Norfolk Between Art, Harbor and Coast

A cannonball from Lord Dunmore’s British fleet is still embedded in the southeast wall of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. Built in 1739, the church is the oldest building in the city of Norfolk. Traces of history like these stand alongside art collections, maritime attractions and experiences on the water. When choosing a hotel in Norfolk, consider which of these sides of the city you want to shape your stay.

Art and History

The Chrysler Museum of Art houses more than 35,000 objects spanning 5,000 years of art history. Its collection includes European and American painting and sculpture, glass and photography, as well as African, Asian, ancient Mediterranean and ancient American art. The Hermitage Museum & Gardens offers a different setting: the 12-acre estate sits along the water on the Lafayette River in Norfolk. Its nationally recognized art collection also spans more than 5,000 years.

The Cannonball Trail also leads to a historic detail you can discover in the street paving: along the trail, visitors can follow granite inlays and medallions. At St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, the cannonball recalls Lord Dunmore’s British fleet; it remains embedded in the southeast wall of the building.

Harbor, Ships and Maritime Attractions

Nauticus is a maritime discovery center on the waterfront in downtown Norfolk. Interactive exhibits and the STEM-to-STERN program teach visitors about the maritime environment, maritime industries and the military. An impressive historic counterpart is the Battleship Wisconsin: it is one of the largest and among the last battleships ever built by the U.S. Navy.

You can explore the Wisconsin on a self-guided tour. A guided tour explores the captain’s cabin, the pilothouse and the Combat Engagement Center; another tour goes seven decks down into the ship’s engine room. Access details may change, so check them before your visit. From the water, the Norfolk Harbor Cruise aboard the Victory Rover passes destroyers, submarines and other ships as passengers tour the harbor.

Gardens, Zoo and Trails

The Norfolk Botanical Garden spans 175 acres and includes more than 60 themed gardens. You can explore it by tram, boat or on foot. The plants range from cultivated to wild species. The Virginia Zoo is home to more than 700 animals from Africa, Asia, Australia, North America and other regions. The African Safari Trail features, among others, rhinos, giraffes, lions, tortoises and cheetahs; Asia: Trail of the Tiger is devoted to exotic animals from dozens of Asian countries.

Behind-the-scenes tours at the Virginia Zoo give visitors the chance to meet zookeepers and animals such as rhinos and giraffes. Tour availability may change, so check the current offerings in advance. For bus access, Hampton Roads Transit Route 1 serves the zoo. The stop is at Lafayette Park, within walking distance of the zoo. The Tide light rail connects Fort Norfolk Station with Newtown Road Station and stops near the Chrysler Museum of Art, the MacArthur Memorial and Harbor Park Baseball Stadium. Route details may change, so check the current schedule before traveling.

Coast and Activities on the Water

Norfolk has more than 7.3 miles of publicly accessible shoreline along Chesapeake Bay and 13 official kayak and canoe access points throughout the city. On the shore of Pretty Lake, the East Ocean View Community Center Pier serves anglers and boaters. The Elizabeth River Trail–Atlantic City Spur runs 10.5 miles between Norfolk State University and the Port of Virginia. Each summer, the city’s lifeguards lead group kayaking and canoeing activities for children at summer camps at Pretty Lake and Willoughby Bay.

Markets, Events and Visit Planning

Selden Market is an eclectic historic market hall with local makers and chefs; its pop-up shops change weekly. A three-day beer pass lets you sample local beer. Since availability may change, check before your trip whether the pass is offered during your travel dates.

Ocean View Beach Park hosts summer concerts and dance events. At Perry Glass Studio, a live narrated glassblowing demonstration takes place Tuesday through Sunday at 12 p.m.; the schedule may change. The Norfolk Tour Company offers a tour of Historic Freemason, where visitors can learn more about the city’s unique history. Tour offerings, demonstration times and beer pass availability may change; check the current details in advance. For directions and travel advice, the state-certified Visitor Information Center assists visitors and residents year-round.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Norfolk, North Camellia Acres, Charles City County, Giles County, Hopewell, Chesapeake, Washington County, Salem

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