Whether your kids are sports fans or not, they will enjoy the experience of visiting the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame and Museum in Portsmouth. Over the course of this impressive two-story facility, you and your family will discover the stories and victories of more than 300 past and present athletes who have earned their rightful place in this Hall of Fame. Additional points of interest include the popular NASCAR driving simulator, an exhibit that will test the speed of your baseball pitch, as well as various other interactive attractions.
Travel back to a time when the only mode of mass transportation was the railroad. A slice of that history is still very much alive in Portsmouth with the Pokey Smokey. Efforts to raise funds to complete the repair of an impressive scale replica of this 19th century steam locomotive are underway. For 41 years, the Pokey Smokey traveled through Portsmouth City Park and offered the opportunity for visitors to ride through and see the area from a truly unique perspective. Soon, that tradition will be continued again. Until then, history buffs and train enthusiasts can still flock to see the Pokey Smokey for a closer look and for many excellent photo opportunities.
Whether you are Jewish or not, you will find something truly compelling and thought-provoking when you pay a visit to Portsmouth's Jewish Museum and Cultural Center. The Chevra T'helim Synagogue now serves as the museum and center and offers visitors a chance to see a stunning example of European Jewish Orthodoxy. Various exhibits and presentations offer the opportunity for visitors to learn about the tradition of the faith as well as key historical events that have both shaped it and challenged it.