Things to do in Norfolk

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Hermitage Museum and Gardens showing a house

Norfolk Attractions

They say that the best things come in small packages, and this delightful city is no exception. From impressive tourist attractions to exciting activities, there are tons of things to do in Norfolk.

Discover what makes Norfolk tick with the most popular tours & day trips. Scroll through our {25 fun activities in Norfolk fun activities in Norfolk}, and book with confidence knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.


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Norfolk must see attractions

1. Naval Station Norfolk

Get close to destroyers, aircraft carriers, amphibious assault vehicles, submarines and frigates by taking a bus tour of Naval Station Norfolk. Navy personnel narrate details of vessels, their histories and roles, as well as providing a few insights into life at this sprawling military base.
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Tour the world’s largest naval complex and see some of the U.S. Navy’s most powerful ships.

2. Waterside District

Near the mouth of the Elizabeth River, visit Waterside Marketplace, a covered site that is filled with all types of stores and eating places. The modern building is recognizable by its wide two-story silhouette right in front of the river. Enter the site from the street side and browse among the various restaurants and shops. Step outs on the southwest side to enjoy the riverfront views and amenities.
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Waterside Festival Marketplace featuring signage and a sunset

3. Norfolk Botanical Garden

Covering 155 acres (63 hectares), Norfolk Botanical Garden is filled with thousands of plants spread across many themed gardens.
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Norfolk Botanical Garden which includes a garden, landscape views and a pond

4. USS Wisconsin BB-64

At 887 feet (270 meters) in length, the USS Wisconsin is one of the largest battleships ever built by the U.S. Navy. The vessel first saw active duty in the Pacific in 1943 and was last used in a foreign war in Operation Desert Storm in 1991.
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USS Wisconsin BB-64 which includes military items

5. Virginia Zoo

Treat the family to a day of wild animal adventures. Virginia Zoo’s 53 acres (21 hectares) are home to more than 400 animals, representing over 100 species including lions, elephants, snakes and bears. Species from Asia, Africa, Australia and North America reside in habitats similar to their native environments.
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Virginia Zoo which includes zoo animals, signage and a statue or sculpture

What to do in Norfolk

Free Things to Do in Norfolk

Leave your wallet in the hotel. It's a snap to have a blast in Norfolk without paying a cent.

Douglas MacArthur Memorial - Whether you're old or young, this gallery will spark your imagination and capture your mind.

D'Art Center - Satisfy your arts and culture cravings here and witness talent and creativity at work.

Armed Forces Memorial - If you'd love to explore the region's history through its landmarks, stick this one on your travel schedule.

Lake Wright - Take things slow and treat yourself to some relaxation time beside the water.

Eastern Virginia Medical School - Pay a visit and find out the importance of this place to the locals.

St. Paul's Episcopal Church - Whatever your religious leanings, this place is sure to inspire a sense of reverence.

Town Point Park - If you enjoy digging about the garden, this attraction will delight your green thumb.

Things to Do in Norfolk with Kids

There are loads of fun activities to do with your kids in and around Norfolk. Keep everyone happy with our family friendly experiences.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Norfolk? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Norfolk on a sunny day?
A Brunch Cruise Aboard the Spirit of Norfolk and a Spirit of Norfolk Lunch Cruise are two sensational outdoor activities that’ll get you into the fresh air.
What should I not miss in Norfolk?
If you want to experience the best of this destination, fit these attractions into your schedule:

  • Norfolk Botanical Garden
  • Chrysler Museum of Art
  • Nauticus National Maritime Center
  • Moses Myers House

Are there cheap things to do in Norfolk?
A Skip the Line: Virginia Living Museum Admission Ticket assures a fantastic time without costing a bundle.
What can you do in Norfolk for free?
You could put your credit card in the hotel safe for the day, because these fabulous attractions won’t cost you a thing:

  • Old Dominion University
  • Norfolk State University
  • Norfolk Premium Outlets
  • Sentara Norfolk General Hospital


Discover the most popular places to visit in Norfolk

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Norfolk

Moses Myers House showing a city and a house

Downtown Norfolk

4.5/5(103 area reviews)

While you're in Downtown Norfolk, take in top sights like The NorVa or Chrysler Hall, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Monticello Station or MacArthur Square Station.

Downtown Norfolk
Ocean View

Ocean View

Fishing and watersports are among the fun activities you can enjoy on the picturesque stretches of sand along Chesapeake Bay.

Ocean View
The last of the summer beach days.

East Ocean View

Though East Ocean View might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Norfolk Botanical Garden and Norfolk Beaches.

East Ocean View
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Willoughby Spit

3.5/5(51 area reviews)

While visiting Willoughby Spit, you might make a stop by sights like Norfolk Beaches and Oceanview Fishing Pier.

Willoughby Spit
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Bayview

While Bayview might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Norfolk Beaches and Ocean View Beach.

Bayview
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Fleet

4/5(58 area reviews)

Fleet is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Naval Station Norfolk and Virginia Port Authority.

Fleet

Popular day trips from Norfolk