Why Go to Norfolk
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Norfolk is a proud maritime city with deep naval roots. Set where the Elizabeth River meets the Chesapeake Bay, it's home to Naval Station Norfolk, the largest naval base in the world, and its revitalized downtown and waterfront make it a fun and interesting getaway.
Walk the decks of the battleship USS Wisconsin at Nauticus, the city's maritime science center, and take a harbor cruise past the aircraft carriers and destroyers of the Atlantic Fleet. Explore the world-class glass collection at the Chrysler Museum of Art and its free glass studio demonstrations, stroll the Norfolk Botanical Garden and visit the MacArthur Memorial, dedicated to General Douglas MacArthur. Wander the historic Ghent neighborhood and enjoy the restaurants and nightlife of downtown and Waterside.
Norfolk is close to the beaches of Virginia Beach and the history of Williamsburg and Jamestown, and it's a port for some cruises. As a military veteran myself, I especially enjoy planning Norfolk trips. I'll put together a visit that mixes naval history, the waterfront and the beach.
BEST FOR
History buffs, art lovers, families, foodies and military families
BEST MONTHS
May to June or September to October
EXPLORE
- Downtown: Restaurants, hotels and attractions.
- Ghent: Historic homes and local dining.
- NEON District: Murals and galleries.
- Ocean View: Bay beaches.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Norfolk
North America › Mid-Atlantic › USA › Virginia
Naval history, a world-class art museum and waterfront life on the Chesapeake Bay.
Urban & Culture
Military
History
Naval
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Take a harbor cruise past Naval Station Norfolk to see aircraft carriers and destroyers up close; it's the easiest way to see the base.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Allow a half day for both.
USS Wisconsin & Nauticus
Explore one of the largest battleships ever built, along with the Nauticus maritime science center.
Watch a free glassblowing demonstration at the Glass Studio.
Chrysler Museum of Art
A world-class museum with an outstanding glass collection.
Visit in spring for azaleas or winter for the holiday lights.
Norfolk Botanical Garden
A 175-acre garden with themed gardens and boat tours.
Rent a bike and ride the trail.
Elizabeth River Trail
A scenic walking and biking trail along the river.
Visit in the morning, when animals are active.
Virginia Zoo
A zoo with animals from around the world.
A modern hotel with a rooftop bar and restaurants.
Hilton Norfolk The Main
Downtown
Hotel Tags
A boutique hotel featuring glass art, near the Chrysler Museum.
Glass Light Hotel & Gallery
Downtown
Hotel Tags
A large hotel with harbor views and easy access to downtown.
Norfolk Waterside Marriott
Downtown waterfront
Hotel Tags
A hotel on the waterfront with views of the Elizabeth River.
Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel
Downtown waterfront
Hotel Tags
A charming bed-and-breakfast in a historic mansion.
Page House Inn
Ghent
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Norfolk
High 50°F · Low 40°F · Rain 2.3 in
The Grand Illumination Parade marks the start of the holiday season.
The best times to visit Norfolk are May through June and September through October, when the weather is warm but comfortable. Summers are hot and humid, and winters are mild.
Best Times to Visit Norfolk
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Norfolk's food scene celebrates Chesapeake Bay seafood and Southern flavors.
- Seafood: Try blue crabs, oysters and crab cakes.
- Local favorites: Enjoy Doumar's waffle cones, a Norfolk tradition since the early 1900s.
- Must-try: Crab cakes, Lynnhaven oysters, Virginia ham and a waffle cone at Doumar's.
06
Walking
Downtown and Ghent are easy to explore on foot.
05
Driving
A car is useful for exploring the region.
04
Taxis & Rideshares
Taxis and rideshare apps are widely available.
03
Elizabeth River Ferry
A ferry connects Norfolk with Portsmouth.
02
The Tide Light Rail
The Tide light rail connects downtown with nearby neighborhoods.
01
Flying In
Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is about 15 minutes from downtown.
Most travelers fly into Norfolk International or drive. Once you're here, light rail, ferries and rideshares make it easy to get around, while a car is best for exploring the region.
Getting Around Norfolk
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
You Might Also Like