Visit Norfolk: 2026 Travel Guide for Norfolk, Virginia

At this attractive waterfront city discover extensive beaches of fine sands and a long and distinguished naval history and heritage.

Norfolk is a place where the water is never too far away. This attractive port city lies on the Elizabeth River at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay and is the home of the world's largest naval base. Visit Norfolk to explore maritime heritage, set sail on the water and unwind on attractive beaches.

Go on a guided tour of Naval Station Norfolk and see aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships and other naval craft. Head to the downtown waterfront for Nauticus, a marine-themed science area, and step onboard the USS Wisconsin, a retired battleship. Enjoy a harbor cruise on the three-masted American Rover schooner.

Whether you visit Norfolk with or without children, the Virginia Zoological Park makes for a great day or half-day out. See animals from several continents, including Africa and North America. Follow the Trail of the Tiger, go on a walk through the Australian outback and explore the world of reptiles.

Enjoy more nature at the Norfolk Botanical Garden, a colorful and fragrant wonderland of themed gardens.

Drive approximately 18 miles (29 kilometers) east of the city for the white sandy beaches and waterways of Virginia Beach. Sunbathe, take part in water sports and enjoy the views, outdoor restaurants and shops of the 3-mile (5-kilometer) Virginia Beach Boardwalk.

If you can pull yourself away from the oceanfront, travel to some of Norfolk's other attractions. Observe some of the thousands of marine creatures representing more than 300 species at the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. Breathe in the fresh air as you hike along the trails of First Landing State Park where English colonists landed in 1607. Nearby is Cape Henry Lighthouse climb up this late 18th-century tower for delightful views of Chesapeake Bay. The newer, 19th-century lighthouse is closed to the public.

For dining options, try the restaurants of the Waterside District, a dining and entertainment complex on the banks of the river.

To get to Norfolk, drive, arrive by train or fly into Norfolk International Airport. Travel to beaches, nautical sites and family-friendly attractions by car or public transportation.

Where to stay in Norfolk

Find the best Norfolk areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Norfolk

A large naval ship docked in a harbor with a crowd on the deck and a tall building in the background.

Downtown Norfolk

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

See properties

A cityscape with a tram track, buildings, and overhead electrical lines.

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.