Visitor Information Centre
Scenes like the one to the right are what many Hampton residents see on a daily basis...come and visit us, we're saving you a seat!
(Matt Galley photo)
The Hampton Visitor Information Centre, is located in the old Railway Station on Main Street. Also on site is a Gift Shop that features the works of local artisans - paintings, photography, pottery, books, jams, metal sculptures, etc. The V.I.C. is also home to the Railway Heritage Site where visitors can take a peek at railway artefacts and peruse the information on display. See the pictures below of the Gift Shop, the Visitor Information section and the Railway Heritage Site.
V.I.C. Hours of Operation: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, 7 days a week (June-August). Open by chance in September.
The V.I.C. is managed by Jennifer Duguay and is staffed by summer students and many volunteer residents.
For further information on the V.I.C. from June to September please call (506)832-6111 or Email: hamptonvic@nb.aibn.com. From October to May please call (506)832-6096 or Email: lighthouserivercentre@nb.aibn.com .
What is there to do in Hampton?
Hampton is one of those towns that you remember long after you have visited, due to it’s stunning landscape, river and marsh views, stately old homes, and friendly residents.
If you’ve come to admire our town’s natural wonders, there is an array of options at your disposal. You can spend the day exploring the Dutch Point Trail system; admiring the breathtaking view of the Hampton Marsh from a roadside lookout; or bird watching from the Spooner Island gazebo.
If you are a boating enthusiast, consider this: the Kennebecasis River runs through Hampton, a perfect setting for canoeing, kayaking, or boating of any kind. Local rentals are available for paddlers or pontoon boat rides. If sailing, motor boating, or water sports appeal to you, the Saint John River system can be accessed via the Saint John Marina; the Millidgeville Marina, the Renforth Wharf; or the Belleisle Bay Marina. Hampton is ideally situated on the Lower River Passage.
Our region is dotted with quaint covered bridges, also known as kissing bridges. Many are still in use on our picturesque country roads, while others are simply reminders of our province’s rich past. You may choose to rent a bicycle from a local shop and explore the many town streets full of historical homes and architecture. Many local artisans have their studios nearby, and every spring there is a Studio Tour across Kings County. The Jailhouse Gallery is another outlet for local painters.
Interested in the History of Kings County? If so, you should head in to the Kings County Museum, which features things such as the famous Confederation Quilt; the County archives; and a seasonal display of locally found amphibians.
If relaxation and entertainment is more your style, take in a show at Saint John’s renowned Imperial Theatre; go to the movies in Rothesay or Saint John; or bring back memories of your childhood by going to the Sussex drive-in theatre. Treat yourself to a great meal at one of our restaurants or outdoor cafés, or a treat from a local bakery or ice cream parlour.
Then consider working off some of those calories, challenge yourself by playing 18 holes at Hampton’s beautiful golf course; an exhilarating game of tennis; some fun mini-golfing; or a refreshing swim at the community’s public swimming pool.
One feature that is quite unique to our region is its system of ferries. The majority of these ferries are provincially run and free of charge, and sometimes the only way to get from one place to another. It’s possible to go on a “ferry run” before settling into one of the countless campgrounds, inns, or B&Bs that we have to offer.
The autumn brings a spectacular show, and no matter what vantage point you choose you can be sure you will be exposed to the brilliant array of red, orange, and yellow of the season’s foliage. Don’t despair if your visit is during the winter months, as there are many things to do once the snow has fallen. For a special holiday experience, you can go to a local Christmas tree farm where you have the option of choosing and cutting down your own tree. Many of these businesses provide sleigh rides, warm refreshments, and tasty treats. Ice fishing is very popular, as is tobogganing, skating, skiing and snowboarding. When spring arrives, take a trip down memory lane and visit one of several maple sugar farms.
Evidently, our quaint, friendly town is not limited to a particular season. The area’s abundance of unique activities provides year-round enjoyment. So come visit Hampton…It’s Our Nature!
