Newport News, VA

Travel 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 theaters.

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 center 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 artifacts 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 Center. This institution has a variety of dance, theater and music programs.

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

Where to stay in Newport News

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

Central Newport News

If you're spending some time in Central Newport News, Patrick Henry Mall and Virginia Living Museum are top sights worth seeing.

Riverside

While visiting Riverside, you might make a stop by sights like Mariner's Museum and Ferguson Center for the Arts.

Hilton Village

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Hilton Village and surrounding area, you can visit Huntington Beach and Virginia War Museum.

Kiln Creek

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Kiln Creek and surrounding area, you can visit Patrick Henry Mall and Hampton Roads Iceplex.

Downtown Newport News

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Downtown Newport News and surrounding area, you can visit Newport News City Hall and Huntington Beach.

Comfort Suites Airport

Comfort Suites Airport

2.5 out of 5
12570 Jefferson Ave Newport News VA
$92 nightly
The price is $107 total per night from Nov 30 to Dec 1
$107 total
Nov 30 - Dec 1
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Newport News. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in ...
Comfort Suites Airport
City Express By Marriott Newport News

City Express By Marriott Newport News

2 out of 5
12359 Hornsby Ln Newport News VA
$94 nightly
The price is $109 total per night from Dec 1 to Dec 2
$109 total
Dec 1 - Dec 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Newport News. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
City Express By Marriott Newport News
James River Inn & Suites

James River Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
6045 Jefferson Ave Newport News VA
$58 nightly
The price is $68 total per night from Nov 8 to Nov 9
$68 total
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Newport News. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and daily housekeeping. Popular attractions Hampton Coliseum and Virginia War Museum are located ...
James River Inn & Suites
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
Book a stay at this spa aparthotel in Williamsburg. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
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
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Williamsburg. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Busch Gardens Williamsburg and ...
9/10 Wonderful! (353 reviews)
"The resort was gated and set up as houses. Our one bedroom condo was spacious with. King size bed that was very comfortable. The location is great, close to historic Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown. Also, it is very close to the theme parks. I would definitely come back."

Reviewed on Nov 6, 2026

King’s Creek Resort by Spinnaker
The Colonies at Williamsburg

The Colonies at Williamsburg

3 out of 5
5380 Olde Towne Road Williamsburg VA
Book a stay at this family-friendly hotel in Williamsburg. Enjoy free parking, an outdoor pool, and free water park access. Our guests praise the pool and the ...
The Colonies at Williamsburg
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.

Stay near popular Newport News attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Newport News worth visiting?
Newport News is worth visiting for its diverse food scene, offering Asian and North American dining options. Travelers can explore attractions like Christopher Newport University and Patrick Henry Mall, and discover distinct areas such as Central Newport News and North Newport News.
When is the best time to visit Newport News?
The best time to visit Newport News is from August through November, when the weather is generally pleasant for exploring. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option. During this period, travelers can enjoy a cooler climate while experiencing the area.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Newport News?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Newport News depend on what you want to see:

  • Central Newport News is home to Christopher Newport University, John B. Todd Stadium, and the Mariner's Museum.
  • North Newport News offers attractions like the Bounce House and historical sites such as Endview Plantation and Lee Hall Mansion.

What is Newport News known for?
Newport News is known for institutions like Christopher Newport University, Patrick Henry Mall, and Huntington Beach. As a riverside city on the James River, travelers can also find a strong Asian food presence.
What is a good itinerary length for Newport News?
A good itinerary length for Newport News is one to two days to enjoy Huntington Beach and the Virginia Living Museum. An extended stay of three to four days allows more time to explore areas like Central and North Newport News, visit Christopher Newport University, or shop at Patrick Henry Mall. See Newport News Activities.
How do you get around Newport News?
Newport News travelers often find rental cars are the most flexible way to explore, with options available in Central Newport News, North Newport News, and Briarfield. The city also has Newport News Station for train travel. Rideshare services offer another convenient option for getting around.
What are the top things to do in and around Newport News?
Newport News offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and local attractions for travelers to explore:


How do I plan a trip to Newport News?
To plan your Newport News trip, search Expedia for hotels and book flights, rental cars, and activities like the Virginia Living Museum in advance. Consider train travel as an option for getting around. Plan outdoor activities, such as visiting Huntington Beach, for early morning or late afternoon to make the most of your day.
What cuisines can you find in Newport News?
In Newport News you can find Caribbean cuisine, with dishes like jerk chicken, plantains, and rice and peas. Travelers can also enjoy Asian options such as Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Thai food. Other choices include Southern soul food, New American, Italian, Mexican, and Mediterranean dishes.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Newport News?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Newport News by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Newport News with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Newport News trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Newport News?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Newport News can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Newport News trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Newport News trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Newport News trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Newport News trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Newport News?
If it's your first trip to Newport News, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Newport News hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Newport News hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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