19 January 2023

Date Night on Colley Avenue

Colley Avenue, starting in Norfolk’s Ghent neighborhood and expanding all the way to Larchmont, is the quintessential spot for date night. You’ve got a lineup of restaurants to choose from, shops to peruse, breweries to visit and the iconic Naro Expanded Cinema. Grab your partner’s hand as you stroll the charming blocks of Colley to curate the perfect date.

To Do

WATCH A MOVIE

Catch a film at Colley’s iconic 1936 single screen movie theater, the Naro. Bright marquee letters light up Colley Avenue, and the ever-rotating movie selections are perfect for a date night with your special someone.

STROLL THE STREETS

Spend some time wandering through the streets of Ghent. You’ll stumble upon beautiful historical homes exuding character and sparking conversation. You’re also likely to come across some friendly faces of four-legged friends in this dog lovers’ locale.

CREATE SOMETHING TOGETHER

Looking for a more hands-on activity? Check out the upcoming classes at Pendulum Fine Meats for you and your loved one to experience. One of our favorites is the charcuterie class where you get to taste charcuterie and create your own charcuterie board. They also have a sausage-making class where you can then take the sausage home and cook a romantic dinner together.

To Eat

THE GREEN ONION

A dining favorite in Ghent, The Green Onion is an unpretentious bistro with a French-inspired menu. Go ahead—indulge in their buttery lobster rolls or fabulous brunch menu. Don’t forget to save room for their ever-rotating desserts.

FELLINI’S

Did someone say hearty Italian food in a welcoming atmosphere? This family-run business has called Norfolk home for over 20 years and continues their delicious tradition serving tasty appetizers, irresistible pasta dishes and some of the best pizza around. Get cozy in a booth while sipping wine and devouring delectable Italian cuisine.

To Drink

ELATION BREWING COMPANY

Their big leather sofas make for a cozy spot to cuddle up with a local brew, but Elation also offers regional Virginia wines and ciders for you to enjoy. If you are looking for entertainment, they also have live bands and acoustic music on the weekends.

REAVER BEACH BREWING CO.

Raise a glass to love and luscious sips at Reaver NFK. This innovative and award-winning brewery is known for their wild sours and wide selection of IPAs. Located in a beautifully renovated post office, Reaver is the ideal spot to relax with your favorite sipping partner.

EVENING NIGHT CAP AT PRESS 626

With the cozy house atmosphere and lit fireplace, Press 626 is arguably one of the most romantic places near Colley for a night cap. Their wine list is extensive, but with an extremely knowledgeable team, it instantly feels less intimidating. Although Press 626 is known for wine, their cocktails are equally as delicious. Whether you like a smooth whiskey or old-world red wine, Press 626 will set the mood for a loving evening.

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04 January 2023

Best Ways to Stay Fit at your Norfolk Convention

Perhaps you’re regularly fitness minded and don’t want to skip a beat in your workout routine. Maybe you’re simply looking to move your legs after long days of sitting, listening and brainstorming. Whatever the reason to get moving, Norfolk has the spaces and the views to boost your motivation. Here are some of the best ways to stay fit at your Norfolk meeting or convention.

Yoga Pop Ups

Maybe one of the most exciting ways to zen out during a conference is yoga. While yoga studios in Norfolk are aesthetically pleasing, yoga outside overlooking the water, on the beach or even with goats make for a unique and exciting way to move your body—something you can’t experience at home! Check out our events calendar for the latest yoga happenings. Locations and experiences vary throughout the year.

Elizabeth River Trail

The Elizabeth River Trail, also known as the ERT, is Norfolk’s 10.5-mile-long walk and bikeable pathway that takes you through multiple neighborhoods with different waterfront views. Starting out in our thriving Downtown, the trail winds you through a few historic neighborhoods and campuses and ends in the beautiful neighborhood of Lochhaven. The ERT is trickled with breweries and delicious restaurants along the way, and if you are not familiar with our city, it’s a great lookbook to a day in the life of a Norfolkian. You can experience the ERT by bike, scooter or your own two feet. With Lime scooters scattered throughout the city, you can easily hop on and off the trail from just about any location. Renting bicycles at Pedego, located in Downtown Norfolk is also an option to explore and get your exercise in.

Another great option for exercise along the ERT is the Plum Point Park obstacle course. The course is a full body workout; you’ll climb over walls, swing across monkey bars and jump over obstacles to really get those glutes working!

Explore the Battleship Wisconsin

Working out is ideal during business trips, but some days we’re grateful just to get our steps in. With a visit to the Battleship Wisconsin, not only will you be touring an iconic Norfolk attraction, but your Fitbit reporting will be impressed with your elevations and amount of steps you log touring the vessel. Take on the ladderwells of seven decks’ worth of history and views on this 887-foot ship.

Rock Climbing

Head to Latitude Climbing + Fitness where you can rock climb, meditate through yoga classes and get your sweat on at a HIIT class in a fully equipped Rogue gym. We recommend purchasing a day pass while in Norfolk to get unlimited access to rock-climbing, bouldering and yoga classes.

