Hopewell, Virginia

Overview

The charming and dynamic waterfront community of Hopewell is strategically situated in the confluence of the state’s historic Appomattox and James rivers. The city is easily accessible, with both interstate 95 and 295 at its helm. The city boasts of safe neighborhoods, a strong business base, excellent schools, rich history, and natural beauty. The independent city in Virginia effectively embodies its namesake, and is part of the progressive Richmond Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Fast Facts

• Hopewell’s location on the Appomattox and James Rivers has been an important factor of the city’s history. The oldest part of Hopewell, City Point, was founded by Sir Thomas Dale in 1613.
• The colonial village witnessed the Revolutionary War, and a historic home has been designated as part of the Petersburg National Battlefield’s City Point Unit.
• The company first built a dynamite factory during World War I, and switched to the production of cotton. Hopewell produced the first Kraft paper, the first cardboard boxes, the first automatic dishwasher, and several artificial silk.
• Hopewell was named after a British Ship. Its English ties are still continuous, as Hopewell has a twin city in Ashford, Kent, England.
• With an amazing landscape and beautification project, the city has received the Governor’s Clean City Award.

Best Hotel Accommodations

There are several budget hotels in the city. Those that offer deluxe continental breakfasts, high speed internet access, and kitchenettes include Best Western Hopewell Inn, Econo Lodge, Fairfield Inn and Suites, Hampton Inn, and Quality Inn. Stay-Over Suites along Old Woodlawn Street has more than a hundred rooms, perfect for extended stays. The rooms all feature high speed internet access, LCD screens, guest laundry areas, and fully equipped kitchens. For cheaper stays, opt for Candlewood Suites. Though it doesn’t offer complimentary breakfasts, Candlewood lets its guests avail of services like free guest laundry and use of dishwashers, coffeemakers, refrigerators, and microwave ovens. Book your Hopewell Hotels with Reservations.com.

Things to Do

Part of the Eastern Virginia Rivers National Wildlife Refuge Complexes, the un-staffed satellite of Presquile National Wildlife Refuge is open to tourists under selective circumstances. Tourists can participate in bird watching activities of wintering waterfowl and several other migratory birds. The refuge, with its fringe marsh and hardwood swamp, is also home to roosting bald eagles.

Tourist Attractions

The Grant’s Headquarters at City Point served as one of the world’s busiest seaports. Visitors can join tours along Grant’s Cabin, the library, parlor, and outbuildings. The City Point once served as the center for approximately 100,000 soldiers of the Union Army. The City Point Early History Museum at St. Dennis Chapel features exhibits and artifacts depicting the city’s early 20^th century, Civil War, and colonial heritage. However, the museum is open only from April through October. The nearby City Point Open Air Museum is open throughout the year, which features outdoor storyboards that effectively capture the city’s events. Tourists can experience walking down the same streets as President Abraham Lincoln or General Ulysses Grant. The museum also features a self-guided walking tour which includes 24 points of interest. Other attractions include the Sears Catalog Homes and the Weston Manor.