Newport News is one of the larger cities in Virginia and is home to more than 180,000 people. Newport News is considered part of the Hampton Roads metro area, and it sits on the James River and has been an important port and railroad hub in the area over the years. Newport News is a city known for its unique history, beautiful outdoor spaces, coastal vibe, and friendly people.
A Bit of Newport News History
Newport News has a long history that dates all the way back to the days of Jamestown, Virginia. Over the years it has had many names, before finally becoming Newport News in the late 19th century. It began as a tiny farming village and fishing area until the railroad was established as well as a large shipyard. From that time on until the present day, the area has remained an important port and railroad hub. Today, it has also grown into a city that has a thriving arts and culture scene, plenty of entertainment options, many opportunities and much to see and do. Newport News is truly a wonderful place to call home!
A Few Fun Facts About Newport News
Read more fun facts about Newport News here.
Newport News’s LGBTQ Community
Newport News is a city that loves and supports its LGBTQ community with a variety of resources, including:
The LGBTQ Life Center is a community center that has been working to support, advance, and celebrate the LGBTQ community in the greater Hampton Roads area for more than 30 years. The Center offers a variety of services including support groups, events, health resources, education and training programs, network opportunities and more.
PFLAG South Hampton Roads is the Newport News local chapter of the national PFLAG organization, which is the largest grassroots organization of its kind in the country. PFLAG is well-known for its mission of supporting LGBTQ people, friends, family, and allies across the country in a wide variety of ways. With 500 chapters and more than 200,000 members in the United States, PFLAG plays a critical and important role in providing advocacy, support, and resources to the LGBTQ community.
What's the Weather Like in Newport News?
Newport News residents can expect to experience all four distinct seasons every year. Typically fall and spring are the most pleasant seasons of the year, with spring bringing beautiful, blooming flowers and fall promising crisp breezes and brightly colored leaves. The city receives 46 inches of rain on average per year, and around 6 inches of snow. Highs in July can reach up to 89°F on average, and the lows in the winter typically drop down to about 33°F.
The Best Events in Newport News
Hampton Roads Pridefest is the Newport News area's annual pride celebration. Held in nearby Norfolk's Town Point Park every June since 2011, the festival includes parades, parties, networking opportunities, and more. Hampton Roads Pride also has the only PrideFest Boat Parade in the United States, honoring the area's significant maritime heritage.
The Best Neighborhoods in Newport News
Unlike some larger cities that have one particular “gayborhood” where most of the LGBTQ community lives, Newport News’s LGBTQ community is somewhat spread out across the city. Condos in Newport New sell for anywhere from $59,000 to $1.495 million, while single-family homes range from $67,000 to $2 million.
Arts and Entertainment
The Peninsula Fine Arts Center is an arts center located in Newport News and associated with the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. It offers unique approaches to creating, exploring and presenting the arts for all ages. Whether you enjoy exhibitions, performances, or taking classes yourself, there’s something for everyone here!
The Peninsula Community Theatre
The Peninsula Community Theatre began in the 1950s as the Newport News Little Theatre and has been an important staple of the performing arts community in Newport News ever since. There are a wide range of shows here from Broadway musicals, to comedy nights to children’s productions and everything in between. Be sure to enjoy a show, or several, for yourself!
Parks and Recreation
The Nolan Loop Trail is a nearly 5-mile loop trail surrounding a lake in Newport News. It’s a beautiful place to spend an afternoon hiking, walking, running, and simply enjoying nature on a beautiful day.
The Mariners Museum is America’s National Maritime Museum. It is the perfect spot to spend an afternoon if you want to learn more about Newport News and its unique place in maritime history. The museum has over 35,000 pieces in its collection, including a full-scale model of the USS Monitor. There's also a café on-site to stop and enjoy a bite to eat.
Newport News Nightlife
The Rainbow Cactus Company is one of the most popular LGBTQ nightclubs in the Hampton Roads area. It features DJs & dancing, as well as drag shows, dancers, karaoke, pool & live bands. It's a great spot to spend a night out dancing and having fun with old friends – and meeting new ones.
The Wave is a very popular LGBTQ bar located in nearby Norfolk. Known for its lively crowds, strong drinks, and fun, festive atmosphere it’s a great spot to have enjoy a night out!
Contact a Newport News Gay Realtor Today
If you're ready to make a move to Newport News, at www.gayrealestate.com, we're here to help you take the first step toward finding an agent who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find a home and a neighborhood you'll love. We're proud to have a network of excellent realtors in Newport News, and we would love to help connect you with the right one. Contact a Newport News gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
