10 Biggest Cities in Virginia: How Well Do You Know The Old Dominion State?

Military bases, vacation spots, and historic sites are among Virginia's 10 biggest cities. The state has only the 35th largest total land area in the nation yet boasts a population that ranks 12th.

That's a lot of people in a little space, but the Old Dominion State is currently experiencing a population boom.

Here are the 10 biggest cities in Virginia:

1. Virginia Beach: Surprise! The capital, Richmond, is not the biggest city in Virginia. It's this city, which sports a bustling tourism industry because of its many beaches.

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2. Norfolk: This city is home to one of the largest Navy base in the U.S., Naval Station Norfolk. Norfolk connects to both the Chesapeake Bay and Elizabeth River, making it an important port city for the state.

3. Chesapeake: Adjacent to Norfolk lies the city of Chesapeake, whose diverse geography includes sprawling forests, farms and even a portion of the Great Dismal Swamp. It also shares a border with North Carolina.

4. Richmond: Richmond is the capital of Virginia, housing the state legislature, and many important historical landmarks dating back to the Revolutionary War. It was here that Patrick Henry delivered his noted speech, "Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death."

5. Newport News: Halfway through the biggest cities in Virginia we find Newport News, whose economy and culture is inextricably linked to the United States military. The Army, Navy and Air Force all have a substantial presence here.

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6. Alexandria: Alexandria resides in Arlington County along the Potomac River and just six short miles away from Washington, D.C. Established as a settlement in 1695, it quickly became a center for the thriving tobacco trade.

7. Hampton: Resting along the Hampton River, Hampton houses the historic Hampton University, NASA's Langley Research Center, and Virginia's own Air and Space Center.

8. Roanoke: Roanoke may be one of the 10 biggest cities in Virginia but it also stands as a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The famed Appalachian Trail is one of many notable natural diversions that draws visitors year in and year out.

9. Portsmouth: Since its founding in 1752, Portsmouth has always been a vital resource for the U.S. Navy. During the American Civil War, possession of its shipyard was hotly contested by both the Union and the Confederacy.

10. Suffolk: Despite ranking at the bottom of the biggest city list, Suffolk maintains the largest land area of any city in the Commonwealth. Also, Suffolk was the birthplace to beloved snack brand Planters’ Peanuts as well as its mascot, Mr. Peanut.

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• 5 Facts About Virginia's Capital: How Well Do You Know Richmond?

• Virginia History: 8 Events That Shaped the State