Top 50 things to do and attractions in Norfolk

Truly one of the best BG's in the country, I make every effort to visit in every one of my biannual trips to VA. From the diversity of habitats to the heart-filling colorful butterfly garden with a vast diversity of butterflies and other pollinators to the peaceful Japanese tea garden to the amazing exhibits and holiday light displays, it is top notch. Add to this the opp to be there this year during fall migration and was delighted to find many visiting songbirds including Palm Warblers and a Clay-colored Sparrow. And all of this is BEFORE the expansion that opens next Spring. My heartfelt thanks to those who have made this BG a reality. It is truly one of my happiest places and I tell every BG I visit all about it.

Had the best time looking at the lights. All the different themes were beautiful with the sound effects and music. It wasn't crowded, so we could just take our time. They did have food trucks set up but I didnt get anything. Will definitely go back :)

We had a 6 hour connection at the airport in Norfolk, VA and a really kind gentleman at the information desk recommmened this beautiful botanical garden which was just across the road from the Airport. We literally walked from the airport to garden. It was so beautiful with a rose garden voted #1 in the U.S., a Japanese bonsai garden, a butterfly sanctuary and a kids Adventure Garden. The best part is that there is a free guided trolley tour that takes you around the property every hour on the hour, and gives all the details of the garden. The staff is warm and friendly and are fully dedicated to taking care of the plants. If you love plants it's a MUST do!

Spent a lovely morning there with my mother. We got coffee at the food truck behind the visitor center and did a tram tour. The team tour was a great way to see a majority of the garden, plus get the history of the garden and some plants. We didn't have a ton of time to spend so we checked out the Japanese Garden and Sub tropical gardens afterward.

Phenomenal place to visit and explore whether you’re a resident of Virginia or just passing through. Would definitely recommend checking it out!! Bear in mind it’s of course much more vibrant and colorful in the spring/summertime. Not to mention they’re dog friendly on Sunday’s!

Beautiful garden. Easy to walk around. The tram is a nice addition to take a tour, or hop on/off while walking around. The rose garden is large. Butterfly area was a bit of a letdown. Would also have liked a better food option than just the coffee truck.

Beautiful Botanical Garden. We spent 5 hours in hot summer day and not even saw all parts of garden. Butterfly garden was interesting. Dogs allowed sundays, but not sure if you can go everywhere. Sure to come next time to revisit such a magnificent place

Incredible experience. Completely free to visit and view ORIGINAL HISTORICAL ART. I cried many, many times. It was such a special, emotional experience. This was my first time having the opportunity to visit an art museum, and I was absolutely amazed. The staff was very kind, they open the door for you upon arrival and exit. They ask for your zip code at check-in, and give you a visitors guide. The staff are very helpful in answering questions as well. They have a beautiful piano played by some of the most memorable names in classical music, and we asked if someone could play it. They informed us that they have professional pianists come to play it to keep it in good condition. We are looking forward to coming back at a time when we can hear it.

I've loved this museum since I was a kid living in Norfolk and now enjoy sharing it with my granddaughters. The new Perry Glass studio is the crown jewel of this magnificent museum! Plan your visit around attending one of the glass blowing demos that happen daily at noon. Before Covid, they used to hold wonderful jazz music events after hours in the main building. Many of the events and activities are finally coming back. Be sure to check the events and activities page for their many offerings. Zinnia Cafe has amazing food! Expect a bit of a wait if you visit at lunch time. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors. Surprisingly, this museum is kid friendly even with an emphasis on glass. There's a large, interactive children's exhibit near the entrance that my granddaughters adore. There's also a summer camp program. One of the best parts of visiting the Chrysler is that parking and entry is free!

This was a favorite part of our family trip to Virginia! The museum is free to enter and is a never-ending fun experience. There is so much to see! One of my favorite collections was of all the Tiffany Glass.

Love this museum. We were there for the native museum glass exhibit. Truly wonderful. Another reason I wanted to go was for their Nancy Camden Witt paintings which I have wanted to see in person for years. They were the last thing we found along side a Man Ray sculpture and Dali portrait. This review courtesy of artist David F. Heatwole.

Extremely pleasurable and beautiful location. It is shared with the glass museum next door and a rock garden that spans both. The art maintained within the museum is also priceless and worth a visit. Will definitely come back in the future for newer installations.

Loved this! First of all, it's free! So what's not to love? Great glass collection and other permanent items from around the world. Really really enjoyed the temporary exhibit on Native American glass art. Definitely something I knew nothing about. Nice gift shop. Restaurant food was good but you have to put your name on a list when it gets busy. If I had known, I would have put my name in earlier then hopped off to see something else.

Beautiful museum with a great mix of art from centuries ago to now. A friendly knowledgeable staff that is happy to answer questions. Kid friendly. Clean restrooms and plenty of parking.

The BB Wisconsin was AMAZING!!! The 90 minute tour was well worth the ticket. Seeing the captains quarters and battle sections, a battle reenactment from Desert Storm, and walking were some of the bravest men ever to have lived was inspiring and humbling. The museum inside was incredible. Interactive lessons on sailing and games for kids. Would absolutely come back again.

This was a great adventure with the family. From the Nauticus interaction museum, the battle ship Wisconsin and the victory boat tour. Unfortunately we arrived on a Sunday and had to really run through everything to be able to experience it... but even then it was fun. USS Wisconsin was a blast to explore and see the history. The victory cruise was fun but the youngest, 7, lost interest pretty quickly. The interaction exhibits in Nauticus kept the kids and adults entertained the remainder of the time. Highly recommend and of these three experiences!

It was interesting to see. Couldn't go high in the tower or go inside the actual big gun turrets. Can't go to the engine room either. Basically you can't go to where you want to go. I went there when it was 100 degrees. I could only go there when it was hot. Anyways they have a nice little naval museum in the air conditioning.

Beautiful tour and an amazing place! We got to see battleships aircraft carriers and much more!! Dolphins all throughout the whole tour as well! It was super cool. Then there's a museum as well and you can go out and tour the Wisconsin! A very pleasant experience touring the battleship!!

First for reference let me start with I've been to all 4 of the Iowa class battleships after visiting the Wisconsin the other day. After seeing the Wisconsin, I've been left speechless for the way this great ship is being treated and exhibited. It's not even Halloween yet, and you can barely navigate her deck for the sheer massive amount of gaudy looking christmas decorations already being set up. I'm sure she will look amazing at night when it's all turned on. But let us eat our turkey, or at least have our candy before you start shoving that holiday down our throats. 1) the people in charge of maintaining this vesssel, should be ashamed of themselves for the utter lack of respect and care that shows in numerous locations. The neglect for a piece of history is abhorant. NONE of the other ships that I have visited have shown any signs like the photos I'm including. The decks are in terrible condition, not being cleaned and showing obvious signs of standing water that has dried. There are clogged drains allowing standing water to accumulate and soak in other locations. And the paint is peeling across most of the command structure. 2) the "tour" is terrible. Lack of proper signage indicating a flow through the vessel. It's pretty much a "roam wherever you want" type experience. While that can be appreciated by some, a more organized route through the vessel would be the best way to show how the crews lived and operated such a massive warship. The New Jersey had in my opinion the most accessible, and clearly marked path of all of these great ships. 3) blocking off the command structure from the public with standard tickets is downright rude. Making people pay extra to see both the command decks and the engine room is ridiculous. I've been on the bridge of all 3 of her sister ships, and in the engine room of the New Jersey, without paying extra for this privledge. While I understand those areas are part of a "guided tour" the other vessels also have upgrades for guided tours of various aspects of the vessel for an extra charge, but you're still allowed to visit these other areas. You just don't get the extra history lesson by not doing the tour. The Wisconsin is labled as the "last battleship" but if she is not taken better care of, she will be the first completed Iowa class to be scrapped. If the people in charge have no desire to take care of this vessel, give her to another state to watch over her in her retirement. Or let her join the others who have been immortilized as reefs to protect our waters and drive tourism for recreational divers. Norfolk: to be the historical first naval shipyard "city" for the U.S., as well as the largest naval station in the world. To be charged with the honor of caring one of the great battleships that protected our freedom for her 50 years of service is an honor that is not being fulfilled. Nauticus..........You can do better, and should.

This was fantastic. I loved the educational exhibits and the museum. I learned so much about the ship and it's significance. We did the self walk through and it was fun exploring all the areas of the ship, but gave a true reverence of how it must've been to serve on the ship. I truly earned respect for those that served. They truly sacrificed for our freedom and for that I'm greatful and honored to be free and walk among their experience. Thank you Nauticus for a wonderful experience and preserving our history.

We went with kids so the review is only about the 3rd floor. It was really pro-science and hands-on stuff for the kids, so if you're into that, it's great! I personally am not, so I was not well entertained. The under the sea themed playground type room was fun for the kids too.

We love the zoo. It was a really nice day and even though it seemed busy in the parking lot it really was busy inside. I’m docking a star because the food and pricing at the restaurant in the zoo was way overpriced and not that great but the zoo itself was really good to have a lot there. It’s a nice walk around lots of benches lots of shade. It’s just an enjoyable day. Pro Tip if you have a Norfolk botanical gardens membership until the end of September, you can get in the zoo for free.

Great zoo, been to a few in different states. Love their reptile exhibit, so many snakes and a cute crocodile. Its a small zoo, nice for s0ending all day or getting it done in 3-4 hours. Bring a lunch, their food isn't worth the cost.

A lot of fun to check out the animals which looked well cared for. The zoo had a great layout where everything connected back into the main pavilion which was nice and made it much easier to figure out what you had next. They also have a nice area to pet cows and goats for the kids.

We are members of the NC Aquarium, so we were able to get discounted tickets to the Virginia Zoo, since they are AZA-accredited. I was impressed with the different types of discounted tickets they offer. We made our check-in time for Sunday at 12:30 pm, since we had some other plans beforehand to get lunch. We also brought a reusable water bottle in, so we did not get any food or drinks at the zoo. When we got to the gate, there was one party ahead of us, so we did not wait long. We checked in using the barcode and then verified our membership. The layout of the zoo is very intuitive and simple. The paths are easy to follow, allowing you to navigate through the entire zoo in one loop. The animals we encountered were very interactive, which I loved! I really enjoyed seeing the American bison, the armadillo, and the crocodile. The reptile area is way bigger than you would think, and all of the animals were so cool to see. They have a farm area with goats that you can pet. All of the exhibits were beautiful, with lots of space for the animals. When we went, it was not too busy, which we appreciated. Overall, this was one of the better zoo experiences that we have had on the East Coast! The gift shop has a lot of cool items, and we spent about $70 in there. Parking is free and spaces are plenty. I would definitely come back!

What a wonderful experience at the Virginia Zoo! I bought my tickets online—super convenient and easy to use. Once inside, everything was well-organized, clean, and inviting. I loved walking through the beautiful garden areas filled with colorful flowers—it really added to the peaceful vibe. Watching the animals up close was such a joy. Each exhibit was thoughtfully designed and gave a great view of the animals in a natural setting. One of the highlights was riding the zoo train for just $3—such a fun way to relax and take in the scenery. A perfect place for families, friends, or solo visitors. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a lovely day outdoors with nature and wildlife!