Kayaking

Anyone up for an upper body sunset workout to end a long day of meetings? Sightsee along the Lafayette River with Norfolk Kayak Rentals. Being outside on one of Norfolk’s many waterways is a preferred method of exercise in this city.

Hotel Gyms

While hotel gyms may seem like the obvious choice of exercise, the experience can sometimes be less than thrilling. We suggest mixing it up! Glass Light Hotel & Gallery has a state-of-the-art gym that overlooks our iconic historic Granby Street and the Downtown Norfolk skyline. Or, you can enjoy a casual swim before a day full of presentations at Norfolk Waterside Marriott Hotel and Conference Center.

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28 December 2022

Top 16 Instagram Worthy Places in Norfolk, VA

Photo opportunities are endless in Norfolk. The city is filled with beautiful sites to see and gems to discover. Fill your camera with mermaids or beautiful waterfront views. These 16 spots are guaranteed to help you get inspired and bring out the photographer in you!

1. Battleship Wisconsin

There are only three other battleships this big in the nation, making this a truly unique place to capture. The massive guns on the Battleship Wisconsin will tower over you at 66 feet, making an awe-inspiring picture. Admission is required to access this location, but it’s worth it, as it includes a tour of the ship with lots of other great photo opportunities.

2. The Neon District Murals

We can’t talk about Instagrammable spots without mentioning Norfolk’s Neon Arts District. Streets lined with unique and colorful murals provide you with the perfect backdrop for an Instagram photo shoot. The rainbow fence at The Plot tends to be a local favorite. What’s most exciting about the NEON District is that the art is always changing, with new murals being added each year. So, each time you visit, there will be new inspiration to photograph.

3. Norfolk’s Waterfront

The sweeping waterfront views and yachts at Waterside make for a beautiful shot to show off to your friends. Get your nautical vibes on at the marina located in Downtown Norfolk or in Town Point Park. You can also grab a bite to eat at the Waterside District for great foodie photos!

4. Ocean View Fishing Pier

Head to Norfolk’s iconic fishing pier in Ocean View where the inspiration for photos is endless! Pose beneath the colorful city directional sign at sunset, or capture an artistic photo of the pier, which is the longest freestanding pier in North America.

5. Downtown Norfolk’s Skyline

Norfolk’s historic buildings in their various shapes and heights make for some fascinating photos. Catch a stunning view of the cityscape while perusing the streets Downtown. You can also embark on a boat ride on a City Cruises Norfolk vessel, the American Rover or a Sail Nauticus sailboat for a prime spot to take in the sunset with the perfect view of Downtown Norfolk’s skyline.

6. Pagoda & Oriental Garden

Your Instagram followers will think you traveled to Asia when you share this picture. The Pagoda was authentically designed, assembled and gifted by Taiwan, and its garden features tranquil fountains and swaying forests of bamboo that provide fun backdrops.

7. Granby Street Lights

Get your glow on at Granby Street under the arched lights at night. It’s one of the many accents of the city that make Norfolk unique and add a touch of whimsy to the streets.

8. Alkaline’s “Never Lost” Sign

There’s something about a glowing neon sign that strikes the heart—especially one with a great message. The “Never Lost” sign at this awesome ramen restaurant is the perfect quote for those who love to travel.

9. The Hermitage Museum & Gardens

The Hermitage Museum offers a grand estate with contemporary exhibition galleries and 12 acres of gardens and grounds with Secret Garden-esque archways located along the Lafayette River. It’s a beautiful place to photograph year-round.

10. NARO Expanded Cinema Sign

Since opening in 1963, the Naro Expanded Cinema has become an iconic symbol of Colley Avenue in Norfolk’s Ghent neighborhood. The life-sized marquee sits atop its entrance with Broadway bulbs giving it extra shine for photos. Check out one of their movies while here while indulging in movie theater popcorn.

11. The Hague Bridge

Surrounded by calm waters and historic homes, the Hague footbridge is one of the most picturesque places in the city. Enjoy a European city-like backdrop with stately Colonial homes, the beautiful Chrysler Museum of Art and a church that resembles an English cathedral.

12. Grain’s Rooftop

The rooftop of Grain is probably the most Instagrammed spot in the city. Your photos here will feature the city skyline with both modern and historic architecture, views of incoming ships and craft brew from their wide selection. Be sure to enjoy their free photo booth inside too!

13. Chrysler Museum of Art

Almost every space at the Chrysler Museum offers a cool, artsy photo op. Take an upscale selfie in the mirror art out front, glide down the marble staircase in the foyer, or create a modern vibe with a picture among the galleries. Once you’re done, hop across the street to the Glass Studio to capture an action shot of the free glassmaking demo every Tuesday through Sunday at Noon.

14. Freemason Cobblestones

The cobblestone streets of Norfolk’s Freemason District are every photographer’s dream. Take a step back in time on these historic roads lined with mature trees and grandiose homes.

