Things to do in Norfolk

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Norfolk which includes a garden
Hermitage Museum and Gardens showing a house
Norfolk showing a bay or harbor
Douglas MacArthur Memorial showing a statue or sculpture and heritage elements
Waterside Festival Marketplace which includes signage as well as a family

Norfolk Attractions

They say that the best things come in small packages, and this delightful city is no exception. From impressive tourist attractions to exciting activities, there are tons of things to do in Norfolk.

Discover what makes Norfolk tick with the most popular tours & day trips. Scroll through our {7 fun activities in Norfolk fun activities in Norfolk}, and book with confidence knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.


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Norfolk must see attractions

1. 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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Tour the world’s largest naval complex and see some of the U.S. Navy’s most powerful ships.

2. 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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Waterside Festival Marketplace featuring signage and a sunset

3. Chrysler Hall

Enjoy all types of classical concerts, major Broadway productions, family-friendly theater performances and comedy acts at Chrysler Hall, the primary performing arts center in Norfolk. More than 150,000 patrons each year attend performances by the hall’s resident organizations, including the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, Norfolk Forum, the Virginia Arts Festival, the Virginia Ballet, Broadway in Norfolk and the Generic Theater.
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Chrysler Hall

4. Virginia Zoo

Treat the family to a day of wild animal adventures. Virginia Zoo’s 53 acres (21 hectares) are home to more than 400 animals, representing over 100 species including lions, elephants, snakes and bears. Species from Asia, Africa, Australia and North America reside in habitats similar to their native environments.
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Virginia Zoo which includes zoo animals, signage and a statue or sculpture

5. Norfolk Botanical Garden

Covering 155 acres (63 hectares), Norfolk Botanical Garden is filled with thousands of plants spread across many themed gardens.
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Norfolk Botanical Garden which includes a garden, landscape views and a pond

What to do in Norfolk

Free Things to Do in Norfolk

Leave your wallet in the hotel. It's a snap to have a blast in Norfolk without paying a cent.

Douglas MacArthur Memorial - Whether you're old or young, this gallery will spark your imagination and capture your mind.

D'Art Center - Satisfy your arts and culture cravings here and witness talent and creativity at work.

Armed Forces Memorial - If you'd love to explore the region's history through its landmarks, stick this one on your travel schedule.

Lake Wright - Take things slow and treat yourself to some relaxation time beside the water.

Eastern Virginia Medical School - Pay a visit and find out the importance of this place to the locals.

St. Paul's Episcopal Church - Whatever your religious leanings, this place is sure to inspire a sense of reverence.

Town Point Park - If you enjoy digging about the garden, this attraction will delight your green thumb.

Things to Do in Norfolk with Kids

There are loads of fun activities to do with your kids in and around Norfolk. Keep everyone happy with our family friendly experiences.


 

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

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Norfolk

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Norfolk

Moses Myers House showing a city and a house

Downtown Norfolk

4.5/5(103 area reviews)

Downtown Norfolk boasts a historic district, upscale shopping at MacArthur Center, and notable attractions like Nauticus and the USS Wisconsin. Trendy restaurants and bars can be found on Granby Street, offering a sophisticated nightlife experience.

Downtown Norfolk
Ocean View

Ocean View

Fishing and watersports are among the fun activities you can enjoy on the picturesque stretches of sand along Chesapeake Bay.

Ocean View
The last of the summer beach days.

East Ocean View

Though East Ocean View might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Norfolk Botanical Garden and Norfolk Beaches.

East Ocean View
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Willoughby Spit

3.5/5(51 area reviews)

While visiting Willoughby Spit, you might make a stop by sights like Oceanview Fishing Pier and Norfolk Beaches.

Willoughby Spit
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Fleet

4/5(58 area reviews)

Fleet is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Naval Station Norfolk and Norfolk NEX.

Fleet
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Bayview

While Bayview might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Norfolk Beaches and Ocean View Beach.

Bayview

 

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

Frequently asked questions

Is Norfolk worth visiting?
Norfolk has a unique blend of local charm, culture and attractions. Whether you're into history, nature or regional cuisine, there are many things here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Norfolk?
Once you've checked off leading attractions like Virginia Zoo and Ocean View Beach, spend the rest of your day experiencing the food and retail options in Norfolk.
What is the top tourist attraction in Norfolk?
The top tourist attraction in Norfolk is Virginia Zoo, so be sure to add it to your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Norfolk?
Three days in Norfolk is enough to enjoy the city's key attractions. Many travelers stay for two days on average. Virginia Zoo, Chrysler Museum of Art and Town Point Park are top-rated sights. Like to discover more? Hang around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Norfolk - Virginia Beach.
Is Norfolk a walkable city?
With exciting neighborhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city center, Norfolk is a great destination to explore on foot. Enjoy wandering between Virginia Zoo and Chrysler Museum of Art. Then take a stroll around Downtown Norfolk, located 0.2 miles from downtown, and Norfolk Auto Row Historic District, which is about 1 mile away.
What are some activities to do in Norfolk with kids?
If you're looking for sights and activities for all of your group, have a look at these excellent ideas for what to do in Norfolk with kids.

What to do in Norfolk for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Norfolk, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to L. Douglas Wilder Performing Arts Center or Norfolk NEX.
Are there free things to do in Norfolk?
In Norfolk, Town Point Park is a must-see spot for anyone wanting to tour the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the local neighborhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's an easy way to explore the best free things to do in Norfolk.

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