We’re continuing our Virginia adventures, driving a few miles from coastal views and boardwalk vibes at Virginia Beach to the vibrant port of Norfolk.
With a population of around 250,000, Norfolk’s strategic position at the confluence of the Elizabeth River and Chesapeake Bay has always made it a vital hub for shipping and shipbuilding. Today, it proudly hosts the world’s largest naval installation and one of NATO’s two strategic commands. This significant military presence, along with its bustling port and thriving industries, profoundly shapes Norfolk’s dynamic culture.
But beyond the impressive battleships and port activity, Norfolk is a paradise for water lovers. Its prime access to the Chesapeake Bay offers endless opportunities for fishing, boating, and beach bumming. Imagine waking up in waterfront accommodations, stepping onto the sand, and later enjoying the freshest seafood from nearby restaurants—all while breathing in that invigorating sea air.
Norfolk also boasts a rich intellectual and artistic scene. It’s home to prominent universities like Norfolk State and Old Dominion, which contribute a wealth of cultural and academic experiences to the community. Art enthusiasts will delight in the world-class Chrysler Museum of Art, and nature lovers won’t want to miss the amazing Virginia Zoo.
Whether you’re a naval history buff, a nature enthusiast, an art adventurer, or simply looking for fun shops and delicious restaurants, Norfolk, VA, truly offers something for everyone.
My Norfolk Discovery
Norfolk’s prime location makes it an easy drive from Richmond, Williamsburg, Newport News, and Virginia Beach. I’ll be the first to admit I’ve overlooked its charm until recently, often finding myself exploring Williamsburg’s history or Virginia Beach’s shores instead. However, during my latest visit to Virginia’s Tidewater region, my mom and I took the time to explore Norfolk, uncovering just how much it truly has to offer.
What we found was a city where you can enjoy a perfect waterfront getaway with easy access to fascinating museums and an array of delicious restaurants. In fact, there’s so much to do that we’re already planning another trip in a few months to take a boat cruise and visit even more museums!
Continue reading for a brief history of Norfolk and list of Must-See spots and helpful resources in Norfolk to kickstart your adventure.
Unearthing Centuries of History in Modern Norfolk
Today, Norfolk stands as a modern city, defined by its sleek skyscrapers and sprawling naval installations. Yet, beneath this contemporary facade, and often hidden within its vibrant neighborhoods, lie centuries of fascinating history waiting to be unearthed.
Long before European settlement in 1607 with the Jamestown Colony, this area thrived as the homeland of the Chesepian people, who were later displaced by the mighty Powhatan. Many local place names, including the vast Chesapeake Bay itself, can be traced back to the enduring legacy of these original Chesepean inhabitants and the powerful Powhatan Confederacy. This site has a wealth of history about the Native peoples of The Chesapeake.
The official city of Norfolk was formally founded in 1682 by colonist Adam Thoroughgood, who aptly named it after his hometown of Norfolk, England. You might recall meeting Adam and his descendants in our tour of Virginia Beach’s historic homes, where you can still visit the site of Adam’s Ferry Plantation (where he built his first home) and his descendants’ grand Thoroughgood House. A true rags-to-riches story, Adam arrived in America as an indentured servant, eventually earning his freedom to become a prominent colonist instrumental in founding both Norfolk and the early settlements of present-day Virginia Beach.
The very existence of Norfolk today is, in many ways, a miracle. During the Revolutionary War, it was brutally burned to the ground, only to rise defiantly from the ashes. Don’t forget to add Norfolk to your America 250 itinerary! While only a few buildings remain from the Colonial era, the profound effects of the Revolutionary War are deeply woven into the very fabric of this city’s story.
At the onset of the Revolutionary War, circa 1775, Norfolk presented a striking contrast to its neighbor to the west, Williamsburg. Unlike its patriot-leaning counterpart, Norfolk was largely a Loyalist stronghold. Many influential merchants here conducted significant business with London and were wary of souring vital commerce. A substantial number of citizens openly supported Royal Governor Lord Dunmore, even after he was famously driven out of Williamsburg in June 1775 following the Gunpowder Incident (read about it here).