15. Greetings from Norfolk Mural

Tell your friends back home, “Greetings from Norfolk” with this mural designed to look like a postcard at Waterside District. You’ll be sure to stand out as the bright colors pop behind you.

16. Norfolk Botanical Garden

Each season at Norfolk Botanical Garden offers its own display of magnificent beauty. In spring and summer, flowers burst forth from every direction. Fall’s bright and vibrant hues are simply unmatched. Even in winter, you can find a gorgeous selection of florals outside or warm up in the Tropical Display House.

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14 December 2022

Best Healthy Restaurants in Norfolk, VA

We’ve all had the experience of feeling sluggish after several days of dining out. Whether you’re traveling in Norfolk or live local and just need to refresh your lunch routine, there are plenty of healthy restaurants in Norfolk that go beyond salads and smoothies (although we have a grand selection of those, so keep reading). Check out these restaurants below for fresh, healthy options that don’t compromise on flavor.

350 Grace

For those looking to go gluten‑free, 350 Grace presents guests with all the flavors of traditional Southern cooking while promising a gluten-free, grain-free, organic menu. You’ll love their grilled organic pork loin served with fire‑roasted vegetables, maple sweet potato and Tabasco honey.

Café Stella Roasters

Serving up all your coffee needs with beans roasted in-house daily, Café Stella in Ghent offers more than just a caffeine boost. Find your craving fix for breakfast, lunch or dinner from a wide range of mouthwatering choices like the savory blend of spices in their Shakshuka or their brown rice bowl loaded with pan-seared salmon and sweet potato.

Pendulum Fine Meats

Healthy foods aren’t limited to salads and juice but can also mean cooking or enjoying quality ingredients that make you feel good. Pendulum provides just that by offering high-quality, locally sourced meats. Customers are treated like family the minute they walk into the butchery and are encouraged to ask questions about what they’re purchasing, how it’s best prepared and how the animal was raised, providing an experience guests can feel good about every time.

The Stockpot

Pull up a seat and enjoy all the warmth that comes with this “feel good food” while getting in a few extra health benefits. The Stockpot creates made-from-scratch options that put a healthy spin on comfort food favorites, from ramen to tuna bowls and pork carnitas wraps. Plus, you can’t go wrong with their fresh smoothies and rotating desserts.

Town Center Cold Pressed

One of Norfolk’s healthiest restaurants, Town Center Cold Pressed offers a housemade selection of juices, smuices and immunity shots to keep you well all season long. On their food menu you’ll find a selection of oatmeal or smoothie bowls, along with flavorful bagels or sandwiches, available on gluten-free bagels by request and for an additional charge.

Zeke’s Beans & Bowls

This local joint in Norfolk’s eclectic NEON Arts District offers a wide selection of healthy favorites to keep you energized all day! Enjoy a smoothie bowl, poké or a wrap. Choose from their specialty items like their Brazil bowl, featuring blended acai and banana topped with granola, banana, kiwi, mango and honey—or go rogue and customize any bowl to fit your needs.

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16 September 2022

A Guide to Norfolk's Murals

With self-guided tours aplenty, and even guided tours focused on Norfolk’s NEON District, Norfolk’s art scene is not to be missed. Everything from public murals to installations on local buildings have been designed for the city. Norfolk’s burgeoning arts scene provides a platform for a multitude of artists to create public murals on local businesses showcasing the city of Norfolk. Any space, whether on a building wall, a house, a shed or even the sidewalk, can be transformed into a stunning display by local artists whose love for the city is obvious in every scene.

Upcoming Murals

Ahead of the 7th Annual NEON Festival (Oct. 20–21, 2022), several new murals are being planned and painted on Norfolk’s buildings. Watch for familiar faces and new friends as this year’s selection of artists commence projects around NEON. These new murals will be unveiled at the NEON Festival, so make plans to attend and celebrate the new and ongoing energy of Norfolk.

Gourmandizing NEON

London-based artist Matthew McGuiness and The Governor’s School for the Arts public art students will paint a mural on the side of Virginia Furniture with the theme, “A History of Lunchtime in Norfolk.”

Ghent Grab & Go Mural

Victoria Jensen and Asiko-oluwa Aderin, fine art students from NSU, were selected for a mural on the rear wall of Ghent Grab & Go that illustrates the warm feelings that food and the creation of meals inspire.

Bob’s Gun Shop Billboard Mural

Local artist Hanna Kirby will be the fourth artist to fill the rotating mural site on the billboard along Olney Road, with a design that welcomes all to the NEON.

Virginia Furniture Storefront windows

Local artist Parrish Majestic will enliven a storefront on Granby Street with colorful, temporary murals as a “selfie spot” in his signature graphic style.

Current murals

BLOOM

Artists: Carl Medley III and Charles Rasputin

Created by two Norfolk artists, Bloom is a combination of vibrant pink roses and stark white fangs located at 801 Boush Street. The artists were inspired by the intense energy and fierce creativity of the NEON District and wanted to showcase it through this mural.

