Downtown Norfolk Travel Guide
Norfolk
Visit Downtown Norfolk
Popular places to visit
Waterside District
A riverside district with restaurants, bars and nightclubs stands beside a scenic park and promenade with cycle and running lanes.
Norfolk Scope
Catch an event at Norfolk Scope during your trip to Norfolk. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.
Chrysler Hall
Lovers of the arts, including the symphony and theatrical shows, will appreciate this revered performing arts center, the heart of the city’s cultural life.
Town Point Park
Escape to an urban waterfront park for relaxation, historic appreciation and hours of fun-filled activities.
USS Wisconsin BB-64
Walk the decks and corridors of a World War II battleship, a floating fortress that also saw action in the Korean and Gulf Wars.
Nauticus National Maritime Center
Learn, touch and observe at the waterfront maritime science museum dedicated to Norfolk’s naval history.
Things to do
City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Dinner Cruise
City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Brunch Cruise
City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Dinner Cruise
City Cruises Norfolk: Signature Brunch Cruise
Awesome University Hunt: Pirates' Plunder at Hampton University
Top hotels in Downtown Norfolk
Wyndham Garden Norfolk Downtown
"Great central location"
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel
"Loved the room, but had issues with the toilet flushing properly- loose chain. Breakfast in the restaurant was mediocre and overpriced. Dinner was very good, though. Personnel were outstanding, especially the servers."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Norfolk Waterside Marriott
"Love the Location; easy walk to my event. Beds were super comfy. Staff was friendly enough. Cons: TV stations were not working, but received a nice food voucher as a comp. The shower drain backed up regularly and sink gurgled as water slowly drained. Most likely will stay again next year for ..."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Courtyard by Marriott Norfolk Downtown
"I would only stay here again if I only needed to sleep. The room was clean. Staff was very helpful. That being said, the pool was empty for the whole visit. I had change my own trash bag. The terrace furniture is broken down and only had cushion for 6. Mind you, they have at least 20 chairs on it. ..."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront
"I had a good stay at this hotel. I reserved a beach front room with a view and balcony. the room was clean and the view was fantastic. My room was on the 12th floor so that made the view even better. I felt safe with the double locks on the door. It was just steps to the ocean beach, and the indoor ..."
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Hyatt Place Virginia Beach / Oceanfront
"Amazing hotel. Very clean and great customer service"
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Norfolk
West Freemason
While you're in West Freemason, take in top sights like Hunter House Victorian Museum and jump on the metro at York Street-Free Mason Station to see more of the city.
Norfolk Auto Row Historic District
While Norfolk Auto Row Historic District isn't home to many top sights, Harrison Opera House and Chrysler Museum of Art are some notable places to visit nearby.
Ghent
While Ghent isn't home to many top sights, Chrysler Museum of Art and Harrison Opera House are some notable places to visit nearby.
Olde Huntersville
While Olde Huntersville may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Harrison Opera House and Norfolk Scope.
Camellia Shores
While Camellia Shores isn't home to many top sights, Norfolk Botanical Garden and Hampton Roads Agricultural Research and Extension Center are some notable places to visit nearby.
Fleet
Visitors to Fleet enjoy its beaches, and if you want to do some exploring, Naval Station Norfolk is worth a stop.
