Discover the Best of Norfolk in 5 Days

Explore the charming coastal town of Norfolk and fall in love with the southern hospitality.

22 April 2023

A trip to Norfolk, United States is perfect for those seeking a blend of outdoor adventures, historical sites, and lively entertainment. Stroll along the scenic boulevards of the city, tour the USS Wisconsin Battleship, explore the Virginia Zoo, hiking at the Elizabeth River Trail, and take a boat ride on the Chesapeake Bay. Norfolk is an excellent destination for all types of travelers.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Historic Norfolk

  • Check into the Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel, located directly on the Elizabeth River.
  • Grab lunch at Freemason Abbey Restaurant, housed in an old church and serving up classic American fare.
  • Take a walking tour to admire the beautifully restored Victorian homes in the Ghent neighborhood.
  • Visit the Chrysler Museum of Art, featuring works from around the world, including a renowned glass collection.
  • End the day with a sunset stroll along the historic downtown waterfront.
Day 2

Beach Day

  • Drive 25 minutes to Virginia Beach, known for its pristine sandy beaches and Boardwalk.
  • Rent a bike or surrey to explore the 3-mile Boardwalk, lined with restaurants, shops, and amusements.
  • Take a dip in the refreshing Atlantic Ocean or relax on the beach with a good book.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood and ocean views at Waterman's Surfside Grille or Catch 31 Fishhouse & Bar.
  • Catch a live concert or show at the oceanfront Amphitheater.
Day 3

Wilderness Adventure

  • Drive to First Landing State Park, 20 minutes from Norfolk, to hike, bike, or kayak through lush forests and along the beach.
  • Take a guided tour of the nearby Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, known for its incredible bird watching opportunities.
  • Stop for lunch at the Black Angus Restaurant, a local favorite for hearty American fare.
  • Visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center to learn about the area's diverse marine life.
  • See the sunset from the Cape Henry Lighthouse, the first lighthouse commissioned by the US government.
Day 4

Cultural Immersion

  • Start the day with coffee and pastries at Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea, a cozy cafe with local art on the walls.
  • Take a tour of the USS Wisconsin, a historic battleship that served in World War II and the Gulf War.
  • Visit the MacArthur Memorial to learn about General Douglas MacArthur and his contributions to US military history.
  • Grab lunch at Handsome Biscuit, a restaurant known for hearty, Southern-style sandwiches and biscuits.
  • End the day with a beer at Benchtop Brewing Company, a hip microbrewery with a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
Day 5

Waterfront Shopping

  • Stroll through the historic cobblestone streets of Granby Street to shop at local boutiques, antique stores, and specialty food shops.
  • Visit the NEON District, a vibrant arts district featuring murals and galleries.
  • Have lunch at the Grain, a waterfront gastropub with stunning views of the harbor.
  • Continue shopping at the Waterside District, an open-air marketplace with plenty of eateries and souvenir shops.
  • Decompress with a sunset cruise on the American Rover, a sailing ship that offers stunning views of the Elizabeth River.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Norfolk, United States by plane is to fly to Norfolk International Airport, which has direct flights from major cities in the US such as Atlanta and New York.

Car

Driving to Norfolk is straightforward as it is connected to major highways such as I-64 and I-264.

Train

There is no direct train to Norfolk, so the best option would be to take an Amtrak train to Newport News and then transfer to a bus or taxi to Norfolk.

Boat

Norfolk has a large port that is serviced by multiple major cruise lines, making it a popular destination for cruise ships. However, there are currently no regular passenger ferries to Norfolk.

Bus

Taking a Greyhound bus to Norfolk would be the most convenient option as there are multiple daily departures from nearby cities such as Richmond and Washington D.C.

Destination

Norfolk

Welcome to the land of unpronounceable village names and endless flatness! If you're looking for a place to test out your new bicycle, look no further than Norfolk.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

Norfolk: A Day of Beaches, Art, and Eats

Discover the charm of Norfolk, United States, known for its beautiful beaches and vast waters. The city boasts a lively art and music scene, perfect for tourists seeking a cultural experience. Visit the historic sites and world-renowned museums for a glimpse into the city’s fascinating past.

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As a tourist, a trip to Norfolk, United States offers a perfect combination of history and coastal charm. Visitors can explore the naval history and see the world's largest naval base at Naval Station Norfolk, walk along the scenic waterfront, and enjoy fresh seafood cuisine in the city's many locally-owned restaurants. Additionally, the variety of museums, parks, and performing arts venues make Norfolk a top destination for culture enthusiasts.

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Norfolk, Virginia is a budget-friendly destination for history and nature lovers alike. Take a stroll along the Elizabeth River Trail, or explore the historic USS Wisconsin battleship and naval museum. For foodies, local seafood is a must-try, with many restaurants offering affordable seafood dishes.

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Norfolk, located in the heart of Virginia, is a great travel destination for those on a limited budget. Historical sites like the USS Wisconsin and the Norfolk Botanical Garden offer affordable and interesting attractions. Affordable accommodations can be found at budget-friendly hotels like Red Roof Inn or the Motel 6.