Looking for the perfect Dad date or outing this Father’s Day? We’ve rounded up the best things to do with Dad in Norfolk. Whether you celebrate Dad on Father’s Day or every day, create a lasting memory with him in Norfolk this year.
Take a Cruise
Hop aboard the Victory Rover for a two-hour narrated harbor cruise where guests experience the sights and sounds of one of the world’s busiest seaports, including the world’s largest naval base. See destroyers, guided missile cruisers, submarines, aircraft carriers and more.
Go Golfing
Norfolk’s Ocean View Golf Course is a great way to kick it with Dad. Swing for all 18 holes or just the simple nine on their hybrid Bermuda greens and plush, oak-lined fairways. Once you’re done, treat Dad to some of the city’s best barbeque at Bar-Q, located inside Bold Mariner Brewing Company. Bar-Q has an à la carte menu, but we highly suggest filling up a platter with their tender brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, rich mac and cheese, and spicy (but not too spicy) jalapeño and cheddar links. Because Bar-Q lives within Bold Mariner, it’s only appropriate to pair the fresh smoked ribs with a Frogman Lager.
Catch a Fish
Spend the afternoon casting your line on the Ocean View Fishing Pier, the longest free-standing pier in North America. Once you’ve caught enough fish and worked up an appetite, head on over to My Mama’s Kitchen for their mouth-watering Drip Sandwich: fried chicken dipped in their secret drip sauce, topped with house coleslaw, pickles and remoulade on a soft brioche bun. Round out your day for Dad with a refreshing brew from coastal-themed COVA Brewing Company, just down the street.
Kayak the Lafayette River
Explore the Lafayette River by kayak! Norfolk Kayak Rentals, located along Colley Avenue, offers single and tandem kayaks for rent. Paddle along the river and enjoy the waterways of Norfolk. The inlets are packed with sites of stunning architectural homes, majestic birds and magnificent sunsets only obtainable via waterway. Looking for a bite and a brew afterward? Head to Elation Brewery for beer and a wood-fired pizza. The Bakehouse at Elation is housed within the brewery and turns out freshly baked, wood-fired flatbread pizzas.
Relax on the Beach
Dad works hard all year long, so why not give him a chance to relax, soak up the sun and take a little dip in the Chesapeake Bay? The beaches of Ocean View provide calm waters suitable for families with young kids. Plus, there’s plenty of eats, drinks and things to do nearby. See how to spend a day in Ocean View and East Beach.
Bike the Elizabeth River Trail
Break out your bikes, or rent an electric Pedego bike and explore the Elizabeth River Trail, Norfolk’s 10.5-mile-long walk and bikeable pathway that takes you through multiple neighborhoods with waterfront views. Starting out in our thriving Downtown, the trail winds you through a few historic neighborhoods and campuses and ends in the beautiful neighborhood of Lochhaven. The ERT is dotted with breweries Dad will love, like Benchtop and Smartmouth, plus delicious restaurants along the way like Torch, the Birch and Grandiflora. If you’re new to the city, it’s a great look in a day in the life of a Norfolkian.
Catch a Tides Game
There is nothing quite as classic as enjoying a hot dog with Dad at a baseball game. Norfolk is home to the Norfolk Tides, a minor league baseball team in the Triple-A International League. As an affiliate team of the Baltimore Orioles, the Norfolk Tides play at Harbor Park on the Elizabeth River in Downtown Norfolk. Throw on your baseball cap and cheer on the Tides this Father’s Day. This year’s Father’s Day features a Pre-Game Catch on the Field. See their full schedule.