Starting college means more than just moving into a new dorm—it’s about discovering a city that supports your journey inside and outside the classroom. In Hampton, you’ll join a welcoming community filled with historic sites, cultural events, and signature attractions. Blending a rich past with forward-thinking innovation, Hampton offers resources, entertainment, and opportunities to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Whether you’re a Pirate, Bobcat, or Gator, take the time to explore the city that will be the backdrop of some of the most transformative years of your life. Your Hampton experience will be unique, inspiring, and unforgettable.

Exploring Hampton

Grab your headphones & walking shoes for one of our Cell Phone Tours. These free audio-based tours don’t require an app and are a great way to start exploring. Wander through our historic city, and at each stop, let captivating audio narratives transport you to the moments that have shaped Hampton into the charming coastal gem it is today. Feel free to follow the tour at your own rhythm, embracing detours that lead you to discover hidden gems, restaurants, attractions, and more along the way!

Also keep your eyes out for tour opportunities & attractions – like a cruise on the Hampton Queen or waterway kayak tour – many locals are surprised how much they learn about their city!

Restaurants Near Campus

You can filter our local restaurant listings by categories and location. For Hampton University students, start your search in Fort Monroe or Phoebus. For VPCC or Bryant & Stratton College students, your locality is Coliseum Central.

For discounts & coupons, check our Hampton student discounts blog or Taste of Hampton pass.

Free Things to Do

History lovers will especially love the Black History Sites & Landmarks in Hampton – two of which are on the HU campus! If history is not quite your thing, you might prefer one of the free walking tours at Fort Monroe. These guided tours are more bite-sized and interactive, making history a bit more engaging.

There’s no charge to view the art gallery Charles H Taylor Visual Arts Center, visit the Casemate Museum, or browse the Hampton University Museum.

If you’re looking to get outside, you might enjoy meeting the animals at Bluebird Gap Farm or seeing the aircraft at Air Power Park. More outdoors:

Stay Active

Hampton community centers regularly offer fitness classes like Zumba, Pickleball, & more. National gym chains you may already have a membership to include: Onelife Fitness, Planet Fitness, Anytime Fitness, and the YMCA. Of course there are many small, locally-owned gyms and specialty studios that include boxing, yoga, crossfit, and more. Try something different at:

• Lattitude Climbing & Fitness – 50 foot ‘rock’ walls for bouldering & climbing
• Hampton Virginia Aquaplex offers both day-rates for pool use & adult swimming classes
• Adult-friendly dance classes at Academy of Dance & Gymnastics, Dance and Fly
• Or sign up for martial arts/self-defense classes at: Brian Hobson Karate Studios, Cheeseman Martial Arts, Five Crow Martial Arts, Green’s Martial Arts, Tidewater Soo Bahk Do Martial Arts

Note: While many gyms do not offer student discounts, some offer more flexibility for students – like pausing membership during the summer.

Quiet Places to Study

If you’re looking for a change of pace or the college library is full, try visiting the Hampton Main Library or a locally-owned coffee shop.

Enjoy studying outside? Look for a picnic table at: Bluebird Gap Farm, Buckroe Beach & Park, Gosnold’s Hope Park, Sandy Bottom Nature Park, and some community parks/playgrounds.

Events

In addition to campus events, check out our Events Calendar for more things happening around town. Planning around a free festival or new workshop is a fun way to find hidden gems.

Also see our seasonal event roundups for can’t-miss festivals: Fall | Winter | Spring | Summer

Get more ideas of things to do in our Visitor Guide!

Add your business – email Media@HamptonCVB.com for consideration. Must be located in Hampton & have a website we can link to for more info.