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.
Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Nags Head Oceanfront
John Yancey Oceanfront Inn
Sea Ranch Resort

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
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
Courtyard by Marriott Norfolk Downtown

Courtyard by Marriott Norfolk Downtown

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

Wyndham Garden Norfolk Downtown

3.5 out of 5
700 Monticello Avenue, Norfolk, VA
Wyndham Garden Norfolk Downtown
Super 8 by Wyndham Portsmouth - Norfolk

Super 8 by Wyndham Portsmouth - Norfolk

2 out of 5
333 Effingham St, Portsmouth, VA
Super 8 by Wyndham Portsmouth - Norfolk
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
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

Explore the vibrant Waterside District in Norfolk, Virginia, where you can enjoy live music, theater performances, and soccer games. Discover local attractions and immerse yourself in the community's energy during top festivals that celebrate the area's culture and creativity. Whether you're dining, shopping, or enjoying entertainment, there's something for everyone in this lively waterfront destination.

Food and drinks

For a unique experience, visit Tarnished Truth Distilling Co. for craft spirits, or enjoy the charm of Waters Edge Winery for local wines. Serendipity Meadworks offers delightful meads, perfect for a romantic evening. Don't miss out on Norfolk's rich dining scene in the historic district!

Shopping

The nearest shopping options are Norfolk NEX, just 7 miles away, offering a variety of goods. Virginia Beach Town Center, 9 miles away, features family-friendly entertainment and shopping. If you're up for a drive, Pacific Avenue is 17 miles away, providing a vibrant shopping experience.

Recreation

Harbor Park offers an energetic atmosphere with sports events and activities, perfect for enthusiasts. Lamberts Point Golf Course presents a scenic outdoor experience for golfers. For a more tranquil vibe, Boo Williams Sportplex provides wellness-focused facilities and relaxation areas ideal for rejuvenation after an active day.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of racing at Langley Speedway, located 18 miles from Waterside District, where you can feel the adrenaline rush of fast-paced motor racing. For karting fun, head to Motor World, 16 miles away, and enjoy an exhilarating ride on the track with friends and family.

Nightlife

The Waterside District in Norfolk offers vibrant nightlife with venues like Chrysler Hall, showcasing captivating performances just 0.6 miles away, and the Commodore Theatre, perfect for family-friendly films at 0.9 miles. For a thrill, visit Rivers Casino Portsmouth, 4 miles away, combining romance with exciting gaming experiences.

Find the best attractions near Waterside District

Waterside District in Norfolk, Virginia, offers a vibrant mix of attractions, including beautiful beaches, urban parks, and maritime museums, perfect for those seeking culture, outdoor adventures, and family fun. Explore the inspiring views of downtown Norfolk, visit the local Norfolk State University and theater, shop at Waterside Marketplace, and discover the historic Fort Monroe. With so much to see and do, your visit will be both enjoyable and memorable.

  • Old Dominion University: Experience the vibrant culture of this historic university, known for its beautiful campus and engaging community. Explore art galleries, attend events, or simply stroll through the picturesque grounds.
  • Norfolk Scope: This family-friendly entertainment venue hosts a variety of events, from concerts to sports games. Enjoy a lively atmosphere and catch a show that suits your interests, making it a perfect spot for all ages.
  • USS Wisconsin BB-64: Step aboard this iconic battleship and delve into maritime history. The USS Wisconsin offers guided tours showcasing its impressive features and rich naval heritage, providing a unique cultural experience.

Best time to go to Waterside District

The best time to visit Waterside District is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January41.0°F (5.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
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 SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
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 the Waterside District in Norfolk, plan your trip between November and January when prices are lower. Take advantage of free activities nearby, such as Old Dominion University and Virginia Beach Town Center. Use Expedia's search tool to find affordable hotel options and consider booking package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities. Join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Don't forget to look for military discounts and compare prices for the best rates on accommodations.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Waterside District are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you customize your travel experience by selecting your budget, preferred destination, and additional preferences. You can easily sort the results to display hotels from the most affordable to the more expensive, ensuring you find the best deals first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type. For instance, if you check the "Eco-certified" filter, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: Consider saving 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.