In November 1775, during the Battle of Kemp’s Landing, Dunmore and his forces secured a victory over the patriots, temporarily solidifying their hold on Norfolk and the greater Hampton Roads area. However, the determined Virginia militia was not about to surrender the key port of Norfolk easily. Just a month later, in December 1775, the patriots decisively defeated Dunmore’s Loyalist forces at the pivotal Battle of Great Bridge. Dunmore’s seemingly ironclad grip on Virginia for the Crown was rapidly crumbling.
He fled back to Norfolk, where on January 1st, 1776, Dunmore and his forces engaged the patriots in a desperate fight for control of the city and its crucial port. Ultimately, Dunmore was forced to flee by boat, firing a cannon shot that famously struck St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (more on that later!). In a grim but often necessary wartime tactic, the patriots then burned much of Norfolk to prevent the British from continuing to use it as a strategic base. This sadly mirrored events elsewhere; my own ancestors lived in Brunswicktown, NC, which was similarly burned to the ground by the British in 1776 and remains a ruin today.
Thankfully, Norfolk not only rebuilt during and after the war but emerged stronger, solidifying its place as a major port city and the naval epicenter on the East Coast.
This resilience was tested again during the Civil War. Norfolk, with its vital port access and shipbuilding capabilities, became a highly coveted strategic city for both the Confederacy and the Union. Though initially a Confederate-leaning city, Norfolk ultimately fell under Union control in 1862.
Time and again, Norfolk has truly risen like a phoenix through each of these profound trials. Today, you can easily trace the rich history of Norfolk by touring its charming historic homes and diverse museums. If you’re a history buff like me, I highly recommend either embarking on a self-guided walking tour or signing up for an insightful guided tour with The Norfolk Tour Company to truly unlock the city’s past.
Must See in norfolk…
Norfolk Botanical Garden:
Experience breathtaking landscapes at the beautiful Norfolk Botanical Garden, where you can meander through over 60 different themed gardens featuring exotic and native plants, trees and flowers from around the world. The garden is surrounded by water on three sides with picturesque canals. There is something new to see in every season, from the summer Butterfly House to Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter focused gardens. They offer seasonal tram and boat tours of the gardens in the warmer months (check the schedule here). Children love the WOW (World of Wonder Gardens). Hungry? You can order delicious eats from local food trucks on select days, perfect for a picnic in the garden. The garden has a number of hiking trails and is also popular with birdwatchers, as over 175 species of birds have been seen within the gardens. Norfolk Botanical Garden is ‘di-vine’ and will ‘leaf’ you breathless. Don’t forget to carve out time for this natural haven in Norfolk. Plan your botanical adventure here.
The Virginia Zoo: Go Wild in the Heart of Norfolk!
No visit to Norfolk would be complete without a trip to the Virginia Zoo, a truly wonderful experience located right in the heart of the city, near Lafayette Square. Prepare to “go wild” as you encounter over 700 animals from around the globe! Get up close with magnificent creatures like African Lions, Tigers, Rhinos, and Giraffes. Spend time hanging out with playful primates, or slither into the fascinating World of Reptiles, and much more.
This isn’t just any zoo; it’s an AZA-accredited institution with a rich history spanning over 124 years, demonstrating its commitment to animal care and conservation. Plan your visit to this world-class zoo today!
The Chrysler Museum of Art
With over 35,000 objects of art spanning thousands of years, The Chrysler is home to a world class art collection that invites visitors on an artistic journey from ancient wonders to Renaissance and Baroque masters like Crivelli and Holbein to Rubens, Veronese, El Greco and more. The museum has a robust Impressionism collection with pieces by Monet, Renoir, Pissarro and Cezanne. Another museum highlight is The Perry Glass Studio where you can watch live demonstrations to learn about how artistic glass is made. The museum also offers tons of fun activities for kids to help get them excited about art. On a budget? Great news, The Chrysler Museum of Art is free! Plan your visit here
Children’s Museum of Virginia
Just across the Elizabeth River in the neighboring town of Portsmouth, you’ll discover a full day of fun. This is the largest children museum in Virginia, offering hands-on interactive exhibits sure to delight kids of all ages. The museum also has a planetarium and a one-of-a-kind model train collection. Plan your visit here.