Had a great trip to the zoo! We were able to see everything in about two hours. They have a full reptile house, tons of different animals, and even a baby orangutan, which was such a highlight. The petting zoo was my favorite—you can actually walk into the goat area and pet them. Everything was very clean and well maintained.

This is a very small zoo compared to others we’ve been to, and it only took us a couple hours to get through. I think the zoo could use a better play area for kids and maybe a few more exhibits. Our favorite part was the reptile house. We were sad to see that we couldn’t feed the giraffes and that there were no elephants. Overall good experience, but I don’t think we’d come back if in the area.

We are local and I’ve been on the sunset cruise before and knew I wanted to bring the family next time. It’s always a little nerve wracking taking our son to a new place not knowing how he will do and how accommodating the place will be. The crew was amazing with our son that has multiple disabilities and he loved sailing around. Thank you for making our experience as stress free as possible.

Enjoyed my Harborfest Fireworks cruise! The boat is comfortable, there is seating on deck and below. Bathrooms are very clean and nice. Snacks and drinks are very reasonably priced, too! Beautiful craft, and really delightful staff.

Had an amazing time!! I was glad I saw it was a harbor tour first, so I had a good understanding on what we were doing. Brought the kids (6, 7, 8) out for a sunset tour. The captain and staff were amazing people and the entertainment was great!! "Recommend doing" does not put enough weight on how much I would encourage the sunset tour for a great way to wind down!!

Sunset cruise on the American Rover at Waterside in Norfolk, VA. It was a truly amazing two hours around Norfolk and Portsmouth on the Elizabeth River. The crew were very engaging with passengers. They helped make this a very memorable event. Highly recommended this cruise.

Ample seating on deck and below. Below deck are restrooms, a gift shop, and a place for refreshments. It was a great time. The weather was nice. The staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. Connor was absolutely amazing.

A full service cruise. The 1st hour is some history of the Norfolk Navy area. The ship pic is of a ship in the process of being built. The 2nd hour includes a singer/guitar player who will take song requests. He was excellent. The seating onboard is comfortable & not crowded. It was fun for all & reasonably priced. Bonus is a sunset view or full moon like in the pic.

What a wonderful experience spending time with our friends on the American Rover!! Beautiful weather and the crew was fantastic. The only downside was the musician. He was just okay.. The last couple of years the musician was so much better. But I would recommend the American Rover Sunset Cruise to all.

Very nice walk, scenic, informative. If you go check out the shops and especially the military letters made in bronze scattered in the memorial area.

Nice lil Norfolk trail to get out and do a run or talk a walk. Super easy, peaceful vibes the entire way through. Waterfront views.

Great walking trail along the Norfolk waterfront. Once you see the ERT signs it's easy to follow!

A nice trail surrounding the water and snakling the Ghent historic district. The only issue for first time users and visitors is that it needs better signage due to detours, so people might get lost. Otherwise perfect.

I have been walking this trail since it was created and I’m so happy that it is still being invested in by the community. There is always a new feature or event. The Weyanoke Bird & Wildflower Sanctuary is lovely and the Slover Library Story Trail with pages of picture books printed on canvas and affixed to the chain link fence each Summer are amazing.

Great waterfront walking trail when the weather is nice. Benches if you want to rest or just admire the view.

Nicest office building I’ve been in a long time. Nice architectural stop on the trail. Architect office in front left had great exhibit on hand press posters

Well worth the visit when in Norfolk. Great collection of memorabilia and historical stuff related the General MacArthur and various campaigns that he was involved with spanning decades and wars during his career. He definitely lived in interesting times and was involved with some major turning points through history. Very well maintained museum with brief video history of MacArthur’s lifetime and involvement in the military. Clean bathrooms, nice gift shop and friendly staff. Parking is available across the street at the MacArthur mall for $1.00 an hour. Expect to spend at least an hour for a quick tour or longer if you want to immerse yourself in the collection. Admission is free and there is lots to see in the downtown area. Highly recommended.

Really nice museum. Highly recommend for those who are interested in east Asia wars.

The MacArthur Memorial offers an unforgettable experience with its insightful tour that unveils untold stories. Exploring the memorial is a journey through history, and the guided tour brilliantly brings to light the often overlooked narratives. The depth of information and the engaging storytelling make this visit truly memorable. A must-see for anyone seeking a profound understanding of MacArthur's legacy and the untold tales that enrich our historical perspective.

A good memorial/ museum to learn about General Douglas MacArthur, a man who dedicated his entire life to serve the country and protect all American citizens. Cost $0 to get in and you can easily spend 1.5 hours in it so there is really no excuse for you to no go and learn about the history. Parking is available in the shopping mall, cost only $1 for the first 3 hours.

A must visit place for any WW2 enthusiasts. The memorial was beautiful and very well kept. The musuem had lots of personal items that belonged to General MacArthur. I am a huge history fanatic and I was in awe of seeing his corn cob pipe Raybans and hat in person.

So many awesome things to look at and they have a wonderful gift shop. Everyone working there was very nice and knowledgeable. We parked in the mall parking garage and spent three hours between the Museum and eating at the food court. It does cost to park in the garage, but we were there for 3 hours and it only cost us $1, not bad at all. We could have easily spent the whole day there if we took our time to look at everything. It really is a great place to go, and to top it off, it is all free for the public and so well kept. I am actually looking forward to going back for a showing about Iwo Jima they will be having in their theatre room.

As a Korean-American and also military fam, I will always be grateful to General Douglas Macarthur for saving South Korea from North Korea. Had he not intervened at the Battle of Incheon with his smart strategy, North Korea would’ve won and all of us would be under communist rule. I came to give my thanks to his gravesite and also viewed the museum with awe at this amazing and accomplished General, giving his life to duty with his masterminded war strategies. I am thankful to him both as an American citizen and as a Korean national. Most Korean people view Americans very favorably due to General Douglas Macarthur saving our country. Thank you. There is also a statue of him in Korea (Incheon) as well.

We had our small 10 person wedding here in the East Garden at the end of June and it was beautiful! Not only do they have a deal for their elopement package, but Heather Lindsay and her assistant Alexis were incredible to work with. Alexis even helped tie my shoe before I walked down the isle and kept me calm before the ceremony. Thank you Hermitage! We will keep coming back. (majority of these photos credit: Amanda Robbins Photography @amandarobbinsphoto

This place is gorgeous! The inside of the home is the depiction of an elegance we don’t see anymore. All the intricate wood carvings on the doors walls and ceiling were truly captivating. The acres of surrounding gardens are just as gorgeous and immaculately kept. My friends and I had so much fun exploring the house, gardens and various art installations. We were also able to take some pretty cute pictures!

Such a surprise! This place is beautiful, and that sculpture is awesome. Great trails, wonderful museum and beautiful scenery. Will definitely return.

The pictures I provided are from a showing by an artist so tickets were required. Otherwise, visiting the Hermitage is free and is absolutely gorgeous! I recommend it 100%.

An awesome museum in a beautiful location. It's hard to believe that admission is free. The grounds alone are worth a visit but the house is stunning with endless details. We came to see the Burden of the Beast art exhibit and it didn't disappoint.

Can't think of of better way to spend my Saturday afternoon. Even if the kids protest...take the. My 15 year old was anti the entire ride there - we pull up to see the Beast of Burden and a massive robot sculpture in the trees...he was engaged and interactive the rest of the visit. Do art. Be in nature. Or visit the Hermitage Museum and Gardens so you can connect with them both. I'm willing to bet most people are glad they did.

I was here for a wedding and the venue was gorgeous! I highly recommend it for this purpose. I enjoyed the outdoor areas, views, and wide variety of plants. I hope to return as a regular visitor someday.

I do love the little fountain and chairs positioned right in front of it. It's a nice park to enjoy your lunch or take a little stroll through. The giant Connect 4 is a fantastic touch.

Always a good time for the 4th of July. Plenty to eat. Music is always good. View of the fireworks of the Elizabeth River is always spectacular. 2025 fireworks show was the best at around 30 minutes. Easy to get in. Leaving the parking structures is a challenge. Definitely worth the wait.

Very well laid out park. Lots of walking trails, very well paved. Perfect for walkers and pet owners to come out in the mornings to get their steps in and enjoy the nice weather and the waterfront. Lots of benches available for folks to sit down, relax and get some fresh air. The water views and the marina are spectacular. Must visit place for adults and kids alike

Amazing place in Norfolk Downtown. the most of events happening there. 4th of July was really nice with amazing 30 minutes fireworks.

The park itself is a perfectly curated urban green space. The views of the Elizabeth River are spectacular—seriously, where else can you picnic while watching a majestic cargo ship or a destroyer glide past? It's a fantastic backdrop for any major life event, whether that’s getting married, running a 5K, or realizing you probably shouldn't have mixed that last white with a red.

Attended the Norfolk Jazz Festival here!! Easy to maneuver and parking was seamless! Fun fact.. total sellout for 1st time in the 42 yr history!!

Town Point Park is a beautiful waterfront spot perfect for strolling, relaxing, or enjoying festivals. With stunning views of the Elizabeth River, open green spaces, and a lively atmosphere, it’s a true Norfolk gem.

This one was fun. The money goes to upkeep and the history of the vessel, so that made it worth it. Lots of nooks and crannies to explore. Lots of little and tight spaces. Lors of ladders. Cell phone service doesn't work deep inside the ship. A must visit place. Inside the museum was good but for me the ship was the money spot!! Thank you to all the Navy guys on the ship, taking pics and helping with direction and questions.

I have always been wanted to Naval history up close. This was something I truly will rem. The museum was very extensive. I saw alot I had never seen before or knew. Being able to step foot on a real Battleship and tour it was mind blowing. I really think young and old would really enjoy this. Its not only a piece of History but a marvel of engineering.

Great museum. Not only the tour of the USS Wisconsin (Iowa Class) ship, but get tickets for the harbor tour to see many active Navy ships docked.

It’s an Iowa Class Battleship. I don’t think there is much to be said but it does do more than USS Iowa in LA where you can go quite below deck which is nice. Can’t go too high unlike her sister in LA.

Incredible history and structures on the USS Wisconsin. The tour guides were very helpful and explanatory for all questions and some of them even served on the ship. The bridge and command centers were very intriguing as well because they offered a real life reenactment of what the tomahawk missile missions were like in the gulf war. I recommend this ship and museum for any active or former military including everyone else for a chance to learn what life was like on a battle ship 🇺🇸

Great museum and it's free to the public. The $20 is to visit the battleship, which is well deserved as the maintenance costs must be exorbitant. Still, it's well worth a visit and definitely recommended for people interested in military history.

Spent a few hours at the museum today. Unique experience, I really liked that cultural and commercial aspects were covered as well as the rich military history. The icing on the cake was definitely the battleship Wisconsin. Thoroughly enjoyed the ship. Will be coming back soon.

This is a lovely spot for a leisurely walk, with well-maintained paths and scenic view. There are plenty of seating areas, perfect for relaxing or enjoying a snack.

Little piece of serenity at the end of the downtown area. Saw some koi in the pond, so that’s true. Take a little time for yourself and and enjoy the peaceful nature of the place. Little bit of history to go along with it as well.

