Hidden away in an industrial corner just a stone’s throw from Ghent and Church Street, Latitude Climbing + Fitness is deceptive at first. The building dates back to the 1920s, but once you’re inside, you find a bright, open space filled with towering walls, bold color-coded climbing routes and lots of activity.
“This is our Norfolk location built 2018,” says Colin Foley, Latitude’s social media and event manager. “This came from essentially wanting to make a modern space for climbers in the area to have more amenities than just climbing, such as fitness, family stuff … and then we have yoga.”
Norfolk itself may not be a climbing mecca, but Latitude, which also features locations in Virginia Beach and Hampton, looks to fill the gap for climbers who can’t access the state’s big walls several hours to the west. It’s also a fantastic place to socialize and meet new folks with shared interests.
First-timers are greeted at the front desk and shown the ropes — literally and figuratively. “We show them the lay of the land,” Foley says. “The grading is essentially, how difficult is it to get it from the start of a route to the top of the route. Our color coordination starts at red being the easiest, black being the hardest… It’s more inclusive to get the people on the climbs.”
New climbers learn how to start a route, move upward, and (this one’s important) how to land safely.
First-timers can opt for a simple day pass, or book a first-time package with a climbing instructor for more hands-on guidance. “You can get more into that technical (stuff), where an instructor would say, “hey, maybe just shift your hips this way or keep your elbows straight,” Foley says.
Latitude’s programming attracts a wide range of people, from those with climbing experience to those just curious about the sport.
As for the target audience? “I’d say any adventurous person looking to just move around, and honestly, people that want to think,” Foley says. “This is an awesome problem-solving sport and community.”
Latitude’s Norfolk facility is ADA-compliant and offers student discounts, scholarships and outreach programs to make climbing accessible to all.
Memberships are designed with variety in mind. “One membership gets you unlimited climbing, unlimited yoga, unlimited fitness classes. All inclusive holistic fitness, hence the name Latitude Climbing + Fitness.” And if you decide to join after your first visit, there’s a perk: “That day pass gets reimbursed and then we just roll kick it off into your membership.”
With its mix of serious training and casual community, Latitude is as much about connection as it is about climbing. “At the end of the day, this is indoor rock climbing… it’s just the mode for practice so that when the real deal happens, you’re good to go.”
If You Visit
Where: 1830 Lindsay Ave., Norfolk, VA
Day pass cost: adult $26; student (with ID): $23; youth (17 and under): $17
Details: Walk-ins welcome for day passes. Instruction packages can be booked online in advance
Gear: Rental shoes, chalk, and other equipment available on site. Option to buy gear after your trial period
First-Timer Tips: Arrive early to check in at the front desk. Staff will explain the color-coded grading system (red = easiest, black = hardest) and how to climb and land safely. You can upgrade to a first-time package with an instructor for extra guidance. Wear athletic clothing you can move in.
How do you set out to tell the story of a rich, well-lived life? When you’re Jack Ankerson, you start at the beginning, of course. As the former voice of the Norfolk Tides, original General Manager of the San Antonio Spurs and one-time practice quarterback for an NFL team, you might as well tell it in order because each story becomes more fascinating than the last.
If you listen closely to Ankerson’s deep, booming voice, you can hear a touch of his hometown, Neenah, Wisconsin. As a young man, he quickly became an all-conference triple threat in football, tennis and basketball.
He then moved on and played three sports at Ripon College, which Anderson describes as “unheard of.” It was basketball and tennis that brought him to Ripon (he was an All-American) but football is what got him drafted as a practice quarterback with the then-St. Louis Cardinals. If his schedule wasn’t full enough, he commanded a corps of cadets in college before nearly pivoting to a full-time military career.
“A general said, ‘Lieutenant, how about coming with me to Korea?’ I said, ‘But I’ve got to go back to football.’”
Although his time in the NFL was short, he was ready for a new adventure.
A Fortuitous Meeting
Having moved from the gridiron to a corporate sales job, he found himself sitting next to a perfect stranger on a cross-country flight. The stranger, it turns out, was Mike Storen who left his mark on the American Basketball Association (later the NBA) as an executive. After a year of back-and-forth talks, Storen convinced Ankerson to work in the front office of the Kentucky Colonels. A short time later, Ankerson was hired as the first GM of the San Antonio Spurs.
“I was probably the only employee when they got started in San Antonio,” he says.
He helped choose the Spurs’ black and silver color scheme while commuting between Louisville and Texas. He helped name the team. He hired staff, scouted talent and ran the business side. In his words, he did everything but sweep the floors.
The fateful meeting with Storen still resonates with Ankerson a half-century later.
“Isn’t it funny how one little thing—hopping on that flight—can change everything?