Hermitage Museum and Gardens:
A gem in the center of Norfolk, The Hermitage is a 20th-century Arts-and-Crafts estate located on the Lafayette River across 12 acres. This museum is home to a nationally recognized art collection spanning over 5000 years of art history. Find respite from the bustle of the city, while strolling through the beautiful gardens. In addition to their fantastic permanent collection, the museum also has a visual arts school where you can become a creator yourself, as well as traveling exhibitions sure to delight any art and history lover. Plan your adventure here
Downtown Norfolk:
Norfolk’s Downtown Waterfront is alive with restaurants, shops, museums, parks and scenic port views. From festivals to live music, there is always something going on downtown. The hub of downtown’s riverfront is the Nauticus Center…a must see in Norfolk…
Learn more about Must-see in Downtown Norfolk on their official tourism website. It has tons of great trip planning resources and itineraries.
Nautical Exploration at The Nauticus Center
Immerse yourself in Norfolk’s nautical history at Nauticus, a one of a kind mix of museums and parks that converge in Norfolk’s downtown waterfront. Nauticus is a maritime science museum, celebrating the economic, naval and natural power of the sea. The main Nauticus museum includes hands-on exhibits, high definition films and theaters with live actors, shark touch and also national traveling exhibits.
The Nauticus complex is also home to the Battleship Wisconsin, Schooner VA Hampton Roads Naval Museum (Federally run Naval Museum), Sail Nauticus community sailing center, the Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center, and you can take a harbor boat tour on the Victory Rover. The Victory Rover is unique in that it isn’t just a ‘scenic harbor’ cruise, by an immersive way to see the Norfolk Naval base. The tour shows destroyers, submarines and other vessels from the Norfolk Naval Fleet (plus scenic views too). Official Nauticus website
Battleship Wisconsin: A Monument to Naval History
For a truly immersive dive into naval history, head to the Elizabeth River waterfront to explore the monumental USS Wisconsin (BB-64). This incredible Iowa-class battleship, built for the United States Navy in the 1940s, played a pivotal role in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in crucial engagements like the Philippines campaign and the epic Battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. Click here to learn about the history of this storied battleship.
Today, this storied vessel is a fantastic museum where visitors can step aboard and gain a deep understanding of Navy life during WWII and the battleship’s vital contribution to the war effort. It’s a powerful experience for any history buff! Click here to book your guided battleship tour.
Hampton Roads Naval Museum
Hampton Roads Naval Museum:
The Hampton Roads Naval Museum, an official museum of the United States Navy, is uniquely positioned to tell and interpret the story of the Navy’s pivotal role in the region—from the Revolutionary War to the present day. Through its permanent and special exhibits, the museum chronicles Hampton Roads’ significant contributions to naval battles and shipbuilding. The museum fulfills its mission by collecting, researching, preserving, and interpreting historical artifacts, as well as through its educational programs. This vital work perpetuates the U.S. Navy’s proud traditions, heritage, honor, and esprit de corps, ensuring they are better appreciated by all. Official Website
General MacArthur Memorial and Museum:
The MacArthur Memorial is a museum and research center dedicated to preserving and presenting the story of the life of General of the Army Douglas MacArthur. The Memorial also pays tribute to the millions of men and women who served with General MacArthur in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. Situated in downtown Norfolk, VA the Memorial consists of a museum, archive and research center, education center, theater, welcome center, and a gift shop. A visit to the Memorial will allow you to explore the life of one of America’s greatest and most complex leaders. Admission is FREE. My grandfather served in the Navy in WWII so this is particularly important to me as he admired MacArthur and it pays tribute to all who fought for freedom during WWII. Plan Your Visit Here
Historic Homes:
While many of the Colonial era structures from Norfolk’s past were burned during The Revolutionary War, Norfolk has several amazing historic Federal and Victorian style homes in the city including the Myers House Museum and the Hunter House Museum. You can also witness a testament of time and grace at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, which was the oldest building that survives to this day in the core of Norfolk after the Revolutionary War bombardments on January 1st 1776.
