Top 5 highlights from 2022 in Hampton


2022 was a year of growth for Hampton, and we are proud to say that our visitation has returned to pre-pandemic levels! Here are 5 highlights from the year, and 5 reasons to plan your visit in 2023:

1. Making a Splash at the Hampton Virginia Aquaplex

The long-awaited, largest aquatic facility in Virginia has made its debut! Get a membership or day-pass and enjoy both an Olympic-sized pool and 25-meter pool, state-of-the-art locker rooms and other amenities. Special events (sometimes involving giant inflatables!) and various swim lesson programs are available for sign-up. And in spring of 2023, the outdoor SplashDown Park will open, which features waterslides, a lazy river, pool games, lounge chairs and all you need for fun in the sun next year!

 

2. Buckroe Beach gets a face-lift

Buckroe Beach has been updated and is ready to host your beach getaway! Renovations which extended the boardwalk, added decorative lights and restored the historical marker sign were completed this year. And, for the first time in nearly 20 years, the sand area has been widened and replenished, meaning more beach, more amenities and more fun for your next visit! 

 

3. Reaching for the stars at the S.P.A.C.E. gallery

Virginia Air & Space Science Center opened its S.P.A.C.E. gallery, which is sure to spark inspiration in young, future aviators. Excite wonder into your new year by bringing the kids to decorate their own plane, marvel at the planetarium, drive on the ‘junior pilot training’ track, or be read to by celebrities in the aviation world. 

 

4. Exploring changing galleries at the Hampton History Museum

The Hampton History Museum displayed an exhibit for much of 2022 which told the story of BayShore, a past, popular resort destination for Black residents and visitors who, at the time, were denied access to public beaches. Starting in February 2023, you can check out the museum’s new year-long exhibit: Teetotalers and Moonshiners, and Hampton’s Prohibition Story. Learn about Prohibition laws, speakeasies and more that took place in Hampton from 1916-1933. 

 

5. Welcoming new restuarants

2022 meant the arrival of some delicious new food in Hampton. Be one of the first to try Drexler’s Wood Fired Grill, 29th and Green Bistro, Philly Cheesesteak Cafe, Sommer Freeze or another new restaurant when you visit in 2023. And if you’re just passing through, pull off to grab a snack from one of our new fast food joints, like Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers or Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.

 

Happy New Year!