What a gem of a place. Very easy walk-through of beauty. If you live in the surrounding area and / or you're traveling through, you must stop by to see this beautiful garden. I wish I lived closer it's just amazing. It's so peaceful. They have beautiful Koi fish and a food machine you can pay a quarter to feed them. It's free to enter and there is parking nearby. They have a restaurant, but it seems to be only open Friday night from 6:30-11:30 from what I saw posted on the door.

This is a small little part but I must see. Just a short walk through the gardens. And then there's the water. The USS Wisconsin. And there's also a port for the large cruise ships. At this point enjoy some of the sights and sounds and tastes of Norfolk Virginia.

We went on a very gloomy and stormy day but it was still so beautiful. This garden brought me back to our time in Japan and I’m so happy we made the quick stop to walk through this garden during our VA trip! There’s a decent amount of parking available and the park is free to enter and walk around on your own time. GREAT location for photographers as well, so many beautiful photo spots. Plan a stop here next time you’re passing by!

Beautiful little oriental garden and walking path right next to the water. This was a great little find during our visit to Norfolk. It looks like they have a restaurant that is open on Fridays from 6-9:30pm also.

Beautiful gardens & water features. Nice place to read, relax, meditate or people watch. One of the hidden gems of Norfolk. The landscaping is very well maintained.

I’ve wanted to visit this historic house for some time and so glad I finally did. The house is beautiful and it’s amazing that about 85% of the furnishings are original to the Hunter family. The host Hannah was very welcoming and provided me with a nice overview of the house and family. Definitely recommend visiting this house!

This Museum in the heart of downtown Norfolk is well worth the visit and does not take too much of your time. The staff on hand are very knowledgeable in history of the house and the family who lived there. The Hunters were prominent bankers of the greater Norfolk area and made their own impact on the community through banking and medical practice. Sadly none of them had children to continue their legacy but instead made their home into a museum to educate the next generations of Norfolk.

Great place! Must visit if you're interested in the beauty of Victorian life.

Great lecture, helpful and knowledgeable staff. House is well maintained and full of a rotating display of amazing historical artifacts.

Great tour of a very well preserved Victorian-era home with TONS of authentic artifices owned by the family. Tour guide was very friendly, personable, and knowledgeable. Highly recommend!

This place is awesome. On my birthday the hunter house museum staff hosted me a nice tea party. The tour was amazing. They were very informal. My guess are talking about coming back if you have an event and you’re a Victorian era fan like me. Hosting a get together or a birthday is perfect at Hunter House Museum. The staff was friendly and catered to our needs.

This was a very well kept historic home and generously stocked with antiques and information. Very cool place to visit

We loved our tour of the Myers House! We opted for a guided tour with Christine who was absolutely PHENOMENAL! She was a great story teller and knew so much about both the Myers family/house as well as Norfolk history in general. I would say to definitely utilize the awesome knowledge of the guides when you visit for a fun and interesting visit. MEYERS HOUSE IS A MUST SEE SPOT IN NORFOLK!!!

I recently visited the Moses Myers House and it was a memorable experience. Thanks to Taylor and Mary, I leaned the incredible history of the house. Truly fascinating. I’m grateful that places like this exist so I can get a glimpse into history. I’ll be back, but next time with my nieces and nephew. Thank you!

Very cool, historic house. Super knowledgeable and kind staff. I was surprised by how many of the items in the house were original to the house.

fantastic little museum- everything is so well kept and the stories of the people who lived here were fascinating. it was free to visit and the people working were extremely kind and helpful. a gem of a place!

Norfolk has several beautiful restored Federal-style town houses still standing. While they're all beautiful, this one is especially so, and you can tour it! The house is restored with period furniture to be absolutely authentic, and it shows. You're stepping back to the 1790s here, a period of exceptional growth and religious diversity in Norfolk.

09.13.25 very interesting. Tour guides were very knowledgeable and friendly. The story/history of the Myers was informative . We thoroughly enjoyed this visit. Loved looking at the old home and learning its history. Check it out!

The Myers House offered an amazing look into Norfolk history and the unique experiences of the Jewish American family of merchants. We had the luck to be helped by amazing guides who knew everything there was to know about the Myers and their connection to Norfolk history. Big shoutout to Mary, our incredibly knowledgeable guide! We definitely recommend this museum for everyone eager to explore local history, we are very glad that places like these are being preserved for people to learn.

Very beautiful place. Was definitely built when people were smaller. Seating is very tight so if you are above 250 pounds or over 6'2"don't even think about it.

Great venue for medium to small acts. Interior is just OK looking. But excellent sight lines to the stage and very good acoustics. Not a bad seat in the house. Drinks and snacks available. Plentiful nearby parking. $5 cash parking for our show. Nice looking building from the outside. Seats were soft and fairly comfortable. Some wear. Good leg room. Above average seat width.

This place was a wonderful experience!!! Our friends got married here today!!! And Ms. Janet L. Was a phenomenal hostess!!! She was very professional and easy to talk to!!! She was a breathe of fresh air!!! She deserves recognition and a raise!!! I definitely will recommend this place to my coworkers, family and friends!!! Thank you!!!

Always love a night out at the Opera! The performances are always top-notch, the staff is very polite and I have yet to find a bad seat in the house. Do not over look a night at the Opera for your next special occasion. This is your chance to get dressed up and enjoy a night on the town!

Went to see Matt Mathews comedy tour. Had to wait to get in, no big deal. Nice place to see a show. Glad we took an Uber because parking was very limited. People said they waited in line 45 minutes to get in the parking lot.

I have never been here. Came to visit and booked tickets online for Peices of a Dream. It was great. Kinda loud, but music was super. Booked mezzanine seats right in the middle. A 1632 seat theatre makes viewing really nice. Sits at the corner of VA. Beach Blvd. And Granby Street. Parking available. Concession stand. Staff was friendly and professional. Thanks you guys for an enjoyable time.

I’m confused why this place has good reviews. Like I am happy Hampton roads has a production theater, but serious upgrades are needed. The worst is that the theater gets super stuffy. There is literally no air flow. Drinks are $10-12 for a beer. Seats are super old and feel like they are full of dust. Chair/seat markings and numbers are super hard to see and sometimes missing. This causes staff running around ruining the show. Let’s not forget every show that comes here is super over priced as well. Expect to pay $60 per ticket for bad seats. I don’t think I’ll be back unless I get free tickets. And fyi parking is not bad. There is street parking for free all around.

This was a very nice museum. The battleship is huge and is really a self-contained city. They have done an excellent job of capturing the history and the voice of the battleship. We particularly loved the video montage throughout the tour of previous service members telling their stories. Appointed docents were helpful at guiding us as well. It was very rainy today so we didnt get to tour above decks but its a good reason to return. Would love to see their big holiday winterfest light display.

Wow..a new perspective and respect for the Navy and those who choose that journey. Alot of walking and stepping through the doors to different rooms and sections. Very steep stairs that have railings to get to the different levels. Fascinating!

The USS Wisconsin (BB-64) museum in Norfolk, Virginia, is an absolute must-visit for anyone with even the slightest interest in naval history. This incredible battleship — one of the largest and last ever built by the U.S. Navy — has been beautifully preserved and transformed into an interactive, immersive museum experience that truly brings history to life. What makes the USS Wisconsin so special is just how much of the ship is open to explore. From the massive main deck and towering gun turrets to the inner corridors, crew quarters, and command areas, you can wander through and really get a sense of what life was like for the sailors who served aboard. The attention to detail is amazing — it feels like stepping back in time. You can easily spend an entire day navigating the decks, admiring the engineering, and soaking in the stories that made this ship such an important part of American naval power. The museum staff and volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, always ready to share fascinating facts or personal stories connected to the ship’s long service — from World War II to Operation Desert Storm. The exhibits and displays add depth to the experience, highlighting the Wisconsin’s evolution through decades of service and innovation. Overall, the USS Wisconsin BB-64 museum is a true gem — equal parts awe-inspiring, educational, and humbling. Whether you’re a history buff, a veteran, or just looking for an unforgettable experience, this legendary battleship is well worth the visit.

Its amazing! So cool to walk the deck of this awesome piece of our history. The below deck is no disappointment, you truly get a sense of what these heros went through.

Wisconsin did not disappoint. The gubment shut down had the nsval museum shuttered but the ship was well worth the $20 if that was the only thing you hot to see. Very informative when we tagged along with a tour guide. I could have spent hours in there.

Staying overnight on the Battleship Wisconsin was a once in a lifetime experience! My husband is a major military history hobbyist, and this was the perfect birthday gift for him. The overnight manager, Tammie, was incredibly patient with all my questions and responded quickly, making the process easy. For the night’s stay and tour, we had the fantastic Greg! He made this already special experience truly one for the books. Greg not only answered the dozens of questions my husband had, but also offered the detailed insight of a true professional. I would highly recommend this experience as a gift for yourself or for anyone with a love of history.

Great tour. Definitely take a guided tour and learn about the behind the scenes or areas that are not open to the public. Very worth your while and expense, which is nominal.

Ocean View Beach Park is a great beach to visit for adults and kids. It’s definitely less crowded than other beaches in the area. They also have decent parking available and you don’t have to get stuck in traffic getting here. Conveniently located and close to the highways. Kids love it. Waves are much calmer. Definitely deserves a visit

This is a beautiful, well kept park. The view was wonderful! It was quiet, relaxing and felt safe. We had a great time and the band, Runnin' Shine, was exceptional! We happened upon their Friday night event and we were so glad we did! The hot dog vendor was very friendly and reasonably priced. The BBQ vendor was extremely overpriced. The fish vendor need a more visible location or a banner. Edit to add that Ocean View Beach also has loaner life jackets.

Lots of trash and debris on way to the beach and on the beach. Limited access openings, seemed to be under construction with a new walkway. Was there on a Sunday morning and saw several baptisms being held. Good bit of seaweed and even saw jelly fish on beach. Has an area to rinse off and restrooms.

We've really been enjoying the music venues here, this summer! Food trucks are awesome, too, especially CupsUp... Wow! That brisket and ac & Cheese! Grateful Jed and The Tiki Bar Band put on awesome shows! Everyone is laid back and just there to enjoy the summer vibes and music! Kudos also to the staff that keeps everything clean and picked up at the park!

This was smashing the other day! We went out super early, like 7am. The beach was interesting, some people still having fun from the night before and early bird walkers and such. It was quiet, clean bathrooms, plenty of parking, lots of beach access points. The water was warm and wonderful. This is a really nice beach park. I will definitely be returning. Dogs are welcome, too.

Amazing place to go for a walk or enjoy one of the events put on by Fest Events. Their Friday night beach Pavillion parties are great for the whole family, tons of refreshments and vendors, grab a drink, get a fresh cannoli, and have fun at the beach!

Small but great beach, my pup loved it and so did I 😎🐾🌊

A great place to find local & handcrafted products located in the heart of Norfolk. It’s close to the library. Support local!

Selden Market is such a neat place to drop through, whether you are just stopping through or live nearby. It has several small businesses offering everything from sassy magnets, original artworks and festive sweaters to video game accessories and spice blends. Most of the shops are run by the owners, and it's just a great way to help out small businesses.

Local Love! This space is an incubator for up-and-coming businesses! Some of my favorite shops have started here and moved on to grow in our community! Velvet Witch! Lorak Jewelry! Vessel Craft Coffee! This is the kind of community investment that revitalizes downtowns and allows small businesses to shine! Shopping at Selden Market shows leaders that consumers want to keep their dollars local! Consider this marketplace for all of your gift-giving needs!

