits like period antiques. You will find a knowledgeable staff that will enlighten you about the cultural significance of this historic building. You will be delighted to find out the historical relic and how the house was a Confederate headquarters.

Lee Hall Mansion

Address: 163 Yorktown Rd, Newport News, VA 23603, United States

Website: Lee Hall Mansion

Opening hours: Mon, Thu & Fri: 10am - 4pm; Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Tue & Wed)

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11. Tour the Newsome House Museum & Cultural Center


Discover one of the hidden gems in Newport News by visiting the Newsome House Museum and Cultural Center. This museum used to be the home of J. Thomas Newsome, a respected attorney, journalist, churchman, and a leader. Newsome was respected and loved in equal measure by his fellow community members. The museum has information regarding historical events like meetings of the African-American community which used to happen here.

The Newsome House Museum & Cultural Center

Address: 2803 Oak Ave, Newport News, VA 23607, United States

Website: The Newsome House Museum & Cultural Center

Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed from Sun - Wed)

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12. Go animal spotting at Peninsula SPCA

Domestic Goat {capra hirus}
Source: Photo by user Drew Avery used under CC BY 2.0

Looking for a fun and adventurous place to take the kids over the weekend? You can’t find a better place to visit than the Peninsula SPCA. This is a popular open-door animal shelter nestled in a lush green environment. Learn about the adoption process that happens at the petting zoo. The kids will be excited as well as thrilled to see different animals such as peacocks, goats, alpacas, and sheep. If you have a keen eye you might spot tortoises or Shadow, the black leopard. Walk to the barnyard and try feeding the animals. You may even take pictures of some of the obscure animals in the exotic sanctuary.

Peninsula SPCA

Address: 523 J Clyde Morris Blvd, Newport News, VA 23601, United States

Website: Peninsula SPCA

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 5pm (closed on Sun)

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13. Drop by the contemporary James A. Fields House

Posted by Stephanie Mercer on Saturday, 24 August 2019

In this part of the Virginia Peninsula, discover the story behind the African-American community living. To be able to go back in time and learn more about the historical events that happened in the city of Newport News, you need to visit the James A. Field House. You will discover that this historical structure used to be the home of James, a prominent teacher and a respected lawyer in Newport News. He also had his office in the same building. In order to give back to society, the building was later turned in a hospital for the local community. Today, the building is a museum that preserves the history and culture of Newport News.

James A. Fields House

Address: 617 27th St, Newport News, VA 23607, United States

Website: James A. Fields House

Opening hours: Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed from Mon - Sat)

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14. Appreciate the collection at Peninsula Fine Arts Center

things to do in newport news va | appreciate the collection at peninsula fine arts center
Source: instagram

Any person enjoying a pristine vacation in Virginia should visit Peninsula Fine Arts Center. This is a visual arts museum which is affiliated to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in a way and is a popular destination with art lovers. During your exploration, you will be able to observe both static and rotating exhibits. Apart from art lovers, which makes it attractive to kids is that you can also create your own piece of art if you feel motivated to. The museum features a hands-on gallery for kids and a shop where you can buy souvenirs as gifts before you leave.

Peninsula Fine Arts Center

Address: 101 Museum Dr, Newport News, VA 23606, United States

Website: Peninsula Fine Arts Center

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 1pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)

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15. Unwind at Huntington Park

Huntington Park Fort Fun 010a
Source: Photo by user Mytwocents used under CC BY-SA 3.0

This is a recreational park located along Riverpark Road in Newport News. It comes with exciting features such as a pristine beach, museums, and romantic gardens decorating the compound, two fishing piers, and tennis. You can let the kids have a swim at the beach or just have fun in the playground. The park also has perfect picnic spots and eateries where you can enjoy a treat if you’re hungry. To keep the memories, it would be nice to take some pictures.

Huntington Park

Address: Riverpark Rd, Newport News, VA 23607, United States

Website: Huntington Park

Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)

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16. Pay homage to the heroes at Newport News Victory Arch

Victory Arch, Newport News-2
Source: Photo by user Smash the Iron Cage used under CC BY-SA 4.0

During the civil wars, a lot of historical events happened that changed a lot of lives. Families lost loved ones and friends who served in the military and that’s why this monument was erected. The Victory Arch was established to celebrate and remember all the soldiers who gave their lives for a peaceful dawn. People usually trickle down here to pay tribute to those brave men and women who fought in the war. Today, the monument is used to host Newport News’ annual Memorial and Veterans Day celebrations.

Newport News Victory Arch

Address: West Ave, Newport News, VA 23607, United States

Website: Newport News Victory Arch

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17. Visit Ironclad Distillery Co.


Are you crazy about wine? If so, then this would be a good opportunity for you to take your sweetheart for a wine-tasting excursion. Ironclad Distillery Co. is a charming family-owned craft distillery which comes with a special tasting room. This distillery is famous for its fantastic bourbon and great music that makes the place lively. The bar attendants are super helpful and courteous. It is a perfect ambiance and a romantic feeling creating a wonderful atmosphere to enjoy wine. Relax and unwind as you enjoy the refreshing taste of bourbon accompanied by the wonderfully crafted cocktails.

Ironclad Distillery Co.

Address: 124 23rd St, Newport News, VA 23607, United States

Website: Ironclad Distillery Co.

Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 12pm - 6pm (closed from Sun - Tue)

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18. Gorge on delectable dishes at Fin Seafood

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


Surprise your better half by treating them to some delicious seafood dinner and good wine. Make a reservation for two at Fin Seafood, which is a popular seafood restaurant in Newport News. The restaurant is perfectly arranged and has a wonderful ambiance. The meals are prepared using locally sourced ingredients utilizing organic and sustainable products for a quality menu. Treat your taste glands with delectable delicacies such as crab cakes, delicious salmon, and fried oysters. The restaurant comes with a room for hosting special meetings for hosting special events and meetings. The room is furnished with a private bar, a restroom, and a state-of-the-art electric retractable screen for maximum luxury.

Fin Seafood

Address: 3150 William Styron Square N, Newport News, VA 23606, United States

Website: Fin Seafood

Opening hours: 11am - 10pm (daily)

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19. Jive to the beats at Manhattan's NY Deli & Pub


Are you looking for a place to enjoy a vibrant nightlife around Newport News? There are several places you can drop by and enjoy, but Manhattan’s NY Deli and Pub stand above them all. This is a very popular bar and grill in Virginia Peninsula. This vibrant tavern is an ideal place to dine and dance. They have got an interesting menu and the catering staff is excellent. From cocktails and liquor to traditional American cuisines, the restaurant got everything on point. It also comes with a patio that allows you to dine as you admire nature. With live performances and live DJ music, you couldn’t look for a better place to enjoy your night.

Manhattan's NY Deli & Pub

Address: 601 Thimble Shoals Blvd, Newport News, VA 23606, USA

Website: Manhattan’s NY Deli & Pub

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 2am (closed on Sun)

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Enjoy a delightful vacation in Newport News

Experience unforgettable memories while exploring the beautiful city of Newport News in Virginia Peninsula. With the beautiful geography and the many charming attractions and hidden gems, you will definitely have a lot to explore. With the above list of things to do in Newport News, you won’t struggle to find fun and adventure.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Stephen is an avid content writer with a passion for adventure. He enjoys traveling and has visited several countries around the world. So far, South Africa stands out as his most exciting...Read more

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