The Voice of the Tides (and the Monarchs)
Ankerson’s next move brought he and his wife, Ellie, to Norfolk as the new GM of the Virginia Squires. When that career had run its course, a call from an old friend took him in yet another new direction.
Norfolk Tides GM Dave Rosenfield asked Ankerson to fill in as the in-stadium PA announcer in 1987. Though he’d dabbled in radio before, he wasn’t sure whether to take the job.
“I never thought about that,” he said. But Rosenfield insisted: “With your voice? Do it for a year.”
One year became seven, and the Tides moved to Harbor Park. Then came more radio, and Old Dominion, where he voiced men’s and women’s basketball, football, soccer and baseball. If it involved competition, Ankerson called it.
The Book
When Ankerson took a step back from his announcing duties in early 2025, he set out to put all the details of these memories onto the page. It began with a series of Thursday morning conversations with co-author Tess Robinson, who suggested they divide the book into innings rather than chapters.
The result is an engaging, breezy read that covers 83 years of amazing stories.
“Everybody says they enjoy it,” he says. “The reading is good. The pictures are all good, and it’s easy reading.”
Today, Ankerson is still quick, still sharp and deeply engaged in the community of Norfolk.
“People say, ‘There’s no way you’re 83.’ I love hearing that. There’s a lot to do with staying totally involved. It’s just having a purpose.”
But it’s his family that keeps him young.
“My oldest daughter was a two-time soccer All-American, my youngest played three sports in high school, two in college… she’s still playing volleyball at 52.”
Needless to say, the Ankerson family is happy to carry on their father’s legacy of excelling in whatever they take on. And Jack couldn’t be prouder.
Jack of All Sports is available on Amazon, local bookstores and at the Mermaid Market at 232 E. Main St. in Norfolk.
Nederlander National Markets and SevenVenues are delighted to announce the lineup for the 2025-2026 Broadway in Norfolk season at Chrysler Hall featuring weeklong engagements of six hit musicals, including five Norfolk debuts.
Season ticket packages are on sale now at BroadwayinNorfolk.com. Current subscribers can renew their seats, and new subscribers can purchase season tickets at this time. On-sale dates for individual tickets will be announced as each performance approaches. Group sales opportunities are available for select shows.
The season kicks off in September with A BEAUTIFUL NOISE. Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL is the untold true story of a Brooklyn kid who became a chart-busting, show-stopping, award-winning American icon. Direct from Broadway, THE WIZ, the Tony Award®-winning Best Musical that took the world by storm, is back and coming to Chrysler Hall in November. This groundbreaking twist on The Wizard of Oz changed the face of Broadway—from its iconic score packed with soul, gospel, rock, and 70s funk to its stirring tale of Dorothy’s journey to find her place in a contemporary
world. Broadway’s most fun hit musical, & JULIET, closes out the year in December. Created by the Emmy®-winning writer from “Schitt’s Creek,” this hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told. & JULIET asks: what would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love—her way. The season continues into the new year with another Norfolk debut in February – SHUCKED. SHUCKED is the Tony Award®–winning musical comedy about an unlikely hero, a lovable con man, and an a-maize-ing battle for the heart & soil of Cob County. MRS. DOUBTFIRE makes its Norfolk debut in March. Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Chrysler Hall in “a feel-good, family-friendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film, it’s “the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now” (Chicago Tribune) – one that proves we’re better together. More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the phenomenon of Disney’s THE LION KING, and now you can, too, when Norfolk’s best-loved musical returns to Chrysler Hall in April. Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, this landmark musical event brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway. Tony Award®-winning director Julie Taymor brings to life a story filled with hope and adventure set against an amazing backdrop of stunning visuals. THE LION KING also features some of Broadway’s most recognizable music, crafted by Tony Award®-winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice. There is simply nothing else like THE LION KING.
Performance Dates:
A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL: September 2 – 7, 2025 ~ 8 performances
THE WIZ: November 4 – 9, 2025 ~ 8 performances
& JULIET: December 3 – 7, 2025 ~ 8 performances
SHUCKED: February 3 – 8, 2026 ~ 8 performances
MRS. DOUBTFIRE: March 31 – April 5, 2026 ~ 8 performances
DISNEY’S THE LION KING: April 30 – May 17, 2026 ~ 23 performances
Packages start as low as $311 for six shows. For additional package information, visit BroadwayinNorfolk.com. Patrons can contact the Broadway in Norfolk Season Ticket Office at seasontickets@broadwayinnorfolk.com or by phone at 877-703-8144 (Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. EST).
Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A BEAUTIFUL NOISE is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, a catalogue of classics like “America,” “Forever in Blue Jeans,” and “Sweet Caroline,” an induction into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy® Lifetime Achievement Award, and sold-out concerts around the world that made him bigger than Elvis, Neil Diamond’s story was made to shine on Broadway-and head out on the road across America.
Like Jersey Boys and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical before it, A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL is an inspiring, exhilarating, energy-filled musical memoir, that tells the untold true story of how America’s greatest hitmaker became a star, set to the songs that defined his career.
The Tony® Award-winning Best Musical that took the world by storm is back.
THE WIZ returns “home” to stages across America in an all-new tour, direct from Broadway.
The Baltimore Sun raves “Powerhouse performances. Stunning choreography. Visionary sets” and the Chicago Sun-Times proclaims THE WIZ is “An eye-popping and high-intensity revival!”
This groundbreaking twist on The Wizard of Oz changed the face of Broadway—from its iconic score packed with soul, gospel, rock, and 70s funk to its stirring tale of Dorothy’s journey to find her place in a contemporary world.
With direction by Schele Williams (The Notebook, revival of Disney’s Aida), choreography by JaQuel Knight (Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies,” Black Is King) and additional material by Tony-nominated and Emmy-nominated writer and TV host Amber Ruffin (The Amber Ruffin Show, Late Night with Seth Meyers), this dynamite infusion of ballet, jazz, and modern pop brings a whole new groove to easing on down the road. Everybody rejoice!
Created by the Emmy®-winning writer from “Schitt’s Creek,” this hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told. & Juliet asks: what would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love—her way.
Juliet’s new story bursts to life through a playlist of pop anthems as iconic as her name, including “Since U Been Gone‚” “Roar,” “Baby One More Time,” “Larger Than Life‚” “That’s The Way It Is,“ and “Can’t Stop the Feeling!”—all from the genius songwriter/producer behind more #1 hits than any other artist this century. Break free of the balcony scene and get into this romantic comedy that proves there’s life after Romeo. The only thing tragic would be missing it.
SHUCKED is the Tony Award®–winning musical comedy The Wall Street Journal calls “flat out hilarious!” And nobody knows funny like economists. Featuring a book by Tony Award winner Robert Horn (Tootsie), a score by the Grammy® Award–winning songwriting team of Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally (Kacey Musgraves’ “Follow Your Arrow”) and directed by Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien (Hairspray), this corn-fed, corn-bred American musical is sure to satisfy your appetite for great musical theater.
Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Norfolk in this internationally acclaimed hit musical critics call “wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny” (Manchester Evening News) and “a feel-good, family-friendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film, MRS. DOUBTFIRE tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. It’s “the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now,” raves the Chicago Tribune – one that proves we’re better together.
Giraffes strut. Birds swoop. Gazelles leap. The entire Serengeti comes to life as never before. And as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. This is Disney’s THE LION KING, making its triumphant return to Chrysler Hall!
More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music, and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular – one of the most breathtaking and beloved productions ever to grace the stage.
Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, THE LION KING brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway. Tony Award®-winning director Julie Taymor brings to life a story filled with hope and adventure set against an amazing backdrop of stunning visuals. THE LION KING also features the extraordinary work of Tony Award®-winning choreographer Garth Fagan and some of Broadway’s most recognizable music, crafted by Tony Award®-winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice.
September marks the transition of the seasons, as Norfolk’s hot days of summer give way to cooler nights and coastal breezes. Here are a few of our favorite events coming down the pike.
Going, going, gone! That’s how quickly the Norfolk Tides’ regular season is wrapping up. The Baltimore Orioles’ Triple A affiliates take on Nashville Sept. 2-7 at home and then finish off against Jacksonville Sept. 16-21.
Enjoy live music on the PBR patio at Waterside District each Friday night. September performers include Panch (Sept. 5), Cari Lacey Duo (Sept. 12), Runnin’ Shine Duo (Sept. 19) and Dale Bitner (Sept. 26).
Norfolk’s favorite summertime outdoor party finally returns with the second 2025 installment set for Sept. 1 at 300 Granby St. at 5 p.m. Live music, DJs, food trucks, beer, wine and shopping will be available. Don’t miss this event as it’s the last for ’25!
Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A BEAUTIFUL NOISE is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chartbusting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, a catalogue of classics like “America,” “Forever in Blue Jeans,” and “Sweet Caroline,” an induction into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy® Lifetime Achievement Award, and sold-out concerts around the world that made him bigger than Elvis, Neil Diamond’s story was made to shine on Broadway-and head out on the road across America.
