This page lists Frequently Asked Questions about Tidewater Virginia, including Hampton Roads, the Lower Peninsula, the Middle Peninsula, the Northern Neck, the Eastern Shore of Virginia, and other areas.

Where is Tidewater Virginia?

Tidewater Virginia also has more than one definition:

1. The term Tidewater Virginia often refers to the area known as Hampton Roads.

2. By strict definition, Tidewater Virginia includes all areas of the Commonwealth that receive tidal water. This includes the Virginia Peninsula (including Hampton Roads), the Middle Peninsula, the Northern Neck, and the Eastern Shore.

Where is Hampton Roads Virginia?

Hampton Roads has multiple definitions, including:

1. A large natural harbor in Virginia. Hampton Roads harbor is formed by the convergence of the Elizabeth River, Nansemond River, and James River with several smaller rivers. The harbor empties into the Chesapeake Bay not far from the Atlantic Ocean. The harbor of Hampton Roads is bordered by the cities of Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, and Portsmouth.

2. A metropolitan region in Southeastern Virginia, USA.

What are the seven cities of Hampton Roads?

The seven major cities of Hampton Roads are Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach.

What is The Southside?

The Southside refers to the southern Hampton Roads cities; Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach.

What is “The 757”?

The 757 is an urban slang term for the seven cities of Hampton Roads; Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach. The cities of Hampton Roads are also known as the “seven of the 757.”

Where is the Historic Triangle?

The Historic Triangle includes three historic colonial communities on the Virginia Peninsula; Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, and Yorktown.

Where are the Virginia Necks?

Three peninsulas along Virginia’s western shore are known locally as the three necks. They include the Northern Neck, Middle Peninsula, and Virginia (Lower) Peninsula.

What is the weather like?

Tidewater Virginia, and especially Hampton Roads is known for its mild climate. Residents of the region often enjoy over 200 sunny days a year.

What are things to do in Tidewater Virginia?

The Hampton Roads – Tidewater region is a year round destination with museums, art galleries, exhibitions, festivals, and other attractions. Outdoor activities include freshwater and saltwater fishing, boating, sailing, surfing, sunbathing, kayaking, birdwatching, and more.

What airport should I use to visit?

The Hampton Roads – Tidewater area is served by the Norfolk International Airport and Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport.

What are the Elizabeth River Crossings?

The Elizabeth River Crossings (ERC), also known as Elizabeth River Tunnels, consist of the Downtown and Midtown Tunnels, MLK Expressway, and connecting highways which are operated and maintained by Elizabeth River Crossings OpCo, LLC.

The Downtown and Midtown Tunnels connect the cities of Norfolk and Portsmouth. The MLK Expressway allows travelers to travel between the Midtown and Downtown tunnels without having to exit the highway or drive through downtown Portsmouth

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Acronyms, Nicknames, and Slang