Virginia 250

Settlers first came to Norfolk in the early 1600s, and have left their mark on history throughout this coastal city.  From Fort Norfolk, one of the last remaining forts authorized by President George Washington, to a walking tour that guides visitors through Norfolk’s heritage, there is plenty for you to discover. The city of Norfolk is an important 400-year-old port city and home to the largest naval base in the world. The history of Greater Norfolk coincides with the birth of our nation, and throughout the region, evidence of this important past can be enjoyed today.

End of Massive Resistance Wall

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Waterways to Freedom

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Nauticus Museum / Battleship Wisconsin

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Battleship Wisconsin

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Chrysler Museum / Perry Glass Studio

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Hermitage Museum and Gardens

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Must Seas: History Edition

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Norfolk State University

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Events

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

May152026

Goode Works on Paper Drop-in Hours: Jewish American Heritage Month

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May152026

Goode Works on Paper Drop-in Hours: Jewish American Heritage Month

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May162026

Haitian Flag Day

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May172026

Special Topics Tour: Jewish American Heritage Month

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May252026

City of Norfolk Memorial Day Ceremony

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May252026

Free Memorial Day Train Rides

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The Latest

Check out the latest, and greatest, happenings in the city.

How to Spend Memorial Day Weekend In Norfolk

Memorial Day means so much more than a three-day weekend, and here in Norfolk…

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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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Date Night on Colley Avenue

Colley Avenue, starting in Norfolk’s Ghent neighborhood and expanding all the way to Larchmont, is the…

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Black History in Norfolk

Norfolk’s rich African American history has shaped our city into the diverse community we know and love. We’re…

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VA 250: A History Lover’s Guide to Norfolk

Norfolk’s history dates back to 1682 when it was first founded. It was settled by an…

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What to Do Along the Elizabeth River Trail

The Elizabeth River Trail, also known as the ERT, is Norfolk’s 10.5-mile-long…

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Cold Out? Best Things to Do Indoors in Norfolk, VA

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

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Norfolk Holiday Bucket List

If you haven’t yet spent a holiday weekend in Norfolk, you’re in for a festive treat. There’s many ways to get in…

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Restaurants

You’ve got 600+ indie restaurants in Norfolk to try. Start here.

Four Eleven York

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Ocean View Fishing Pier Restaurant

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Doumar’s

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Omar’s Carriage House

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Monastery Restaurant

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Freemason Abbey

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Guides & Itineraries

Looking for a little help or inspiration? Use Norfolk’s curated city guides and itineraries to get the most out of your time in our city.

Waterways to Freedom

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Must Seas: History Edition

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Civil War Sites in Norfolk

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Tales by Rails Guide

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Norfolk’s Cannonball Trail

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Armed Forces Memorial Guide

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City Guide

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From Refugee Camps to Ghent: The Story Behind Vang Go Bistro 

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