First known as the Florida half of the GRAMMY-nominated Florida Georgia Line, the ACM Breakout Artist of the Decade Award recipients garnered 19 career No. 1s and became the first and only act to achieve two RIAA DIAMOND singles in Country music history (14X PLATINUM No. 1s: “Cruise” and “Meant to Be” with Bebe Rexha). Surpassing 17 billion global streams, selling more than 40 million tracks and 4.8 million albums worldwide, plus playing to over 4 million fans, FGL has been honored by AMA, Billboard, CMA, and CMT Music Awards, as well as having a Florida Georgia Line: Mix It Up Strong exhibit at Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
Remember an era of smooth & sophisticated rock that served as the soundtrack to your coming of age? Relive that moment with a live concert experience unlike any other as The Black Jacket Symphony presents ‘The Era Of Yacht Rock’, featuring classic soft rock songs from iconic artists such as Kenny Loggins, Hall & Oates, Steely Dan, and many more, note- for-note, sound-for-sound.
2003 saw the start of a love affair between one of the most extraordinary and best loved bands to come from the UK and fans all around the world. The Darkness exploded with their hit, “I Believe in a Thing Called Love,” which they will bring to the NorVa on Sept. 5.
Step into the Roaring Twenties with our Great Gatsby Cocktail Dinner at Saltine! Enjoy a 4-course feast featuring expertly crafted cocktails and decadent food pairings as our Chief Mixologist and Executive Chef lead you through live demonstrations. Indulge in the glamour and extravagance of the Jazz Age with an evening of culinary artistry, dazzling drinks, and a truly unforgettable atmosphere.
WWE brings WWE Friday Night SmackDown back to Norfolk for the first time in two years. Don’t miss Cody Rhodes, WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton, Randy Orton, Bianca Belair, LA Knight, Jacob Fatu, Nia Jax, and all your favorite Superstars.
Miller Lite Hot Country Nights featuring Parmalee. Experience the summer night with views of the waterfront in Downtown Norfolk with a cold drink in hand while enjoying the best of country music! Upgrade to VIP for exclusive access to the VIP section with elevated viewing area of the show + two drink tickets. Be sure to add on your PBR Party Starter Pass for early entry, two additional drink tickets, + cover all night with expedited re-entry to the official after party at PBR Norfolk! Doors open at 6pm.
The first of three amazing fifth symphonies kicks off our celebration of five seasons with Music Director Eric Jacobsen. Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony takes the listener on a transformative journey from struggle to triumph while showcasing the artistry of the VSO musicians. World renowned cellist and prolific recording artist Jan Vogler joins us to perform one of the most acclaimed cello concertos of the 21st century.
To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the historic landings at Inchon during the Korean War, the MacArthur Memorial will host a speakers panel to reflect on the operation and the ongoing legacy of the Korean War. This event is in partnership with the Korea Defense Veterans Association.
Hot chicken, hard drinks, and Music City sounds! The NashFest Music & Food Festival, a one-day event celebrating the iconic culture and cuisine of Nashville, is set for its fifth act along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Town Point Park! Fusing together all of the elements that make Nashville one of America’s most popular cities, NashFest offers an experience akin to an evening stroll down Broadway, featuring national and local recording artists, mouth-watering hot chicken, barbecue, line dancing, craft beer & whiskey tastings, and much more for what is now one of Hampton Roads’ hottest new summer events.
Jenna Bush Hager is the host of the fourth hour of NBC’s Today show, Today with Jenna & Friends. A New York Times best-selling author, in her latest book, Everything Beautiful in Its Time, Jenna shares moving, funny stories about her beloved grandparents and the wisdom they passed on that has shaped her life.
he Blues is musical storytelling filled with stark emotion and a revolving reality check. It’s authentically raw; transforming tragedy, adversity and heartache into a visceral and cathartic experience. This special night of emotive lyrics and guitar-driven accompaniment features performances by Tucka, King George, Pokey Bear, West Love, Ronnie Bell and Marcellus TheSinger.
Hannah Berner is a stand-up comedian and New York Times Best-Selling author known for her relatable humor and charismatic crowd work. She rose to prominence with her debut comedy special “We Ride at Dawn” which premiered at #2 on Netflix. Berner hosts two hit podcasts, Giggly Squad alongside Paige DeSorbo and Berner Phone with Des Bishop.
WHITNEY CUMMINGS is a Los Angeles-based comedian, actor, writer, producer and director. Best known for creating and starring in the NBC series “Whitney,” she also co-created and co-wrote (with Michael Patrick King) the Emmy-nominated CBS comedy series “2 Broke Girls.”
Unleash your inner wild child during our adults-only evening at the Zoo! Trails and exhibits will be open late and there will be drinks, a DJ, and a Food Truck Round Up alongside yard games to play in our Event Field.
One critic says that James McMurtry writes as though he has spent time eavesdropping on conversations in every Dairy Queen in America. Stephen King, who owns a classic-rock station in Maine, has written that he “may be the truest, fiercest songwriter of his generation.”
