The Wave Bar in Norfolk, Virginia (Photo Courtesy of The Wave)

8 Reasons to Visit Norfolk, Virginia

November 23, 2022 Vacationer Staff

Norfolk, Virginia is a distinctive yet underrated spot in America. Known previously just as a navy town (it’s home to the world’s largest naval base), Norfolk has evolved into a cool, trendy city with a bustling independent food scene, thriving arts district, burgeoning live music offerings, and a strong LGBTQ+ community. And just in case you don’t know that much about this Tidewater city, then here are eight things about should know about Norfolk, Virginia.

City with Bite

Norfolk is called the “City with Bite” for a reason. The city has quickly become a foodie haven, with chefs from all over the world, opening unique experimental restaurants. Home to more than 600 indie restaurants for visitors and locals alike to discover, Norfolk is sure to have a dish you’ve never experienced before. If you’re planning a trip to the city, you have to add these crowd-pleasers to your itinerary: Grandiflora Wine Garden, Luce, Doumar’s, and Freemason Abbey.

City of Glass Art

It is rare for a city to have such a wide variety of art exhibitions and experiences available for free to the public. Immerse yourself in Norfolk’s art scene and check out the NEON district, the city’s up-and-coming artsy neighborhood is known for its dynamic and intricate murals. Here you’ll find everything from museums and galleries like the Chrysler Art Museum museums and galleries, where you can watch glass-blowing demonstrations. And in the city’s downtown Historic District, the Glass Light Hotel has an obvious glass-theme décor with glass art by renowned artists such as Peter Bremers and Lino Tagliapietra on display. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of the art medium.

City with Waterfront Views

In Norfolk, it’s all about the water. Here you can enjoy the catch of the day with a view, head to the beach, go on a boat ride, experience water sports, or go fishing, all within proximity to downtown. Locals love to walk along the Elizabeth River Trail, the 10.5-mile-long trail through multiple neighborhoods with waterfront views.

City of Live Entertainment

Visitors should come to Norfolk to be entertained with FestEvents, the city’s not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating the most dynamic urban waterfront community through innovative programming. Throughout the year, FestEvents hosts a variety of events such as the Norfolk Waterfront Jazz Festival, NashFest, Two Point Virginia Fall Wine Festival, Concert in the Park Series, and more. Norfolk’s historical theaters and venues – Virginia Opera, Push Comedy Theater, and Hurrah Players – host live entertainment from comedy shows to jazz concerts to opera performances.

City of the Navy History

The largest naval base in the world, Naval Station Norfolk attracts many active service members to the community. With these members comes a strong sense of military pride, and at this reputable landmark, lies much Naval history to discover. Take a guided tour of the retired battleship, the USS Wisconsin, located downtown Norfolk near the Naval Station Norfolk.

Battleship Wisconsin (Photo Credit: Peter Pryharski on Unsplash)

City of LGBTQ+ Pride

Norfolk has an LGBTQ+ community, which makes it a queer-friendly destination that exudes a warm and welcoming vibe for everyone. In addition to providing accessible resources for LGBTQ+ folx, designated safe spaces in Norfolk and the surrounding area host special social events, such as Pride Night at Harrison Opera House, Membership Mix ‘n Mingle events, and OUTReach dinners. And of course, in addition to Hampton Road Pride, there are several fun events held during June: Pride Night at the Virginia Zoo, Pride Drag Brunch, Pride Kiki at Ocean Breeze, Pride at the Beach, and PrideFest – just to name a few events held in the past. Local nightclubs and bars include The Wave, 37th and Zen, MJ’s Tavern, and just a 17-minute drive away in Virginia Beach, The Rainbow Cactus Company.

City of Diverse Cultures

Norfolk is an extremely diverse area, and its leadership strives to ensure that city reflects and celebrates its different cultures. This celebration can be seen via multicultural festivals such as the Norfolk Greek Festival and the Virginia CaribFest as well as in local restaurants, shops, and historical landmarks found throughout the city. Additionally, Norfolk is the first city in the Hampton Roads area to launch a  Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiative, acknowledging the disparities that exist between residents and taking proactive steps to include all individuals and groups in the local decision and policy-making process.

City of History

As mentioned before, Norfolk doesn’t have a shortage of unique history. Explore more than 5,000 years of art history spanning 30 countries at the Hermitage Museum & Gardens. See Victorian Architecture at the Hunter House Victorian Museum. Learn about the majestic Battleship Wisconsin, which earned five stars during World War II and one during the Korean War. Dine at Freemason Abbey Restaurant, originally built as a church in 1873. And hear live music at the Attucks Theatre, originally known as the “Apollo of the South” and originally designed by Harvey Johnson, an African-American architect. That’s only a small taste of the rich history of Norfolk and the surrounding area that awaits visitors.