Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Hampton, VA
Hampton sits at the mouth of the Hampton River with access to the Hampton History Museum, the Fort Monroe, and the Buckroe Beach.
The Fort Monroe and the Hampton History Museum offer military and colonial heritage.
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Popular Interests
or browse all10 destinations near Hampton
Historic Corolla Park
Corolla, NC 27927
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.8k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 14 min from Hampton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Jockey's Ridge State Park
Nags Head, NC 27959
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 6.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 55 min from Hampton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Island Farm
Manteo, NC 27954
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.3k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 10 min from Hampton · fits $20 - $60 budget
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Maymont
Richmond, VA 23220
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 10.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr 19 min from Hampton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Hidden Oaks Nature Center
Annandale, VA 22003
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.6k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 36 min from Hampton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Currituck Beach Lighthouse
Corolla, NC 27927
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 6.9k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 13 min from Hampton · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Dismal Swamp State Park
South Mills, NC 27976
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.8k+ visitors) · 51 min from Hampton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve Dedicated Nature Preserve
Kitty Hawk, NC 27949
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 40 min from Hampton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
North Carolina Estuarium
Washington, NC 27889
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.5k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 31 min from Hampton · fits $20 - $60 budget
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Suffolk, VA 23434
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.5 by 1.1k+ visitors) · 57 min from Hampton · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Hampton, VA?
The best day trips from Hampton include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Hampton?
Most great day trips from Hampton are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Hampton?
Many of the best day trips near Hampton are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Hampton?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Hampton, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Hampton?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Hampton make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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