Johnny Marr started his career with The Smiths, beginning an amazing history as one of the most influential songwriters and guitarists in British independent music. His subsequent creative journey has seen him at the heart of The The, Electronic, Modest Mouse and The Cribs, as well as working with such names as The Pretenders, Talking Heads, The Avalanches, and the musician and composer Hans Zimmer – with whom he recorded the score and soundtrack for the most recent James Bond film, “No Time To Die.”
Affable, charismatic and one of a kind, Fortune Feimster is a standup comedian, writer and actor who uses her confessional comedy to bring people together. Through laughter and storytelling, Fortune shows audiences of all ages, backgrounds, and sexual orientations that common ground is only a joke or two away.
Discover the untold stories of Downtown Norfolk’s LGBTQ+ community on this special tour led by Dr. Charles Ford, a leading scholar of LGBTQ+ history. Explore the significance of the city’s LGBTQ+ bars and nightclubs, their role as safe havens, and the challenges they faced under discriminatory obscenity laws.
When your group visits Norfolk, it’s not just another faceless city with generic options. Here, we’re talking about serious cuisine and attractions, with a little bit of something for everyone. Best of all, many of our top restaurants are group-friendly.
Whether you’re organizing a military reunion, church retreat, professional conference or family celebration, these seven local establishments bring it when it comes to space, service and crowd-pleasing menus. From waterfront views to private rooms, here’s where to take your group in Norfolk.
This is one you have to see to believe. Located in a renovated 19th-century church, Freemason Abbey has long been a favorite for groups, and they’ve resumed taking large reservations as of late 2025. With a layout that includes semi-private alcoves and high ceilings, the space can comfortably accommodate your special events. The menu focuses on regional favorites like She-crab soup, broiled seafood platters and prime rib. Conveniently located near downtown hotels among the stunning cobblestone streets of our Historic Freemason District, it’s an ideal option for groups on foot or motorcoach.
Virginia’s first urban winery delivers a flexible venue for food- and wine-focused gatherings. Mermaid Winery’s downtown Norfolk location includes indoor seating and a shaded patio, either of which is great for mid-sized groups. Pre-set tastings, charcuterie spreads and shareable flatbreads make it easy to design a low-key lunch or early evening social. It’s within walking distance of cultural venues and hotels, making it a solid option for pre- or post-event meetups.
Grain perches on the lower rooftop of the Hilton Norfolk The Main and is built for group hospitality. Its rooftop beer garden and spacious interior handle everything from networking events to casual dinners. With more than 80 beers on tap and a menu designed around sharable plates, it’s a natural fit for relaxed socializing. The venue also offers semi-private event space for planners seeking a more structured setting within a lively atmosphere.
Recently reopened and serving up seafood daily. Directly on the Elizabeth River at Waterside District, Stripers Waterside offers broad views and a versatile menu. Groups can be seated indoors or along the waterfront patio, depending on size and weather. The kitchen focuses on Southern coastal fare such as crab cakes, fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits, making it appealing to both out-of-town visitors and local groups looking for a consistent dining experience. And the views. Did we mention the views?
Omar’s is the sort of place that will capture your heart and your appetite all in one. For groups seeking a more intimate and refined setting, Omar’s Carriage House offers private dining in a converted historic structure. The Mediterranean-American menu includes dishes like lamb chops, duck breast and vegetarian pastas. While better suited for smaller parties of 20–40, the experience and attention to detail make it a frequent choice for board dinners and private receptions. Pro tip: do NOT miss a trip to Omar’s when visiting Norfolk, even if you break off from the group for its daily 4-6 p.m. happy hour.
Also located within Hilton Norfolk The Main, Saltine absolutely owns the market on contemporary seafood with a clean, modern aesthetic. Private dining options are available, and the restaurant frequently hosts brunches, receptions and executive dinners. The menu emphasizes fresh oysters, seasonal fish and elevated coastal cuisine. It’s a practical pick for planners hosting events at the hotel or nearby conference venues.
Found inside the ever-charming Selden Market, the Stockpot offers a relaxed environment for morning or midday gatherings. Popular with groups seeking a quality brunch or casual breakfast meeting, this Downtown Norfolk staple serves scratch-made comfort food like shakshuka, grain bowls, and house-made baked goods. They offer limited reservations for groups and can accommodate special menus for advance bookings.
Norfolk’s dining scene is group-ready—offering flexibility, flavor, and locations that work well within itineraries. For help coordinating reservations or building out full itineraries, connect with our team atVisitNorfolk.com or visit our Guide for Meeting Planners.
