Situated at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, Norfolk neighbors popular destinations like Portsmouth and Virginia Beach. The lively NEON district, acclaimed concert venues, and dozens of arts centers bring an unmatchable energy to this city. Shop however your heart pleases— boutiques, brand name stores, and a mall abound here. Eat at neighborhood-favorite restaurants downtown. Town Point Park, located at the center of the Downtown Norfolk business district, hosts concerts, holiday events and recreation activities. Take in the art displays and historical monuments while relaxing by the water. Catch a baseball game at Harbor Park, a 36-acre arena that sits near Elizabeth River. Challenge your friend to a life-size chess game at The Plot, a park that uses reclaimed materials to create attractive public spaces. Complete your trip with a visit to Nauticus, a 120,000 square foot science museum, and Pagoda & Oriental Garden, a stunning spot composed of plants and stone.
plan your trip to norfolk 
On the Road
Tidewater Trails | Listen
The Local Palate explores the tidewater trails of eastern Virginia through delicious food, beautiful views, and timeless culture.
Getaway
Glass Light Hotel
The giant pink glass bunny greeting guests at the entrance of Glass Light Hotel is the first clue this boutique hotel is full of whimsy.
the latest in norfolk
In the Field
The Return of the Lynnhaven Oyster | Listen
A former fireboat captain returns to the water as an oyster farmer and tour guide to revive the Lynnhaven oyster.
On the Road
Tidewater Trails | Listen
The Local Palate explores the tidewater trails of eastern Virginia through delicious food, beautiful views, and timeless culture.
In the Field
New Restaurants in Virginia
Check out new restaurants in Virginia Beach, the D.C. area, and Charlottesville in our state-by-state guide from the Local Palate's New Restaurants issue.
nearby destinations
On the Road
Williamsburg
For history lovers, there are few destinations in America as transporting as the city of Williamsburg, a glimpse back into the Colonial era.
On the Road
Charlottesville
Not just the backdrop for the University of Virginia and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, Charlottesville and its restaurants showcase a rich immigrant community.
On the Road
Outer Banks
A string of barrier islands, North Carolina’s Outer Banks stretch more than 120 miles south, hugging the Atlantic coast.
