Norfolk offers a superb array of exciting attractions — historical sites, museums, restaurants, and retail shops. No matter what you're into, Norfolk has something for everyone. Most of the city is easily accessible via car, train, or even a short walk, making it one of the most tourist-friendly cities in the region.
⚓ The Nauticus National Maritime Center
📍 Located right beside the cruise terminal
The Nauticus National Maritime Center is an essential stop, especially for families. Interactive exhibits and touch pools offer an up-close look at a wide array of sea creatures — and you can climb aboard the USS Wisconsin, the final and largest battleship ever built by the US Navy.
🌸 Norfolk Botanical Garden
Virginia's largest botanical garden, the Norfolk Botanical Garden covers more than 150 acres of stunning natural beauty — lush gardens, exotic plants, and wildlife with plenty of calm and peaceful spots. The gardens are even more enchanting when explored via the river cruise. Easy to reach by tram and a short walk from downtown, with plenty to enjoy for kids and adults alike.
🏛️ The Chrysler Museum of Art
The Chrysler Museum of Art offers an extensive and fascinating collection of artwork and artifacts from ancient times. Displays are dedicated to Egyptian, Persian, Indian, Greek, Roman, African, and Native American art — an absolutely essential stop for anyone with even the slightest interest in ancient culture. Don't miss the exceptional glass and porcelain exhibits, among the finest on display anywhere in the world.
🦁 Virginia Zoo
A clean, well-maintained zoo perfect for families with small children. You'll only need a few hours to wander its grounds and see elephants, red pandas, kangaroos, tigers, and much more. There's also a small train ride and a café for a bite to eat.
🚢 Naval Station Norfolk
One of the largest and oldest naval bases in the world — and it offers tours! For a small fee (free for active duty personnel), a guided bus tour takes you around the base, led by Naval personnel. The 45-minute tour includes aircraft carriers, destroyers, and amphibious assault ships, plus historic homes from the 1907 Jamestown Exposition marking the 300th anniversary of the founding of the Virginia colony.