City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Newport News, Virginia
Located on the eastern coast of Virginia, where the York River and the James River meet the Chesapeake Bay before connecting up with the Atlantic Ocean, Newport News is a prime destination for boaters, anglers and water enthusiasts of all types.
The coastal city is situated between the historic vibes of Williamsburg and the fun-in-the-sun attitude of Virginia Beach. It has a rich history and a variety of attractions that cater to both visitors and locals. Here are some of the top things to do in Newport News from private boat lift rentals.
Virginia Living Museum
Photo: Ryan Somma/Wikimedia/CC
The Virginia Living Museum is a unique combination of a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden. The venue has a variety of native animals such as bald eagles, otters, bats, red wolves and more. It also offers interactive exhibits, planetarium shows and outdoor nature trails where you can check out native Virginia plants and fun sculptures. The kids will get a kick out of the dinosaur, cave and fossil exhibits.
Newport News Park
Photo: Virginia is for Lovers (Facebook)
Newport News Park is a 7,500+-acre park that offers a wide range of recreational activities. Take a day away from a private boat lift for rent and spend it hiking, biking, fishing and camping. You can also rent paddle boats. The park has an 18-hole disc golf course, an archery range and picnic areas. A section of the bike loop passes into the National Historical Park. History buffs will want to look for the sign indicating where George Washington’s headquarters was during the Revolutionary War.
Mariners' Museum and Park
Photo: Mariners' Museum and Park (Facebook)
The Mariners' Museum and Park is one of the largest maritime museums in the world. Visitors can learn about the history of ships and seafaring through exhibits on the Civil War ironclad USS Monitor and the transatlantic voyage of the RMS Titanic. The park surrounding the museum offers scenic trails like the 5-mile Noland Trail as well as the 167-acre Mariners’ Lake. Check out the cafe or gift shop before returning to a private boat dock rental.
Riverwalk Trail
Photo: Wikimedia
The James River flows through Newport News and offers beautiful views and recreational opportunities. Visitors can take a stroll along the Riverwalk Trail, which offers views of the river and the Newport News Shipbuilding yard. The trail is also a popular spot for fishing and kayaking.
Virginia War Museum
Photo: Wikimedia
The Virginia War Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of America's military conflicts. Exhibits cover everything from the American Revolution to the present day, including displays on World War I and II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. The museum also has an extensive collection of military vehicles and weapons. It’s a terrific place for history buffs to visit from private boat dock rentals in Newport News.
Ferguson Center for the Arts
Photo: Ferguson Center for the Arts (Facebook)
Located on the campus of Christopher Newport University, the Ferguson Center for the Arts is a state-of-the-art performing arts center. The center hosts a variety of events such as concerts, plays and dance productions. Spend the evening away from a private boat slip for rent while enjoying Mozart, Broadway shows, acrobatic acts, community music festivals and concerts by The Temptations, Bernadette Peters and the Virginia Symphony Orchestra.
Lee Hall Mansion
Photo: Lyricmac/Wikimedia/CC
Built in 1859, the Italianate Lee Hall Mansion is a historic home. Visitors can tour the mansion and see its elegant furnishings and artwork. The mansion hosts events throughout the year, including Victorian Christmas celebrations and Civil War reenactments.
Whether you're interested in American history, exploring nature or just hanging out at a private boat dock rental, there's something for everyone in Newport News. Let us know your favorite things to do from private boat lifts for rent.
