The Most Popular City in Virginia, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the city you think is the most popular!
Updated on Apr 29, 2024 06:33
In the heart of Virginia, where the landscapes blend seamlessly with bustling urban life, knowing the most favored city can greatly benefit travelers and residents alike. Whether you're planning a move, setting up a road trip, or simply curious about where to find the best cultural experiences, a clear and current ranking helps make these decisions with ease. This system captures the opinions of those who know the cities best—the people who live in and love them.
Your participation shapes this ongoing survey, creating a useful tool for everyone pondering their next Virginia destination. By casting your vote, you not only contribute to a broader understanding of what each city has to offer but also help others make informed choices. So, dive into the list, cast your vote, and see how your favorite city stacks up against the rest.
What Is the Most Popular City in Virginia?
-
167votes
SchuminWeb · CC BY-SA 3.0With its long coastline and numerous attractions, Virginia Beach is the most populous and popular city in Virginia. It is known for its beaches, boardwalk, and entertainment options, making it a top destination for tourists.Virginia Beach is a vibrant coastal city located in the southeastern region of Virginia. Known for its stunning stretch of sandy beaches, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The city offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation. With its pleasant climate, Virginia Beach attracts visitors throughout the year, offering various outdoor activities and a lively arts and culture scene.- Beaches: Virginia Beach boasts 35 miles of sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, providing ample opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
- Boardwalk: The Virginia Beach boardwalk stretches for three miles, lined with hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions. It is the perfect place for a leisurely walk or bike ride while enjoying the scenic views.
- First Landing State Park: Located on the Chesapeake Bay, this park offers hiking trails, camping areas, and a chance to explore the unspoiled coastline.
- Cape Henry Lighthouse: Constructed in 1792, this historic lighthouse is a landmark of Virginia Beach. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the ocean and the Chesapeake Bay.
- Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art: Known as MOCA, this museum showcases an impressive collection of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations.
-
231votesAs the second most populous city in Virginia, Norfolk is home to many cultural and historical landmarks, including the USS Wisconsin and the Chrysler Museum of Art. It is also a major port city and has a thriving downtown area.Norfolk is a vibrant city located in the state of Virginia, offering a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Situated at the heart of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, Norfolk is known for its picturesque waterfront views, rich cultural heritage, and dynamic arts scene.
- Population: Approximately 242,803 residents
- Size: Approximately 66 square miles
- Waterfront: Norfolk boasts an impressive waterfront along the Elizabeth River and Chesapeake Bay
- Historical Attractions: Home to historical sites such as the USS Wisconsin, Norfolk Naval Station, and the Hermitage Museum and Gardens
- Culture and Arts: A thriving arts community with museums, theaters, and vibrant festivals
-
320votesKnown as the capital of Virginia, Richmond is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. It is home to many museums, art galleries, and cultural events, as well as the Virginia State Capitol and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.Richmond is a beautiful riverside town situated in southwest London. Known for its scenic beauty and historic charm, it offers a mix of natural landscapes, stunning architecture, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Richmond is often referred to as the 'Gateway to the Thames Valley' due to its prime location along the River Thames.
- Richmond Park: The largest Royal Park in London, covering 2,500 acres and providing a haven for wildlife, deer, and numerous walking trails.
- Richmond Hill: Renowned for its panoramic views of the River Thames and the surrounding landscapes.
- Richmond Green: A historic town square surrounded by pubs, shops, and iconic Georgian and Victorian buildings.
- Richmond Theatre: A well-known Victorian theater hosting a variety of performances and events.
- Ham House: A stunning 17th-century mansion and garden, perfectly preserved as a National Trust property.
-
41votesWith a population of over 240,000, Chesapeake is the third most populous city in Virginia. It is known for its parks and green spaces, as well as its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay.Chesapeake is a city located in southeast Virginia, United States. It is the third-most populous city in the state and is part of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area. The city is known for its blend of suburban and rural landscapes, offering residents a mix of small-town charm and urban amenities. Chesapeake is a vibrant community with a rich history, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community.
- Population: Approximately 244,835 (as of 2019)
- Area: Approximately 351 square miles
- Geography: Located in the southeastern region of Virginia, bordered by the Elizabeth River and the Great Dismal Swamp
- Climate: Humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters
- Economy: Diverse economy with sectors such as defense, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and agriculture
-
523votesLocated just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., Arlington is home to many government and military institutions, including the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery. It is also known for its vibrant nightlife and shopping options.
-
613votesAs one of the oldest cities in Virginia, Alexandria is known for its historic architecture and landmarks, including George Washington's Mount Vernon estate. It is also home to many restaurants, shops, and cultural events.
-
77votes
Etombari · CC BY-SA 3.0Located on the Virginia Peninsula, Newport News is home to many military and industrial institutions, including the Newport News Shipbuilding yard. It is also known for its museums and cultural events.Newport News is a city located in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area in the state of Virginia. It is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful natural surroundings. The city offers a mix of urban amenities and suburban charm, making it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors alike.- Population: Approximately 180,719 (as of 2019)
- Area: 120 square miles
- Location: Located on the southeastern end of the Virginia Peninsula
- Climate: Humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot summers
- Historical Sites: Newport News is home to numerous historical landmarks, including the Endview Plantation, Lee Hall Mansion, and the Mariners' Museum
-
84votesAs another city on the Virginia Peninsula, Hampton is home to many historical sites, including Fort Monroe and the Virginia Air and Space Center. It is also known for its beaches and outdoor recreation options.Hampton is a city located in the southeastern part of Virginia, USA. It is widely known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. The city offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and nostalgic charm, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors alike.
- Population: Approximately 135,000
- Area: 136 square miles
- Location: Southeastern part of Virginia, USA
- Historical Significance: Played a significant role in American history, including being one of the earliest European settlements.
- Tourism: Home to numerous historic attractions, museums, scenic beaches, and nature parks.
-
97votesLocated in the southeastern part of Virginia, Suffolk is known for its agricultural heritage and scenic beauty. It is home to many parks and wildlife refuges, as well as the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge.Suffolk is a picturesque county located in East Anglia, England. It is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, charming market towns, and rich history. The county offers a perfect blend of beautiful countryside, idyllic coastlines, and quaint villages, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
- Area: 3,801 square kilometers
- Population: approximately 760,000
- County town: Ipswich
- Coastline length: 50 miles (80 kilometers)
- Notable rivers: Stour, Orwell, Waveney
-
103votesLocated in the western part of Virginia, Roanoke is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, and skiing. It is also home to many cultural institutions, including the Taubman Museum of Art.Roanoke is a charming city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, it offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and urban amenities. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, rich history, and warm southern hospitality.
- Population: 99,972
- Area: 43.1 square miles
- Elevation: 876 feet
- Major River: Roanoke River
- Climate: Humid subtropical
Missing your favorite city?
Graphs
Discussion
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular city in Virginia. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or city is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 2364 views
- 171 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each city once every 24 hours. The rank of each city is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular city in virginia
Virginia is a state steeped in history and culture, with a diverse range of cities, each with its own unique charm and appeal. From the bustling urban centers of Richmond and Virginia Beach to the quaint small towns of Charlottesville and Williamsburg, there is no shortage of options when it comes to choosing the most popular city in Virginia. With so many factors to consider, from population size and economic growth to cultural amenities and natural attractions, the competition is fierce. So, what is the most popular city in Virginia? Let's take a closer look.
Explore other rankings
Check out some of the other recommended rankings on StrawPoll and make your voice heard.