NEONing

Artist: Joan Biddle + Volunteers

Guiding you through the NEON District are colorful accents like sidewalk painted triangles and fences by Joan Biddle and volunteers. You can find them on park benches, along sidewalks and under murals, reflecting the colorful artwork found along the walls of local small businesses. These bright and vibrant pieces provide a guide for locals and visitors alike to experience the unique and creative artwork of NEON.

757 ENERGY & VIBE

Artist: Jerrod Ray and WKTR News 3

Visitors and locals looking for a new “Instagram worthy’ photo spot, look no further than the 757 Energy & Vibe mural by Jerrod Ray in collaboration with WKTR News 3. This vibrant colored mural highlights the unique and creative community of Hampton Roads, also called “The 757.”

LABOR OF LOVE

Artist: Hannah Kirkpatrick

Alongside the Glass Wheel Studio, a contemporary art facility located in the heart of The NEON, Norfolk’s Arts District Labor of Love glows in the artist’s handwriting, forming an ECG or heartbeat. This unique piece of artwork expresses the energy required to sustain one’s passion. In her practice, Hannah playfully links the transitions in technology through objects, devices and engaging experiences of art.

Razzle Dazzle

Artist: Nick Kuszyk

Paying homage to the Navy’s camouflage styles from World War I battleships, Razzle Dazzle by Nick Kuszyk covers a 3-story wall on Granby Street.

NFK Arts

Artists: Elliott Addesso and students

Many of the murals throughout the city, both inside and out of the NEON District have been collaborations between local artists and Norfolk’s Emerging Leaders Program. Some, like NFK Arts are outlined by an artist, in this case, Elliott Addesso, and then students are the ones to fill in the outline.

Daisies

Artist: Kelsey Witt

Located in the NEON’s health and wellness center, this mural pays homage to the healing process, which can take two forms: physical or mental healing. A body’s cells must heal for rebirth, symbolized by the mural’s blooming flowers.

Solidarity

Artist: Aimee Bruce

This piece takes inspiration from “Animal Farm” and features different animals supporting the building, including a horse, a chicken and a cat to symbolize how everyone must come together as a community in spite of our differences.

Neighborhood Markers

Artists: Natalia Pilato with local teens and adults

Local teens and adults assisted in a “paint-by-number” process to create a 63-foot-long mural on the CHKD Thrift Store in NEON. Designed by Natalia Pilato (art education program director and assistant professor at ODU), the 1,500-square-foot artwork represents community and unity and celebrations neighborhood youths.

For more information regarding free public art tours click here. Don’t forget to tag us in your pictures! #VisitNorfolkVA

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01 September 2022

Where to Find Live Music in Norfolk, VA

Norfolk’s live music scene is rapidly growing, bringing out local musicians and touring bands from across the nation and beyond. From rock and indie folk to smooth jazz, hip hop and R&B, there is a genre and a show for everyone. We’ve got large venues to host fans of well-known performers as well as smaller, more intimate experiences. If live music is your jam, Norfolk is just the ticket. Here are some of the top live music venues in Norfolk.

The Attucks Theatre

Originally known as the “Apollo of the South,”the Attucks Theatre has hosted top names including Cab Calloway, Duke Ellington, Mamie Smith, Nat King Cole and Redd Foxx. Named in honor of African American Crispus Attucks, the theater is a cultural gem in Norfolk and continues to bring in outstanding performers, especially through their Attucks Jazz Series.

Chartway Arena

This 9,100-seat multipurpose arena located on ODU’s campus is one of the premier mid-sized collegiate venues in the country. Among a slew of events happenings including comedy tours and sporting events, Chartway hosts live concerts in genres ranging from country and contemporary Christian to acoustic, hip hop and R&B.

Chrysler Hall

Since its opening in 1972, Chrysler Hall has been known as a premiere performing arts center in the region. Along with hosting Broadway performances and national comedy acts, Chrysler hosts unforgettable music performances.

Gershwin’s

You’ll feel those 1920s speakeasy vibes the moment you walk through Gershwin’s doors, especially if there’s live music happening. Gershwin’s features a weekly lineup of performers specializing in piano, vocals, ragtime piano and instrumental jazz.

Grain

Norfolk’s beloved rooftop beer garden serves up more than just tasty pints. Grain also offers live music every Wednesday through Sunday. No matter what you like to groove to from rock, country or mellow acoustic, Grain plays it all.

Norfolk Taphouse

Punk rock, garage rock and heavy metal lovers, Norfolk Taphouse is your spot. Taphouse provides a state and audience for local and regional bands and has been a regular stop for national and regional touring acts since 1995.

The NorVa

Did you know the NorVa was once named the No.1 concert venue in the country by a Rolling Stone readers’ poll? The NorVA brings a plethora of top performing artists and bands and offers a more intimate concert experience because of the ideal size and layout of the venue. One of the most popular concert destinations in Norfolk, the NorVa offers an all-around excellent experience.

