Best Things to See and do in Norfolk, Virginia

If you’re looking for the best things to see and do in Norfolk, I’ve got you covered. Norfolk is a vibrant coastal city located in the Hampton Roads region of southeastern Virginia. When it comes to getaways, Norfolk is a wonderful destination to consider whether you’re traveling alone, with friends, or with family.

If you’re planning to drive from the Greater Philly area, I’d recommend planning a 3- to 4- day trip. Norfolk is about 5 hours from Philadelphia, 3 ½ hours from Washington D.C., and 30 minutes from Virginia Beach. Norfolk has something for everyone whether you’re a lover of the fine arts, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast.

It’s home to an array of historic attractions, delicious restaurants, hidden artistic treasures, and beautiful waterfront views. During the holiday season, it’s even more fun to explore!

Read along for my must-visit spots around Norfolk.

[Sponsored post] Thank you Visit Norfolk for hosting me!

Where to Stay in Norfolk, Virginia

renaissance portsmouth-norfolk

If you’re looking for great accommodations in Norfolk, I suggest staying at the Renaissance Portsmouth-Norfolk Waterfront. I’ve stayed at various Renaissance properties, and I can’t say enough great things about this brand.

The Renaissance Portsmouth-Norfolk is an excellent choice due to its prime location, amenities, stunning waterfront views, and stellar customer service. Enjoy exclusive amenities such as digital check-in, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and a gift shop.

The hotel features modern, clean rooms with plush beds and great amenities that ensure a comfortable stay. The Renaissance also boasts an on-site restaurant, Foggy Point Bar & Grill, serving up delicious Casual American fare. In the evening, step out on the patio and cozy up by one of their fire pits.

I couldn’t be more pleased with the service and overall stay!

What to See and do in Norfolk, Virginia

Chrysler museum of art

The Chrysler Museum of Art is a state-of-the-art museum founded by Walter P. Chrysler, Jr. It includes 50 galleries with over 30,000 pieces of art as well as a glass studio. Fun fact: In 1971, Walter P. Chrysler, Jr. gifted the City of Norfolk 7,000+ artworks from his personal art collection. Subsequently, The Norfolk Museum of Arts and Sciences was renamed in his honor. 

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This museum features some absolutely stunning exhibits, including ancient and contemporary art. I was completely amazed by the vast collection of glass works – each piece is truly beautiful in its own way. A few exhibits that I found particularly interesting are Black Orpheus: Jacob Lawrence and the Mbari Club and To See a World in a Grain of Sand. The museum is family-friendly and offers many interactive activities, demos, and performances.

The Chrysler Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am – 5 pm and Sunday from noon to 5 pm. Museum admission and parking are free.  

winterfest on the wisconsin

Norfolk features a variety of festive events during the holiday season and Winterfest on the Wisconsin is one you definitely don’t want to miss. Located at Nauticus, Winterfest on the Wisconsin features over 1 million dazzling lights around and on the Battleship Wisconsin. 

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Through January 1, enjoy magical holiday activities and experiences such as Mistletoe Marina, Elf Door Discovery, Lighted Sailboat Parade, Tree Lighting Ceremony, and The Santa Experience. Winterfest is a phenomenal activity for everyone – adults and children alike. Grab a hot chocolate or spiced hot apple cider and explore the magic of this captivating winter attraction!

Click here for more information and to purchase tickets.

norfolk botanical garden

During the holiday season, Norfolk Botanical Garden is transformed into an enchanted garden adorned with dazzling light displays. If you’re looking for a spectacular holiday attraction to visit in Norfolk, be sure to save The Garden of Lights to your itinerary.

The festival runs until January 1, 2023, and tickets can be purchased here.

selden market

Selden Market is an indoor market providing a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. It’s your go-to place to discover emerging small businesses in Norfolk. At Selden Market, you’ll find a variety of boutique shops, cafes & restaurants, and pop-up events.

Visit their website for more information about vendors and upcoming events.

Elizabeth river trail

The Elizabeth River Trail (ERT) is a 10.5-mile pedestrian and biking trail that runs adjacent to Downtown Norfolk. The trail starts at Harbor Park and goes through Downtown, Freemason, Fort Norfolk, and ends in Lochhaven. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll definitely want to add this trail to your list. It’s such a fun way to stay active while exploring this vast city!

Along the Elizabeth River Trail, there are also Pedego Electic Bikes available to rent.  

neon district

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Norfolk is home to some of the most strikingly beautiful art installations and murals. Be sure to visit Norfolk’s creative arts district (NEON District), and check out the amazing street art all around the neighborhood.

Keep your eye out for Norfolk’s infamous mermaids scattered around the city as well (they’re known for them!) In addition, there are a variety of unique sculptures and larger-than-life outdoor installations throughout the city.

Click here to read more.

pagoda & oriental garden

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Located along the waterfront in the Freemason Harbor, the Pagoda & Oriental Garden is a stunning hidden gem that provides a tranquil space to unwind from the liveliness of the city. The two-story pagoda tower features beautiful Chinese architectural details and is the centerpiece of the garden.

This structure provides gorgeous sunset views of the Elizabeth River and includes a restaurant that serves lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. Enjoy the serene atmosphere that features a footbridge, koi pond, waterfalls, and lush greenery.

Where to Eat in Norfolk, Virginia

cafe milo

Cafe Milo is a quaint cafe located in the NEON District. Upon entering the cafe, we were greeted with bright smiles and warm hospitality. Cafe Milo has a cozy and approachable vibe that makes you feel right at home. Not only that, the food is stellar as well! 

They serve up a range of tasty sandwiches, breakfast items, and coffee. I recommend trying their French Toast & Chicken, Chicken & Waffles, and Milo Burger. Be sure to try their whipped coffee as well. It’s one of their most popular items and for good reason!

The French toast itself was delicious, however, I personally think the bananas could’ve been caramelized to provide the perfect amount of sweetness. The waffles were really yummy and cooked to perfection – crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The Milo Burger was seasoned to perfection, as were the fries. 

While there, I had a chance to speak with the owner, and his passion for food and providing exceptional service really showed. Overall, I had a great experience here and would 100% recommend visiting during your trip to Norfolk. 

glass light restaurant

Situated in the Glass Light Hotel, The Glass Light Restaurant is an upscale, Michelin-star establishment offering French-inspired fare. The menu features dishes crafted using locally-sourced ingredients.

I totally recommend dining here for the exceptional service and elegant atmosphere featuring beautiful works of glass art. You can’t go wrong with the Gem Lettuce Radicchio, Joyce Farms Chicken Breast, and Pumpkin Entremet. Everything was presented so beautifully and immensely flavorful.

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Mr. shawarma

If you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine like me, be sure to add Mr. Shawarma to your Norfolk list. This laid-back spot features fast-casual Middle Eastern street food such as falafel, bowls, pitas, and more.

urban ice

When your sweet tooth hits, I recommend heading to Urban Ice to try their popular rolled ice cream, milkshakes, sweet crepes, Boba Tea, cakes, and more. They also offer vegan options!

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I had such a memorable and enjoyable stay in Norfolk. If you have never considered visiting Norfolk, I hope this getaway guide has put the city on your radar.

It’s a popular destination in the summer, however, it makes for a great winter getaway too. For more hotel/restaurant recommendations and planning resources, check out VisitNorfolk.com.

Be sure to follow me on Instagram for more Norfolk content, and read more of my weekend getaway guides here. 

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