FAQs

Here are your answers to Norfolk’s most frequently asked questions:

What is Norfolk, VA known for?

Norfolk has always been known as a Navy city, featuring the world’s largest naval base. But over the past decade, its food and art scene has exploded, creating an eclectic, vibrant and urban city along Virginia’s waterways. Norfolk is also known for its vibrant collection of mermaids found swimming throughout the city.

Does Norfolk, Virginia have a beach?

Yes, we have 7.5 miles of beach in the neighborhood of Ocean View and East Beach.

Are there tours of the Norfolk Naval base?

Yes, you can tour the Norfolk Naval Base by boat. Check out the Victory Rover Cruise for more information.

What is the best time to visit Norfolk, VA?

Honestly, there isn’t a bad time to visit Norfolk. Warm springs and falls make exploring the outdoors enjoyable, while hot summers make for the perfect beach vacation. Norfolk has mild winters, so frostbitten noses are never a concern.

What’s the weather like in Norfolk, VA?

Most days in Norfolk are mild, with an average annual high temperature of 68 degrees and an average annual low temperature of 51 degrees. Summer brings more heat and humidity, and we’ve been known to get a snowstorm from time to time in winter.

Is Norfolk an accessible city?

Check out our Norfolk Accessibility Guide to learn about the ways our city is accommodating to travelers in wheelchairs or who may need additional assistance due to hearing, vision or sensory sensitivities.

How far is the airport from downtown?

It’s about a 20-minute car ride.

Are Norfolk’s beaches pet-friendly?

Yes, but they need to be leashed at all times and are not allowed on beaches from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. seasonally, beginning the Saturday before Memorial Day through Labor Day. 

How far is Norfolk, VA from Washington, D.C.?

We are only about 200 miles away (3.5 hours without traffic) from Washington, D.C. 

How far is Norfolk, VA from Richmond?

We are only about 100 miles away (2 hours without traffic) from Richmond.

How far is Norfolk, VA from Williamsburg?

We are only about 52 miles away (1 hour without traffic) from Williamsburg.

How far is Norfolk, VA from Virginia Beach?

Downtown Norfolk to the Virginia Beach oceanfront is 18 miles away, about a 2-minute drive without traffic.

How far is Norfolk, VA from the Outer Banks?

We are only about 72 miles away (1.5 hours without traffic) from the Outer Banks.

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