If you’re new to Hampton Roads — comprised of the cities of Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Hampton, Portsmouth, Newport News, and more — here are five social media groups to make your transition a little easier.
Even if you’re a longtime resident, these groups will give you ideas for farmer’s markets, breweries, or nature walks to add to your weekend calendar. There’s something for everyone, and these local resources can give you a solid foundation to make your time in Hampton Roads memorable.
5 social media groups for military families stationed near NAS Norfolk
Best for meeting neighbors: The Buy Nothing Project
Need to borrow a cup of sugar from a neighbor, or any of the 3,000 things you haven’t unpacked from your express shipment yet? Look to the Buy Nothing Project first. These hyperlocal groups connect you with your new neighbors in a ‘gift economy’ where anything and everything — from quarts of milk to kayaks — is gifted to neighbors for free. Find your neighborhood group here, or join the larger Buy Nothing Hampton Roads to connect with the community at large. All the best conversations, though, typically happen in the offshoot ‘chatter’ groups, where the rules on gifting and discussion are less rigorous.
Best for learning the scene: The ViBe and NEON Districts
With an arts scene so cool it was once a Jeopardy! clue, Virginia Beach’s ViBe District and Norfolk’s NEON District are two of the foremost cultural hubs in the area. The two arts districts highlight the very best of their city’s distinctive vibes: the NEON District elevates Norfolk’s gritty, industrial feel, and the ViBe District brings an element of artistic fun to the oceanfront area. Each promotes a wealth of information about performing arts, comedy shows, visual arts, cultural events, and Instagram-friendly backdrops around town. Both districts share a dual impact of supporting local artists and beautifying the towns and showcase the importance of arts in our communities.
Best for families: My Active Child
Moving with kids is no easy feat. My Active Child Hampton Roads has ideas on the best places for a local birthday party, upcoming kid-friendly events, and coupons for activities. Hampton Roads Moms and the Hampton Roads Kids Directory are smaller but still excellent resources for everything from the best winter hikes to the best beaches with calm surf. A local chapter of the nationwide ‘Free Forest School’ also has ideas on the best parks for exploration.
Best for bucket lists: Visit Virginia Beach and Visit Norfolk
Virginia’s tourism has earned nationwide acclaim since the advent of the ‘Virginia Is For Lovers’ campaign, and for good reason. VisitNorfolk, Visit Virginia Beach, Visit Chesapeake, and Visit Hampton Virginia all have the best in hyperlocal guides to restaurants, museums, and outdoor exploring. Build your bucket list in your new town with restaurant weeks, off-the-beaten-path nature trails, and the local and regional historic spots that make these Virginian towns unique.
Best for exploring: The Virginian-Pilot’s ‘Weekend Scoop’
Hampton Roads’ flagship paper keeps its finger on the pulse of the region. While the Facebook page highlights breaking news and national stories, it’s the paper’s ‘Weekend Scoop’ e-newsletter and website that is the city’s real hidden gem. It’s a cross-section of interests, activities, and endless exploration that combines items of note from across the entirety of Hampton Roads.
Do you have any Facebook groups near NAS Norfolk that you love for military families? Share them with us in the comments below!
