A Weekend in Downtown Norfolk

Downtown Norfolk is the perfect destination for a fun-filled weekend. It’s got with never-ending historic sites, attractions, a waterfront, tours and endless places to munch and mingle. 

How Do You Say Norfolk?

Nor-FOLK? NOR-fik? NAW-fik? NOR-FUK? Here’s the verdict.

CHART YOUR COURSE

Our city is your city. Use the menu below to customize your Norfolk experience.

Norfolk, VA

Norfolk, Virginia is a city on the water, but never watered down. Built on character, by characters, we’re a melting pot of people, cultures, and ideas.

Downtown

Norfolk’s walkable, waterfront downtown is the urban hub of the city full of shopping, entertainment, restaurants and excitement!

Historic Freemason District

The city’s oldest standing neighborhood, Historic Freemason features beautiful tree-lined cobblestone streets, manicured gardens, historic homes and water views.

NEON DISTRICT

The creative center of the city, NEON’s 80+ pieces of public art, live performances and eclectic restaurants are destined to inspire.

GHENT

Ghent is filled with character, culture and delicious cuisine — not to mention tons of eclectic eateries, unique shops, art galleries and antique stores.

Chelsea

Chelsea is one of the most walkable and bikeable neighborhoods in the city, with the celebrated Elizabeth River Trail (ERT) passing through the center.

park place / Railroad district

Lined with local breweries, eateries and street murals, the industrial neighborhoods of Park Place/Railroad District are sure to get any visit on the right track.

Riverview

From zoo animals to wildly delicious restaurants, the LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhood of Riverview truly has something for everyone.

Larchmont / lochhaven

Next door to Old Dominion University, Larchmont and Lochhaven are home to history, local restaurants, outdoor fun and perfect water views.

Oceanview

The relaxing beachside communities of Ocean View and East Beach are the perfect place to unwind with fresh seafood, sand and sun!

Military Highway

Ideal for people on the move, Military Highway plays host to Norfolk International Airport and an abundance of shopping options.

What’s happening

Events This Week

Tides host a homestand, Indigenous Art at the Chrysler, As I Lay Dying at NorVa, and much more this week in Norfolk, VA.
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What to Do This July in Norfolk

Parties galore in Ocean View, a taco festival, Sunsets on the River, Latino Music Fest and more set for July in Mermaid City.
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State of Tourism Breakfast

Please join us for the 22nd Annual State of Tourism Annual Breakfast presented by VisitNorfolk and the Norfolk Tourism Foundation. Tourism is essential to our region.
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Events

Every season is event season in Norfolk. See what’s on deck.

Jul272024

Norview Paradise Party

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Jul272024

Norfolk Gospel Lunch Cruise

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Apr132024
Jan052025

MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE: PICTURING MARITIME CULTURE IN HAMPTON ROADS

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May242024
Sep012024

Early Days: Indigenous Art from the McMichael Canadian Art Collection

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Jul272024

Toddler Yoga

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Jun012024
Nov232024

East Beach Farmers Market (Weekly)

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Jul272024

ERT Botanical Bike Tour

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Jun152024
Nov152024

NEW: Norfolk Farmers Market at Monticello

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May242024
Oct062024

An American Abroad: Florence Sloane in Europe, 1920s-1930s

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Jul272024

Norfolk After Dark Dance Cruise

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Jul272024

As I Lay Dying at NorVa

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Jul272024

An Evening with John Toomey Jazz Quartet

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Jul272024

Norfolk Signature Mimosa Brunch Cruise

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Jun282024
Aug302024

THANK GOODNESS IT’S OCEAN VIEW

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Apr112024
Sep302024

Tides Baseball Games 2024

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May262024
Sep012024

Big Bands on the Bay Summer Concert Series 2024

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Jul282024

Black Stone Cherry at Norva

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Jul142024
Sep292024

Slow and Steady Sunday Ride

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Mar032024
Dec012024

Sunday Dog Day at Botanical Gardens

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Apr152024
Apr152025

Tidewater Blues Monday Night Blues Dancing

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Jun172024
Aug092024

STEAM and Pottery Summer Camps

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Jul152024
Dec162024

Downtown Norfolk Civic League

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Jul012024
Sep302024

Run Your Best Mile

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Jul082024
Sep232024

Downtown Norfolk Ramen Night

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Jul082024
Sep232024

Downtown Norfolk Pub Quiz

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Mar152024
Nov152024

Lights Out for Safe Skies

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Jul102024
Sep252024

Mosaic Academy Norfolk

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Jul102024
Sep252024

Senior’s Steelpan Class

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Aug012024

Yoga at 9th Bay Beach

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Jul112024
Sep262024

Downtown Norfolk Active Adults Steelpan Class

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Aug012024

Sunsets on the River Concerts at Hermitage

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Aug032024

Signature Mid-Day Lunch Cruise

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Aug032024

Yoga at Neptune’s Fury

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Aug032024

Whiskey Wood & Waffles

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Aug032024

Yoga at Waters Edge Winery

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Aug032024

NEON District Plant Tour

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Aug042024

Norfolk Meet your Princess Lunch Cruise

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Aug042024

Norfolk Flea Market

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Aug062024

Sunset Yoga on Battleship Wisconsin

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Aug062024

Prenatal

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Aug092024

Sunrise Yoga + Coffee On The River

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Aug092024

Lucky Daye

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Aug102024

Chelsea Walking Tour

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Aug102024

Muscadine Bloodline at NorVa

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Aug102024

Getem Services Big Blue 5K

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Aug102024

Stress Management

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Aug112024

Fanciful Fig Antique Market

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The Latest

Read our blog for the latest — and greatest — happenings in the city.

August 2024 Events Guide

Norfolk has an amazing lineup of events for August 2024! From festivals, summer camps, sports games, food events…
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Guide to Norfolk Waterfront Jazz Festival

The Norfolk Waterfront Jazz Festival is the area’s longest-running outdoor jazz…
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The Best International Cuisine in Norfolk, VA (According to the Locals)

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A Weekend in Downtown Norfolk

Downtown Norfolk is the perfect destination for a fun-filled weekend. It’s got with never-ending historic…
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Things to Do in Ocean View and East Beach

Did you know that Norfolk has its very own sandy beach? The areas of Ocean View and East…
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Recently Opened in Norfolk

Because Norfolk is always evolving and changing, we want to make sure you don’t miss out on all the new talented…
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Things to do in Norfolk 4th of July Weekend

Whether you’re locally throwing a backyard barbecue with friends and family or…
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Hot Out? Best Things to Do Indoors in Norfolk, VA

Norfolk is known for its sprawling water views and outdoor activities…
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