Norfolk - Virginia Beach

Travel Guide
Norfolk - Virginia Beach featuring a sunset, a bay or harbor and military items
Discover the arty side of this attractive port city, which promises waterfront views, craft breweries and an increasing number of cultural attractions.

Although it’s best known for being home to the world’s largest naval base, the port city of Norfolk is slowly starting to attract outsiders’ attention for its cultural and art-themed attractions. Explore thriving art districts, attend events and festivals and browse fascinating museums, which cover topics ranging from glass art to the life of World War II General Douglas MacArthur.

Having been originally settled by British colonists in the 17th century, Norfolk was officially incorporated in 1736. In 1776, during the Revolutionary War, much of the city was destroyed during a siege. In 1804, the city was significantly damaged again when a fire raged along the waterfront. Head to St. Paul’s Church, one of just a few buildings in town to have survived the 1776 siege. Look for a cannonball from the battle in its southeastern wall.

Life has long revolved around the water here. Learn about Norfolk’s naval history and inspect various vessels during a tour of the Norfolk Naval Base. Step aboard the Battleship Wisconsin and trace the history of the region’s naval fleet at the Hampton Roads Naval Center, both of which are located in Nauticus, a maritime-focused museum and science center. Alternatively, get out on the water with a harbor cruise.

Explore the city’s artier side by strolling around the mural-dotted NEON Art District. Look for striking interactive installations such as the interactive MetalMatisse, a 30-foot (9-meter) tall stainless steel sculpture that lights up and makes sounds in response to the movement of passers-by.

Nearby is the Chrysler Museum of Art, which has a collection that spans ancient to contemporary works. An on-site glass studio here offers glass-blowing workshops for visitors. Don’t miss the MacArthur Memorial, which recounts the life of the World War II hero.

Norfolk is located in east Virginia, about a 95-minute drive from Richmond. The nearest airport is Norfolk International Airport. To get around downtown Norfolk and the surrounding areas, walk and use the Tide light rail system. For craft beer bars and exciting dining options with views over the bay, head for the Waterside District or The Main.

Where to stay in Norfolk - Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach which includes rides

Northeast Virginia Beach

4.5/5(2 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Northeast Virginia Beach, First Landing State Park and Neptune Statue are top sights worth seeing.

Northeast Virginia Beach
Sandbridge Beach which includes a beach and hiking or walking as well as an individual male

Sandbridge

Beaches and parks are just a few things travellers like about Sandbridge. A stop by Sandbridge Beach is also recommended if you've got time to explore the area.

Sandbridge
Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center showing a garden, modern architecture and marine life

Dam Neck

While visiting Dam Neck, you might make a stop by sights like Sandbridge Beach and Ocean Breeze Waterpark.

Dam Neck
Moses Myers House featuring a house and a city

Downtown Norfolk

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

Downtown Norfolk
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Northwest

4/5(2 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Northwest, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts and Virginia Beach Town Center are top sights worth seeing.

Northwest
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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.

Ocean View
Schooner Inn
Schooner Inn
2 out of 5
215 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA
The price is RM290 per night from 1 Apr to 2 Apr
RM290
per night
1 Apr - 2 Apr
Stay at this beach hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,334 reviews)
Original era Virginia Beach experience
"This was a neat early 70s era beach front hotel right at the end of the Virginia Beach strip. Nice large beach window directly overlooking the beach provided a great view to wake up to. I’ve stayed in many of these older hotels in places like San Diego, Tampa, lake of the ozarks, etc and this was ..."

Reviewed on 25 Mar 2024

Schooner Inn
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Virginia Beach (Oceanfront), VA
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Virginia Beach (Oceanfront), VA
3 out of 5
1801 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA
The price is RM515 per night from 8 Apr to 9 Apr
RM515
per night
8 Apr - 9 Apr
Stay at this beach hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,778 reviews)
"Check in process was great. I was to tired to catch her name but she was fabulous"

Reviewed on 22 Mar 2024

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Virginia Beach (Oceanfront), VA
Delta Hotels by Marriott Virginia Beach Waterfront
Delta Hotels by Marriott Virginia Beach Waterfront
4 out of 5
2800 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA
The price is RM496 per night from 10 Apr to 11 Apr
RM496
per night
10 Apr - 11 Apr
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (894 reviews)
"Nice stay"

Reviewed on 21 Mar 2024

Delta Hotels by Marriott Virginia Beach Waterfront
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Ocean Key Resort by VSA Resorts
The Ocean Key Resort by VSA Resorts
3 out of 5
424 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,072 reviews)
"The place is very nice clean and family friendly"

Reviewed on 23 Mar 2024

The Ocean Key Resort by VSA Resorts
The Ocean Sands Resort by VSA Resorts
The Ocean Sands Resort by VSA Resorts
3 out of 5
2207 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA
Stay at this 3-star beach aparthotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,210 reviews)
"Great"

Reviewed on 24 Mar 2024

The Ocean Sands Resort by VSA Resorts
The Atrium Resort by VSA Resorts
The Atrium Resort by VSA Resorts
3.5 out of 5
315 21st St, Virginia Beach, VA
Stay at this 3.5-star eco-certified vacation home in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,035 reviews)
"Clean and very comfortable. Would return."

Reviewed on 25 Mar 2024

The Atrium Resort by VSA Resorts
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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