We are so grateful to have Selden Market in Norfolk. Not only is it a vibrant hub for independent businesses, but it also carries a rich history. As a local, the Selden family and name are very well known so it is nice to see the legacy maintained. We have recently learned that the Selden Market is a "retail incubator" for local, small businesses. This is even more reason to support the businesses here. Conveniently located in the heart of the city, Selden Market is easy reach of many other Downtown landmarks and services. It's got several tasty food options as well as retail spaces with specialty items from local artisans. The quality and uniqueness of the items are amazing. It is also directly connected to a parking garage/hotel as well as to the Slover Library. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, please check this place out. You won't be disappointed!

Nice little assortment of small local shopfronts and coffee/ tea places. Some shopfronts were empty and I would’ve spent more time if there was more open but overall nice quality of goods. Highlights were potted tea shop and Norfolk candle co.

It's a great place to hang out and check out the marketplace.

YOU CAN NOT BEAT THIS HAPPY HOUR!!! $0.50 OYSTERS ON THE HALF SHELL AND $3 BEERS, $5 COCKTAILS, and WINE! The service is quick. They are all friendly and nice. I also had their salad and lobster roll which was absolutely amazing!!! This has to be one of my fav spots in Norfolk!

I went for Banana Ball. It was my first time there. There are tons of vendors, even a couple gluten free options. It was incredibly hot and we saw a couple purple get carried out because of it. I wish there was more direction for the flow of people going out. (Going on was great.) Overall, a good time.

Beautiful stadium, clean. Bathrooms were ok. Had a good time and cost was pretty inexpensive to have a fun night out with the family.

Banana ball at Harbor Park! Everyone had fun. The stadium was nice too and easy to get everyone in and out of the event. The staff was friendly and did the best they could with the huge orders of food and drinks and long lines. They didn't enforce the bag policy for the event. I used a ziplock bag for my stuff. Wasn't so bad. Parking was horrendous. They don't advertise how to prepay for parking in their lots so you might get stuck walking from far away like we did for the special event. We got there at 5:30 when the gates opened for the event. All lots already full. The event didn't advertise parking VIP or prepaid spots, so beyond the regular spots being gone already, everyone was walking. Most tried the courthouse parking lot. Just a tip from what I was seeing. We used a parking garage a little less than a mile away. Best of luck to you with parking for a special event, but im sure a regular game parking situation isn't bad. They did the best they could. Just show up early for parking. Traffic moved smoothly thanks to the police directing traffic for the event. The arena is kid friendly. Smoker friendly too, and outdoor space in the arena for smokers. Good time had by all.

Had an amazing time. Sat on the patio down the first base line. Great seats just a little hard to see. Beer was 8.50 and I paid 45 dollars for a hat. Expensive but not too bad for a stadium.

Went to a tides game on 7/3/25 and it was an amazing experience.

We had great seats and watched the tides play. Very nice opening ceremony celebrating Hispanic heritage. Lots of food and beverages choices.

Great atmosphere, the crowd was energetic and the game was so much fun to watch!

During my stay, I was dissatisfied from check-in to checkout. I had called ahead to confirm early check-in and was told my room was ready, only to arrive and be informed it was not. I booked my stay two months in advance and had inquired about upgrading to a suite. I was told to call back the day of to check availability, which I did, but I did not expect to be automatically placed in a suite without being asked. Additionally, when I called the front desk at 7:40 a.m. to request towels, I was told nothing could be done because housekeeping was unavailable. When I asked if I could pick them up myself, the response was, “I guess I can get housekeeping to pull them and you can come get them.” The customer service was unacceptable. At other hotels I’ve stayed in, even if housekeeping isn’t available, the front desk ensures guests’ needs are met—such as personally bringing towels to the room.

It was just a basic bus tour. The guide simply read from a generic info sheet with zero audience interaction. We only drove past a few buildings and warships. You’re better off saving your time and money. By the no photos were allowed. Any photo shown in reviews were not from the base or not from real reviewers.

Please discharge or fire everyone that worked today 2/13/2024 between the hours of 9am-2pm. Horrible horrible soldiers and police officers. The desk clerk ms amy needs to be fired immediately amy was not helpful she was so rude and nonchalant and she cut the lights off and walked out because they close at 2pm. Which is no sign for that unless you look it up online and the sheet of paper Amy has on the window. When we arrived at 9am it wasn’t any proper direction to which line to get in to. When we did arrive to the front we were in the wrong lane. Which caused us to have to get back in line so another inconvenience wow it’s currently after 2pm and we have not delivered anything or even got pass the inspection because ms amy was ready to get off work and didn’t care. This naval base believe it’s a privilege to do anything for them when it’s not. It’s a privilege to get things delivered to a secure area to help whatever that’s needed. They have strict rules about delivery and pick up our window for delivery was from 8am-10am we arrived at 9am and it’s currently 2:38pm nothing was delivered plus we are still here at the inspection gate. Officer in L2 around 9-10am needs to be washing dish or sweeping the mess hall. Keep him far away from grown men and women working for the community trying to get their job done he has no purpose at this gate. The officer in L2 suggested rudely we should have seen the sign meanwhile we are in a 13ft high truck and the sign that was there is laying down on the ground and it is extremely faded, you are unable to read the sign. Reconsider doing anything for this naval base it’s simply not worth it.

HI from the great grandson of Sir Edward Bennett of Virginia and Massachusetts in the 1600s and the start of North America. Also from wiveliscombe summerset England to the beginning of America. This is before America was ever announced or thought of. I am kin to wiveliscombe summerset England, and the Bennett family there and it traces back to Chillingham Castle in England family of the kings castle. From the years of 1100s - 1200s I am the 10th Great grandson of Sir Edward Bennett and Bennett plantation and also the family of Bennett Creek of Virginia and leading to the family all the way across the United States of America. 1600s for Bennett plantation and Bennett Creek. Also the kin to Governor Richard Bennett of Virginia 1600

Called CS2 Robles who was POOW on the NAVSTA Norfolk Quarterdeck. I had a question re base access and she was kind, courteous, informative and professional. A great ambassador for the base and our Navy. Strong work, CS2—Inspire Excellence! ⚓️

im gonna be so honest ive never been here but my dad was a sailor here! YAY!!! he was on an aircraft carrier and then a destroyer. im not biased what are you talking about..

1980-1984, USS Nassau LHA-4. I must confess the best times were when we were out to sea going on different cruises.

A great place to meet up with friends to have a few drinks and watch sports events. Several different eateries to suit anybody’s pallet and several bars to have you choosing from. They also offer several sit down restaurants. It can be rather loud so be prepared for that.

What a great place to hang out at. The perfect spot for sporting events. Plenty of TVs, different food spots. We had the Mexican food. It was really good and a perfect snack. Outside they had a street fair. Lots of vendors. They also had a corn hole tournament. So, that was fun to watch.

This is a wonderful little spot to go for a short walk to see the amazing ships and architecture, park and water. The marketplace is a giant open space with a few bat and grills inside like Blue Moon and Pbr and a place that sells sweets. It has a beautiful bar right in the center of all these where we had some drinks. It has a nice arcade and air hockey as well. We went during the early afternoon and it was not lound or too busy.

Came by for a NFL Sunday and it was a blast! Got some phenomenal wings and the beer variety at the Starr Hill Market is great too!

Had a amazing time visiting Virginia. Was my 1st, but not my last. Happy Holiday's Everyone 🎃 🦃 🎄 Blessings Always ❣️

We had the pleasure of being served by Chloe at the Blue Moon Taproom at Waterside District, and it felt almost serendipitous. Our family was gathered the evening before welcoming our sailor home from a long deployment, and as fate would have it, Chloe is a sailor herself. Despite the restaurant being noticeably understaffed that night, Chloe handled everything with grace, professionalism, and a warm smile. She took a few thoughtful moments to connect with us, share her own experiences, and genuinely added to the excitement and emotion of our special weekend. Her ability to stay composed, kind, and attentive—especially during a busy shift—was a clear reflection of her full-time service background. We’re incredibly grateful to have crossed paths with her and appreciate the extra layer of meaning she brought to our evening.

The waterside district presents an ideal destination for a relaxing escape. It boasts a diverse array of offerings designed to ensure an enjoyable experience. Visitors can anticipate a vibrant atmosphere complemented by numerous amenities. This locale provides ample opportunities for leisure and recreation. It stands as a commendable choice for those seeking a fulfilling getaway.

Good venue, good atmosphere, spacious and certainly plenty of seating. There was not a great amount of kit to buy. There was one single stand but plenty of food and drink vendors. Bathrooms were good, clean, and well spaced. And all the staff friendly and helpful. Overall a good experience

Good venue. We were here for the Patriot festival, which had a large concert on the final day. Really good seating, not sure if there is a bad seat in the house. It's big enough to hold a good amount of people, but small enough to still be able to see well. Pretty good food options. The staff was really friendly. The sound was good as well.

It was a very fun time watching the Admirals. I used the team's official website and was able to avoid most of the ridiculous Ticketmaster fees. Our seats were not center ice, but still had a great view. All of the concession stands were well-staffed and had great options. The bathrooms were also clean. There is paid parking in garages all around and getting in was very easy.

Love the scope! Reasonable parking nearby always. Bringing the kids and making memories!! Tickets and concessions can be a little pricey, my only downside!

Go Admirals! Getting to the parking garage is a true test of patience but that has nothing to do with the stadium itself. Plan ahead! The staff was pleasant and efficient. The floor in the stands was quite sticky under my shoes, so that was gross, but other than that, it is easy in and out. The food only takes credit cards.

All I really do is park here for work downtown. The city has the license plate cameras that automate entry and exit which is nice, when it works (it usually does, but sometimes you need your QR code, so dont be that person digging it out with a line behind you... have it accessible just incase 😬). The stairwell along Bute St are designated ashol bathrooms, so use those stairs at your own risk. BUT, the norfolk staff do a great job cleaning them up in the mornings, so shoutout to them!

Great place for hockey. Gritty old school feel. Food and beverage selection is amazing so many choices. Merch selection for Admirals is substantial. Wish some of the glass seats were more readily available but they have gone to a premium area, basically cabana style availability like theme park pools. I get it whatever keeps making money but just wish some were normal glass seats too. Whaaaaa whaaaat

What a Great tour of our military vessels. The entire time they were giving information about each ship. Names, uses, history, stats everything you wanted to know. Plenty of time on each and every ship in the port, even 3 submarines. It was great. Didn't feel hurried and well described. It was definitely very informational. Clean boat. Friendly staff. One thing that caught my attention. They didn't ask for tips. Not even a bucket on your way out...we tipped of course because we enjoyed it and they accepted graciously but it wasn't begged for like other places do. Class act! We did not use the bar so can't rate that, but I'm sure it was great.

I participated in the 11:00 am tour on 7/18. It was the last day of my vacation. It turned out to be an enjoyable experience and very informative. The guide provided information about ships that I didn't know I wanted to know. The ride was smooth, the weather was perfect, and the crew was friendly. Excellent photo options to make memories. I even stood outside and recorded the sound of the waves to use as a sleep aid.

