Things to do in Norfolk

Activities, attractions and tours

A park with green trees, a statue, and outdoor seating. In the background, there are modern buildings including a Hilton hotel.
A large wooden house with a brick chimney, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and a large tree.
A white sailboat docked at a marina with a large ship in the background.
The MacArthur Memorial building with a statue in front.
Waterside restaurant with outdoor seating and a view of the Waterfront Club.

Things to do

View of Spirit of Norfolk

City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Brunch Cruise

€72
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Brunch Cruise
View of the water and the Spirit of Norfolk Dinner Cruise ship

City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Dinner Cruise

€81
per adult
76% of travellers recommend
City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Dinner Cruise
Nauticus and Battleship Wisconsin Private Tour from Williamsburg

Nauticus and Battleship Wisconsin Private Tour from Williamsburg

€323
per adult
Nauticus and Battleship Wisconsin Private Tour from Williamsburg
See all activities in Norfolk
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What to do in Norfolk

Stay near popular Norfolk attractions

A modern building with glass windows and a covered walkway. There are trees with pink flowers and a clear sky.

Old Dominion University

8.4/10 (580 reviews)
Old Dominion University blends modern facilities with traditional architecture in its waterfront Norfolk campus. Explore the Barry Art Museum or catch a game at the Ted Constant Convocation Centre during your visit.
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Where to stay in Norfolk

Find the best Norfolk areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Norfolk
Learn more about Norfolk
A large naval ship docked in a harbor with a crowd on the deck and a tall building in the background.
Photo by LTorr
Open Photo by LTorr

Downtown Norfolk

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

A cityscape with a tram track, buildings, and overhead electrical lines.
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.

The Chrysler Museum of Art with a bridge and a statue of a horse.

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.

A beach with tall grass in the foreground, a wooden fence, and a few people in the distance.

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.

An aerial view of a city with a prominent church, a river, and a mix of historic and modern buildings.

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.

A golf course, a large building complex, and a marina by a river.

Chesapeake

A crowded beach with colorful umbrellas and tents, a sandy shore, and buildings in the background.

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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