Labor Day may herald the unofficial end of summer (boo), but it comes with a unique upside: three days of glorious rest and relaxation (yay!). For those headed to Coastal Virginia, Norfolk is the sweet spot that combines beachy fun, world-class dining, history and views for days. Here’s how to spend an extended weekend in Mermaid City.
Day One
Wake up, sleepyhead; rise and shine, seize the day … whichever cliché you go with, at least be discerning in your coffee choice. For that, Norfolk knows how to grind ‘em. Start with a cup at Cure Coffeehouse in the historic Freemason District, an urban spot popular with remote workers and city dwellers that also serves up breakfast sandwiches (including a couple of vegan options). Or head to Vessel Craft Coffee, an expansive space in the Chelsea District that takes latte art to new heights. Stick around for breakfast or lunch from Vessel’s busy kitchen.
Downtown Norfolk is filled with many attractions and shops, but one of the best parts is the city’s bikeability. Venture to Pedego bike shop, located within MacArthur Square, for electric bike rentals to explore our 12 tight-knit blocks—water views of the Elizabeth River, the Cannonball Trail, Harbor Park and the Battleship Wisconsin are all among the things you may see while rolling through our streets.
For lunch, hit up any of the many restaurants that line Granby St. From traditional pub fare at Grace O’Malley’s to gyros and Italian subs at Granby Bistro and Deli and melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness at The Grilled Cheese Bistro, there’s zero reason to go hungry on your visit to Norfolk.
Unwind in the afternoon with a visit to the Glass Light Hotel & Gallery. Here, exceptional works of glass art by world-renowned artists such as Dale Chihuly, Peter Bremers and Lino Tagliapietra hide in the corners and hang from the spaces around you to pique your senses and warm the glow. Marvel at the architecture and spacious interiors at the Slover Library, then head to MacArthur Memorial, which is dedicated to the life and legacy of General of the Army Douglas MacArthur. The Memorial also pays tribute to the millions of Americans who served during the Civil War, World War I, World War II and the Korean War.
Splurge on dinner at either Luce or Todd Jurich’s Bistro. At Luce (pronounced LOO-chay), tuck into authentic Italian cuisine inspired by the traditions of the north all the way down to Sicily. At Todd Jurich’s Bistro, dine in upscale casual elegance as the restaurant’s namesake prepares dishes sourced from small farmers and producers.
Day Two
Labor Day weekend usually means soaking up one last beach getaway, and lucky for you, we have 7.5 miles of beaches. With Norfolk’s location along the Chesapeake Bay, the beaches in our Ocean View neighborhood offer calm waters that are nearly waveless, making it the perfect place to bring a relaxing floatation or a fantastic spot for smaller children to enjoy the water.
In Ocean View, grab a bite at Stony’s Dockside for waterside views or down a few oysters at Captain Groovy’s Raw Bar & Grill. Get the full rundown of dining choices – including breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner – in Ocean View here.
At night (Aug. 31), the Cousinz Festival kicks off at Scope Arena and the surrounding plaza. Founded by Hampton Roads local Pusha T, Cousinz Festival will feature Jermaine Durpi, DJ Envy, the Art of Noise, Mad Skillz, DJ Lonnie B and Jae Murphy. Join in this food and music festival with a few thousand of your closest friends as you eat, laugh and dance the night away.
Still craving fun after hours? Use our guide to late-night cocktails in Norfolk to keep the party going (responsibly, of course).
Day Three
Perhaps you’re headed home on the third day, but are looking to squeeze in just a bit more fun before hitting the road. For that, Norfolk offers plenty of choices.
Start off with a morning at the Nauticus Museum and adjacent Battleship Wisconsin, where the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military is told every day. Both attractions are located near interstates 64 and 264 for easy access to the road.
If you’re flying out, hit up the Virginia Zoo, where lions, red pandas, orangutans, snakes and other creatures roam. Directly next to Norfolk International Airport, you’ll find Norfolk Botanical Garden, a 175-acre sanctuary featuring 60 themed gardens and an endless array of plants to discover. Whatever you choose, you’ll have a blast!
When you get home, don’t forget to tag us on social media with #VisitNorfolkVA
