Exploring Hampton with the family doesn’t have to break the bank. From discovering rich history to enjoying the great outdoors, Hampton, Virginia offers plenty of budget-friendly activities that are perfect for family fun. Your adventure starts now! 

Free things to do in Hampton, Virginia: 

Experience Air Power Park

Calling all plane lovers! This free park offers visitors an up-close view to jets, missiles, and rockets. At the (still free) indoor museum, learn about the aircraft that contributed towards America’s early space exploration and aircraft testing. There’s also a playground area, a floating dock where you can launch your paddle craft, and the entrance for Water Walk Path.

After exploring the planes & indoor museum, go for a walk on Water Walk Path. This raised, wooden walkway starts behind Air Power Park and ends 2.5 miles behind Hampton Coliseum. The board walk is spacious enough for strollers, pedestrians, and bicyclists to enjoy. About a half mile into your walk from Air Power Park is a quiet nature observation deck with views of Newmarket Creek, where wildlife abounds. Visitors may see herons, egrets, redwing blackbirds and various types of crabs.

This free combo is the perfect adventure to let loose some energy on a sunny day!

Meet the Animals at Bluebird Gap Farm

Visitors can also enjoy the Hampton Master Gardeners’ Display Garden and Arboretum, a large playground, a nature trail, and a public paddle-craft launch. An antique display barn features snack and drink vending machines, but you’re also welcome to bring your own picnic.

Horses, and cows, and turtles, oh my! This family-friendly farm is the perfect activity for all ages. With over 100 domestic and wild animals – including everything from the usual array of farm animals to birds of prey, whitetail deer, tortoises, and peacocks – there are many animals to meet. Admission is free, with an option to purchase animal feed.

Visit Fort Monroe National Monument

Take a trip back in time as you discover over 400 years of Hampton history at Fort Monroe National Monument. The largest stone fort in America, you will have to reserve several hours to explore what has also been called “Gibraltar of the Chesapeake” and “Freedom’s Fortress.”

Start your visit at the Fort Monroe Visitor & Education Center, where you can view some indoor exhibits, pick up a timed entry ticket for the Casemate Museum, and/or a request a free walking tour map – all of which are free. You can also plan to time your visit around one of their free guided tours with a National Park Ranger!

View the Artwork at Charles H Taylor Visual Arts Center

This visual arts center is the place for art lovers! The exhibits are filled with artwork from local and regional artists. Explore the halls of art and feel inspired as you immerse yourself in a broad range of artists, media, styles, content, and perspectives on our world. 

There is no charge to enter the center & view the art on display. Check their website for not only current exhibition themes, but also events, classes & workshops.

Go to the Beach

The beaches in Hampton, Virginia are the perfect activity if you are on a budget. Park for free and spend the day soaking up the sun, playing frisbee, and splashing around in the water.

Plus, if you’re here during the summer, check out the festivals & concerts going on!

Explore Hampton’s Walking Trails

If you love spending quality time outdoors, head over to one of Hampton’s walking trails. Free for everyone to enjoy, the trails range in length and can be found on the water and under the shade of trees. There is something for every trail lover in Hampton.

Things to do in Hampton for Under $5:  

Immerse yourself in history at Hampton History Museum

The 10 galleries are filled with the city’s history, as you travel from the 17th century to the present day. The exhibits include the first African arrival in 1619, to the Hidden Figures exhibit showcasing the city’s involvement with the U.S. space program. Adult tickets are $5, and children are $4. 

Spin Around the Hampton Carousel

Spin through history for only $1! The Hampton Carousel is over 100 years old and has brought joy to everyone over the years. From its original location in Buckroe to its current location in Downtown Hampton, the horses continue to dance and create lasting memories for every visitor. 

Have fun exploring Hampton, Virginia on a budget!