Veterans Day is an opportunity to pause, reflect and pay tribute to those who have served in the U.S. armed forces. In Norfolk—a city deeply tied to military heritage, with the nation’s largest naval base and storied maritime traditions—there are meaningful ways to celebrate, remember and engage. Whether you’re looking to honor veterans, learn local history or simply soak in the patriotic spirit, here’s how to make the most of Veterans Day in Norfolk, Virginia.
Attend A Wreath-Laying Ceremony at MacArthur Memorial
Veterans Day is on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025 this year. The MacArthur Memorial is proud to host the City of Norfolk’s annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony, which includes special guest speakers and a wreath laying. The ceremony begins at 2 p.m. and will be held inside the MacArthur Memorial Museum, 198 Bank St,. Norfolk, Va. Admission is free.
Ride the Train for Free at the Virginia Zoo
On Nov. 11 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. the Virginia Zoo Express will be offering free train rides to all veterans! This offer is only available to veterans and can be redeemed at the train station on Nov. 11, 2025.
Watch Sailors Race from the Little Creek Inlet
Little Creek Racers (LCR) invites all BBSA skippers and spectators to join for its annual Veterans Day Race. This fun, friendly race is the LCR’s way of celebrating and honoring the men and women who have served our country. The race will take place just north of Little Creek Inlet. Organizers say, “Whether you’re a regular racer or just looking for a good excuse to get out on the water one more time before winter, this is the perfect way to spend Veterans Day. First warning is 9:55 AM and race is expected to last approximately 2 hours. Come race, cheer on your fellow sailors, and help us honor our veterans.”
Spend Time at the Armed Forces Memorial
This very special memorial connecting to Town Point Park features 20 inscriptions from letters written home by U.S. service members who lost their lives in war. The letters have been cast in thin sheets of bronze and are scattered across the ground as if blown there by the wind.
Visit Nauticus, Battleship Wisconsin and the Hampton Roads Naval Museum
Learn about Norfolk’s maritime history by exploring Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin. Located Downtown along the Elizabeth River, this maritime discover center features fun and hands-on education for all ages. Also on site, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum celebrates the history of the fleet in Hampton Roads.
Experience a Naval Base Tour
The Victory Rover is your front-row seat to the U.S. Navy’s Norfolk-based fleet. Departing from a berth just a short walk along the Downtown Norfolk Harbor from Nauticus, the Victory Rover offers a 2-hour narrated naval base tour. Passengers will witness the majesty of the Navy’s aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines, guided missile cruisers and other vessels that make up the world’s most powerful sea-going armada.
Explore the Cannonball Trail
Take part on this self-guided tour through 400 years of Norfolk and American history. Walk the cobblestone streets of West Freemason—the earliest residential streetscape in Norfolk—before strolling Downtown where you’ll see narrative plaques that mark places and events of historic interest. You’ll even find a Civil War-era cannonball still lodged in the wall of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church!
Visit the MacArthur Memorial
Located Downtown, the MacArthur Memorial is dedicated to the life and legacy of General of the Army Douglas MacArthur but also pays tribute to the millions of Americans who served during the Civil War, World War I, World War II and the Korean War.
Support a Veteran-Owned Business
Home to the world’s largest naval base, Norfolk has understandably become home to many veterans who have proudly served our country. Take the opportunity to support them and thank them for their service as you observe Memorial Day weekend in Norfolk.
