Norfolk, Virginia: America’s Naval City
Home to the world’s largest naval base, the city of Norfolk, Virginia has long been tied in with America’s maritime traditions. But that’s not all there is to this Mid-Atlantic city. Visitors soon discover that Norfolk is home to an assortment of interesting and exciting attractions, as well as a selection of historical spots that even a landlubber can enjoy.
Norfolk’s Maritime Legacy
Any trip to Norfolk, VA is sure to include a visit to at least one of the city’s maritime exhibits. While it’s unlikely you’ll be stepping within the grounds of Naval Station Norfolk, you can still retrace the city’s nautical heritage with relative ease at Nauticus, a maritime-themed museum and science centre. Adults and children alike can enjoy a trip to Nauticus, which offers a number of exhibits and interactive displays. The centre features the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, which displays a comprehensive history of sailing in the region. Peruse the displays and you’ll discover artefacts relating to the American Civil War, World War II, and much more. Also located at Nauticus, the USS Wisconsin is a declassified battleship that today serves as a museum. In fact, the Wisconsin was the very last battleship to be built on American soil. Take a tour of the gargantuan vessel and see what life at sea is like. Visit the Norfolk waterfront and you’ll catch a glimpse of an impressive three-mast tall ship with red sails: American Rover. If you truly want to experience an adventure on the high seas, or at least something akin to it, book yourself onto one of the ship’s tours. It’s worth your while.
History and Heritage in Norfolk
For travellers that prefer to keep their feet firmly on dry land, Norfolk is also home to a number of historic landmarks and attractions. The MacArthur Memorial Museum recollects the life of General Douglas MacArthur, who sailed in just about every major war you can imagine. The museum is full of insightful information and exhibits. Dating back to 1794, Willoughby-Baylor House is one of the oldest buildings in the city. Today, the historic property serves as a museum, collecting period furnishings and décor to portray what properties were like in the eighteenth and nineteenth century. Other notable historic properties in and around Norfolk include: Moses Meyers House; Hunter House Victorian Museum; Fort Norfolk; and Norfolk City Hall. All are easily accessed from the city’s hotels.
Popular Norfolk Tourist Attractions
If you prefer your tourist attractions to be a little more up-to-date, you’re in luck: Norfolk features a good supply of contemporary attractions and amenities. Virginia Zoological Park is a popular choice with many visitors, especially families. The zoo has been exhibiting animals for more than a century and today is home to the likes of lions, tigers, zebras, giraffes, and a whole host of other critters. Norfolk Botanical Garden is another attraction that proves popular with city visitors. Situated near the airport, the garden features not only flowers, shrubbery and trees, but also a host of water features. You hop aboard a boat and take a trip down the garden’s canal. Elsewhere in the city, Norfolk Scope, an 11,000-seater arena, regularly hosts concerts and sporting events, making it a common destination. The arena is home to the Norfolk Admirals ice hockey team. You can catch a baseball game at Harbor Park Stadium, home to the Norfolk Tides baseball club.
Enjoying the Arts
Cultured travellers looking to indulge in the fine arts can do so at their leisure. Norfolk houses a number of appropriate venues and facilities offering paintings, sculpture, performance, and more. The Chrysler Museum of Art is home to one of the best art collections in the Southeastern United States. Expect to see the work of Rodin, Matisse, Pollock, Warhol, and many more noted artists as you make your way around the museum. Harrison Opera House, home to the Virginia Opera, regularly hosts operatic performances. Meanwhile, Roper Performing Arts Center offers a regular schedule of dramatic performances. If you prefer something a little more contemporary, The NorVa next door is considered one of the best places in the region to catch live bands.
Hotels and Accommodations in Norfolk, VA
If you’re looking for a hotel in Norfolk, Virginia, you’ll find a wide selection of options in the downtown district and close to the waterfront. These include business hotels, chain hotels, guest houses, inns, extended stay properties, and more. A selection of other hotels can be found close to Norfolk International Airport. These hotels, which are convenient for those arriving in the city by air, are also suitable for travellers planning on visiting Virginia Wesleyan College. Visitors to Norfolk State University will find hotels in downtown Norfolk and on the waterfront better suited to their purpose.