10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Norfolk, Virginia
Norfolk, Virginia is one of those coastal cities that quietly surprises you. It’s a place where
naval history, waterfront views, great food, and artsy neighborhoods all come together.
If you’re planning a weekend getaway or looking for new ideas close to home, here are
10 things to do in and around Norfolk that are perfect for couples, families, solo travelers, and groups of friends.
1. Explore the USS Wisconsin & Nauticus on the Waterfront
If you only have time for one thing in Norfolk, make it
Nauticus & the Battleship Wisconsin on the downtown waterfront.
You can:
- Walk the decks of the massive USS Wisconsin, one of the largest battleships the U.S. Navy ever built
- Check out hands-on exhibits about hurricanes, shipbuilding, and sea life
- Get sweeping views of the Elizabeth River and Norfolk skyline
Plan to spend at least 2–3 hours here, especially if you’re traveling with kids or anyone who loves history. Standing on that deck, looking over the harbor, it’s hard not to imagine what life was like for the sailors who served there.
2. Stroll Through the Freemason District & Downtown Norfolk
Just a short walk from the waterfront, you’ll find the
Freemason Historic District, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Norfolk.
You can:
- Wander along brick sidewalks and quiet, tree-lined streets
- Check out historic homes, some dating back to the 1800s
- Pop into small cafés and local shops downtown
It’s a great area to explore on foot. Grab a coffee, walk the cobblestone-style streets, and let yourself get a little lost. Norfolk’s downtown is compact, so you can easily mix in the waterfront, Freemason, and nearby restaurants in one afternoon.
3. Relax at Norfolk’s Beaches on the Chesapeake Bay
Norfolk isn’t just ships and skyscrapers. Drive about 15–20 minutes from downtown and you’ll hit the
Chesapeake Bay beaches.
Popular spots include:
- Ocean View Beach Park – soft sand, a fishing pier, and seasonal events
- Community Beach Park – smaller and a bit quieter
- Sarah Constant Beach Park – nice views and usually less crowded
The water here is calmer than the open Atlantic, making it a good choice for families with kids. Pack a chair, some snacks, and enjoy a slow afternoon watching boats drift by.
4. Visit the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk
The
Virginia Zoo is one of the most family-friendly things to do in Norfolk—and it’s fun even if you’re a grown-up who just loves animals.
Highlights include:
- Lions, tigers, giraffes, rhinos, and more
- A train ride that loops around the grounds
- Well-kept trails and gardens that make walking the 50+ acres easy
Set aside half a day, especially if you like to linger at each exhibit. On warm days, bring water and comfortable shoes. The zoo is spread out, but that’s part of what makes it feel more like a park than a crowded attraction.
5. Wander the Gardens at Norfolk Botanical Garden
If you need a break from screens, traffic, and the usual rush, the
Norfolk Botanical Garden is the place to go.
You’ll find:
- Over 175 acres of themed gardens and wooded trails
- Beautiful spring azaleas and summer roses
- A fun children’s garden with splash areas in warmer months
You can walk, take a tram tour (seasonal), or even book a boat ride when it’s offered. It’s peaceful, colorful, and a great spot for photos. If you’re visiting during spring or early summer, expect everything to be in full bloom.
6. Dive into Naval History at the Hampton Roads Naval Museum
Norfolk is home to the world’s largest naval base, so it makes sense that naval history runs deep here.
At the
Hampton Roads Naval Museum (inside Nauticus), you can:
- Learn about famous battles and ships based in the Hampton Roads region
- See artifacts, uniforms, and ship models
- Get a better sense of how the Navy helped shape Norfolk
You don’t need to be a history buff to enjoy it. The exhibits are easy to follow and give helpful context for everything you’ll see around the city—the shipyards, the carriers in the distance, and the military presence everywhere you go.
7. Experience the Arts at the Chrysler Museum of Art
The
Chrysler Museum of Art might be one of the most underrated museums on the East Coast—and admission is usually free.
Inside, you’ll find:
- More than 30,000 pieces of art, from ancient to modern
- An impressive glass collection, including Tiffany glass
- A glass studio that often hosts live glassblowing demos
Even if you’re “not a museum person,” this one is manageable and welcoming. You can spend an hour or an afternoon wandering the galleries. The building itself is bright and easy to navigate, and the nearby Hague waterfront area is great for a short walk afterward.
8. Catch a Game, Concert, or Show Downtown
Norfolk has a surprisingly lively entertainment scene for its size. Depending on the season, you can:
- Watch a Norfolk Tides minor league baseball game at Harbor Park
- See hockey or concerts at Scope Arena
- Enjoy a play or comedy show at local theaters
Harbor Park, right on the water, is especially fun in the evening. The views of the river and downtown lights are worth the ticket alone. Grab a hot dog, sit back, and enjoy the game—even if you’re just there for the atmosphere.
9. Take a Day Trip to Virginia Beach or Colonial Williamsburg
One of the best things about visiting Norfolk is how close it is to other popular Virginia destinations.
Within about an hour’s drive, you can:
- Virginia Beach – classic Atlantic Ocean boardwalk, surf, and nightlife
- Colonial Williamsburg – step back into the 1700s with costumed interpreters and historic streets
- Jamestown & Yorktown – key sites from early American history and the Revolutionary War
If you’re staying in Norfolk for several days, consider using it as your “home base” while you explore the broader Hampton Roads and Historic Triangle area.
10. Eat and Drink Your Way Through Norfolk’s Food & Brewery Scene
Norfolk’s food scene has grown a lot in the last decade. From waterfront restaurants to cozy neighborhood spots, you can find:
- Fresh seafood—think shrimp, oysters, crab cakes, and fish tacos
- Local breweries and taprooms serving craft beer
- Casual brunch spots, coffee shops, and late-night bites
Areas to check out:
- Granby Street – lots of bars and restaurants in the heart of downtown
- Ghent – artsy neighborhood with cafés, pubs, and international food
- Neon District – murals, creative spaces, and some unique spots to grab a drink
If you like to travel through your taste buds, Norfolk won’t disappoint.
Tips for Planning Your Norfolk, VA Trip
To make the most of your time in Norfolk, consider these quick tips:
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall bring mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Getting around: Downtown is walkable. For beaches and suburbs, having a car helps.
- Weather: Summers can be hot and humid, so pack light clothes and sunscreen.
- Military presence: You’ll see and feel it everywhere—ships, jets, and base traffic. It’s part of Norfolk’s identity.
Ready to Explore Norfolk, Virginia?
Norfolk, VA might not get as much hype as some bigger East Coast cities, but that’s part of its charm. You get:
- Big-city culture without the big-city stress
- Beaches, history, and art all within a short drive
- A down-to-earth, coastal vibe that’s easy to fall in love with
If you’ve been wondering whether Norfolk is worth a visit, the answer is:
yes. Whether you’re into ships, gardens, museums, beaches, or just good food and cold drinks, there’s something here for you.
Have you visited Norfolk, Virginia?
What was your favorite thing to do—or what are you most excited to try from this list?
Share this post with a friend who’s planning a trip to Virginia, and drop your thoughts, questions, or travel tips in the comments. Your experiences might help someone else plan their perfect Norfolk getaway!
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