Norfolk, VA

Travel Guide

A large naval ship docked at a pier with a wooden walkway and a clear sky.
The entrance to Virginia Zoological Park with a large elephant sculpture.
The MacArthur Memorial building with a statue in front.
Waterside restaurant with outdoor seating and a view of the Waterfront Club.
A large ship with the number 64 on its side docked at a port.

Norfolk combines maritime history, cultural landmarks, and lively neighborhoods for a memorable family getaway.

Norfolk is an ideal destination for outdoor, family travelers. You can explore attractions like the maritime museum aboard the USS Wisconsin BB-64 and enjoy live performances at Chrysler Hall. For shopping, the Waterside District and MacArthur Center offer a range of stores and dining options. Additionally, the urban space of Town Point Park provides a pleasant area to relax and enjoy the scenery.

While you're in Norfolk, visit some of its interesting neighborhoods. West Freemason features the Pagoda and Oriental Garden, along with the historic Hunter House Victorian Museum. Ghent is known for its art scene, highlighted by the Chrysler Museum of Art and the dog-friendly Stockley Gardens Dog Park. Downtown Norfolk offers cultural experiences, including the Hampton Roads Naval Museum and the Douglas MacArthur Memorial.

The best time to visit Norfolk is during the warm months from June to September, when temperatures range from 74 to 80°F and the weather is mostly dry and sunny. Demand stays fairly steady throughout the year, but you might find it busier in April and from June to July. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in February or during November to December.

Where to stay in Norfolk

Find the best Norfolk areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Norfolk
Learn more about Norfolk
A large battleship docked at a pier with a clear sky and a cityscape in the background.
Photo by Nicholas Theo
Open Photo by Nicholas Theo

Downtown Norfolk

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.

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 Ocean View might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do 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

Though Norfolk Auto Row Historic District might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Harrison Opera House and Chrysler Museum of Art.

Budget Inn Norfolk Va

Budget Inn Norfolk Va

2 out of 5
9601 4th View Street Norfolk VA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$55 nightly
The price is $66 total per night from Nov 27 to Nov 28
$66 total
Nov 27 - Nov 28
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this motel in Norfolk. Enjoy free parking, WiFi (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Ocean View Beach and Norfolk Beaches are located ...
Budget Inn Norfolk Va
Sleep Inn Lake Wright - Norfolk Airport

Sleep Inn Lake Wright - Norfolk Airport

2.5 out of 5
6280 Northampton Blvd Norfolk VA
$71 nightly
The price is $84 total per night from Dec 13 to Dec 14
$84 total
Dec 13 - Dec 14
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Norfolk. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
6.8/10 (1,000 reviews)
"The breakfast and bar down in the lobby was great!! Pool was clean and not to pack."

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Sleep Inn Lake Wright - Norfolk Airport
Wyndham Garden Norfolk Downtown

Wyndham Garden Norfolk Downtown

3.5 out of 5
700 Monticello Avenue Norfolk VA
$86 nightly
The price is $102 total per night from Nov 22 to Nov 23
$102 total
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Norfolk. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
7/10 Good! (1,151 reviews)
"Staff was friendly and helpful"

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Wyndham Garden Norfolk Downtown
See all 722 properties in Norfolk
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.
Big Waterfront House! Fishing Dock, Arcade, Garage Parking, Walk to Beach!

Big Waterfront House! Fishing Dock, Arcade, Garage Parking, Walk to Beach!

Norfolk VA
Stay at this vacation home in Norfolk. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Norfolk NEX and Ocean View Beach are located ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (10 reviews)
"Wake Up early for the views"

Reviewed on Oct 28, 2026

Big Waterfront House! Fishing Dock, Arcade, Garage Parking, Walk to Beach!
Norfolk Beach Cottage Rental

Norfolk Beach Cottage Rental

Norfolk VA
Stay at this cottage in Norfolk. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and patios. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions Norfolk ...
Norfolk Beach Cottage Rental
Old Time Ocean View Cottage

Old Time Ocean View Cottage

Norfolk VA
Stay at this cottage in Norfolk. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and patios. Popular attractions Norfolk Premium Outlets and Norfolk Beaches are located ...
Old Time Ocean View Cottage
See all properties in Norfolk
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.

