About Newport News, VA

Newport News is located in the greater Hampton Roads area of Virginia where the history of discovery meets the Space Age. Our heritage dates back to 1607 with the discovery of America in nearby Jamestown. In fact, Newport News is named for Captain Christopher Newport, captain of the Susan Constant, the lead ship of the three-ship fleet that carried the original settlers to the New World.

For more than 200 years Hampton Roads’ ports have served as a beacon for shipping interests and mariners worldwide. Designated in the late 17th century as the world’s largest natural harbor, Hampton Roads is the birthplace of Colonial America, merging centuries of history with rich culture, beautiful waterfront vistas, livable communities, modern technology, economic prosperity, a thriving maritime, and a strong military presence.

Newport News, a major presence in the Hampton Roads area, sits on a prime vantage point where the James River meets the Chesapeake Bay. The city runs approximately 25 miles along the James River and Hampton Roads harbor, and is midway between Virginia Beach and Richmond. More than 2.7 million people are within a one-hour drive.

Steeped in history, Newport News today is a community of diverse trades that include shipbuilding, technological research, and international commerce. It is part of the Hampton Roads MSA, the 30th largest market in the United States, and has an effective buying power (EBI) of more than $20.8 billion (according to Sales, Marketing and Management).

Vibrant, prosperous and on the cutting edge of the future, Newport News is the city of tomorrow – today.