Christopher Newport University is a great school as it is, but we all need to get off campus for a little. I don't know about you, but I love exploring new things and straying from my daily routines and responsibilities. Whether you are a student at CNU or a resident of the Newport News/Hampton Roads community, there is something for everyone. To many, Christopher Newport University is just a small school in Newport News, but not many people realize just how much there is to do in the community around us. Below you can find the ways that a majority of the Captain family likes to spend their down time.
Places to Eat
Whether you are looking for a fast and cheap meal or a nice sit-down restaurant, CNU has it all.
Fun Food
Grab a nice refreshing snow cone with 100+ flavors to choose from at Pelican Petes. Sing some karaoke and eat some pizza at Brickhouse Tavern. Enjoy a meal on the water at the Crab Shack. Love seafood? Check out Harpoon Larry's.
Late Night Grubs
If you are a night owl and need a cheap but delicious eat, stop by Cook Out. You can find almost any fast food chain including Taco Bell, Subway, McDonalds, Panera, Chipotle, Noodles and Co., and many, many more. If you are feeling something a little more lively and social, try out Manhattans NY Deli & Pub.
Fancy Options
There are a plethora of options to choose from sit down and fancy restaurants as well. Look into Travinia Kitchen, Thaijindesu, BJs Brewhouse, Al Fresco, PF Changs, etc.
Chain Lovers
There are numerous Chinese restaurants as well as pizza chains such as Chanello's and Mellow Mushroom. A fan favorite is Plaza Azteca if you like Mexican food. There are so many options within a 10-mile radius, there is no excuse not to go and explore them all.
Beaches
When you feel like you need to get off campus and explore a little, check out some of the local beaches.
Virginia Beach is the largest with the most attractions and is only a 40-minute drive. But if you are looking for somewhere to go in between classes or a little shorter of a drive, check out Buckroe Beach which is just a mere 20 min drive. Set out some blankets, play some music and bring your friends to have a good time or use it to escape the chaos and relax.
There are many private beaches that are within a 2-mile jog from campus. Reward yourself for getting out there and running with a nice sunset on the water. Last but not least, check out Huntington Beach. Not only is it less than a 10-minute drive but you will find all your classmates there and can even fish off the pier.
Cultural Experiences
Looking for a little getaway or cultural experience? There are numerous museums within 30 minutes of campus, such as the Mariners Museum, the Virgina Living Museum, Virginia War Museum, etc. If you are looking for a quick trip to see your favorite band play, the Norva puts on venues every week and is just thirty-five minutes away.
Hampton Coliseum is another option for some great venues. If you are looking for a day getaway with a significant other, family or friends, check out Downtown Williamsburg which is just a short twenty- five minutes away. There are a bunch of great restaurants, beautiful scenery and very cool historical sites, including the campus of William and Mary.
Activities
If the above activities and destinations do not interest you and you want a place to go with friends or family, here is a list of fun and exciting activities near campus. There is a Top Golf located in Virginia Beach, grab some friends and golf all through the night.
There are numerous locations to go fishing, you can even rent out a row boat. Thursday nights all you can bowl for $10 from 9:30-11:30 in Hampton, just a short 15-minute drive. Need to satisfy your shopping craving? Check out Patrick Henry Mall that has 50+ stores and restaurants.
If you miss your dog from home, SPCA is just around the corner and you can get your dog loving fix. The Noland Trail is a great place to get away and enjoy nature. Lastly, Busch Gardens is only a 30-minute drive away!