Myers House:
Built in 1792, as America was in its infant years under our Constitution this home was built and lived in by one of America’s first millionaires Moses Myers. The Myers were the first permanent Jewish-American residents in Norfolk. The museum takes you back to the 1790s, telling the story of the life of Moses Myers, a prosperous merchant and his beloved family. What is remarkable about this museum is that 70% of the fine furnishings and paintings are original to the home. Admission is free. As with any historic house, just call ahead or go on their website to make sure they are open (in case of a special event). Plan your visit and take a virtual tour of the home here.
The Hunter House Museum:
Built in 1894 by Norfolk merchant and banker James Wilson Hunter and his wife Lizzie Ayer Barnes Hunter, this splendid Victorian home is a must stop for history and architectural mavens. Designed for the Hunters by renowned Boston architect W.P. Wentworth in the Richardsonian Romanesque style, the museum is furnished with the Hunter family’s collection of furniture, books, decorative objects, and more. Take a tour and meet the Hunter family, and hear about their life in Norfolk. Learn more here
Fort Norfolk:
Travel through military history at Fort Norfolk. Set upon four-acres overlooking the Elizabeth River, Fort Norfolk was built in 1794 under authorization by President George Washington. The fort was critical in protecting the city during the War of 1812 from British attack. During the Civil War it was used by both the Confederate and Union armies to defend Norfolk’s strategic location and also as a Union prison. Today you can tour the fort’s earthworks embankments, ramparts, a dungeon, officers’ quarters, powder magazine, barracks, and guardhouse. Admission is free and self-guided tours are available during the week. Visitors will need a government issued ID (Real ID or passport) to visit. Guided tours are hosted by the Norfolk Historical Society on Sunday afternoons from May 1 to August 31st.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church:
Stop and say a prayer and reflect on history at this important Norfolk church. Still an active parish, St. Peter’s core was built in 1739 and by providence has survived wars and fires. During the January 1st 1776 attack where Lord Dunmore and his British forces fought Patriots in Norfolk. , St. Peter survived the blasts, but not with damage. You can still see the Revolutionary War cannonball on the side of the building. As Lord Dunmore was fleeing Norfolk, after being defeated by patriot forces, he fled to his ship just offshore. From his ship, he fired this cannonball, which continues to serve as a reminder of the fight for freedom and The Revolutionary War. Parish Website
Fort Monroe:
Technically in Hampton, just across the Elizabeth River, Fort Monroe has thousands of years of history, from the prehistoric peoples who lived on the site to early settlers, as well as its role as a critical fort in The Civil War. In 1619, this was the spot where the first Africans arrived in America, starting the sad legacy of slavery in America. The fort was built in 1834 and is named after President James Monroe. It remains the largest stone fort ever built in the United States. During the Civil War enslaved persons escaped to freedom at Fort Monroe after the Union gained control of the Fort, giving it the nickname ‘Freedom’s Fortress.’ Confederate President Jefferson Davis was held as a prisoner at Fort Monroe from 1865 to 1867. Plan your visit…Fort Monroe Tourism Site and Official NPS Website
The world’s a Stage in Norfolk
Norfolk is hotbed for the arts from local theater groups to the world class Virginia Arts Festival and performances by The Virginia Symphony and more…the music’s playing and the stage is set for a fun show in Norfolk. The city of Norfolk runs seven different venues just for arts and entertainment – talk about culture on demand.
Wells Theatre + Virginia Stage Company:
Built in 1912, this magnificent theatre is a gorgeous example of the Beaux-Arts Neoclassical architecture that was popular in the early 1900s. The theater was originally built as the opulent flagship for Wells Amusement Enterprises, a string of forty vaudeville theaters owned by Jake and Otto Wells throughout the South. The Wells has hosted world famous performers throughout its history from John Drew to John Philip Sousa, Billie Burke, Fred and Adele Astaire, Will Rogers and more. Since 1979, The Wells has been home to the world-class Virginia Stage Company.