Smartmouth Brewing’s Warehouse Live

Many of Norfolk’s breweries feature fantastic lineups of live music from both local and regional performers. Smartmouth took it a step further with the launch of Warehouse Live, a dedicated venue attached to the brewery featuring a spacious stage, pub tables and a professional sound system. With a capacity of 200 and an atmosphere akin to a backyard concert, Warehouse Live is the ideal mix of not too big, not too small, just right ambience for enjoying some of the best live music around.

Toast

Toast is one of Norfolk’s favorite spots for amazing food and fantastic cocktails, and they’re also the host of many shows organized by LAVA Presents, a local concert and event promoter committed to bringing extraordinary national, regional and local talent to concerts, block parties and festivals throughout the year. LAVA Presents hosts an annual Lava Minifest at Toast featuring a stellar lineup of performers.

Waterside District

With a backdrop of the Elizabeth River and plenty of restaurants and bars right on site, Waterside District is a well enjoyed concert venue in Norfolk. With Hot Country Nights warming up the stage in summer and multiple patios to experience concerts throughout the year, Waterside has the views, eats, drinks and atmosphere to entertain.

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31 July 2022

Weekend Getaway in Norfolk and Virginia Beach

Wanderlust is defined as a strong desire to travel, but in Virginia, we call that feeling WanderLove. To fill this desire, set out on an epic road trip to Norfolk and our neighboring city Virginia Beach! With its 182 miles of beaches, 270 miles of biking trails, over 20 breweries and numerous independently-owned eateries, the two cities have become a magnet for beachgoers, adventure seekers and foodie connoisseurs. The combination of all our attractions and museums brings you the widest range of entertainment and appreciation of world-class art. You won’t be able to see it all and will end up making some tough choices along the way. The good news is that you can’t go wrong in what you choose to do and can always return for another visit!

With these 36 hours, you’ll explore the trails of Norfolk and tour the Oceanfront wonders of Virginia Beach, all packed with foodie hot spots, eclectic art and historic sites.

Friday

3 P.M. Arrive in Norfolk and Tour the ERT

To give you a sense of our coastal city that is deeply rooted in history with southern charm, hop on the Elizabeth River Trail (ERT), a 10.5-mile pedestrian and bikeable pathway that takes you through multiple neighborhoods and intertwines with Norfolk’s Cannonball Trail (a self-guided walking tour with over 400 years of historic features). If you opt to walk, you will notice the finer details along the way, whereas biking will help you achieve more scenic mileage.

Stop by the Historic Freemason District where you’ll find the Virginia Cheese Co., an ideal spot to create your own cheese board and enjoy wine on tap. Or, if you meander just around the corner, you’ll find Four Eleven York Restaurant where you can enjoy an afternoon cocktail. We suggest their Bartender’s Experience where a specialty beverage will be concocted just for you after learning more about your favorite sips and flavor preferences. If you continue down the ERT, you will find yourself in the Chelsea neighborhood with Benchtop and Smartmouth Brewery and a delicious beer and cider bar called The Birch. The craft brews in this neighborhood are best combined with brick oven pizza from The Bakehouse at Chelsea or the fresh authentic Greek cuisine at Orapax, a third-generation family-owned restaurant.

7 P.M. Sunset Cruise on the American Rover

For a unique perspective of our city, set sail on-board the American Rover, a three-masted topsail schooner that resides in downtown Norfolk, making it an icon of our waterfront. Its distinct red sails catch the breeze and will glide you down the Elizabeth River so effortlessly. With mood-setting live music and the Norfolk skyline as your backdrop, the two hours spent out on the water will have you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

10 P.M. Late Night Dinner at Luce

Marquee dotted archways illuminate Granby Street, setting the scene perfectly for dinner at Luce. Their food profiles are exquisite, taking inspiration from both the Northern and Southern regions of Italy. Some of our locals’ favorite dishes include Mushroom Toast (Portobello, white and cremini mushrooms, fresh mozzarella, truffle oil, porcini dust and Madera), Wild Boar Ragu (ground Cinghiale ragu over house-made tagliatelle pasta topped with roasted pulled Cinghiale and rosemary-infused oil) and, of course, all the divine desserts. Their dessert menu is ever-changing but to put it simply, it’s molto buono!

Saturday

9 A.M. – Bonjour to Breakfast

Rise and shine, then head to La Brioche, a beloved French-owned café where the pastries leave the display case just as quickly as they’re filled. The aroma of freshly baked goods lingers in the air, making you crave every sugar-glistened pastry and warm baguette that they offer. Try their classic puff pastry croissant or indulge in an Abricontine—a puff pastry filled with apricots and custard.

10 A.M. Head to Virginia Beach to Go Under the Sea

Hop in the car and travel 30 minutes east to Virginia Beach to visit the popular Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. This aquarium is home to about 300 species of sea animals. Watch turtles mosey around, penguins dive bomb into the water and even pet a stingray! Explore the deep depths of the Atlantic Ocean and experience the intricacies of coastal habitats from around the world during your underwater aquatic journey.

