Norfolk - Virginia Beach Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Sandbridge Beach which includes a sandy beach and surfing as well as a small group of people
Norfolk - Virginia Beach showing a sunset, military items and a bay or harbour
Chrysler Museum of Art
Sandbridge Beach which includes a beach and hiking or walking as well as an individual male
Norfolk - Virginia Beach
Discover the arty side of this attractive port city, which promises waterfront views, craft breweries and an increasing number of cultural attractions.

Although it’s best known for being home to the world’s largest naval base, the port city of Norfolk is slowly starting to attract outsiders’ attention for its cultural and art-themed attractions. Explore thriving art districts, attend events and festivals and browse fascinating museums, which cover topics ranging from glass art to the life of World War II General Douglas MacArthur.

Having been originally settled by British colonists in the 17th century, Norfolk was officially incorporated in 1736. In 1776, during the Revolutionary War, much of the city was destroyed during a siege. In 1804, the city was significantly damaged again when a fire raged along the waterfront. Head to St. Paul’s Church, one of just a few buildings in town to have survived the 1776 siege. Look for a cannonball from the battle in its southeastern wall.

Life has long revolved around the water here. Learn about Norfolk’s naval history and inspect various vessels during a tour of the Norfolk Naval Base. Step aboard the Battleship Wisconsin and trace the history of the region’s naval fleet at the Hampton Roads Naval Centre, both of which are located in Nauticus, a maritime-focused museum and science centre. Alternatively, get out on the water with a harbour cruise.

Explore the city’s artier side by strolling around the mural-dotted NEON Art District. Look for striking interactive installations such as the interactive MetalMatisse, a 30-foot (9-metre) tall stainless steel sculpture that lights up and makes sounds in response to the movement of passers-by.

Nearby is the Chrysler Museum of Art, which has a collection that spans ancient to contemporary works. An on-site glass studio here offers glass-blowing workshops for visitors. Don’t miss the MacArthur Memorial, which recounts the life of the World War II hero.

Norfolk is located in east Virginia, about a 95-minute drive from Richmond. The nearest airport is Norfolk International Airport. To get around downtown Norfolk and the surrounding areas, walk and use the Tide light rail system. For craft beer bars and exciting dining options with views over the bay, head for the Waterside District or The Main.

Where to stay in Norfolk - Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach which includes rides

Northeast Virginia Beach

4.5/5(2 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Northeast Virginia Beach, First Landing State Park and Neptune Statue are top sights worth seeing.

Northeast Virginia Beach
Sandbridge Beach which includes a beach and hiking or walking as well as an individual male

Sandbridge

Beaches and parks are just a few things travellers like about Sandbridge. A stop by Sandbridge Beach is also recommended if you've got time to explore the area.

Sandbridge
Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center showing a garden, modern architecture and marine life

Dam Neck

While visiting Dam Neck, you might make a stop by sights like Sandbridge Beach and Dam Neck Beach.

Dam Neck
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Ocean View

While there might not be top attractions in Ocean View, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Ocean View Beach and Norfolk Beaches.

Ocean View
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Northwest

4/5(2 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Northwest, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts and Norfolk Premium Outlets are top sights worth seeing.

Northwest
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Virginia Beach Town Center

You'll love the stunning beaches in Virginia Beach Town Center, and you might want to stick around to check out Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, a top place to visit.

Virginia Beach Town Center
Holiday Inn & Suites Virginia Beach North Beach by IHG

Holiday Inn & Suites Virginia Beach North Beach by IHG

3 out of 5
3900 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA
The price is ₹20,056 per night from 17 Aug to 18 Aug
₹20,056
₹23,237 total
17 Aug - 18 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, 3 outdoor pools and 3 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,005 reviews)
"Very pleased with our stay. Great location! The staff was helpful and friendly! Very clean and accommodating!! The pools were nice! Would definitely come back again!!!"

Reviewed on 15 Jul 2025

Holiday Inn & Suites Virginia Beach North Beach by IHG
Surfbreak Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Ascend Hotel Collection

Surfbreak Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Ascend Hotel Collection

3 out of 5
1101 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA
The price is ₹16,023 per night from 17 Aug to 18 Aug
₹16,023
₹18,599 total
17 Aug - 18 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,006 reviews)
"Great place to stay"

Reviewed on 15 Jul 2025

Surfbreak Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Ascend Hotel Collection
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Virginia Beach (Oceanfront), VA

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Virginia Beach (Oceanfront), VA

3 out of 5
1801 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA
The price is ₹18,861 per night from 10 Aug to 11 Aug
₹18,861
₹21,863 total
10 Aug - 11 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and a beach locale. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (2,176 reviews)
"Enjoy our stay at your property. Nice staff. Clean facilities. Decent hot breakfast."

Reviewed on 17 Jul 2025

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Virginia Beach (Oceanfront), VA
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Atrium Resort, Virginia Beach by Vacatia

The Atrium Resort, Virginia Beach by Vacatia

3.5 out of 5
315 21st St, Virginia Beach, VA
Stay at this 3.5-star aparthotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a 24-hour fitness centre. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,390 reviews)
Good place to stay
"The overall stay was very pleasant and the staff very friendly. We did have minor issues with broken items in our room when we checked in. The staff was very helpful with getting the items replaced. The shower pressure was not great in our room and had a hard time using. There is only one elevator ..."

Reviewed on 13 Jul 2025

The Atrium Resort, Virginia Beach by Vacatia
The Ocean Key Virginia Beach Resort

The Ocean Key Virginia Beach Resort

3 out of 5
424 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a fitness centre. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,388 reviews)
"I liked the room has kitchen. If balcony was there I more like it."

Reviewed on 13 Jul 2025

The Ocean Key Virginia Beach Resort
Ocean Sands Resort, Oceanfront, Virginia Beach by Vacatia

Ocean Sands Resort, Oceanfront, Virginia Beach by Vacatia

3 out of 5
2207 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA
Stay at this 3-star beach aparthotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a beach locale. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,095 reviews)
"Everything was great except no king beds. And the queen bed was AWFUL. Mattress left us rolling towards the middle - like it had a hole in the middle - or box spring was broken. Came back very sore. Otherwise… WONDERFUL LOCATION. Great staff and amenities. No complaints otherwise."

Reviewed on 14 Jul 2025

Ocean Sands Resort, Oceanfront, Virginia Beach by Vacatia
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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