The Virginia Stage Company has earned a reputation for its quality productions with local and national talent from Broadway and beyond. You can buy theatre tickets and plan you visit here
The Historic Attucks Theatre:
Known as the ‘Apollo of the South,’ The Historic Attucks Theatre has been keeping the rhythm moving since 1919. In its 100 year plus history, the theatre has hosted legends like Cab Calloway, Duke Ellington, Mamie Smith, Nat King Cole, Red Foxx and more. The beautiful theatre was designed by African-American architect Harvey Johnson and named in honor of African American Crispus Attucks, the first American patriot to lose his life in the 1770 Boston Massacre. In 1977, the United States Congress deemed The Attucks Theatre a National Historic Landmark, and after a restoration period of three years, the theatre was reopened in 2004 by a partnership between the City of Norfolk’s Department of Cultural Facilities and the Crispus Attucks Cultural Center, Inc. Today you can continue to feel the rhythm with world class shows throughout the year. Website
Chrysler Hall:
This magnificent theatre dates to the 1970s and is home to the world-renowned Virginia Symphony Orchestra. The VSO also performs at other regional venues from Newport News to Williamsburg, providing ready access to classical and pop music throughout the region. The VSO recently celebrated its 100th birthday, making it one of the oldest symphonies in the southeast. I can’t wait to attend a show here in the future.
*Quick Tip: Check out Norfolk’s special events calendar to see if there are any special event concerts and festivals coming up. When I was visiting in May they were having a Virginia Arts Festival event with the symphony and tickets were only around $30.00
Harrison Opera House:
From Figaro to La Boheme, you’re invited to the drama of Norfolk’s award-winning opera company The Virginia Opera
NorVA:
A premier venue for national touring artists and indie musicians on the move. When I was a booking agent for bands post college, the NorVA was one of my favorite venues because they have such a variety of music on tap every night of the week. Check out their schedule and buy tickets here.
Spend a Day at The Beach
Norfolk has several great area beaches including the Ocean View neighborhood and Ocean View Beach Park (also home to a bandshell with summer concerts) and East Beach.
Where to Stay:
Norfolk has lots of wonderful hotel options from major chains to boutique hotels. When we return for our next trip I’m hoping to stay at an area B&B or on the Chesapeake Bay waterfront.
For downtown lodging The Hilton Downtown and Courtyard by Marriott Downtown have come highly recommended, as well as the boutique hotel 411 York. For a complete lodging guide, lean into Visit Norfolk’s official tourism website.
Destination Coffee:
Discover the perfect blend at one of Norfolk’s satiating coffee shops, each with their own port city vibe. Locals have recommended Mea Culpa, which is known for its lattes and homemade waffles, Cafe Stella with its delicious roasts and homemade pastries, while Coaster Coffee is a cafe powered by community. This nonprofit is housed in the Ocean View neighborhood of Norfolk, which used to be home to an amusement park known for its coasters. I can’t wait to try more coffee shops on my next visit to Norfolk. Here is coffee guide from Visit Norfolk
Where to Eat:
Norfolk has earned a reputation as a foodie hub with fantastic local eateries, coffee shops, food trucks and food festivals. With its Chesapeake Bay access Norfolk’s culinary claim to fame is its fresh seafood. A few local favorites include: Norfolk Seafood Company and Oyster Bar, Saltine, 456 Fish…Have a favorite Norfolk restaurant, share your picks in the comments below.
Travel Resources:
Norfolk has several awesome tourism sites to help you customize your perfect adventure and brainstorm out of the ordinary ideas.
Visit Norfolk – tons of great resources and fun ideas to plan your trip
Downtown Norfolk – Comprehensive guide to what’s happening in Downtown Norfolk!
If you need trip planning help don’t hesitate to reach out to me as well. I am happy to provide any guidance to point you in the best direction with your trip planning. Email me here
Thanks for traveling with us…
Next up on American Nomad Traveler, we’re continuing our Virginia adventures with stops in Hampton, Portsmouth and Gloucester before heading west to historic Richmond.
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Hi, I’m Adele Lassiter, the travel enthusiast behind American Nomad Traveler. This blog where I share my love for history, cool museums, art, and travel tips. When I’m not writing, I’m a singer-songwriter with a passion for Americana music. Her new album is available here: adelelassiter.bandcamp.com
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