Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Norfolk, VA

Norfolk is a city located in the southeastern region of the state of Virginia. Despite its seemingly modest reputation, it is home to significant establishments, including the largest naval base in the world. Additionally, the Chrysler Museum of Art, one of the most prominent art museums in the Southeastern United States, features an impressive collection of over 30,000 items.

Furthermore, Norfolk offers abundant natural beauty. Enthusiasts of flora and fauna can explore scenic sites such as the Norfolk Botanical Garden and the Virginia Zoo. Being a waterfront city, Norfolk also invites visitors to the Nauticus National Maritime Center or Harbor Park, and offers cruises for a unique perspective of the city.

Let’s delve into the best attractions in Norfolk:

1. Chrysler Museum of Art

Located in the Ghent district, renowned for its artistic ambiance, the Chrysler Museum of Art stands out as one of the most significant museums in the Southeastern United States. Art enthusiasts should not overlook this esteemed institution.

The museum, established in the 1930s, showcases the extensive art collection of Walter Chrysler, famed for his automotive legacy. Visitors can explore over 30,000 items, including sculptures, paintings, glasswork, photography, and decorative arts that span thousands of years.

2. The USS Wisconsin

The USS Wisconsin is a revered battleship that served during both World War II and the Korean War. Although retired in the 1980s, it was later reactivated for Operation Desert Storm in the 1990s.

Today, this legendary ship operates as a maritime museum. Visitors can embark on self-guided tours to discover various parts of the vessel, including officer staterooms, an onboard chapel, and a mess area. For a more in-depth experience, guided tours are also available, offering insights into the ship’s rich history.

3. The Moses Myers House

The Moses Myers House, once the residence of a notable American entrepreneur who significantly contributed to Norfolk’s development, offers a glimpse into life in the early 20th century in this region.

This historic house has been meticulously restored over the years and is recognized as one of Norfolk’s first brick structures. Many original furnishings remain intact, and a permanent exhibition details the legacy of Moses Myers.

4. Norfolk Botanical Garden

Covering an expansive 150 acres, the Norfolk Botanical Garden features over forty distinct garden themes, ensuring year-round blooms through seasonal flowers and plants.

Included is a special garden designed for children, alongside tranquil areas such as a traditional Japanese garden with serene ponds and a Hummingbird Garden, showcasing flowers favored by these delicate birds. The gardens also include a Tropical Display Garden that recreates a rainforest environment.

5. Hunter House Victorian Museum

Established in 1894, the Hunter House Victorian Museum was once the residence of the Hunter family and provides valuable insights into Victorian life in Norfolk.

This historic home is included on the National Register of Historic Places, allowing visitors to experience period furnishings and antiques maintained in their original style.

6. The Virginia Zoo

Adjacent to beautiful Lafayette Park, the Virginia Zoo is home to over 500 animals ranging from elephants to rare frog species.

Exhibits feature animals from diverse regions, including Africa, Australia, and Asia. Visitors can explore specific displays, such as the Trail of the Tiger, showcasing tigers from Malaysia.

In addition to the animal exhibits, the zoo is renowned for its botanical gardens and often offers nighttime visits for an opportunity to observe nocturnal species.

7. Nauticus National Maritime Center

Established in the 1980s and opening in 1994, the Nauticus National Maritime Center focuses on nautical education and features interactive exhibits designed for hands-on learning experiences.

The center houses the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, inviting visitors to engage with various exhibits, including a shark lab and a horseshoe crab touch tank. Additionally, a marina and cruise ship pier are part of this unique facility.

8. Naval Station Norfolk

Naval Station Norfolk holds the title of the world’s largest naval base and spans over six kilometers along the waterfront. It accommodates an impressive 134 aircraft and 75 naval vessels.

Despite being an active military base housing the greatest number of navy personnel in the United States, the base offers guided tours led by naval staff who provide insights into its history and operations, as well as visits to some ships and aircraft carriers.

9. General Douglas MacArthur Memorial

This memorial, dedicated to General Douglas MacArthur, encompasses a museum featuring an educational center, a research facility, and a theater.

The focus is to narrate the story of General MacArthur, who played pivotal roles during both World Wars and the Korean War. Visitors can explore wartime memorabilia, including paintings, artifacts, and historic vehicles. Tours are available, along with special events throughout the year.

10. Wells Theater

Inaugurated in 1913, the Wells Theater embodies an architectural gem from the period. It hosted numerous prominent performers and featured a large movie screen showcased in 1916.

Over the years, the venue experienced various transformations, including a brief period as a gin house and brothel, before securing its place on the National Register of Historic Places in the 1980s.

11. Hermitage Museum and Gardens

The Hermitage Museum and Gardens provide a glimpse into Norfolk’s historical landscape, featuring the Sloane House on the banks of the picturesque Lafayette River, dating back to the early 20th century.

The house showcases over 40,000 period items, alongside 12 acres of beautiful gardens that comprise lush forests and wetlands.

12. American Rover

For those seeking a maritime adventure in Norfolk, Sailing Harbor Cruises operates the American Rover, a ship from the 1980s capable of accommodating over 100 passengers.

With its iconic red sails crafted from red tan bark, the ship is easily recognizable, offering harbor tours and sunset cruises for a truly unique experience.

13. Harbor Park

Harbor Park spans 36 acres in Norfolk and features a baseball stadium, which opened in the 1990s and serves as the home field for the Norfolk Tides, a minor league baseball team.

The stadium can seat over 12,000 spectators and includes a restaurant. While the stadium is the park’s main attraction, a variety of events occur throughout the year, especially during holiday seasons.

14. Doumar’s

To experience historical Norfolk, Doumar’s is a must-visit diner that has been serving all-American comfort foods for over a century.

Celebrated for its retro decor, Doumar’s is notably credited with the invention of the waffle cone and produces all its ice cream in-house, earning a well-deserved reputation for its milkshakes and delicious dairy treats.

When enjoying a waffle cone here, remember that the very first one was sold by Doumar’s founder back in 1904.

15. Attucks Theater

Constructed in 1919, the Attucks Theatre is named after Crispus Attucks, the first patriot who lost his life during the Revolutionary War.

This historic venue gained fame over the years and earned the nickname ‘The Apollo Theatre of the South.’ Numerous renowned performers have graced its stage, and the theater currently operates as the Crispus Attucks Cultural Center.

Cultural performances and events are hosted here throughout the year, so be sure to check local listings for what’s happening during your visit.