Stay near popular Norfolk attractions

A large naval ship docked at a port with other ships in the background.

Naval Station Norfolk

8.8/10 (1,220 reviews)
Tour the world’s largest naval complex and see some of the U.S. Navy’s most powerful ships.
See properties

Things to do

Norfolk's Combo Tickets - Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin

Norfolk's Combo Tickets - Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin

$43
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Norfolk's Combo Tickets - Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin
View of the water and the Spirit of Norfolk Dinner Cruise ship

City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Dinner Cruise

$83
per adult
76% of travellers recommend
City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Dinner Cruise
Norfolk African American History Tour

Norfolk African American History Tour

$20
per adult
Norfolk African American History Tour
See all activities in Norfolk

Frequently asked questions

Is Norfolk worth visiting?
Norfolk is worth visiting for its standout attractions, including Old Dominion University and the Waterside District. Travelers can also enjoy diverse dining experiences, with options ranging from Asian to North American cuisine. The city offers convenient transit access via metro and train, making it easy to explore.
When is the best time to visit Norfolk?
The best time to visit Norfolk is from August through November, when the weather is generally pleasant for exploring. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option, offering cooler temperatures and a different perspective on the area.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Norfolk?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Norfolk depend on what you want to see:

  • Downtown Norfolk features attractions like Chrysler Hall, Norfolk Scope, and Town Point Park.

What is Norfolk known for?
Norfolk is known for its Waterside District and Old Dominion University. As a coastal city on Chesapeake Bay, travelers can also find great shopping at Norfolk Premium Outlets. The area has a humid subtropical climate and a strong Asian food culture to explore.
What is a good itinerary length for Norfolk?
A good itinerary length for Norfolk is two to three days to explore Downtown Norfolk, enjoy the Waterside District, and take a City Cruises Norfolk Buffet Brunch Cruise. For a longer trip of four to five days, travelers can also visit Old Dominion University, shop at Norfolk Premium Outlets, and try the Awesome Norfolk Scavenger Hunt. See Norfolk Activities.
How do you get around Norfolk?
Norfolk offers convenient metro and train services for travelers, with stops like Norfolk Station, Monticello Station, and MacArthur Square Station connecting key areas. For greater flexibility, rental cars are available in Downtown Norfolk. Rideshare services also provide a practical option for getting around the city and reaching various attractions.
What are the top things to do in and around Norfolk?
Norfolk offers a mix of natural beauty, historical insights, and unique local experiences for travelers:


How do I plan a trip to Norfolk?
To plan your trip to Norfolk, book flights and hotels, perhaps in Downtown Norfolk. Explore attractions like Waterside District or enjoy a City Cruises Buffet Brunch Cruise. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. Norfolk offers metro and train services, and you can book a rental car for day trips.
What cuisines can you find in Norfolk?
In Norfolk you can find Caribbean cuisine, with dishes like jerk chicken, rice and peas, and plantains. Travelers also have options for Asian flavors such as Chinese, Japanese, and Thai, as well as Southern soul food, Italian, and Mexican dishes like tacos and burritos. Seafood is also widely available.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Norfolk?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Norfolk by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Norfolk with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Norfolk trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Norfolk?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Norfolk can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Norfolk trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Norfolk trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Norfolk trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Norfolk trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Norfolk?
If it's your first trip to Norfolk, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Norfolk hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Norfolk hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Norfolk

A beach at sunset with a pier extending into the water.

Chesapeake

A waterfront sign with a sun, waves, and stars, with the word "PORTSMOUTH" at the bottom.

Portsmouth

A bronze statue of a muscular figure holding a spear, seated on a rock with fish and sea creatures around it, overlooking a beach and the sea.

Virginia Beach

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