Norfolk - Virginia Beach, VA

Travel Guide

Sandbridge Beach showing surfing and a sandy beach as well as a small group of people
Norfolk - Virginia Beach which includes a sunset, military items and a bay or harbor
Chrysler Museum of Art
Sandbridge Beach featuring hiking or walking and a sandy beach as well as an individual male
USS Wisconsin BB-64 which includes a marina

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 Center, both of which are located in Nauticus, a maritime-focused museum and science center. Alternatively, get out on the water with a harbor 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-meter) 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(2,863 area reviews)

While visiting Northeast Virginia Beach, you might make a stop by sights like First Landing State Park and Neptune Statue.

Northeast Virginia Beach
Sandbridge Beach featuring hiking or walking and a sandy beach as well as an individual male

Sandbridge

4.5/5(3 area reviews)

Somewhat remote and less crowded than the main resort strip, Sandbridge offers a 4.5-mile stretch of oceanfront with lifeguard-protected waters. Nearby, find Little Island Park and easy access to shopping and dining centers at Red Mill and Courthouse.

Sandbridge
Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center featuring modern architecture, a park and marine life

Dam Neck

If you're spending some time in Dam Neck, Sandbridge Beach and Dam Neck Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Dam Neck
Ocean View

Ocean View

While Ocean View might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Ocean View Beach and Norfolk Beaches.

Ocean View
Lynnhaven House

Northwest

3.5/5(771 area reviews)

While visiting Northwest, you might make a stop by sights like Sandler Center for the Performing Arts and Norfolk Premium Outlets.

Northwest
Default Image

Chic's Beach

5/5(1 area review)

If you're spending some time in Chic's Beach, Chesapeake Beach and Little Creek Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Chic's Beach
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 NT$6,043 per night from Aug 24 to Aug 25
NT$6,043
NT$7,009 total
Aug 24 - Aug 25
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, 3 outdoor pools, and 3 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,043 reviews)
Family trip and a family dip
"The look of the hotel is like the others. The 3 pools give you a lot of options for space and let me little one have a blast. some of the best location for beach access as its a little slower and less crowded then what you would find around south beach. The rooms though, looked to still be hanging ..."

Reviewed on 2025/7/21

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 NT$5,212 per night from Aug 24 to Aug 25
NT$5,212
NT$6,052 total
Aug 24 - Aug 25
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,044 reviews)
"Great oceanfront rooms"

Reviewed on 2025/7/23

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 NT$5,277 per night from Aug 24 to Aug 25
NT$5,277
NT$6,127 total
Aug 24 - Aug 25
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (2,203 reviews)
"Breaking was good but coffee not good."

Reviewed on 2025/7/24

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 WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,406 reviews)
"This is the third time we’ve stayed here and it’s been really great. The front desk is always kind and helpful. Only thing I’m not too fond of is the pool. We’d like to swim in it but the water always looks murky and foggy. Otherwise it’s a great place to stay, the beach is super close and lots of ..."

Reviewed on 2025/7/22

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 WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,394 reviews)
Nice place.
"Nice size unit. 2 bedrooms 2 baths. Great location parking lot is tight but convenient. Would definitely stay again"

Reviewed on 2025/7/20

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 WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,103 reviews)
"Perfect location"

Reviewed on 2025/7/20

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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