If there is not a local party going on, the usual club going, or a major event going on on campus, there is usually nothing happening for HU students, especially those under 21. The best thing to do to find a good nightclub or bar is to head on out to Virginia Beach or Norfolk. Of course, there’s the problem of finding transportation, and nothing stays open past 2 a.m., so it tends to be a short night. Norfolk is the fastest and easiest place to find a good time on the weekends. Downtown Norfolk, at the waterfront, is slammed with bars and nightclubs, which are designed specifically for the college crowd. Since Norfolk is a college town built around Old Dominion University, Norfolk State University, and the College of William and Mary, there is a young vibe in the air. Virginia Beach provides more of a local atmosphere, and the clubs on the Strip appeal to all sorts. One thing to look out for is that this isn’t just a college area; it’s a military area, too. Many students aren’t too thrilled to find themselves in the midst of a bunch of horny, crude sailors who have just pulled into port. The other option is to head to Newport News, where there are a few sporadic nightclubs that are around.
For those under 21, the best option is to go to a movie or hang around the mall. Hampton, in general, is not the most happening town, but if you can handle laying back, hanging out, and just chilling at a local bar or restaurant for the evening, then you’ll do just fine here. Nightlife, for freshmen, consists of staying out late after curfew is lifted and hanging out by the female dorms.