Things to do in Norfolk

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Norfolk

Types of activities

Where to stay

Norfolk Travel Guide

Hermitage Museum and Gardens showing a house

Douglas MacArthur Memorial showing a statue or sculpture and heritage elements

Waterside Festival Marketplace which includes signage as well as a family

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What to do in Norfolk

Popular places to visit

Naval Station Norfolk

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

Old Dominion University

Explore the campus of Old Dominion University as part of your travels around Norfolk. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event.

Waterside Festival Marketplace featuring signage and a sunset

Waterside District

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

Norfolk Scope

Catch an event at Norfolk Scope during your trip to Norfolk. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.

Norfolk State University

Enjoy the collegiate vibe at Norfolk State University as part of your travels around Norfolk. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.

Virginia Zoo

A popular zoo as famous for its wild kingdom of animals as it is for an outstanding collection of themed gardens.

Norfolk Botanical Garden

Walk among azaleas, camellias and rosebushes. Watch pelicans in flight and absorb the scents of exotic blooms.

Panoramic view of a dune beach at sunset, North Sea, Germany

Ocean View Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Ocean View Beach during your trip to Norfolk? Wander the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.

Town Point Park

Escape to an urban waterfront park for relaxation, historic appreciation and hours of fun-filled activities.

Areas of Norfolk

Downtown Norfolk

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

Aerial view looking east of the beach at Ocean View in Norfolk

East Ocean View

If you're spending some time in East Ocean View, Norfolk Beaches and Chesapeake Bay are top sights worth seeing.

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.

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.

Willoughby Spit

While visiting Willoughby Spit, you might make a stop by sights like Norfolk Beaches and Chesapeake Bay.

Cottage Park

If you're spending some time in Cottage Park, Norfolk Beaches and Chesapeake Bay are top sights worth seeing.

Portsmouth

Virginia Beach

Frequently asked questions

Is Norfolk worth visiting?

Norfolk offers a unique mix of culture, attractions and local charm. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or local culinary flavors, there's plenty to enjoy here.

How do I spend a day in Norfolk?

Kick your day off with a visit to Virginia Zoo and Ocean View Beach. Then, explore different areas of Norfolk for local dining and a little retail therapy.

What is the top tourist attraction in Norfolk?

The top tourist attraction in Norfolk is Virginia Zoo, so make sure to add it to your sightseeing agenda.

Is three days enough to stay in Norfolk?

You can easily tour leading attractions like Virginia Zoo, Town Point Park and Chrysler Museum of Art with a three-day break in Norfolk. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a while longer and check out Norfolk - Virginia Beach.

Is Norfolk a walkable city?

It all depends on what you'd like to do and see in Norfolk. Several attractions, such as Virginia Zoo and Town Point Park, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Norfolk's best neighborhoods, Downtown Norfolk is 0.32 kilometers away from downtown, while Norfolk Auto Row Historic District is 2 kilometers away from the center and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Norfolk with kids?

Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities sets the tone for a great escape. Browse our ideas for what to do in Norfolk with kids.

What to do in Norfolk for adults?

Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or thrill seeker, there are loads of things to do in Norfolk for adults including L. Douglas Wilder Performing Arts Center and Norfolk NEX.

Are there free things to do in Norfolk?

In Norfolk, Town Point Park is a top spot for anyone planning to tour the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the local neighborhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's an easy way to learn about the best free things to do in Norfolk.