History lovers, get ready to pack up the family for an adventurous vacation when you plan a visit to Fort Monroe, the largest stone fort in the United States.
Built after the War of 1812 to protect the nation's borders, the massive fort that exists today (and the smaller forts that preceded it) has guarded & defended Hampton Roads, one of the world’s largest natural harbors.
During the Civil War, Fort Monroe was at the heart of some truly historical events. In 1861 Union Major General Benjamin F Butler's famous "Contraband Decision" earned Fort Monroe the nickname "Freedom's Fortress" as hundreds of freedom seekers led by Frank Baker, Shepard Mallory, and James Townsend sought to escape slavery. In 1862 the Battle of Hampton Roads was first battle between iron-clads and signaled a new era of steam-powered iron ships.
Now Fort Monroe is open to the public and features numerous historical sights & stories to explore. Immerse yourself in history and plan a visit to Fort Monroe's Visitor & Education Center. There you can get free timed tickets to the Casemate Museum, housed inside the original casemate where several of the fort's large guns remain in place.
Shellebrate Oyster month by diving into the freshest catches at local seafood restaurants
Mark your calendar for these upcoming events in Hampton highlighting Veterans
— UPCOMING EVENTS —
Nov. 1-3: NekoCon: Mewths & Legends at the Hampton Roads Convention Center is Virginia's longest running anime convention
Nov. 7 - 10: Disney On Iceat the Hampton Coliseum will remix your favorite Disney tunes into colorful worlds, and you're on the guest list!
Nov. 8 - 10: Bodacious Bazaar the Hampton Roads Convention Center is the perfect way to start checking off your Christmas list with a variety of specialty & niche vendors.
Nov. 9: Veteran's Day Parade & Celebration at historic Fort Monroe will feature living history interpreters, exhibits & activities for all ages.
Nov. 23: Whimsical Winter Wonderland is a free event that transforms the Hampton Coliseum into a festive wonderland with fun for the whole family.
Nov. 30: Exhibit Opening: Small Works - A new exhibit at the Charles H Taylor Visual Arts Center featuring small works, on display from Nov. 30 - Jan. 11.
Hampton Convention & Visitor Bureau | 1919 Commerce Drive, Suite 290 | Hampton, VA 23666 Hampton Visitor Center | 120 Old Hampton Lane | Hampton, VA 23669