Noon Eat Up these Inlet Views

A classic surf-chic waterfront shanty that is loved by locals and tourists alike is Big Sam’s Raw Bar, a seafood favorite nestled among the docks of Rudee’s Inlet with a small-scale tropical-themed dining room. Find fresh seafood caught right off the coast with mouthwatering dishes including their Hot Blue Crab Dip and Blackened Tuna Tacos, all accompanied by views of jet skiers, dolphin sightseeing tours and yachts sailing the waters.

1:30 P.M. Catch a Breeze on the Boardwalk

Walk along the iconic three-mile Virginia Beach boardwalk with waving palm trees and salty sea breezes. The high-rise hotels and eclectic beachside restaurants paint the perfect seaside postcard. You can admire the crashing waves or venture onto the sand to dip your toes into the Atlantic Ocean. Ogle at the ocean long enough and you may spot a pod of dolphins playing in the surf.

4 P.M. See What’s Brewing at the Farmhouse

Operating out of a restored 1912 inland farmhouse, Back Bay’s Farmhouse Brewing Co., is where hoppy beverages may lure you, but the stunning medley of old Southern charm property will keep you there. Sip a seasonal cider on their white picnic tables that dress their front lawn, and snap a photo with their old-timey classic pick-up truck, making it the perfect spot for an afternoon of sips and laughs.

7:30 P.M. Dine in a Historic Carriage House

Sticking with the theme of historic homes that have been converted into taste bud paradises is Omar’s Carriage House—originally an 1840s, you guessed it, carriage house. Here you’ll find a folksy dining room serving up delectable American-Mediterranean fusion plates.

Sunday

8 A.M. Breakfast at Handsome Biscuit

You know that story about the modest biscuit place that opened in Norfolk’s Park Place neighborhood and then became so famous they were featured in national publications and television shows? Well, it all started with a biscuit—but not just any biscuit. Handsome Biscuit’s story begins with the most cushiony, warm sweet potato biscuits you can imagine. Then, they stuff them with ingredients that are so phenomenal, they’re guaranteed to eliminate any possible trace of food boredom. A famous option is the Hella Fitzgerald, fried chicken, with bacon, cheddar and red eye pork sausage gravy smushed between biscuit halves. Their Hot Betty features an over hard egg with seared greens, garlic and their famous Lupo hot sauce. Feelin’ sweet? The PB & JB has peanut butter, mixed berry jam and salted butter. What more could you even want?

10:00 AM – Free Art in the NEON Arts District

Stroll the sunlit streets of NEON (new energy of Norfolk) which is home to over 70 works of public art. Building-sized murals and art installations trickle the streets and pay homage to local and touring artists who have creatively decorated every inch of this neighborhood. The creativity of the murals ranges from oversized bees on bicycles that can be spotted along Magazine Lane, to men and women in uniform elegantly painted to pay tribute to our military service members.

Once you’ve explored the painted streets of Norfolk, head over to the Chrysler Museum of Art, a museum compiled of 30,000 objects spanning over 5,000 years! The glass art exhibit that kick-started Norfolk’s glass culture lies just inside the museum’s doors. This exhibit consists of 10,000 pieces that is undoubtedly extraordinary; an art medium that captures the dance of light and color seamlessly. A glass blowing studio sits steps away from the museum, and a boutique glass-inspired hotel resides downtown with over 50 pieces of glass art inside. The appreciation for this art form is amplified once you witness glass being blown at a free demonstration at the Perry Glass Studio—a mesmerizing, unique experience.

Noon Rooftop Brunch at Grain

Before heading home, get a taste of delectable regional flavor combined with fantastic rooftop views. Located on the fifth floor of Norfolk Hilton The Main, you’ll find an all-you-can-eat brunch buffet at Grain. Enjoy specialties like fresh oysters and made-to-order omelets and tacos. The incredible views of the Elizabeth River will make for a picture-perfect Sunday brunch.

2 P.M. Roam with the Animals at the Virginia Zoo

Take one last adventure before hitting the road at the Virginia Zoo. Stroll the 53 acres of lush gardens and visit its 700 furry, feathered and scaly animal friends. Witness the animals in their natural habitat: giraffes outstretching for leaves, monkeys swinging from branch to branch and Magpies singing songs.

Follow the itinerary or wander off the list and you’ll be sure to have a memorable experience in Norfolk and Virginia Beach. Not only are we neighboring cities, but we also have teamed up to create the At Last Pass, a pass that brings you the best savings and deals of the year. So bring your family, your friends, or a date—your vacation is here, at last.

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26 July 2022

5 Interesting Facts About Ocean View

You may already be familiar with Norfolk’s sandy beach community as a place to relax, unwind and enjoy some local seafood and craft beer. But, did you know Ocean View was once home to an amusement park or that the neighborhood turns green each March? Check out these five fun facts about Norfolk’s Ocean View neighborhood.