This one is totally worth. Highly recommended for everyone. Get to see the harbor with all the different ships and learn about their history. The staff are very courteous and the facilities are good. Their location is very convenient and easy to get to. Must plan to do this tour when in the area

A Special Birthday Voyage 🇺🇸⚓️ Yesterday was a day we won’t soon forget. My daughter and I traveled all the way from California to Virginia Beach to celebrate her 23rd birthday—and we did it in true Navy fashion aboard the Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise. As a proud member of the Navy, she wanted to spend her special day not just relaxing, but learning more about the history and strength behind the branch she serves. The cruise delivered exactly that—and so much more. Sailing along the waters of Norfolk, we had a front-row seat to the world’s largest naval base. We saw active ships, destroyers, aircraft carriers, and even submarines—all while hearing fascinating stories and historical insights from our guide. It was incredible to see my daughter light up with curiosity and pride, connecting what she’s learned in her service to the real-life operations and legacy of the Navy. The weather was perfect, the views were stunning, and the entire experience felt both meaningful and celebratory. Watching her soak it all in reminded me just how passionate and driven she is—and how much she loves what she does. This birthday wasn’t just a celebration of her 23 years—it was a tribute to her journey, her future, and the incredible community she’s a part of.

Amazing tour, saw some amazing technology and history, captain Mark clearly knew his stuff. Crew were friendly. However chairs on the upper deck were uncomfortable for the long ride, water was very expensive and sometimes it was a little difficult to understand the narration with the speed at which he was speaking. All in all a good experience and would definitely recommend.

I recently had the pleasure of taking the Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise, and I must say, it was a fantastic experience! If you're looking for an insightful and enjoyable way to see the naval ships, this cruise comes highly recommended. For optimal viewing, I found that the starboard side (right side of the boat) generally offered the best vantage point for seeing the various ships. While the port side (left side) provided a slightly better view during the initial 15 minutes of the tour, the starboard side truly shone for the majority of the narrated journey. A helpful tip, especially on a hot day: the tour is narrated for most of the duration. However, once the last ship on the tour is announced and the boat begins its return journey, the narration concludes. At this point, if the heat is getting to you, I highly recommend heading inside. The final stretch back to the starting location is un-narrated, making it a perfect time to enjoy the air conditioning and reflect on the impressive sights you've just witnessed. Overall, the Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise offers a unique and memorable perspective on the naval fleet. It's a well-organized and informative tour that I would gladly do again.

Amazing tour! Absolutely amazing! The captain was very knowledgeable. We learned so much! I would highly recommend this tour to anyone and everyone!!

One of the highlights of our vacation! My son loved all of the activities, and we would definitely come back in the future if in the area. I will say that it was hot upstairs and in the gift shop even with the fans on, and it was only in the 70s outside. The planetarium and planetarium manager were great. The manager was very knowledgeable and patient. Definitely in the right field, and we were very happy with our experience watching “Big.” The prices were fair, and we felt it was nicely organized and that the pictures online don’t do the museum justice. It was a great experience with a very walkable area around it with free parking as well. :)

We have been members here for two years. In that time, we have seen one exhibit installed (the extremely unsafe boat that has kids leaning over the edge and smacking each other with heavy bobbers), traveling exhibits that are GREAT and completely over run with kids because it’s the only thing working, the second floor closed for a massive chunk of time with little explanation and a number of things broken down and never fixed. Who cleans this place? Parents as they walk through?? The train area is extremely dusty. The awesome missiles upstairs now gone. I’ve worked in museums for a number of years, I know about how staffing is and where money goes. You’re losing us as members because of the thousands of details that make up the place that are being ignored. Missing trains at the train play place (four kids arguing over THREE trains? There should be a staff member posted there or volunteer). Some stuff makes no sense because everything is missing. I’m including pics of just ONE exhibit missing all or parts of its pieces/in need of repair.

The Children’s Museum in downtown Portsmouth (aka P-Town) is a great spot for kids to learn,play, and burn off some energy. There are tons of hands on exhibits and activities that can easily keep little ones entertained for hours. It’s a place where kids get to explore, create, and have fun while parents can enjoy watching them discover new things. The only downside during our visit was that the A/C seemed to be out so it was a bit uncomfortably warm but even with that, the kids still had a blast.

Great museum for kids and families! My favorites were the bubble room, music room, bodyworks, train room, planetarium show was nice and upstairs is a whole circus amusement park! 🤡 Ample parking, nice coffee shop across the street, we got in free with our membership!

Great children's museum. Had enough to do to last at least 2 hours if not more. Lots of hands on activities. The picture attached is a crane simulator for loading and unloading containers, it spoke to my logistics heart! Friendly staff. Though I do warm you the upstairs is HOT during the summer .

OMG, what an amazing place! Kids had so much fun, it's educational, plenty of things to do and learn, will recommend and come back again and again. Fantastic 😍😍😍😍

My teenager actually asked to go because she had such fond memories so we brought some younger ones with us to join in on the fun. Although she admitted it wasn't as much fun as she remembered now that she is older, there were still plenty of smiles and laughs as they all explored the bubble room, the bus, the music room, grocery store, and all the other exhibits. There is seating in some areas so the adults can sit and let the little ones play nearby. Upstairs was open too with more fun🤗...it doesn't take much to entertain little ones but this place gives them nonstop fun!

It was so much fun. Staff was very helpful. Highly recommend it. Grab a friend and go make a mermaid

As a lover of all things mermaid, I was so excited to visit Mermaid Factory after a friend recommended this spot! Such a fun and creative environment. Anything you could ever want to add to your artwork is accesible. The options can get a little overwhelming and everyone who works here was so kind and helpful and leading us towards a direction we were happy with. I could spend hours here!

Jessica provided excellent customer service. She hosted a ladies night a few years ago for my friends and I. And gave me the best advise for my broken mermaid. Appreciate the hospitality and love Arts and crafts!! Planning the next ladies night as I post.

Spent the day with the ladies in my family and we had a really good time.. Received 2 Complimentary drinks and the ladies that helped us where very friendly and beyond helpful.. I will definitely come back again

Had a great time! I went for a corporate time building event... But this is a great date night idea, of you're looking to do something different.

I had a great time at the Mermaid factory. We had the shop pretty much to ourselves. The factory keeper of the day was helpful. My friend asked a lot of questions and she was able to help with everything. The complimentary wine is great! The mermaids start at $25 with all you can use paint and glitter. They have a lot of add ons which you can use to personalize or upgrade your mermaid. They can add up quick!

The staff was extremely helpful, and for $25, I felt like the experience and the mermaid I painted (and glittered) was a fantastic value. Definitely make reservations to check this place out.

Convenient location with many flavorful takes on lagers, IPAs, other styles. The seasonal offerings are usually on-point and haven’t disappointed us yet. The atmosphere is congenial with a generational mix of folks. Missed their Alter Ego Saison, but the other beers are worth trying.

Great beer and other things on tap. Went for run club and for trivia night. So much fun and they always have events happening. Neat food truck outside too!

Smartmouth has awesome beers and a great atmosphere. They are taking the social distancing seriously with masks requires, hand sanitizer available and spaced out tables indoors and out with open air in the garage. The employees are super nice and very attentive to cleaning. Great location and easy to walk to if you are local. Pups are allowed as well. Same for the little ones. Definitely would recommend!

Cool place with great beer and a fun enviroment. Me and my brother won a best of three games series of foosball during my visit. A triumphant experience that we will never forget.

Love Smartmouth!! Bummed the Norfolk location is closing but the Pilot House in VB is great, as well! Pizza is on-site at the Pilot House and the atmosphere is always nice!

Stopped by for a beer while my family shopped nearby. I waited in a line behind 6 other patrons, the first took over 5 minutes to order a 4 beer flight, the next took 5+ minutes to order multiple items and eventually walked away with a slurpee of some sort. An employee walked by and I said “excuse me sir” to which he responded he was so busy that I would have to walk with him if I expected any kind of response. I declined and left….. I just wanted to grab a beer at a “brewery “ lol. I’ve had their stuff and it’s definitely not worth a wait. But add in the horrible hospitality and poor customer experience and I’ll pass on this place and recommend anyone reading this do the same. It’s not rocket science lol just pour beers to people willing to pay for it, this place is sub par. Pass on this one for sure

Easy to find, parking is a little tricky as the closest lots have scary signs, but we found nearby street parking even though it was busy. Inside space is somewhat limited but it feels cozy with a friendly atmosphere. Friendly staff tasty beer and a good selection. They had a food truck and live music as well.

It's interesting to see so much was preserved right in that location. It was free to access, and there was about 30 mins worth of stuff to see. All the building are locked but you can look in the windows. Only improvement I suggest is for there to be plaques to explain buildings and if there was anything significant happen. There were a few general plaques that did give some info though.

This old fort was built in Revolutionary War days and it was a really cool experience to see it! It's free to get in and totally self-guided. There are signs around that give you tidbits of history about the fort, and some cool water views at the edge and up on the fort wall. Don't get too close to the edge, though, as there is a big drop. But there are plenty of signs to warn you about that. Overall very cool experience!

website guidelines should be clarified- must have a Real ID or passport to enter. The website says you need a drivers license, but that was not accepted. just a heads up for others hoping to visit.

Free. Have id readily available and pull up to the gate where you will be guided in with free parking. Interesting that it’s on the same grounds as the Army Corps of Engineers. It’s nice to see the old remains along the waterfront a reminder of our history well maintained.

Free. Donations Welcomed. Guided Tours on Sunday, in the warm months and in the colder months the first Sunday of the month! Was thrilled to finally make it to this Historic Norfolk Landmark! To think this place was commissioned by George Washington right here on the Norfolk waterfront is just another reason Virginia is such a rich bed of our nation's history! I also got to meet Steve Forss (?) The researcher and historian of all things Fort Norfolk. His enthusiasm paired with his deep knowledge of Fort Norfolk is downright contagious! I was familiar with Fort Monroe, in Hampton, VA. (the only Fort in the US surrounded by a moat) but to discover Fort Norfolk was its predecessor came as a surprise! Our tour guide forgive me his name, was not only well-informed but was privy to the many changes that occurred with the Fort in the past 200-plus years. It was completed in 1812. He was also excited to share the future plans to come with the various rooms and buildings. Lots of info displayed and certainly to take notice of. Though there are several buildings only 2 of them were open to the public and both of them air-conditioned. Which was most welcomed on this hot August day. It's a beautiful sight and a lovely view of the Elizabeth River, the same river that sailed the head of Blackbeard the pirate on the mast of a ship from the outer banks of NC. To Norfolk proving his death. Upon entering the Fort stopforr a moment and notice theiron-cladd and wooden gates. It's something that I've only seen in movies. They are original!!! Like the gates to a castle! Located next them is a jail complete with iron bars. I am certain that Steve Forss in his research will uncover more mysteries to be solved, uncovered and answers revealed. You'll be lucky to happen upon him in his study which seems to be on the grounds of Fort Norfolk. I could easily see this be a film location for a big screen period movie. It's authentically period and a true testament to our history.

Much more interesting than I anticipated. Entrance is a bit more complex than I expected too. Definitely not the museum norm. But the history that awaits makes the little bit of extra effort worth it. Fort is tucked behind the apartment complex in my photo.

