Things to do in Norfolk

Activities, attractions and tours

Norfolk
Norfolk
Norfolk
Norfolk
Norfolk
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What to do in Norfolk

Popular places to visit

D6DCC9 United States Navy ships in port at Naval Station Norfolk.

Naval Station Norfolk

Tour the world’s largest naval complex and see some of the U.S. Navy’s most powerful ships.

Naval Station Norfolk
Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University

Enjoy the student vibe at Old Dominion University during your visit to Norfolk. Experience the area's great live music or attend a sporting event.

Old Dominion University
Waterside District

Waterside District

A riverside district with restaurants, bars and nightclubs stands beside a scenic park and promenade with cycle and running lanes.

Waterside District
Pillars of Norfolk Scope arena, Norfolk, Va., Shutterstock ID 483451687, Purchase Order: Wave 0 First Batch, Order Number: , Client/Licensee: Hotels.com / BEX, Other: Mixed Budget

Norfolk Scope

Catch an event at Norfolk Scope during your trip to Norfolk. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.

Norfolk Scope
Norfolk_NorfolkStateUniversity_6083069_04

Norfolk State University

Enjoy the student vibe at Norfolk State University during your visit to Norfolk. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.

Norfolk State University
Norfolk Botanical Garden

Norfolk Botanical Garden

Walk among azaleas, camellias and rosebushes. Watch pelicans in flight and absorb the scents of exotic blooms.

Norfolk Botanical Garden
Virginia Zoo

Virginia Zoo

A popular zoo as famous for its wild kingdom of animals as it is for an outstanding collection of themed gardens.

Virginia Zoo
Norfolk Beaches

Norfolk Beaches

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Norfolk Beaches during your trip to East Ocean View?

Norfolk Beaches
Panoramic view of a dune beach at sunset, North Sea, Germany

Ocean View Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Ocean View Beach during your trip to Norfolk? Wander the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.

Ocean View Beach

Where to stay in Norfolk

Find the best Norfolk areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Norfolk
Learn more about Norfolk
Photo by LTorr
Open Photo by LTorr

Downtown Norfolk

If you're spending time in Downtown Norfolk, check out sights like The NorVa or Norva Theater and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Monticello Station or MacArthur Square Station.

Photo by Nicholas Theo
Open Photo by Nicholas Theo

West Freemason

While you're in West Freemason, take in top sights like Hunter House Victorian Museum and jump on the metro at York Street-Free Mason Station to see more of the city.

Ghent

While Ghent isn't home to many top sights, Chrysler Museum of Art and Harrison Opera House are some notable places to visit nearby.

Ocean View

While there might not be top attractions in Ocean View, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Ocean View Beach and Norfolk Beaches.

Aerial View over Portsmouth Virginia Across the Elizabeth River to Norfolk

Norfolk Auto Row Historic District

While Norfolk Auto Row Historic District isn't home to many top sights, Harrison Opera House and Chrysler Museum of Art are some notable places to visit nearby.

Colorful sunset over riverside resort in Cambridge Maryland USA

Chesapeake

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach

Frequently asked questions

Is Norfolk worth visiting?
Norfolk offers a unique mix of culture, attractions and local charm. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or local culinary flavours, there's plenty to enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Norfolk?
Kick your day off with a visit to Virginia Zoo and Ocean View Beach. Then, explore different areas of Norfolk for local dining and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Norfolk?
The top tourist attraction in Norfolk is Virginia Zoo, so make sure to add it to your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Norfolk?
You can easily tour leading attractions like Virginia Zoo, Town Point Park and Chrysler Museum of Art with a three-day break in Norfolk. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a while longer and check out Norfolk - Virginia Beach.
Is Norfolk a walkable city?
It all depends on what you'd like to do and see in Norfolk. Several attractions, such as Virginia Zoo and Town Point Park, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Norfolk's best neighbourhoods, Downtown Norfolk is 0.32 kilometres away from downtown, while Norfolk Auto Row Historic District is 2 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Norfolk with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities sets the tone for a great escape. Browse our ideas for what to do in Norfolk with kids.

What to do in Norfolk for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or thrill seeker, there are loads of things to do in Norfolk for adults including L. Douglas Wilder Performing Arts Centre and Norfolk NEX.
Are there free things to do in Norfolk?
In Norfolk, Town Point Park is a top spot for anyone planning to tour the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's an easy way to learn about the best free things to do in Norfolk.

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