Norfolk combines a historic waterfront promenade with art collections, an interactive city exhibition and gardens. If you are looking for accommodation, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on during your stay: activities by the water, culture or gardens. The following places show how differently you can experience these themes in Norfolk.

Norfolk by the Water: the Elizabeth River Trail

The Elizabeth River Trail is 10.5 miles long and designated a National Recreation Trail. It is designed for walking, running and cycling. Along Norfolk’s historic waterfront, it connects the working waterfront with scenic stretches past historic landmarks and parks. The route itself can become the focus of an outing. Temporary detours are possible, so check the route conditions before setting out.

Art and History in Norfolk

The Chrysler Museum of Art opened in 1933 as the Norfolk Museum of Arts and Sciences. Today, it houses nearly 35,000 objects spanning 5,000 years of history. This brings together the museum’s history and the broad sweep of time covered by its collection. The Perry Glass Studio offers a free glassblowing demonstration Tuesday through Sunday at 12 p.m. If this time is important for your visit, check the latest visitor information in advance.

Nauticus: City History, Aquarium and Battleship

Norfolk in Time at Nauticus is an interactive exhibition about Norfolk’s history, culture, science, technology and industry. Check before your trip to see whether the exhibition is on offer. The Nautical Neighborhood aquarium explores aquatic life from the Elizabeth River and Chesapeake Bay; here, too, it is advisable to check what is on offer before your visit. The exhibition focuses on Norfolk itself, while the aquarium focuses on life from two named bodies of water.

The Battleship Wisconsin is also docked at Nauticus in Norfolk. It is one of the largest and last battleships built by the U.S. Navy. This gives the venue its own historical focus in addition to the city exhibition and aquarium.

Gardens and Visit Planning

The Hermitage Museum & Gardens is a 12-acre estate on the banks of the Lafayette River in Norfolk. Its art collection spans more than 5,000 years. Admission is free Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; check the latest visitor information before your visit. Norfolk Botanical Garden is a 175-acre sanctuary with more than 60 themed gardens. While the Hermitage stands out for its combination of an art collection and a waterfront setting, the many themed gardens are the focus at the Botanical Garden. For choosing an outdoor activity, the options include a 10.5-mile route with several permitted uses and a garden site with more than 60 themed areas.

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