Waterside District Tours

Waterside Festival Marketplace featuring signage and a sunset
Waterside Festival Marketplace
Waterside Festival Marketplace
Waterside Festival Marketplace which includes signage as well as a family
Waterside District showing signage


A riverside district with restaurants, bars and nightclubs stands beside a scenic park and promenade with cycle and running lanes.

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.

Select cupcakes, brownies and other sweet delicacies from food stalls. Head to the dining section and choose from the range of international culinary hubs. You’ll find everything from quick bites and snacks to market food and rich meals.

As evening falls, enjoy a few drinks at one of the bars with a fun and lively atmosphere. Attend one of the events arranged in the festival marketplace, such as a live music concert, sports viewing parties or other nightlife activity.

On a sunny afternoon, go for a run along the adjacent Elizabeth River Trail and admire the impressive boats beside the wooden pier. The trail is part of a 3-mile (5-kilometer) waterfront promenade that provides stunning views of the water. Outdoor performances and sports games are organized in Town Point Park. Rent a bike from a convenient rack and cycle around this scenic spot. Stay in one of the hotels and high-rise apartment buildings in this lively area.

Note that the complex was renovated in 2017. It opens daily from morning until late evening.

The Waterside Marketplace is next to the Waterside Marina and overlooks the Elizabeth River. Ride the Tide light-rail train to the Civic Plaza Station or MacArthur Square Station and walk southwest for less than 10 minutes to get here. You can also travel by bus to an adjacent stop or park in the garage adjacent to the marketplace.

While you’re in the area, consider visiting other sights, including the MacArthur Memorial museum, the World Trade Center and Nauticus maritime museum.

Plan a trip to see Waterside District

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Beach Quarters Resort
Boardwalk Resort and Villas
John Yancey Oceanfront Inn

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Waterside District

Norfolk Waterside Marriott

Norfolk Waterside Marriott

3.5 out of 5
235 E Main St, Norfolk, VA
Norfolk Waterside Marriott
Courtyard by Marriott Norfolk Downtown

Courtyard by Marriott Norfolk Downtown

3 out of 5
520 Plume street, Norfolk, VA
Courtyard by Marriott Norfolk Downtown
Wyndham Garden Norfolk Downtown

Wyndham Garden Norfolk Downtown

3.5 out of 5
700 Monticello Avenue, Norfolk, VA
Wyndham Garden Norfolk Downtown
Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel

Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel

3.5 out of 5
777 Waterside Dr, Norfolk, VA
Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel
Hilton Norfolk The Main

Hilton Norfolk The Main

4 out of 5
100 East Main Street, Norfolk, VA
Hilton Norfolk The Main
Glass Light Hotel & Gallery, Autograph Collection

Glass Light Hotel & Gallery, Autograph Collection

3.5 out of 5
201 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA
Glass Light Hotel & Gallery, Autograph Collection
Renaissance Portsmouth-Norfolk Waterfront Hotel

Renaissance Portsmouth-Norfolk Waterfront Hotel

3.5 out of 5
425 Water St, Portsmouth, VA
Renaissance Portsmouth-Norfolk Waterfront Hotel
Quality Inn & Suites Olde Town

Quality Inn & Suites Olde Town

2.5 out of 5
347 Effingham St, Portsmouth, VA
Quality Inn & Suites Olde Town
Residence Inn Norfolk Downtown

Residence Inn Norfolk Downtown

3 out of 5
227 West Brambleton Avenue, Norfolk, VA
Residence Inn Norfolk Downtown
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.

Things to do near Waterside District

Waterside District in Norfolk, Virginia, offers a vibrant mix of activities and attractions. Enjoy live music and theater performances, or catch a soccer game nearby. Don't miss the Waterside Convention Center for various events and conferences. Additionally, you'll find plenty of shopping options to explore, making it a perfect destination for entertainment and leisure.

Shopping

The Waterside District offers a vibrant shopping experience with options like the Greenbrier Mall and Norfolk Premium Outlets, both 6 miles away, and the Gallery of Military Circle, located 5 miles away. Each mall features a mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes.

Recreation

The NorVa is a vibrant music venue offering lively concerts and a dynamic atmosphere, located 0.4 miles from Waterside District. For sports enthusiasts, Harbor Park, a thrilling stadium, is 0.6 miles away. If you seek tranquility, Oak Grove Lake Park, 7 miles away, provides a peaceful retreat for relaxation and wellness.

Adventure

Explore the Folkes - Stevens Indoor Tennis Center, located 3 miles from Waterside District, for a thrilling tennis experience. Alternatively, try the Tidewater Tennis Center, 4 miles away, or the Northside Park Tennis Center, 6 miles away, both offering vibrant atmospheres and exciting matches.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Waterside District offers a vibrant mix of culture and entertainment. Catch a show at Chrysler Hall, enjoy a romantic film at Commodore Theatre, or experience live performances at Norva Theater, all within a short distance, ensuring a memorable evening in Norfolk.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Waterside District

Waterside District in Norfolk, Virginia, offers a blend of cultural experiences and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can explore the maritime museum, historic college university, and enjoy the relaxing urban park nearby. Whether you're seeking local attractions or a vibrant city atmosphere, Waterside District has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to discover the charm of this waterfront area and its surrounding points of interest.

  • Old Dominion University: Experience the vibrant culture of Old Dominion University, a historic institution located 3 miles from Waterside District. The campus boasts beautiful architecture and a lively atmosphere, perfect for a stroll or a quick visit to its galleries and events.
  • Norfolk Scope: Just 0.7 miles away, Norfolk Scope is an entertainment hub hosting family-friendly events, concerts, and sports. Its spacious arena and engaging atmosphere make it a great spot for enjoying live performances and community events.
  • USS Wisconsin BB-64: Located a mere 0.2 miles from Waterside District, this maritime museum showcases the historic battleship USS Wisconsin. Explore its decks, learn about naval history, and immerse yourself in the culture of the sea.

Best time to go to Waterside District

The best time to visit Waterside District can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Waterside District falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Waterside District falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January41.0°F (5.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
March49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June75.2°F (24.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July79.7°F (26.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August78.4°F (25.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September73.6°F (23.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October64.0°F (17.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December46.4°F (8.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Waterside District

To save money during your visit to Waterside District, consider traveling between December and February, when accommodation prices are lower. Book your stay on a Tuesday for better rates, as Saturdays are pricier. Use Expedia to find great deals by filtering prices from low to high and consider package deals that combine hotels, flights, and activities. Join the One Key membership for exclusive discounts and cash rewards for future stays. Additionally, explore free activities in the area to maximize your budget while enjoying all that Waterside District has to offer.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Waterside District are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Waterside District is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Waterside District is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in the Waterside District with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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