Things to do in Norfolk - Virginia Beach

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Three surfers walking on a beach with the ocean in the background.
A large naval ship docked at a port with a cityscape in the background.
The Chrysler Museum of Art with a bridge and a statue of a horse.
A sandy beach with houses in the background.
A large naval ship docked at a port with buildings and a clear sky in the background.

Norfolk - Virginia Beach Attractions

Wondering how to keep yourself occupied in Norfolk - Virginia Beach? Breathe easy. We've got some great suggestions for you. Fine restaurants, an interesting history and picturesque sights — this dynamic city has the lot.

Find out what makes Norfolk - Virginia Beach tick with the most popular tours & day trips. Look into our {95 fun activities in Norfolk - Virginia Beach fun activities in Norfolk - Virginia Beach}, and rest easy knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

Things to do

View of the water and the Spirit of Norfolk Dinner Cruise ship

City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Dinner Cruise

$94
per adult
76% of travellers recommend
City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Dinner Cruise
Norfolk's Combo Tickets - Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin

Norfolk's Combo Tickets - Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin

$43
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Norfolk's Combo Tickets - Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin
View of Spirit of Norfolk

City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Brunch Cruise

$93
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Brunch Cruise
Ziplining and Climbing at The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium

Ziplining and Climbing at The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium

$64
per adult
Ziplining and Climbing at The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium
Williamsburg: Colonial Williamsburg Ticket

Williamsburg: Colonial Williamsburg Ticket

$39
per adult
Williamsburg: Colonial Williamsburg Ticket
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Norfolk - Virginia Beach must see attractions

1. Virginia Beach Boardwalk

The Virginia Beach Boardwalk stretches for 3 miles (5 kilometers) along Virginia Beach. Lined with bars, restaurants and hotels, this concrete esplanade features an adjacent bike path for cyclists and skaters. Enjoy a meal at a charming restaurant overlooking the ocean, watch buskers perform and inspect the sculptures and monuments along the boardwalk.
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A boardwalk with benches, a hotel, and a clear blue sky.

2. Sandbridge Beach

Sandbridge Beach is a serene, golden-sand beach just south of busy Virginia Beach. A secluded alternative to its popular neighbor, Sandbridge Beach is an ideal place to get away from the crowds. Kayak or hike in nearby Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, dine on fresh seafood and spend an evening stargazing.
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A sandy beach path with wooden fences on either side.

3. Naval Station Norfolk

Get close to destroyers, aircraft carriers, amphibious assault vehicles, submarines and frigates by taking a bus tour of Naval Station Norfolk. Navy personnel narrate details of vessels, their histories and roles, as well as providing a few insights into life at this sprawling military base.
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A large naval ship docked at a port with other ships in the background.

4. Waterside District

Near the mouth of the Elizabeth River, visit Waterside Marketplace, a covered site that is filled with all types of stores and eating places. The modern building is recognizable by its wide two-story silhouette right in front of the river. Enter the site from the street side and browse among the various restaurants and shops. Step outs on the southwest side to enjoy the riverfront views and amenities.
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A waterfront restaurant with outdoor seating and a view of the marina.

5. First Landing State Park

First Landing State Park is a picturesque site with a varied terrain and a multitude of activities. It covers an area of 2,888 acres (1,168 hectares), with beaches and freshwater areas that are ideal for swimming, boating and fishing. Arrive at the information center to learn about the park, its ecosystems and activities.
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A wooden bridge over a swampy area with tall trees and dense vegetation.

Recommended things to do in Norfolk - Virginia Beach

Number of things to do
95
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Williamsburg's Famous Ghosts Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $10
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Norfolk - Virginia Beach

Free Things to Do in Norfolk - Virginia Beach

Traveling on a limited budget in Norfolk - Virginia Beach? Spend time, not money, on terrific experiences.

Douglas MacArthur Memorial - Jam-packed with fascinating displays and objects, this place is a wonderland for minds that thirst for knowledge.

D'Art Center - If you want to get cultured, stop here and observe the creative talent on show.

Norfolk State University - Feel like you've been transported back in time while ambling around this historic site.

Tidewater Yacht Marina - This vibrant area is a favorite hangout of locals and tourists alike.

Lake Wright - Find a place to sit and enjoy the tranquility that comes with being close to the water.

Sentara Leigh Hospital - Make room in your itinerary to wander around this place of local importance.

St. Paul's Episcopal Church - Do a bit of quiet reflection and learn a few things about this site's religious importance.

Little Creek Beach - Practice skipping stones, watch the sun rise or simply enjoy the scenery from the shore.

Mount Trashmore Park - Grab your rug, pick up a snack and find a cozy area to relish Mother Nature.

Things to Do in Norfolk - Virginia Beach with Kids

There are loads of memorable experiences in Norfolk - Virginia Beach that the whole gang will love. These are some of the top family friendly experiences in the area.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Norfolk - Virginia Beach? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Norfolk - Virginia Beach attractions

A boardwalk with benches, a hotel, and a clear blue sky.

Virginia Beach Boardwalk

9.2/10 (12,441 reviews)
Soak up the atmosphere as you stroll along this oceanfront strip, the heart of Virginia Beach’s dining and entertainment scene.
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Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Norfolk - Virginia Beach

A park with green trees, a statue, and outdoor seating. In the background, there are modern buildings including a Hilton hotel.

Norfolk

A golf course, a large building complex, and a marina by a river.

Chesapeake

A person rowing a boat on a misty lake with a tree and a sunlit sky in the background.

Suffolk

A clear blue sky with clouds, a calm body of water reflecting the sky, and dense green trees.

Franklin

A marina with several boats docked, surrounded by modern buildings including a Hilton hotel and a SunTrust building.

Portsmouth

A river curving through a landscape with dry grass fields, a dock with boats, and houses along the riverbank.

Smithfield

A crowded beach with colorful umbrellas and tents, a sandy shore, and buildings in the background.

Virginia Beach

A rural road with a sign for Carrollton, a brick building, and lush greenery.

Carrollton

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Norfolk - Virginia Beach on a sunny day?
What should I not miss in Norfolk - Virginia Beach?
You'll want to put these attractions at the top of your must-do list to make the most of your trip:

  • Ocean Breeze Waterpark
  • Norfolk Botanical Garden
  • Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
  • First Landing State Park

Are there cheap things to do in Norfolk - Virginia Beach?
What can you do in Norfolk - Virginia Beach for free?
You could put your wallet in the hotel safe for the day, because these excellent attractions won't cost you a thing:

  • Virginia Beach Boardwalk
  • Virginia Beach Town Center
  • Sandbridge Beach
  • Old Dominion University

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