Activities to Enjoy in Norfolk: Pre or Post Cruise

If you're embarking on a cruise from Norfolk, Virginia to destinations like The Bahamas or the Eastern Caribbean, you're likely eager to experience the stunning beaches of Half Moon Cay, the historic fortifications of Nassau, or the incredible snorkeling locations near Freeport. However, be sure to allocate some time to enjoy Norfolk before or after your cruise. This charming historic city, situated at the confluence of the Elizabeth River and Chesapeake Bay, boasts numerous attractions, including maritime museums and deliciously fresh seafood. You might even discover so much to see and do in Norfolk that you’ll want to extend your stay by an extra night or two.

Discover Norfolk’s Unique Neighborhoods

Whether you have several days or just a few hours to spend in Norfolk, you can gain a wonderful perspective of the city by concentrating on downtown and the adjacent neighborhoods of Ghent and Freemason. The primary tourist spots are conveniently walkable, but Norfolk also offers a convenient light rail system for easy navigation.

Explore downtown Norfolk by following the self-guided Cannonball Trail, which showcases well-preserved landmarks reflecting over 400 years of history. This scenic route takes you along the Elizabeth River, through streets adorned with historic homes, past memorials honoring the Armed Forces and General Douglas MacArthur, and to several captivating museums. Plan to spend at least two hours to fully experience the trail, or select a section that piques your interest.

West Freemason, Norfolk's oldest neighborhood, features charming cobblestone streets and numerous points of interest marked by informative plaques. The Ghent Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a delightful destination for visitors. Its main thoroughfare, Colley Avenue, stretches across 18 blocks and is home to grand residences, an Art Deco theater, and contemporary buildings. The area is brimming with galleries, restaurants, and antique shops, just a short distance from downtown.

With fresh ocean breezes and stunning waterfront views, Norfolk's Ocean View and East Beach neighborhoods are incredibly inviting. The three beach parks along the Chesapeake Bay, including the popular Ocean View Beach Park, offer ideal spots to enjoy a sunny day.

Explore Norfolk’s Must-See Attractions

Nestled by the water and home to the largest Navy base in the world, Norfolk boasts a rich maritime history. Discover the city’s deep connections to the sea at its cutting-edge maritime center, featuring one of the largest battleships ever constructed by the U.S. Navy. You can explore the decks of the battleship and delve into the adjacent museum to learn about Chesapeake Bay's marine life, experience a hurricane simulator, and uncover more about Norfolk’s seafaring past.

Get out on the water with a sightseeing cruise, fishing charter, sailing lesson, kayak adventure, or even a harbor cruise on a tall ship. Alternatively, you can stretch your legs with a leisurely walk or bike ride along a section of the 10.5-mile Elizabeth River Trail. Another wonderful spot to explore is Norfolk’s 175-acre botanical garden, Virginia's largest, featuring 52 themed gardens and 14 miles of scenic pathways.

If you’re heading to the Caribbean or The Bahamas with children, be sure to allocate sufficient time in Norfolk to visit the city’s fantastic zoo. Home to hundreds of animals from around the globe, you can even arrange for a behind-the-scenes experience with a zookeeper.

Norfolk’s museums offer a delightful experience for anyone who appreciates art, architecture, and history. The Hermitage Museum and Gardens, set in a beautiful early-20th-century manor surrounded by 12 acres of manicured gardens, features an acclaimed art collection that spans 5,000 years. Even larger is the Chrysler Museum of Art located in the historic Ghent district. In addition to works by renowned artists like Picasso, Cezanne, and Warhol, it also includes a glass studio where visitors can watch daily glass-making demonstrations.

Top Shopping Spots in Norfolk

If you’re a shopping enthusiast, Norfolk offers a plethora of fantastic destinations for retail therapy. The Ghent area boasts a vibrant shopping scene with unique boutiques and locally-owned shops, making it a perfect spot for antique and vintage finds. Downtown Norfolk features a staggering one million square feet of retail space at the contemporary MacArthur Center, along with the historic Monticello Arcade from 1907 and Selden Market just across the street. Additional options include the Military Circle Mall near the airport and an outlet mall located just outside the city. For fresh produce and artisanal goods, Each Beach hosts a seasonal farmers market.

Dining Options in Norfolk

Norfolk is a culinary haven for food lovers, offering a diverse restaurant scene that caters to every taste. Its location on the Chesapeake Bay means that fresh seafood dominates most local menus – keep an eye out for local oysters, scallops, mussels, and the region’s renowned blue crabs. Don’t miss trying the famous she crab soup, a rich and creamy dish infused with crab roe and sherry, often served with a side of sherry for sipping. Coastal Virginia’s fertile farmland provides an abundance of seasonal produce, contributing to a thriving farm-to-table dining experience.

For a variety of dining options, head to "restaurant row" located along Granby Street in downtown. Colley Avenue in Ghent features numerous outdoor eateries, most of which have patio seating available. Over in Ocean View, you can savor fresh seafood while enjoying stunning water views. Additionally, Norfolk has a thriving craft beer scene, complemented by several wineries.

If you're planning to board a cruise ship in Norfolk, make sure to explore the city's attractions before or after your trip. With its rich history, delicious food, intriguing sights, and family-friendly activities, you'll be grateful for the opportunity to experience everything Norfolk has to offer.

Please note that onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining choices may differ based on the ship and the destinations involved.