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Get InspiredNorth AmericaUnited StatesVirginiaNorfolk

Norfolk

Virginia, United States
City·Historic, Cultural, Waterfront
Norfolk
Photo by Xavier Amari Smith_TCS from Google Places
Norfolk
Photo by Xavier Amari Smith_TCS from Google Places
Norfolk
Photo by Xavier Amari Smith_TCS from Google Places
Norfolk
Photo by Xavier Amari Smith_TCS from Google Places
Norfolk
Photo by Xavier Amari Smith_TCS from Google Places
Norfolk
Photo by Xavier Amari Smith_TCS from Google Places
Norfolk
Photo by Xavier Amari Smith_TCS from Google Places
Norfolk
Photo by Xavier Amari Smith_TCS from Google Places
Norfolk
Photo by Xavier Amari Smith_TCS from Google Places
Norfolk
Photo by Xavier Amari Smith_TCS from Google Places

Norfolk, Virginia, established in 1682, is a city steeped in maritime history and cultural significance. It is home to the world's largest naval base, Naval Station Norfolk, and plays a crucial role in the Port of Virginia. The city boasts numerous cultural institutions, including the Chrysler Museum of Art and the Virginia Zoo, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors. Its strategic location at the confluence of the Elizabeth River and Chesapeake Bay has made it a pivotal center for trade and military operations. With miles of scenic riverfront and bayfront areas, Norfolk provides a picturesque setting for both relaxation and exploration.

Norfolk, Virginia, established in 1682, is a city steeped in maritime history and cultural significance. It is home to the world's largest naval base, Naval Station Norfolk, and plays a crucial role in the Port of Virginia. The city boasts numerous cultural institutions, including the Chrysler Museum of Art and the Virginia Zoo, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors. Its strategic location at the confluence of the Elizabeth River and Chesapeake Bay has made it a pivotal center for trade and military operations. With miles of scenic riverfront and bayfront areas, Norfolk provides a picturesque setting for both relaxation and exploration.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Home to the world's largest naval base.

  • Rich maritime history dating back to 1682.

  • Cultural attractions like the Chrysler Museum of Art.

  • Scenic riverfront and bayfront areas.

  • Strategic military and trade location.

Before you go: Norfolk essentials

  • Close proximity to Virginia Beach for additional seaside activities.

  • Rich cultural heritage with museums and historical sites.

  • Strategic military presence with significant naval facilities.

Getting Around

Norfolk has a well-connected public transportation system including buses and light rail.

Local Cuisine

Seafood is a must-try, with many restaurants offering fresh catches from the Chesapeake Bay.

Best For

History buffs and cultural explorers.

Currency

USD $

Average Cost

$100-$200 p/day

Languages Spoken

English

Naval History

Visit the Nauticus maritime museum for an in-depth look at Norfolk's naval heritage.

Cultural Events

Check out local events and festivals, especially those celebrating Norfolk's maritime culture.

Occasion Tags

Tourists, History Lovers, Culture Seekers

Best time to visit Norfolk

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring in Norfolk is mild and perfect for exploring its outdoor attractions and waterfronts.

Best Season

Summer

Summers are warm and ideal for enjoying the city's beaches and maritime festivals.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it a great time for cultural exploration.

Winter

Winters are mild, with indoor attractions like museums being popular during this season.

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Location

Norfolk, Virginia, United States
Open in Maps

Food & drink in Norfolk

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Waterside District

4.4(7,8 K)
Norfolk, Virginia
Lively, Energetic, Social
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The Lizard Cafe

4.5(108)
Norfolk, Virginia
Cozy, Inviting, Friendly
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The Stockpot Norfolk

4.5(606)
Norfolk, Virginia
Cozy, Friendly, Casual
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint Norfolk

4.6(2,6 K)
Norfolk, Virginia
Casual, Funky, Dive
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The General Public

4.4(200)
Norfolk, Virginia
Casual, Welcoming, Eclectic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Hair of the Dog Eatery, Downtown Norfolk

4.3(826)
Norfolk, Virginia
Casual, Bright, Friendly
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Crave Bakery + Coffee Bar

4.3(180)
Norfolk, Virginia
Cozy, Welcoming, Local
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

PJay's Kitchen

4.8(724)
Norfolk, Virginia
Casual, Friendly, Welcoming

Things to do in Norfolk

City Cruises Norfolk: Buffet Brunch Cruise
From $76

City Cruises Norfolk: Buffet Brunch Cruise

4.4(22)
Duration: 2h
Norfolk
City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Lunch Cruise
From $60

City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Lunch Cruise

4.8(6)
Duration: 2h
Norfolk
Norfolk's Combo Tickets - Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin
From $43

Norfolk's Combo Tickets - Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin

4.3(32)
Duration: 48h
Norfolk
A Day Full of Fun at Virginia Living Museum
From $23

A Day Full of Fun at Virginia Living Museum

4.5(36)
Duration: 2h
Norfolk
Half-Day Self-Guided Tour E-Bike Rental in Norfolk
From $75

Half-Day Self-Guided Tour E-Bike Rental in Norfolk

4.9(48)
Duration: 1h
Norfolk
A Spectacular Scavenger Hunt: Mystery of Norfolk
From $12

A Spectacular Scavenger Hunt: Mystery of Norfolk

3.0(10)
Duration: 2h
Norfolk
Gnarly Norfolk Scavenger Hunt
From $25

Gnarly Norfolk Scavenger Hunt

Duration: 2h
Norfolk
Scavenger Hunt in Newport News by Operation City Quest
From $10

Scavenger Hunt in Newport News by Operation City Quest

4.5(2)
Duration: 2h
Norfolk
Explore on Viator

Attractions in Norfolk

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Place
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Place
Place

Town Point Park

4.6(3,2 K)
Norfolk, Virginia
Scenic, Relaxed, Family Friendly
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Place
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Selden Market

4.5(1,3 K)
Norfolk, Virginia
Creative, Local, Vibrant
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Place
Place
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Port of Norfolk

4.4(295)
Norfolk, Virginia
Busy, Industrial, Functional
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Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center

4.5(400)
Norfolk, Virginia
Welcoming, Versatile, Scenic
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Place
Place
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Place

MacArthur Memorial

4.7(149)
Norfolk, Virginia
Educational, Historical, Engaging
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Place
Place
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Place

Hampton Roads Naval Museum

4.8(366)
Norfolk, Virginia
Educational, Interactive, Family Friendly
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Place
Place
Place
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Nauticus

4.7(2,1 K)
Norfolk, Virginia
Interactive, Educational, Family Friendly
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Spooky Acres Haunted House

4.7(148)
Norfolk, Virginia
Thrilling, Immersive, Scary

Natural & historic sites near Norfolk

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Place
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Historic Jamestowne Part of Colonial National Historical Park

Virginia
Protected Area · Educational, Contemplative, Scenic, Historic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Fort Monroe National Monument

Virginia
Protected Area · Historic, Reflective, Scenic, Educational
Place
Place
Place
Place

Richmond National Battlefield Park

Virginia
Protected Area · Educational, Somber, Reflective, Expansive
Place
Place
Place
Place

Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park

Virginia
Protected Area · Quiet, Reflective, Historical, Natural
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Colonial National Historical Park

Yorktown, Virginia
Protected Area · Educational, Historic, Serene, Expansive
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Wright Brothers National Memorial

North Carolina
Protected Area · Educational, Inspiring, Historic, Spacious
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Yorktown Battlefield Part of Colonial National Historical Park

Virginia
Protected Area · Educational, Somber, Scenic