By Barrett Baker
When the Hampton Virginia Aquaplex officially opened its doors on October 29, 2022, it wasn’t just another ribbon-cutting, it was the start of a new era for sports tourism, community recreation, and economic growth in Hampton. The $30 million facility, the largest competitive aquatic center in Virginia, has quickly become a hub for swimmers, families, and visitors from across the region.
Beneath the Surface
The Aquaplex’s ripple effects extend well beyond the pool deck. In its first year alone, the facility generated an estimated $9 million in economic impact through sports tourism, tax revenue, and job creation. With regional and national swimming and diving events drawing thousands of visitors, the influx of athletes and spectators brings steady business to local hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Studies estimate that visitor spending could reach $10–$15 million annually, with up to $1 million in local tax revenue—figures that highlight the Aquaplex’s central role in Hampton’s broader economic strategy. City planners intentionally located the complex near restaurants and hotels to ensure the surrounding community reaps the full benefit.
In 2024, approximately 159,000 people visited the Aquaplex for meets (athletes, coaches, and spectators), lessons, events, practices, and for family fun at SplashDown Park. Many of the larger events attracted visitors from outside the region. In the past three years, the larger meets have generated an economic impact of approximately $7 million per year. In 2023, the USA Artistic Swimming Junior Olympics generated an additional $3.7 million.
In 2025, the Aquaplex hosted 26 meets including Virginia High School League, USA Swimming, and NCAA Division 1 and Division 3 collegiate meets. The facility also hosted three diving-only meets (VHSL, AAU, USA Diving).
“The Hampton Virginia Aquaplex has been a game-changer for tourism in our city,” said Mary Fugere, Director of the Hampton Virginia Convention & Visitor Bureau. “With thousands of athletes, coaches, and spectators traveling here for major competitions, we’re seeing visitors stay multiple nights in our hotels, dine in our restaurants, and explore all that Hampton has to offer. Hosting large collegiate and regional championships at the Aquaplex not only boosts our local economy but also showcases Hampton as a premier destination for sports tourism.”
Clockwise from top left: CAA Championship meet, WVA swim, Children of all ages enjoy the pool
An Investment in People
Beyond its financial impact, the Aquaplex enriches local life in meaningful ways. The facility doubles as a community recreation center, offering programs like water aerobics, public swim sessions, and special events at its seasonal outdoor splash park.
Perhaps its most inspiring initiative is the partnership with Hampton City Schools, which provides free “learn-to-swim” lessons for every second grader. By ensuring that all children have access to water safety education, the program is helping to create what city leaders call a “drown-proof” community—one where every child feels confident and safe around water.
The Aquaplex also offers classes for a variety of other groups: Preschool, school age, adult, and a special needs adaptive swim program. In January 2026, Water/Public Safety classes will be expanded to include a Lifeguard Program, CPR/AED classes, and Water Safety Instructor classes.
A Modern Marvel
Created through a design-build process, the Hampton Virginia Aquaplex features a 50-meter competition pool with seating for 1,500 spectators, a 25-yard program pool, a whirlpool, and the family-friendly SplashDown Park. The complex was the largest project ever undertaken by the City of Hampton and was designed to meet both elite competition standards and long-term community needs.
Looking Ahead
As the Hampton Virginia Aquaplex continues to host major competitions and community programs, it’s clear that this landmark project has already made a splash—economically, socially, and athletically. More than just a swimming complex, it’s a symbol of Hampton’s vision for the future: a vibrant, active community where opportunity, recreation, and wellness flow together.
The Hampton Virginia Aquaplex is located at 1908 Coliseum Drive in Hampton. For further information about the facility and its programs, visit http://www.hamptonaquaplex.com.
