Included in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, Newport News is an independent city located in Virginia with an estimated population of 180,000. Originally inhabited by the Algonquian Native Americans, the area (known as Jamestown at the time) was first explored by English settlers in the early 17th century. During this time, settlers began developing land along the James River for plantations, including the present area of Newport News.

Construction of the railroad and establishment of a large shipyard followed the Civil War and brought thousands of workers and subsequent land development. In 1896, the Virginia General Assembly signed an act that officially incorporated Newport News as an independent city. The Newport in the city's name refers to Christopher Newport, the captain who carried the first wave of Jamestown settlers over in 1607.

Since the beginning of World War I, Newport News' economy has been tied to the military. Fort Eustis serves as a U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command. Other nearby U.S. military facilities include Naval Weapons Station Yorktown, Langley Air Force Base, and Camp Peary. Located just across the James River is Naval Station Norfolk, the world's largest naval base. Currently, Newport News Shipbuilding serves as the city's largest employer with over 240,000 employees. Aerospace and aviation is another significant industry, with the local Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport accommodating nearly half a million passengers each year.

Aside from its strong military, aerospace, and maritime presence, Newport News is known for its beautiful and expansive parks, thriving arts and culture, and impressive museums.

The Newport News Park is one of the most expansive city-run parks in the U.S. With over 7,500 acres, it offers 188 campsites, over 30 miles of biking and hiking trails, and multiple fishing and boating accesses. The park also features a path that leads to one of the sites where George Washington was headquartered during the Revolutionary War.

Not surprisingly, Newport News is home to one of North America's largest maritime museums, The Mariners' Museum and Park. The institution features over 30,000 artifacts, equally divided between three-dimensional objects and works of art. The museum also serves as a vast research library and offers educational programs for all ages.

For those looking to watch an amazing live performance, concert, movie, or exhibit, check out Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center, home to the Ella Fitzgerald Theater, named after the iconic jazz singer who was born in Newport News.

After a long day of exploring all the incredible attractions Newport News offers, why not relax and refuel at one of its best restaurants or watering holes? For an intimate dining experience, check out Circa 1918, a local's favorite in the historic Hilton Village, featuring Southern staples like fried green tomatoes and pan-roasted lump crab cake. For a more family-friendly vibe, try Harpoon Larry's Fish House & Oyster Bar. They have a variety of suitable options for kids and a local's favorite "Rum Runner" for the adults. And the best part? An incredible waterfront view of the serene James River.

With so much to do and see in Newport News, why spend time on landscaping when there is a simple solution? LawnStarter puts time back in your leisure schedule by eliminating the burden of lawn care. Simply download the app, enter your ZIP code, and within moments, you're connected with the area's top landscaping professionals. They'll coordinate all the details while you and your family discover one of America's most historical and charming towns.