1. It wasn’t always called Ocean View.

Ocean View was originally a 360-acre region called the Maganon Plantation. In 1854, William Mahone, a young civil engineer who was building the Norfolk and Petersburg Railroad, laid out the streets for a neighborhood. Originally established as a private summer resort, Ocean View was own as the “Coney Island of Virginia.”

2. Ocean View once had its own Railroad.

Around 1880, Walter H. Taylor, a railroad executive from Norfolk, organized a nine-mile narrow gauge steam passenger railroad service between greater Norfolk and Ocean View, which was not yet a part of the city. The line was originally called the Ocean View Railroad and was eventually changed to the Norfolk and Ocean View Railroad. The small steam locomotive, named the General William B. Mahone, hauled passengers from Norfolk to the beach, primarily on the weekends and for Sunday outings.

3. There used to be an amusement park—and a roller coaster that withstood multiple explosions.

In the early 1900s, an amusement park was developed at the end of the line to attract more visitors. It was called the Ocean View Amusement Park and was popular for its thrill rides and curiosities, including a local man named Abe Doumar who unveiled a new product: the waffle cone. The park endured many ups and downs throughout the decades it was running. By 1978, a decision was made to close Ocean View Amusement Park, but not without a bang.

A director who had been interested in filming a disaster movie got word that the park was closing and presented a plan to park officials that involved blowing up its rides. All agreed, and in 1979, the park’s most famous wooden roller coaster, The Rocket, was loaded up with dynamite, other explosives and gasoline. After various attempts of impressive explosions and shattered glass on surrounding buildings, The Rocket remained. Finally, a bulldozer was needed to help pull the structure down and to capture the shot for the film.

4. The community really knows how to celebrate St. Patty’s Day.

“Why don’t we have a parade to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day?” is what the local Knights of Columbus chapter in Ocean View decided when they created the original OV St. Patrick’s Day Parade back in 1967. Called one of Norfolk’s most enduring and anticipated traditions, the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade runs down Granby Street. The first parade consisted of a few marching bands and a few hundred attendees. Now it’s Norfolk’s largest annual parade with over 190 bands, floats and more than 60,000 guests.

5. A portion of Ocean View was perhaps created by a hurricane.

Legend says that OV’s Willoughby Spit was created by a hurricane. The area known as Willoughby Spit is named after Thomas Willoughby, who came to Virginia in 1610 and received various land grants in 1625. It is said that Willoughby’s son, Thomas II, was living there in the 1660s when his wife awoke one morning following “a terrific storm” to see a point of land in front of her home which had been covered by water just the night before!

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11 July 2022

Best Outdoor Meeting Venues in Norfolk, VA

Norfolk’s outdoor venues have always been a part of our city’s appeal. Finding venues with open decks and space for social distancing is still an important factor for many meeting planners. With extended summers and shortened winters, our mild climate makes Norfolk the ideal event location for the majority of the year. From beautiful rooftop restaurants to on-the-water attractions, Norfolk has the best and most unique outdoor venues to host your next meeting.

Grain

Grain, a popular rooftop bar on site at Norfolk Hilton The Main, offers both city and river views from the restaurant’s two balconies. The city side features breathtaking scenery of the Downtown high rises with unmatched sights of the impressive Battleship Wisconsin. The riverside balcony features a large fire pit and sweeping views of the Elizabeth River. Grain’s multiple event spaces are also perfect for entertaining with their large windowed garage doors opening fully to allow for the whole venue to be open air.

American Rover

The soundtrack to your next event could be of the American Rover’s bow smashing waves as it glides through the Elizabeth River. One of Norfolk’s most popular venues, the American Rover tall ship offers harbor cruises and doubles as the most unique event location in the city with the stunning scenery along the Elizabeth River. With music playing in the background accompanied by appetizers and local beers, you may have the best way to network! Whether you’re planning a corporate event or promotion, the Rover staff will be there to make your event seamlessly memorable.

The Virginia Zoo

Choose the Virginia Zoo for your next outdoor event and you’ll be greeted by the amusing orangutans, friendly alpacas and majestic Malayan tigers. Their open-air event space ranges in guest counts from 40 to 2,000, fitting any size of get-together comfortably. Their 7,000-square-foot open-air pavilion with paver flooring, retractable walls and the ability to expand events into the adjacent open field is perfect for larger parties, while the Garden Tent accommodates smaller groups (up to 100 guests) and is tucked away in the luscious Conservatory Garden. The Virginia Zoo is just a short, 10-minute drive from Downtown convention hotels, and with each event hosted, a portion of the funds raised will benefit their animals and conservation initiatives around the world.

Norfolk Botanical Garden

Abundant shrubbery with blooms of azaleas and roses can complement your next outdoor event when held at the Norfolk Botanical Garden. It encompasses 175 acres with seven miles of paved paths along with another seven miles of trails to explore, making it the perfect haven for fresh air and socially distanced spaces. The garden is surrounded by water on three sides and is one of the only gardens in the country that you can explore by foot, tram or boat. The Garden features wide open spaces and large grass lawns that have convenient access to the Visitor’s Center and parking area. Mayor’s Row and the NATO Vista are also ideal locations for company picnics, family reunions or large-scale tented events.

