Hampton

Hampton lies on the northern shore of Hampton Roads and stretches across 136 square kilometers (52 square miles) in southeastern Virginia with numerous waterfront areas and marinas. The city encompasses both residential neighborhoods and military installations along Chesapeake Bay.

The city began in 1610 when English settlers established a permanent community, making it the oldest continuous English settlement in North America. Fort Monroe was built in 1819 as a major coastal fortification.

The Virginia Air and Space Center displays aeronautical artifacts and serves as the visitor center for NASA Langley Research Center and Langley Air Force Base. Visitors can view moon rocks, satellites, and aircraft models up close.

Fort Monroe National Monument offers public access to beaches, fishing spots, and walking paths beside military structures. The waterfront areas throughout the city are good for strolling and watching boats.

The Emancipation Oak at Hampton University marks where the first Southern reading of the Emancipation Proclamation took place in 1863. The old oak still stands on campus and is recognized as a national landmark.

Location: Virginia

Inception: 1610

Elevation above the sea: 3 m

Part of: Hampton Roads

Shares border with: Poquoson, Norfolk, Newport News, York County, Portsmouth

Website: https://hampton.gov

GPS coordinates: 37.02639,-76.34444

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:02