Whether you are stationed nearby or just passing through, this is your go to guide for the best eats, sights, and hidden gems in Hampton VA. Milspouse tested and fully caffeinated approved.
Map
Sections
5
Coffee Shops
Parks & Playgrounds
Breweries
Museums, etc
Restaurants
Coffee Shops
Cozy up with a latte or grab a quick pick-me-up from these local coffee spots. Perfect for a solo break, mom meetups, or fueling up before errands.
Firehouse Coffee isn’t necessarily “on the way” anywhere for us, so we tend to go whenever we are headed to the beach. It’s an adorable repurposed firehouse with firefighter decor. It’s dog friendly!
Firehouse Coffee 1881
Not gunna lie- we bought a dozen donuts from Glazed every month for a year straight, for my baby’s monthly photos. They are delicious.
But the good ones sell out fast! Get there early if you want a good selection. We love the Apple fritters! Also, ...
Glazed Doughnuts
Love the ambiance in this coffee shop. The safe door is so cool. The coffee is good, and there’s baked goods as well. You can definitely come here for some laptop time.
Buckroe Coffee Co.
Buckroe gives big coffee energy vibes without the chain
Buckroe Coffee Co.
Parks & Playgrounds
From shaded playgrounds to waterfront walking trails, Hampton has hidden gems for fresh air and free family fun. Great for weekend playdates or letting the kids burn energy.
There’s something for everyone. Always a good time.
Sandy Bottom Nature Park | Hampton, VA - Official Website
Breweries
These local breweries offer a relaxed vibe, cold drinks, and often live music or food trucks. Many are family-friendly and perfect for low-key hangs.
Sly Clyde is great for families. The back area is fully fenced, so kids can run around and play. Periodically they will have a food truck, and/or a mini vendor market. The slushies are my favorite, but my husband has tried most of the ciders.
Sly Clyde Ciderworks
Museums, etc
Mix learning and fun with these local attractions that are actually worth the admission. Great for rainy days, school breaks, or adding variety to your routine.
Kids will love this museum. There are two levels of airplanes, interactive space games, a glass walled elevator. We especially like the pilot simulator (added cost). Don’t forget to plan time for a complimentary imax movie!
We have a membership, be...
Virginia Air & Space Science Center
Restaurants
Whether you want casual comfort food or a place for date night, these locally loved spots serve up good food without the wait or the fuss. Family-friendly options included.
Dead Rise is our go-to for seafood on the peninsula. We’ve gone for birthdays and Mothers/Father’s Day. The view at sunset is absolutely stunning- make sure you sit outside.
The Deadrise
Mama Rosa’s is our post-beach fave for pizza and pasta. The staff is sweet, the food tastes great. No fuss. Usually there is no wait.
Mama Rosa's Italian Family Restaurant
**make reservations**
Mango Mangeaux was on Shark Tank, and they are always packed. Park in the back and walk through to the host station.