Portsmouth City, Virginia

Portsmouth is located in southeastern Virginia along the Elizabeth River, directly across from Norfolk and with convenient access to the Chesapeake Bay.

The city has a long and important maritime history. The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard played a major role in shaping the local economy and development, helping establish the city as an important center for shipbuilding and naval activity.

Today, visitors can explore the Nauticus maritime museum and learn more about the region’s naval and shipbuilding heritage. Thanks to its waterfront setting, Portsmouth continues to maintain a close connection with the water. Boating, fishing, and other waterfront activities remain popular among both residents and visitors.

CategoryDetails
County NamePortsmouth City
Population97,000 (approx.)
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesPortsmouth
Interstates and HighwaysI-264, US 17, US 58, US 460
FIPS Code51-740
Total Area (Land and Water)25.5 sq mi (land: 24.5 sq mi, water: 1.0 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Newport News City (North), Norfolk City (East), Chesapeake City (South), Suffolk City (West)
Time ZoneEastern Standard Time (EST)
StateVirginia
Coordinates36.8350° N, 76.2983° W
EtymologyNamed after Portsmouth, England
Major LandmarksNauticus Maritime Museum, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Olde Towne Portsmouth
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