Hampton Roads, Virginia

Nestled along Virginia’s southeastern coast, Hampton Roads is a lively region that blends maritime heritage, military strength, and rich cultural traditions. More than just a single city, Hampton Roads includes Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Newport News, Hampton, Portsmouth, and Suffolk. It also borders America’s Historic Triangle, Jamestown, Yorktown, and Williamsburg, putting it right next to the birthplace of the nation’s story.

Military Presence 

Hampton Roads is home to the largest concentration of military bases in the United States, emphasizing its crucial role in national defence and global operations. At its heart lies Naval Station Norfolk, the world’s largest naval base, alongside key installations such as Joint Base Langley-Eustis and Naval Air Station Oceana. This region serves as a hub for the U.S. Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard, and is home to NATO’s only North American command, Allied Command Transformation, highlighting Hampton Roads’ strategic international importance. With so many military bases, there are service members and families from all over the world constantly moving in and out. It’s not unusual to meet people with incredible stories from far-off places.

Coastal Celebrations

The area is not only defined by its military prowess but also by some of the most unique festivals in the country. The Virginia Arts Festival, Neptune Festival, and Virginia International Tattoo (part of the NATO Festival) draw visitors from all over the world.

• Neptune Festival - Virginia Beach
  As summer fades to fall, the Neptune Festival transforms the Virginia Beach oceanfront into a vibrant celebration of the sea. From massive sand sculptures and surfing competitions to live music, art shows, beach volleyball, a Grand Parade, and fireworks, this beloved festival draws thousands every September.
  
  
• NATO Festival & Virginia International Tattoo - Norfolk
  Norfolk’s role as the home of NATO’s only North American command is celebrated each spring during the NATO Festival. The centrepiece event, the Virginia International Tattoo, showcases military music, precision drills, and cultural pageantry from NATO member nations. This extraordinary event shines a spotlight on Hampton Roads’ global connections and proud military heritage.
  
  
• Virginia Arts Festival
  Each spring, the Virginia Arts Festival transforms the region into a cultural playground, featuring world-class classical music, innovative dance, and captivating theater. International artists join forces with local talent to deliver weeks of artistic excellence across multiple venues, enriching the community and visitors alike.

Why People Love It

Virginia is for lovers... beach lovers, hiking lovers, music lovers, oyster lovers, history lovers and more! Whether you’re interested in the thunder of Navy jets, the peaceful beauty of a Chesapeake Bay sunset, or the excitement of international festivals, Hampton Roads offers something for everyone stationed there. It’s a place where stories are told through sand, sea, and song, and every tide brings something new.

Interesting Tidbits

• The mermaid is Norfolk’s official symbol, representing the city’s deep connection to the sea, naval heritage, creativity, and rebirth, a nod to its rich maritime roots.
• Home to America’s Flying Museum, the Military Aviation Museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of flying vintage military aircraft.
• Known for a few Famous Faces including Pharrell Williams, Missy Elliott, Timbaland, and Wayne Newton.
• Hampton Roads is one of the world's largest natural harbors, and it’s not a “road” in the traditional sense! The name "Hampton Roads" refers to the deep channel that serves as a major gateway to the Atlantic Ocean.