The region known as Hampton Roads is many things: a metropolitan community,  multifaceted tourism destination, industrial center, an agricultural area where cotton and corn are grown, international seafood industry hub, a major shipbuilding center, home of one of America’s largest ports, and a network of critical military installations that help defend the United States. The moniker Hampton Roads came about in 1607. Named in honor of Henry Wriothesley, 3rd Earl of Southampton, then treasurer of the Virginia Company of London, and because of the location of the natural harbor or roadstead (roads) that feeds into the Atlantic and the Chesapeake Bay.

Come learn more about the diverse elements that make Hampton Roads among America’s most desired regions to live or visit.