Battleship Wisconsin

The Battleship Wisconsin (BB-64) is an Iowa-class battleship that was launched on December 7, 1943. During her career, the battleship served in the Pacific Theater of World War II, the Korean War and then again to assist with Operation Desert Storm. Fully decommissioned and serving as a ship museum, she resides in Downtown Norfolk next to Nauticus and is a truly magnificent experience to tour and visit. Both the Main Deck and the Fantail event spaces offer sweeping views of the skyline and the Elizabeth River.

The Hermitage Museum and Gardens

Tucked away in the Lochhaven residential neighborhood of Norfolk is the prestigious Hermitage Museum and Gardens. Once a private residence, this early 20th century arts and crafts estate is now a museum located on the shore of the Lafayette River. It features a nationally recognized private art collection spanning 5,000 years, contemporary exhibition galleries, a Visual Arts Studio and 12 acres of gardens and grounds for you to host your perfect event or meeting.

Waterside District

Waterside District is home to numerous venue options with spaces that fit sizes from 25 to 500. From a lush beer garden with comfortable and private lounge spaces to a restaurant deck overlooking the Elizabeth River, Waterside allows you to design the space that works best for you! Their state-of-the-art audio-visual capabilities present endless opportunities to showcase your logo, photos, slideshows or meeting notes. If you are also looking for a customized menu that will fit your guests’ unique culinary needs, Waterside’s wonderful food and beverage team is more than willing to help facilitate this request for you.

Harbor Park

Imagine this for your next event: a warm summer evening, the sun setting over the Elizabeth River, a classic hot dog in hand and the Norfolk Tides hitting a series of home runs. Harbor Park’s unique event spaces can accommodate groups as small as 30 to as large as 500. The tiered outdoor picnic areas, O’Connor Brewing Company Party Deck and two open-air patio areas are the perfect spots for entertaining your guests. Enjoy your company, cheer on the Norfolk Tides and soak up the river breeze!

Assembly

Assembly is a unique Downtown workspace for leading professionals in creative industries, technology companies, aspiring startups and talented freelancers to share energy, inspiration and resources. Their rooftop deck features comfortably casual patio furniture, canopy lighting, umbrellas for shade and some fine city views. The rooftop can be rented as an individual space or combined with the penthouse and event space.

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22 June 2022

Top Ways to Enjoy the Water in Downtown Norfolk, VA

In Downtown Norfolk, we’re fortunate to be located on the beautiful Elizabeth River. The views are unrivaled, and you’ll gain a completely different perspective of our stellar city from the waterfront. Here are the top ways to enjoy the water from Downtown Norfolk!

Sail Nauticus

For an educational way to get on the water, cruise with Sail Nauticus. They provide a variety of activities including sailing cruises and adult sailing lessons. Their two U.S. sailing courses offered are First Sails, a fun, informal 2-hour sail to test the waters, and Learn to Sail, a weekend-long course where you can train, study and be guided through the process to earn your Keelboat Certification. Group outings and corporate retreats are available as well.

Victory Rover

You will have a wealth of knowledge when taking this cruise, so hop on board and learn about the Port of Virginia, shipbuilding, history of Norfolk and the most anticipated sight, the world’s largest Naval Base, Naval Station Norfolk. Not everyone has access to the base itself, so this is the next best way to take in the sights of the mighty destroyers, awe over aircraft carriers, sneak a peek at the submarines and learn about all the other crucial vessels that may be in dock.

American Rover

Jennifer Collins Photography for VisitNorfol

A three-masted topsail schooner resides in Downtown Norfolk, making it an icon of our waterfront. Its distinct red sails catch the breeze and will take you down the Elizabeth River so effortlessly you sometimes forget you’re moving. With a tropical summery soundtrack and the Norfolk skyline as your backdrop, the two hours spent out on the water will have you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

The American Rover offers a Two-Hour Harbor Cruise and a Two-Hour Sunset Cruise. On the Harbor Cruise, children and families will have an opportunity to lend a hand in setting the sails and even taking a turn at the helm! The Sunset Cruise is the perfect way for adults, couples, groups and colleagues to spend a beautiful evening on the water. All of the cruises have narration as you pass landmarks and neighborhoods and learn about the history of Norfolk.

City Cruises Norfolk

City Cruises by Hornblower has a cruise for every meal and occasion including brunches, lunches, dinners, holiday cruises, after-dark dinner cruises and so much more. Each cruise carries its own atmosphere, but ultimately, the energy aboard this vessel is unmatched. Watch this yacht come to life with stunning views, delicious food, cocktails and music. No matter which cruise you are on, when hopping aboard, you can’t help but dance along to the DJ and joining the fun on this party on the water.

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Date Night on Colley Avenue

To Do

WATCH A MOVIE

STROLL THE STREETS

CREATE SOMETHING TOGETHER

To Eat

To Drink

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Artists: Carl Medley III and Charles Rasputin

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