How to get to Newport News

Planning a trip to Newport News, located on the picturesque coast of Virginia, you will discover a city where a rich history of shipbuilding sits alongside modern entertainment. Reaching this corner of the USA can be done in various ways, thanks to its convenient location in the Hampton Roads region.

Whether you choose a quick flight, a scenic train ride, or a journey by car, the road promises to be comfortable. The city hospitably welcomes tourists all year round, offering convenient transport connections for guests from all corners of the country.

The fastest way to reach the region is to use flights arriving at the local Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF), which is conveniently located within the city limits. It accepts regular flights and allows you to be on-site without long transfers.

Alternatively, many travellers choose to fly via the city of Norfolk (ORF), located 31 km away. This is a major aviation hub offering a wide selection of flights and good connections to the destination.

The railway offers a scenic and relaxing way to reach the coast. Amtrak trains arrive directly at the Newport News Railway Station, making the trip maximally convenient for those who want to be in the centre of the action immediately.

You can also consider the option of arriving at Williamsburg Station, located nearby. This is an excellent option for tourists planning a combined route through the historic sites of Virginia.

Bus services connect the city with neighbouring settlements via regular routes. A trip from the city of Hampton will take just about 1.2 hours, and the route from Fort Eustis will require approximately 1.3 hours of travel time.

For those departing from a larger transport hub, such as Norfolk, the journey will take about 2.1 hours. This is a budget-friendly and reliable option, allowing you to comfortably cover the distance of 54 km.

Travelling by car is one of the fastest ways to get to the city, ensuring complete freedom of movement. The drive from neighbouring Hampton will take minimum time — just about 12 minutes, and the path from Fort Eustis will last approximately 20 minutes.

If you are driving from the city of Norfolk, count on a travel time of about 35–40 minutes. It is worth noting that the route may pass through toll tunnels or bridges, which are characteristic of the coastal Virginia road network.

To make your stay in Newport News as comfortable and safe as possible, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations for travellers.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is humid subtropical. In summer, light clothing and sun protection are mandatory, while in winter and the shoulder seasons, a windproof jacket and an umbrella are useful due to frequent rains.
2. Transport. Although the city has buses, to see all the sights, it is most convenient to rent a car or use ride-hailing apps.
3. Finances. The currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted everywhere, but keeping some cash (1–5 dollar bills) is useful for tips.
4. Health and Safety. The city has a standard safety level for the USA. In emergencies, call 911. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar neighbourhoods at night.
5. Communication. The primary language is English. Locals are known for their Southern hospitality and are usually happy to help tourists.
6. Local Etiquette. In the service sector (restaurants, taxis), it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20% if the service was good.
7. What to Avoid. Try not to plan trips across the bridge-tunnels (Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel) during rush hours (morning and evening on weekdays) due to serious traffic jams.
8. Additional Tip. Be sure to visit the local parks and the James River waterfront at sunset — these are some of the most beautiful views in the region.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and focus entirely on relaxation and new experiences.