Fun experience. Went on a Sunday and got a awesome guided tour.

It’s FREE admission! Let’s start there! I went for the Out of the Box A Barbie Doll Retrospective exhibit and I enjoyed it thoroughly. My favorite exhibit was the doll house that was converted from a liquor cabinet. It blew me away! The details and the craftsmanship of the furniture were REALLY top-notch! I love a good d.i.y. moment! Dolls have really came a long way and you get to see the journey from then to now for the most part. The staff were great and very informative. I appreciate that! Great exhibit!

My husband and I visited on a whim & we are VERY happy we did! This little museum is a hidden gem. It's free to enter and features 4 rooms of displays. Staff is friendly and the facility is beautiful. Take an afternoon & visit, it's fully worth it! The dollhouse was incredible btw - so detailed, it almost felt like I was looking into someone's house windows. Creepy but very cool :)

Surprisingly interesting university art museum! The first floor has some really unique collection glass artwork. Second floor has an interesting collection of doll and dollhouse, art collection related to boat, and some art-science art that were really interesting. Would need a good few hours to go through everything,

This museum has a superpower, throwing engaging outdoor events. First it was The Featival of the Moon with a massive replica of the moon taking up most of a city block as Indigenous people performed sacred ritual dances. More recently, Fantastic Planet with three enormous inflatable beings and a dance troupe performing in the street at night. If you ever see an event happening there GO. Do not hesitate. Both these events were free and open to the public. Suitable for all ages. Food trucks, glass blowing on special occasions. Once inside, the galleries are filled with treasures including a slightly creepy doll collection, fantastic glassworks and video games by student designers complete with VR experiences. Your kids will love it and so will your inner child.

Free admission. Free Parking. Open on a Sunday! Great place!! Staff was very welcoming and friendly. Spent about an hour here. Restrooms are clean. Fun art on display.. many beautiful and thought provoking pieces. A lot of glass. There’s a cute book nook upstairs to read and relax..a good number of glass and art books to flip through. Definitely a must see if you’re in Norfolk.

I fell in love with the exhibit Orchids: Attraction and deception! My tour guide was amazing! She knew a lot about the exhibits and the each individual artist and I love the way she explained what was on the mind ofeach artist at the time they made the piece.

Quaint little art museum, yet rich in art. Quiet so you can enjoy every piece individually and not have to run through any of the exhibitions. Free parking and free admittance. Convenient location to eateries. If you enjoy art, you will absolutely love the Barry Art Museum!!!

One of the best beaches in the area. It’s not as crowded and is perfect for families with kids. The waves are calm and is a perfect beach to relax and chill out. It’s one of the top beaches in the Norfolk metro area. The views are awesome. I would highly recommend this beach for a visit

I love how this beach is almost empty after warm summer season. It is like I have a private backyard living only 1 mile away! Calm, peaceful, and overall a much nicer part of Norfolk today than it was back in the 90s...

We really enjoyed this beach. This happened to be the beach closest to our Airbnb so that’s how we ended up here. We went after 6pm every day and it was so quiet and relaxing! Our four year old loved it. The waves were not as strong as Virginia Beach so it was a nice change from hitting that beach. I would recommend checking this beach out for some relaxing and to get away from all the crowds! If you do get into the water, we ran into shells, rocks, and seaweed about 3-5 feet in. Past that, it was all clear and sandy.

Ocean View is a favorite from childhood. Always on the quiet side and a location appropriate for children and families. It was clean and parking was a big plus. Not too far from the beach area if you’re taking supplies.

Extremely peaceful. There weren't too many people, even on labor day, and even when there was a decent amout, there was still tons of personal space, which I loved.

Great beach, plenty of space for the whole family and overall fun

Parking was the easiest here (I went during the day in the middle of the day). There was a lady set up in the trunk of her small suv listening to music doing drugs, there was trash everywhere (alcohol and fast food) , in the parking lot alone. I didn't really feel comfortable leaving my car alone lol. Beach was nice but had alot of trash as well. I walked to the fishing pier but just to walk on the pier, not to fish or anything, you had to pay. I choose not to as I just wanted to enjoy the water and view, not spend unnecessary money. Restaurant looked nice but very expensive for the food options (plus nothing for people with food allergies besides salad...). Pier would have been free if I had bought a $20 salad lol. It is $2 to walk if you don't want to waste money on overpriced salad you can make at home for $5. It is really cool how you can buy a plaque for a loved one who passed who loved fishing for the pier. I enjoyed reading those while listening to the water. They also had benches to sit on. This beach was more of a touristy or kids beach. It was nice to see while I was exploring.

This river is a large part of the 757 I enjoy watching it flow

Trash needs to picked up, civilian walking the street all night

Beautiful park

Went there to ' A Sherlock Carol ' both were awesome, the play and the theater. We sat in one of the box seats and it was quite the experiance. The venue is a throwback to an earlier time. It's quaint and clean (the restrooms were immaculate). Parking facilaties and dining establishments both are within easy walking distance. Overall it was a great time.

Must see! So much history in this place. Jeff, the Managing Director, gave us a private tour on short notice. It’s clear he knows and loves this theater and what it provides to the community. Big thanks to Sarah for helping to coordinate! We’ll be coming back to see some shows for sure!

I love visiting the Wells Theatre to see well thought out and engaging plays. The space for seats have enough room for your knees. Lots of resturants in walking distance.

Wow wow wow. Came here to see Little Shop of Horrors and was so blown away by the entire cast. There wasn’t a single cast member I wasn’t impressed with. We sat in the Mezzanine, row A and could easily see the stage almost the entire time (there were two parts where actors were on the sides and difficult to see). The restrooms were clean and the intermission was the perfect length. The bartender was a little abrupt (rudely yelling next repeatedly), but the other staff members were all friendly and welcoming. We will definitely be back and would recommend!!

It's a beautiful place to see a show. There's not a bad seat in the house. We bought box seats, and we're glad we did. It was nice to sit together and that we didn't need to bother anyone else if we needed to leave our seats for any reason, and the view of the stage was perfect. The acoustics were excellent as we could hear every word. The restrooms and lobby were clean, and the staff was very pleasant and helpful. I really enjoyed my visit. I'm looking forward to my next.

Amazing production of Fiddler on the Roof! The acting, the voices! Incredible! The Wells, with its beautiful 1912 Beaux Arts theatre architecture, is a real gem. We are so thrilled to have such a wonderful venue here in Tidewater! Bravo to all!

This is an excellent venue for live theater. This theater has a long history and plenty of character. It is very intimate, and there's probably not a bad view from anywhere in the house. I did have center first row seats in the mezzanine. The seats were comfortable enough and fairly close to one another. I was happy to get up and stretch during intermission. I did notice some broken seats thru out the back section of the mezzanine. Except for some needed minor repairs, the venue was clean and neat. The sound acoustics and lighting were well done. Everyone working here was friendly and helpful. There also is a concession area where you can buy drinks. The restrooms are clean and seem recently updated.

Great concery venue. Smaller and more intimate then many locations. Parking was easy with a garage across the street and drinks were easy with short lines and two good sized bars. Employees all were polite and had positive attitudes. I will prefer this location when I have a choice for concerts

Went to the NorVa for the first time last night. Out of the hundreds of shows I have been to and the years that that took, I had never been here before and I really loved the place. One of my favourite aspects was that it didn't feel packed like a lot of the small venues I have gone to and that is not to say that it was empty, kind of like how downtown Norfolk always is, but I had a little radius of space between me and the crowd which was very nice and it was still almost near capacity. Definitely feel like I have been missing out all these years and will be looking to go back again for another show at some point.

The NorVa was absolutely phenomenal, the staff was great, and the bands I was finally able to see over the last few weeks were super amazing!! I had a blast both times, first seeing From Ashes To New, and then Atreyu! 🤘🤘🔥🔥 Both have been long time favorites of mine!

I've been coming to The Norva since I was a teenager and I've always been a massive fan of this venue. The staff are amazing every single one of them! The sound and space is awesome. I do miss having access to the top level tho that's been restricted the past several shows I've seen here.

The venue was awesome! Getting a drink was easy, but $25 is quite a bit for a double and coke, I think.

I went to The Norva for the KISS6 Tour, and this venue truly gave ghetto energy from the moment I walked in. A few things need to be said: 1. Security and Atmosphere This is supposed to be an R&B concert. Why were people fighting in the middle of the floor like it was WWE? The lack of crowd control was wild, and security was nowhere to be found when folks started getting aggressive. If you’re not going to enforce a safe space, why even have staff? 2. Smoking Indoors? The Norva's own site says it’s a smoke-free venue. So why were folks lighting up freely like this was a basement kickback? The smoke was everywhere and nothing was done about it. For people with asthma or who just don’t want to breathe that in — it’s a health issue. 3. General Admission Setup = Chaos The venue is all GA, but attendees were acting like they bought front row seats. Elbows flying, folks trying to hold imaginary spots, and the staff did nothing to organize the crowd. If you're not going to assign seating, at least manage the flow. 4. Venue Vibe = Dusty It feels outdated, grimy, and like they’ve done zero work to modernize or improve comfort. From the bathrooms to the sticky floors, it gave high school gym turned club. If you’re thinking about seeing your favorite artist here — think again. The artist might be the only good part of the night. The Norva as a venue is unorganized, unprofessional, and unsafe. Hard pass.

A True Gem of a Venue - 5 Stars! The NorVa is, without a doubt, one of the best intimate concert venues on the East Coast! Every time I've been for a show, the experience is phenomenal. First, the acoustics are absolutely top-notch. The sound system is world-class, making every band, from the openers to the headliner, sound incredible. You feel the music in your chest, but it's crystal clear—never muddy or overwhelmingly loud. Second, the intimate setting is what truly makes The NorVa legendary. With a capacity of about 1,500, you're always close to the action. There's a fantastic energy in the room that you just don't get in a massive arena. The general admission floor allows you to choose your spot, and the second-floor balcony offers great views as well. Third, the historic charm and aesthetic of the old vaudeville theater add so much character. It has that cool, rustic, brick-and-wood vibe that just feels like a classic rock club, yet the amenities are totally modern. The staff is always friendly, the bars are efficient, and being right in downtown Norfolk makes it easy to grab a bite before the show. If you love live music and are looking for an unforgettable night, The NorVa is the place. It's truly a music-lover's fantasyland!

Absolutely an outstanding performance! It was short but so worth it! I got front row seats and got to high five the people on stage. There were so many lights and performers from other countries. I will say it is 13 plus because they shot the guns, but overall great show.

The Tattoo will entertain you as well as inspire you! It will be April 28-May1, 2022 at Norfolk, VA. There is food,beer,music, dance, and drill performances. You can see the parade of nations Which will include 30 NATO Member Nations. Hundreds of performers from around the world. You will love the Military bands, Highland dancers, Pipes & Drums, and drill teams. You can come for a day or several days. You can be on a bus trip, or car. The main performance is in a Arena with steps. The parade is on the street. Enjoy the international festival at the Norfolk Waterfront. You can stay in Norfolk or Virginia Beach nearby. There are city garages to park your car. Norfolk also has a botanical gardens which is beautiful in the spring. There is a parade the next day with all the NATO units. The military groups will perform the night before outside the center to give you a taste of their military performance

The tattoo was well organized with a good variety of music. The visuals were beautiful! We went to the opening show and the line moved quickly. This is definitely a bucket list item!