Andrea Olachia never set out to open a flower shop. She was headed somewhere else entirely: corporate law, New York City and a fast life. But life made other plans.
“In 2021, I had a concussion,” she says. “They found an abnormal growth in my brain… for those two months, I was like, I have to reevaluate my life.”
That growth, which she jokingly calls “Toby,” turned out to be benign. “He’s not a tumor, but totally benign.” Still, the experience forced the then-Navy sailor to reconsider her plans and priorities in life.
She moved to Norfolk and started small before opening Bloom OV, a new sustainable florist in Norfolk’s Ocean View neighborhood.
“All of this was in my house before,” she says. “I had a lot of things in my house.”
But by July 2025, Bloom OV was fully bloomed, just blocks from the beach in Norfolk’s Ocean View neighborhood. “I have been in business for two years. Our grand opening was in July, which is also our third year anniversary.”
“We Look for Weird Flowers”
Bloom OV is no typical grab-and-go florist. Rather than pre-made bouquets, Olachia has created a botanical playground where customers can create their own floral expressions, one stem at a time.
“I always enjoyed arranging flowers for myself,” Olachia says. “I used to live in San Diego. I’d go to the farmer’s market, you know, have my own little Sunday routine.”
What started as a personal habit quickly became something more serious. “We have over 15 flower farms in this area in Hampton Roads,” she says. “I have four farmers that I consistently work with. They’re out of Chesapeake and Suffolk. One’s down in Pungo.”
She says doesn’t place strict orders with her vendors. “I give them a color palette, essentially, and then I just trust what they do. I don’t really dictate, like, ‘Oh, I need lisianthus.’ I just—whatever you got in purple, I’ll take it.” What she looks for are blooms with character. “We look for weird flowers. We look for flowers that you might not have seen at the grocery store.”
The Shop
Inside the shop, the energy is bright and personal. “You can buy by the stem,” she says. “You can gravitate to any of the stems that you want.” Customers can build their own bouquets, or let the staff guide them.
The packaging is also part of the store’s philosophy. “I will offer you a compostable plastic bag with a wet napkin to hold the moisture in,” she explains. “The paper’s compostable, the bags are, and you just put it in your garden.”
Bloom OV even stocks gifts and cards. “I try to keep them flower related, but I am a very sarcastic person,” she says. “We have greeting cards for all occasions. We have divorce, we have birthdays, we have Spanish cards, we have cards geared towards Asian Americans, African Americans.”
Building Community
For Olachia, the flowers are only part of it. “People are so evolutionarily connected to flowers,” she says. “We also have to appeal to their emotions.” And you never know why someone might be walking in. “It could be a celebration, an anniversary. It could be bereavement. It could be… maybe you just want to come and get something to remember them.”
She’s built Bloom OV to be emotionally inclusive, practically generous, and culturally expansive. “The number one goal I have for the store is to build a community through connection,” she says. “Whoever walks in … it could be me, it could be Tiffany, or any of the other workers—and I’m going to treat you like my best friend.”
Olachia brought on two full-time employees – one of whom is a veteran and the other a realtor she met through bar trivia.
“They’re all my friends. I have the best group of friends in the entire world.”
And she’s deeply embedded in the neighborhood now. “I’m the vice president of the Ocean View Business Association,” she says. “I just joined two months ago, and then our vice president stepped down a month ago. I was like, hey, I’m in the middle of a grand opening, but I’ll volunteer to be your vice president.”
Workshops
Workshops are coming soon, with some more quirky than others. “Hopefully, [we’ll] do a Harry Potter themed one soon,” she says. “In August, I want to do two Taylor Swift themed ones.”
And don’t get her started on her opinions about Taylor Swift’s albums. “I love Evermore as much as I love Folklore,” she says. “They go back and forth… I don’t know which I could pick.”
The one thing she can pick, however, is flowers. And her new shop allows customers to find the perfect bouquet for any occasion.
Norfolk, VA – Norfolk’s Half Moone Cruise & Celebration Center, operated by Nauticus, announced an expanded slate of cruise ship port calls from the world’s fourth-largest cruise company, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). In 2027, the 2,400-passenger Norwegian Pearl is scheduled to call on Norfolk each week from April to August. These newly-added visits – 20 in total – represent one of the largest port-of-call commitments in Norfolk’s history and will introduce approximately 49,000 additional cruise ship passengers to the Hampton Roads region. Unlike Carnival Cruise Line’s year-round calls in which passengers set sail for the Bahamas or Bermuda, NCL’s 2027 port-of-call activity positions Norfolk as an itinerary stop. While in town passengers can opt to take guided excursions or explore the region on their own.
