Orvis, outdoor gear retailer, is opening its first Hampton Roads location

The first Orvis store specializing in fly fishing, hunting and sporting goods is coming to Hampton Roads.

Orvis, which has locations in Richmond and Charlottesville, plans to open May 1 at the Marketplace at Hilltop in Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach-based Armada Hoffler and Venture Realty Group announced the Vermont-based company signed a lease for a 6,000-square-foot space next to Michaels.

The proximity to the Oceanfront attracted the retailer, which has a strong following, said Matt Lafler, partner at Venture Realty Group

Founded in 1856, Orvis is the oldest U.S. mail-order retailer operating 80 stores in the U.S. and United Kingdom.