Fantastic experience. Definitely recommended.

I have been 3 times and I am always blown away. One of the best shows that I have been to. Very patriotic, plus bands from around the world. Every year I want to come home and take everyone I know back to see it. I would rate it 10 stars if possible.

This is a bucket list event. People travel far to see this.

Amazing, performances were top tier

This beach does not have lifeguards. It does, however, have homeless people. There were several tents on the grassy area and also on the beach when we visited. I have to say it did create an uneasy atmosphere. We minded our own business, and we were fine. The area for picnics is shaded and has picnic tables. Parking is limited. The walk to the beach is fairly easy. Dogs are permitted before 10am and after 6pm.

A good area to just sit and relax....if you enjoy walking at a beach. I only walked there twice, and didn't explore any other part

8/3/25 - great spot, two different parking lots. Public restroom. Besides the bathroom there is a shaded tree area, lots of people were hanging out, some look to have grills in the spots too. Beach was nice, no lifeguards on duty but we did see rescue drive by once checking the waters while there. Definitely a nice spot.

Beautiful beach, by beautiful homes. The military had a great big airboat out.We got to see them do some kind of maneuver.

Osiris Hotness Scale: 7/10 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 Sarah Constant Beach Park is the perfect hidden gem for a quick break at the beach. 🌊 The park offers just the right balance of relaxation and convenience—easy to get to, with plenty of open space to sit back, enjoy the view, and reset for the day. What I loved most is how peaceful it feels compared to some of the busier beaches nearby. You can find your spot, kick back, and soak in the sound of the waves without feeling crowded. The sand is clean, the shoreline stretches nicely for a walk, and there’s just enough activity to feel alive without being overwhelming. 🏖️ It’s also a great stop if you don’t have time for a full beach day but still want that quick seaside vibe. Perfect for a morning coffee walk, a sunset pause, or simply to clear your head between errands or exploring the area. Families, couples, or solo travelers will all find it worth a visit. Not the flashiest beach, but that’s part of its charm—it’s authentic, simple, and accessible. For me, it’s a solid 7/10 on the Osiris Hotness Scale: relaxing, convenient, and refreshing, with plenty of reasons to come back.

I enjoyed the beach, its pretty clean and quiet. Then a couple let their dog poop nearby. They didn't clean it up, instead they opted to cover it in sand. Then a random family came over and played their music way too loud with a Bluetooth speaker. The people are the problem at this beautiful location.

This beach has calm waves and a sandbar so it stays shallow pretty far out. Parking is close to beach access, so it’s a short walk. What’s walking distance: Before you get to the beach there are shady spots under the trees, but it looked hard to find a spot. There’s also a restaurant on the nearby pier. As a heads up: There are officers on ATVs who make sure no dogs are on the beach.

Always a great time at Harbor Park. Staff is always friendly and helpful. I love that on Saturdays they have the pre game party with DJ and $3 beer. The post game fireworks were great as well. I prepaid for parking but it seemed like there was still plenty

Took my son and his girlfriend to a game it was her first one! The antics of Riptide and the other mascots on the field were great and the catering was pretty good too. Best part? It was all reasonably priced and there weren't any mosquitoes. Just watch where you park as high Tides can put some of the roads near Harbor Park underwater.

Harbor Park, home of the Norfolk Tides, offers one of the most enjoyable and family-friendly minor league baseball experiences in the country. Nestled along the Elizabeth River in downtown Norfolk, the stadium delivers a great mix of classic ballpark charm and modern comfort. With sweeping views of the water, a lively crowd, and a team that plays with energy and heart, it's hard not to love catching a game here. One of the most impressive aspects of the Tides' outreach is their Tides Jr. Program, which has truly made our visits extra special. This free program offers young fans a unique sense of belonging, with perks like a welcome kit, exclusive events, and special recognition throughout the season. It's clear that the organization values its youngest supporters and takes pride in creating a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere. Our son felt like a VIP from the moment we signed him up. The stadium itself is clean, accessible, and well-designed. There genuinely isn’t a bad seat in the house—whether you're right behind home plate, along the baselines, or even up in the reserved sections, every seat offers a great view of the field. Concessions are what you'd expect from a minor league park: a mix of ballpark classics and local favorites, with reasonable prices and friendly staff. Between the top-notch fan engagement, especially for kids, and the unbeatable views, Harbor Park has become one of our favorite summer spots. Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun night out, the Norfolk Tides deliver every time.

Beautiful fireworks show! Great family entertainment. Just don't go hungry or thirsty. The food is EXPENSIVE! I love the peanuts.

Beautiful baseball park adjacent to Elizabeth River and train trestel. All seats are good and fun concourse with pre-game organ.

Banana Ball at Harbor Park Stadium. This gives you an idea of what the stadium looks like inside. Seats are comfortable for two hours of sitting. Easy to get up and down to let people by. Sections are clearly marked in the stadium for you to find your seats. Easy to get in and out of the stadium in a large crowd. Crowd moved smoothly and fast in and out of the event, funneling through the corridor. The staff did an amazing job with crowd control after the event to line people up for photos and autographs. The lines moved smoothly. The merchandise to purchase was easily accessible in a roped off line. The staff did an amazing job with the amount of food and drinks people ordered, and it was worth what you paid food wise. They didn't skimp on anything just because there was a lot of people to serve. You got plenty of food for what you paid for. The prices weren't obnoxious either. It's what you would expect to pay at a ball game for food and drinks. On a normal day, not a special event day, parking probably isn't an issue. But I suggest showing up super early for a special event if you didn't pay for parking at the arena. ( it wasn't advertised by the event so we had no clue how people prepaid or VIP paid for parking for the event ) but regular parking was gone by the time the gates opened for the special event. Just my opinion from what I observed last night. You can also ride the train in possibly. I saw it coming through last night. Im not sure if it stops at the arena. You could check. Might be worth it, if it's a special event. We plan to look into it next time. Traffic moves smoothly for special events thanks to the police directing traffic for it around town. So even though all lots were full except the courthouse lot that people used, couldn't spot close parking around the city near the stadium, we found a parking garage a little less than a mile away. There was street parking but most signs said 2 hour limit for the toll to pay. The walk is nice around the city to and from the stadium. I hope this review helps.

On vacation for just a few days in the Norfolk area. Tried to go to the 6:35 game on Wednesday April 23rd, but the team delayed the start with no explanation besides the announcement. Just a member of the groundscrew driving back and forth, back and forth. After over an hour of everyone eating, drinking, and spending their money, they called the game because of an "unplayable field." Nothing you can plan for like rain in the forecast. Allowing a ticket exchange is fine and all, but I don't live anywhere near here and can't come back. Felt like such amateur hour and reflects incredibly poorly on the organization.

This place is wonderful! We ordered 2 appetizers; spinach artichoke dip w/ chips & a humus plate which came with delicious sides for dipping. We really enjoyed it along with our wine flights. Never seen anything like this before. A tower of wine glasses each filled with a different wine. Amazing! I'd definitely go back here again!

The service here was really good and our server was understanding when I had some confusion over the wine selection. I enjoyed the wine I bought and there was a pretty good deal offered on it that night. Though I am not a wine connoisseur, they seemed to have a good selection between white and red. The food was very tasty; I got the mermaid tacos (tuna), which had a great slaw and sauce that was very flavorful. My only complaint is that the prices for the food are a bit high for me compared to the portions served for my preference. The regular dinner entrees range from $20 to $36. They do have a "light fare" option that is less expensive, which is what I ordered from, but of course that doesnt have as much food. It is definitely a nicer restaurant and while you don't have to dress nicely to go here, you wouldn't look out of place at all if you did, so that is something to bear in mind when thinking of the cost of dining here. I would definitely come back in the future, but it will definitely be for a special occasion and not for just a regular dinner out.

The Lone Sailor Statue in Norfolk, VA, at the Nauticus waterfront, is a great spot. It really captures that moment of a sailor preparing to leave or just coming home. The view of the Elizabeth River adds to the atmosphere, too.

Pretty cool statue, nice view

Beautiful place to be in the evening for a walk. No cover from rain or sunlight (other than trees), but the benches are nicely situated for both people watching or looking off into the water.

Out of site Of google cars. Take a walk and enjoy the waterfront of historic Norfolk Va. and see the broadside the the USS Wisconsin.

I used to run to this statue all the time. Nice park and a great place to take a walk.

A very beautiful and historical place to visit. Highly recommend this place for everyone to visit once you are in the city of Norfolk VA

Very nice walk on a nice day.

We have been coming to Waters Edge for the last two years. Every time we come in the environment is always welcoming and the food and drinks just keep getting better. We are so thankful for the staff. Their friendly faces make our visit just that much better. We couldn’t ask for a better place to have a date night or even a family night. Highly recommend on a hot summer day the Waters Edge Froze and don’t forget to add that sparkling wine topper!

Wow! Found this on a google search for our anniversary dinner and let me tell you it did not disappoint! The food was Ah-mazing, our server Kelley was knowledgeable and friendly and timed our meal perfectly. The bistro is beautiful, i can’t wait to share this place with my friends and come back again. My husband and I are both veterans so we are even happier to support a veteran owned business. Bravo Zulu, this is the best!

Sooo, Waters Edge Winery & Bistro is such a beautiful spot with plenty of tasting options. This was the start of a girls’ day for us, so we didn’t eat much just shared an appetizer. We mainly came for the wine, and trust we had wine! The staff was super friendly, and the atmosphere was relaxed and chill. I’d definitely come back to try more of the wine… and maybe some more food next time.

Burrito and Dumpling went here for our anniversary the other week and had a mostly excellent experience. We had the brussels sprouts appetizer, which was phenomenal, and featured a hot drizzle and large, generous pieces of bacon on top. Burrito had her fav, filet, which was perfectly cooked, with a side Caesar salad and risotto. Dumpling 🥟 had the short rib, which left him disappointed, as it was dry, and was not a true bone in short rib, but boneless chuck. He mentioned the dryness to the waiter, and no one ever offered any remedy - it was like oh 🤷🏻‍♀️ and life goes on, which is not what you’d expect from a restaurant of this caliber. The risotto that came with it was the great redeemer of this plate - 😍like eyes roll back in your head cheesy, creamy perfection. Further, disappointing was the crème brûlée dessert. The sugar on the top was burnt to the point where it was inedible and tasted like burnt gross. Another saving point, the inside is spacious and the sangria is plentiful and delicious! We did a flight and our favorites were coconut and apple. We would come again, but avoid the short rib and desserts.

From start to finish, our experience at Water's Edge Winery was fantastic. The atmosphere is sophisticated and stylish, creating a wonderful backdrop for a special meal. What truly stood out, however, was the incredible staff. They were so attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about ensuring we had a great time. And let's not forget the food – every bite was a delight! We highly recommend Water's Edge Winery for its exceptional service and delicious menu.

This place is so amazing. I've been in the Hampton roads area for 5 years and this has been the best food I've ever tasted. Not one item on the menu was bad. Every single thing we ordered was perfect. The couple that own the place are prior military. And it's nice to have a place to go eat that a Helo Pilot has started.