“We’ll have the opportunity to welcome nearly 2,500 additional passengers and a thousand crew members every single Tuesday for five months,” said Nauticus executive director, Stephen E. Kirkland. “That activity, coupled with our Carnival sailings each weekend, represents a broadening economic impact for this entire region.”
In February, the Carnival Sunshine began sailing weekly from Norfolk’s cruise terminal; Nauticus has welcomed more than 180,000 unique passenger visits so far this year. Other cruise lines scheduled to visit in 2025 and 2026 include Holland America, Princess, TUI Cruises, AIDA Cruises, Azamara, Seabourn, and Viking.
Address: 4035 E Ocean View Ave, Suite 400, Norfolk, VA 23518 On the Web:sourstreetpizza.com
You can’t help but notice it as soon as you walk into Sour Street Pizza: a massive 4,000-pound stucco pizza oven constantly emanating 650 degrees of heat from open ‘til close.
Owner Nathan Ingram says the oven, key to the restaurant’s operations, was assembled “in under a week,” after bringing it through the front door piece by piece at the Eat Beach pizzeria.
And boy does it ever deliver. Upon opening its doors in January 2025, Sour Street Pizza has quickly gained a solid reputation among beachgoing visitors and locals for its wood-fired pizzas, meatballs, salads and other goodies tailor-made for an apres-beach chowdown.
Ingram’s favorites?
“Pepperoni’s number one. The margherita sells a lot, and the white pie with toppings—that’s really good,” he says. He keeps all pizzas at one perfect size to maintain consistency and quality.
“It’s the perfect size for our oven,” he says.
Built With Intention
Everything on the menu is carefully selected by Ingram and his team.
“We use organic flour from Utah,” he says. “We use San Marzano tomatoes from the region. That’s Reggiano… not cheap. It’s good stuff.”
Ingram’s journey from IT sales guy to pizzamaker started during lockdown.
“I got into pizza over COVID,” he tells VisitNorfolk. “I started making sourdough bread and sourdough pizza on the Big Green Egg. The pizzas were coming out really good, and I decided to buy the food truck and quit my job.”
Eventually the truck became so popular that he decided to go full brick and mortar at the beginning of this year, settling deliberately in East Beach.
“I grew up like five minutes down the street,” he says. “There’s not many restaurants around here, and we’re right by the beach.”
His time slinging pies outside COVA Brewing — “We were there every Thursday. And then some weekends, some weeks we were there for three days.” — built the local rapport that made the brick‑and‑mortar an absolute must.
Ingram and his crew begin stretching dough at 7:30 each morning. From there, wood-fired heat meets a well-honed technique, with each pizza spending just a precious few minutes in the 650-degree heat.
As he carefully moves a pizza around in the oven, he uses clock speak to describe the pie’s position. “If it’s really hot in here, I’m at like 3 o’clock… Right now, it’s like 6 o’clock, which is good. Right at the end, if it hasn’t gotten that nice golden brown, it goes a little closer to the flame.”
For Ingram, every slice is carefully considered.
“The dough is science, but you have to know what to look for. It varies from day to day. You can’t just say, ‘bake one minute.’ Some days it takes a little longer. Some days, you have to be able to look at it and tell.”
Sour Street’s crew of 15 helps bring his vision to life. And, of course, where would any pizza joint be without its fans?
“Everybody eats pizza,” he says. “We have a very diverse clientele.”
In the end, Ingram says, “This is not a chain. We’re trying to make the best pizza, and then we price it accordingly. Most places are trying to run a business without the passion for their pizza. We’re trying to do that too, but we start with the best product.”
And with its new home in East Beach, right around the corner from Norfolk’s sand and surf, Sour Street Pizza fits like a glove.
July 2025 update: Since we first featured Less Than, owner Chris Simmonds has been hard at work transforming the adjacent 124-year-old house into a multipurpose bar and bottle shop with a small commercial kitchen. The new space retains its homey architecture—complete with picture rail molding, chair rail, and custom built-ins—creating a cozy, lived-in vibe more akin to a salon than a retail storefront.
While Less Than will continue to operate in the shared space for now, the long-term vision is for this new venue—called Ceremony—to become a full-fledged neighborhood non-alcoholic bar with a focus on quality drinks, community events and an evolving food program. A recent jazz night previewed the potential of the space, which will also be licensed for ghost kitchen use and culinary pop-ups.
The shift toward Ceremony was partly serendipitous. Simmonds had been scouting ready-to-use restaurant spaces when the landlord of the current property (also the landlord for the original Less Than space) strongly encouraged him to stay and expand here instead. That meant a larger up-front investment, but it also allowed for continuity and creative control.
“Over the years, we’ve just become a part of people’s routine,” Simmonds says. “Not everyone follows us on social, they just stop by when they need something. This new space gives them another reason to do that.”
