attractions & museums

Newport News' historical attractions and museums, architectural and historical landmarks, sporting, camping, fishing opportunities and natural parks are exceptional enough to attract experts, but they're available for everyone to enjoy. Take a step back in time during our Civil War re-enactments, enjoy free events and festivals year-round or take a look at one of our suggested itineraries, full of ways to vacation in Newport News and throughout Coastal Virginia. Whether you're coming from Williamsburg, Yorktown, Hampton, Norfolk, or Virginia Beach, you'll have a blast expanding your trip itinerary with so many fun things to do nearby. 

Tickets & Discounts

For your convenience, you can purchase attraction tickets in advance before your trip or purchase the One City Pass that will give you a bundle discount to all of the attractions in Newport News. For questions, call the Newport News Visitor Center at 757-886-7777 or toll-free at 888-493-7386. Please note tickets are shipped Monday - Friday and exclude Busch Gardens tickets. You can also use our Interactive Map to find accommodations, restaurants, shopping, and more close to our attractions!

 

CategoriesAfrican American HeritageArtsFamily FunHandicapped AccessibleHistorical Homes & NeighborhoodsHistoryMilitaryOn-Site CateringOutdoorsSea

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  Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center

  The Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center houses the Ella Fitzgerald Theater, a 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 it reopened to the public in October 2008.

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  Ferguson Center for the Arts

  Christopher Newport University’s Ferguson Center for the Arts has become an international force, presenting the finest artists in the world. More than 1 million people have experienced hundreds of performances in our acoustically superb theaters. The eclectic nature of our season is consistent with our mission: to offer a broad range of performances, reach the largest number of community members while maintaining our status as the finest performing arts center in Hampton Roads.

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  Historic Endview

  Completed in 1769 by William Harwood, Endview has been restored to 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. Historic Endview is partially wheelchair accessible. There are discount tickets available for military and AAA members.

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  Historic Hilton Village

  Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Historic Hilton Village features quaint, locally-owned shops and services. This unique shopping experience offers everything from fine clothing and quality furs to antiques and collectibles, artwork, consignment, jewelry, crafts, beads, and more.

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  James A. Fields House

  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. 

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