We held an event here yesterday, 45-50 people for lunch and they handled it perfectly!! Our waitress Amber Was amazing !! Alicia was such a help. Food, delicious, wine , always good, and smooth as can be. Tom Weigl - Real Estate agent W/ HRVA Homes⚡️Powered By Keller Williams Realty

Small but lovely area with lots of winding and intersecting paths throughout, with plenty of plants, and a little creek (I saw a snapping turtle here once). This is a bird and wildlife sanctuary, so please respect the rules of no bikes/dogs allowed. Dogs ARE permitted in the field east of the sanctuary though! The only reason I am not leaving five stars is because of the limited hours-- it is almost always closed, which is frustrating. I wish Norfolk had more green space. My boyfriend and I love to bird here, and I'm glad there is a protected space for them. <3

Lots of mushroom species popping up right now. Just be on the lookout for the turtle it's well camouflaged.

Beautiful park. Nice and clean. Yesterday was able to see the landscapers doing work to keep it up. My dog loves it. Squirrels to chase around and plenty of open area for her to run around.

I really love this place. It has nice paths to walk on. It is very calm and quiet. I just hate people littering. If you go there, please respect nature.

The Weyanoke Wildlife & Bird Sanctuary is a marvelously beautiful little plot of land in the Chelsea district of Norfolk. It's hidden in a nice neighborhood, right next to a train station. The foliage and fauna there are spectacular, majorally each species of plant or tree is marked with a nametag, I spent the day with my girlfriend exploring and trying to identify the plants we know. It's such a pleasant place for a morning stroll. 10/10 would recommend to anyone living in Norfolk that wants a little mini taste of nature without having to leave the city.

When I was a kid, you could not go into this sanctuary. For the first time, I took my family inside. We did not realize it at the time, not no bicycles are allowed, there is graffiti over most of the word. It was beautiful though. We walked our bikes and enjoyed the forest. I'm really happy to see this place open again. It's a sanctuary for anyone needing a little nature retreat in Ghent.

Finally got to check this place out. We run and bike past all the time. Really cool little wildlife sanctuary right in the middle of Norfolk. Took the kids and walked around the trails. We got about 3/4 of a mile out of the looping wandering paths but you could wander more. We saw birds and squirrels and lots of plants. I want to come back in the spring when the flowers are blooming. There's a porta pottie if you need to go. Follow GPS and go bast the fence for parking. Totally free!

Amazing venue. I truly enjoyed the studio spaces that they have for local artists to work and showcase their talent.

Fantastic community resource! Cathy-Jo Ramsey took the time to make a glass figurine of a fish with my kids while they watched and she explained everything going on. Yvonne Hilliard-Bradley showed us the pottery workshop and talked with my kids about how to throw clay and make pottery. Hannah Brinckley was very helpful in connecting us with other staff members and explaining more about classes the offer. Keep this place going!

Made a roadtrip with my sisters to drop off a painting for an exhibition called VIVID. Showing from 10/12/24-11/16/24 If you live around those neck of the woods go check it out ✌🏻

D'art is a beautiful museum where you can view, experience, and purchase art. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to speak with two different artists who have studios in the museum. Watching them work and conversing with them created a full circle experience in the creation process. It was such a pleasure. I will definitely return to enjoy this wonderful gift to the community.

I love this new location! There are a number of terrific and talented resident artists whose work you can admire along with a rotating exhibit featuring artists from all over. I highly recommend taking a paint pour class with resident artist Deanna. She's a great teacher who makes sure everyone is completely satisfied with the art they've created. If you get a chance to do a wine glass dip class, you'll be super pleased with a custom set of wine glasses you can keep for yourself or give as a beautiful gift.

My daughter spent three weeks in summer camp there. It was a terrific experience for her and the art she made was so creative. She will be back!

Super Cool, you get to meet and talk with several different artist. They explain the various techniques used and you can also watch them work, No Fees

Great park. Boat ramps, bowling alley, axe throwing, baseball and football fields with beautiful live oaks everywhere.

I grew up at this park and now I get to raise my son here! Love how there is access to boat ramps for kayaks and row boats. The park has great shade and gazaob houses perfect for events. Two baseball fields and a large foot ball and soccer field. A Sunday here you are truly surrounded by community, laughter and fun. Great parking. Love the bathrooms and even have grills. We love the horseshoe and volly ball. There is even tennis courts! Every corner has something new to explore.

I attended a baseball game. There was plenty of parking. The big bathroom was open to the umpires and fans. The port-a potty by the softball diamond was filthy with no toilet paper or paper towels. Children were playing on the playground.

Great park! Been going since I was a little!

The park is very big with sports fields and playground equipment. One thing that I liked was the playground equipment had signs that let you know the appropriate age for playing in that area. I even like that there is an abundance of shade lots of large trees to keep the area a little cooler on hot days. Seems well kept and safe when we went. Our son is three and had a great time.

The park was very nice. Although shelter one and shelter two were close in proximity to each other, the park itself was very spacious. Also, the shelter location of the event I attended was ideal for parents with very young children. The swings and park activities for the children were two steps outside of the shelter where the event occurred.

Adrian & I went to watch our beautiful granddaughter Gabby play Fast pitch Softball with her team Atlantic Shores Christian. We really enjoyed it. She did great. The team did great but storm warnings caused the games to be called. It was really a nice field and park.

Fun theater with great performances, usually a bit edgier than other theaters in this area. Booze is a little pricey, staff is eager to help. It is in the basement of the scope so cell service is spotty

Wonderful little theater productions with very good actors. I do hope they find something bigger to have shows in, we were crammed in like sardines and there was someone behind me rattling a chip bag right in my ear, the seating situation made it uncomfortable and hot at times with no leg or arm room to stretch out in or to even sit comfortably. However It wouldn't deter us from coming back to see another production.

Small theater with big dreams of bring plays to the community. Sometimes dreams do come true. Thank you

I love the plays they choose. Edgy and speaks to current events. We always leave with something to talk about. Great entertainment and brain food. I never saw a show there that I didn't like. They do an amazing job for the sets and a budget. Great talents.

The play Flyin West was great! So entertaining& engaging. This was my first time at the Generic Theatre and I was born & raised in Norfolk. It is not only underground , but secret too! I will want to see more. Please find ways to advertise the productions at this theatre. The cast of Flying West where truly talented.

Had a great time! Small theater but definitely a hidden gem. Great performance. We will be returning!

Such a great creative space. Came here to see the Dumpster Dudes perform and had an excellent time!

A hero to the filipinos as well. Every filipino knows his line "i shall return"

This is a must-see museum! There is so much to know and learn about the rich history of the country and its people!

Learned a lot about General MacArthur and his accomplishments. Truly inspiring, hoping to visit again next time I'm in Norfolk.

Beautiful history..great museum

Amazing place !! Loved it there.

Smaal museum but lots of information and archives! Must see..

Just a heads up to folks wanting to visit this week (Dec 21-25), they’re closed all week. No updates on Google and we drove 4 hours stayed overnight to come see this museum. :-( Only giving it a 3 because I have to review and I haven’t seen it to fairly review it.

Wish they have more volunteers in order to keep the museum open on more days. Such an awesome piece of history in the heart of Norfolk. Would love the chance to go in and visit. But the outside has a few items to view also.

Great collection of historical items from 1800s through present of Norfolk's Police and Fire Service. Knowledgeable staff gives thorough and entertaining tour of exhibits.

Me and my wife bought some t-shirt from this place our way of commemorating the history of the place, Norfolk is one of the oldest and historic place as I have known.

Smaller than i expected took like 5-10 min to walk around. Very friendly staff. Park outside on a meter, dont bother parking at the mall. Wont take you long to walk around inside.

Wasn't open couldn't enter, said it was open in their web site. Drove there for nothing wasted gasoline

Great museum, it was very well put together and Retired Ray Simmons did a great job.

Very interesting museum. Ray was great in showing us around and explaining all the history.

Avoid Ukwensi's Art at All Costs If you're considering visiting Ukwensi's gallery or attending one of his exhibitions, do yourself a favordon't. This so-called "artist" has built a reputation, not for his skill or creative vision, but for his unbearable arrogance and condescending attitude. The experience of viewing his work is overshadowed by his overinflated ego, and quite frankly, the art itself is not even worth a second glance. From the moment you step into his space, you’re met with an atmosphere that is anything but welcoming. Instead of fostering an environment where art lovers can engage and appreciate creativity, Ukwensi seems more interested in belittling those around him—especially younger visitors. He speaks to people as if they are beneath him, assuming they know nothing about art, even when they might have more knowledge and talent than he does. The worst part? He has no idea who he's talking down to, often disrespecting individuals who could outshine him in skill and artistic understanding. As for the artwork itself, it is uninspired, lackluster, and completely devoid of any emotional or intellectual depth. There's nothing compelling or original about his pieces—just a tired repetition of mediocre concepts that have been done better by far more talented artists. It’s the kind of art you might glance at once and immediately forget, except that you’ll remember the experience for all the wrong reasons. To make matters worse, people actually travel from out of town to evaluate different people’s work, only to leave disappointed and frustrated, feeling as if they've wasted their time which you can never get back . It’s almost tragic to think that visitors could have spent their day exploring real talent elsewhere but instead ended up subjected to Ukwensi’s dismissive, patronizing behavior and subpar artistry. If you value your time, respect, and artistic sensibility, steer clear of this so-called artist. There are countless incredible galleries and exhibitions worth visiting—this is not one of them. Save yourself the disappointment and spend your time appreciating real artists who respect their audience and produce work that actually matters.

It is a great venue for art in the 757. You should check it out! :)

I absolutely love this gallery and the atmosphere it provides! If you're looking for an intimate, classy art experience while in the area, look no further :-). The owner is very accommodating and, if you're not careful, you can spend an evening conversing with him before you realize the time.

This is a truly amazing ❤️ gallery of contemporary art! The owner/artist is amazing and the atmosphere he has created is very special. The artists displayed there are also amazing and when I can, I will purchase a few of the pieces. We will always make it a point to visit when in Norfolk. This is a must stop when in Norfolk, especially on the 1st Saturday of the month!

Gorgeous Gallery! Great place to meet interesting people, and talk about Art and Culture. The gallery owner is so welcoming and has a great eye for unique and talented artists; as shown in his gallery. First Saturday's are Amazing!!

Superb place!! YOU HAVE TO see some of the artwork displayed & available for purchase. •Priced very affordable. Ukwensi the artist/curator is very versatile with his approach to the art world which I appreciated so much as a collector. I highly recommend stopping by. His awards prove that as well. This gallery “Oooooozis” with passion. Put it this way ceremonies are different in every country, but true politeness is everywhere the same & Ukwensi is definitely in tune with people. This review is written with depth & gratitude U.K. Sincerely, Anthony I.G@THASMgallery

Today I was inspired. I was awakened from within by this amazing work of art that spoke to my soul. It was as if the artist (Ukwensi), was aware of my struggles; was familiar with my past hurts, had insight into my fears. From this dark, yet familiar place he was urging me to move past the familiar and delve into my destiny. It was beautiful, it was majestic but more than that, it was power — my power. It was faith, courage and beauty urging me to step forth into an endless sea of possibilities. A one of a kind masterpiece this work had already been sold. Today was my first encounter with the gallerie Ukwensi, and it was a treasured experience.