Stay tuned for weekly game nights, vinyl listening sessions, jazz pop-ins, and a rotating calendar of community-driven events—soon to be hosted under the name Ceremony.
Original story below:
In a neighborhood known for its walkability and tight-knit community, Less Than has found the perfect home. Found in Ghent, this zero-waste and refill shop is all about revolution—the kind rooted in sustainability, mindfulness and spending dollars locally.
Store founder Chris Simmonds didn’t originally have “become a retail pioneer” on his bingo card, but here we are. “We came about out of necessity,” he says. “There just wasn’t anywhere like this in town.” Originally launched online, Less Than quickly evolved. After a short stint in a mobile tiny home converted into a rolling storefront, COVID accelerated Simmonds’ timeline and the move to a permanent brick-and-mortar space. By May 2020, Simmonds opened the doors at 803 Shirley Ave.—just as much of the world was closing its own.
Five Years in Ghent
The shop celebrates its fifth anniversary this spring, and it’s not hard to see why it’s still going strong. Less Than offers everything from bulk soaps and cleaning supplies to sustainable personal care, baby items and pet goods. Each item comes in compostable, refillable or packaging-free forms. Customers can bring their own containers or pick from sanitized community-donated jars, then refill as they see fit.
Of course, Less Than sells much more than soap. The store’s philosophy is rooted in changing people’s daily habits. “The most sustainable product is the one you already have,” Simmonds says. “You don’t have to replace everything overnight. Start small. Get just a few ounces. See what works.”
Inside, the store is split into intentional zones: one area offers self-care gifts like mindful games and journaling kits, while the refill station stocks everyday essentials like laundry detergent, dish soap and facial cleansers. The only thing that’s missing is synthetic fragrances and dyes. Local makers contribute to the shop’s unique inventory, too: Norfolk seamstresses provide reusable cloths, face rounds and even mop heads, keeping more dollars circulating locally.
Ceremony
Three years ago, the shop expanded to include Ceremony, a curated non-alcoholic bottle shop that features zero-proof spirits, functional drinks with adaptogens and a variety of mixers. It’s another extension of the store’s ethos—helping people meet their needs without compromise, whether they’re sober-curious or just looking for something new.
For travelers living a low-waste lifestyle, Less Than is a destination all its own. “People seek us out when they visit Norfolk,” says Simmonds, noting that vegetarians, zero-waste enthusiasts and sober travelers often arrive knowing exactly what they’re looking for—or discovering it for the first time.
Ghent locals already know the place is a gem. Residents routinely drop in for quick refills, eco-friendly gifts or just to see what’s new in stock. Less Than is just that way: unassuming, warm and rooted in a bigger purpose.
Less Than is open Tuesday–Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m. Closed Mondays. Delivery available within Norfolk.
When the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2026, Norfolk will take center stage as the official host port for Sail250® Virginia in June. With more than 60 ships representing 20 countries, Sail250 Virginia (June 13-23, 2026) will be similar to Norfolk’s five previous OpSail events, but on a much larger scale and with considerably more fanfare.
As one of the main events recognized by the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission, Sail250® Virginia will see more than 10,000 officers, cadets and crew docking at Waterside, Town Point Park and points beyond. The event will kick off with a massive Parade of Sail on Friday, June 19, 2026, featuring dozens of international vessels along with the usual favorites.
The 250 Commission is a government-established advisory group dedicated to celebrating America and Virginia’s simultaneous 250th anniversaries, technically known as a semiquincentennial.
Overlap with Harborfest and Juneteenth
And if it wasn’t already set to be a big party, the week’s festivities also coincide with the 50th edition of Festevents’ annual Harborfest as well as Juneteenth observances. Each event already draws thousands of visitors each year, meaning this will be one of Norfolk’s largest-ever public celebrations – and one not to miss.
While the details of how all three events will share the same space are still being determined, what is known is that the event will feature multiple ships berthed at Waterside for free public boarding, not only in Norfolk, but in affiliate harbors in Alexandria, Cape Charles, Chesapeake, Hampton, Onancock, Portsmouth, Richmond, Smithfield/Isle of Wight, Yorktown and ships at anchorage in Virginia Beach.
A Can’t-Miss Event with Regional Impacts
“It will be a once-in-a-generation event that honors our naval heritage, promotes international goodwill, and brings millions in economic impact to our region and Commonwealth,” said Sail250® Virginia President and CEO Karen Scherberger.
Festevents said in addition to on-water activities, Sail250® Virginia will also offer multiple, hands-on educational experiences for local and visiting students as well as an Adopt-a-Ship program designed to connect participants with international crews prior to the ships’ arrivals in June.
