Attractions

The Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center houses the Ella Fitzgerald Theater, 276-seat venue that honors the "First Lady of Song," who was born in Newport News in 1917. Originally built as the Walter Reed School, this historic building has been restored and reopened to the public in October 2008.

Completed in 1769 by William Harwood, Endview has been restored its 1862 appearance. In the 1850s, the home was purchased by Dr. Humphrey Harwood Curtis, William Harwood’s great-grandson. Dr. Curtis had his medical practice at Endview from 1856 to 1861. The home was used briefly as a Confederate hospital in the spring of 1862 and was then occupied by Union forces until 1864. Endview is now a historic house museum and offers guided tours.Special events and evening programs are held year-round. Parking is free and there is a gift shop. Endview Plantation is partially wheelchair accessible. There are discount tickets available for military and AAA members.

James A. Fields (1844-1903) was a teacher, lawyer and member of the Virginia House of Delegates. The house was used by Mr. Fields as his law office and primary residence from 1897 to 1908. In 1908, it housed the first Newport News hospital for blacks. Today, this restored home gives visitors a glimpse into the life of the African-American community in Newport News during the 1900s. Guided tours are available and special events are held year-round. Parking is free. Discount tickets are available for AAA members.

Completed in 1859, Lee Hall was home to affluent planter Richard D. Lee. One of the last remaining antebellum homes on the Virginia Peninsula, Lee Hall offers visitors a step back to the mid-Victorian period with its authentically furnished rooms, including an elegant ladies parlor. During the spring of 1862, the home was used as a headquarters by Confederate generals Johnston and Magruder. Guided tours are available. Special events and evening programs are held year-round. Parking is free and there is a gift shop. Lee Hall is partially wheelchair accessible. Discount tickets are available for military and AAA members.