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Norfolk Travel Guide: A Historic Naval City with Coastal Charm

A vibrant waterfront city known for its rich naval history, cultural attractions, and scenic coastal beauty.

🛬 How to Get to Norfolk

✈️ By Flight:
Norfolk International Airport (ORF) – The primary airport, located just 10 minutes from downtown.
Transport Options from ORF:
Shuttle & Rideshare: Uber, Lyft, and taxis available.
Car Rentals: Ideal for exploring surrounding coastal areas.

🚗 By Car:
From Richmond: 1.5-hour drive via I-64 E.
From Washington, D.C.: 3.5-hour drive via I-95 S and I-64 E.
From Raleigh, NC: 3-hour drive via US-64 E and US-13 N.

🚆 By Train & Bus:
Amtrak: Direct service from Washington, D.C., and other major cities to Norfolk Station.
Greyhound & Megabus: Budget-friendly bus options with routes to Norfolk.

⛴️ By Ferry:
Elizabeth River Ferry: A scenic way to travel between Norfolk and Portsmouth.

🚍 How to Get Around Norfolk
HRT Light Rail ("The Tide") – A convenient and affordable way to explore downtown and key attractions.
Rental Cars & Rideshares: Uber, Lyft, and taxis available for flexible travel.
Biking & Walking: Norfolk’s waterfront and cultural districts are pedestrian and bike-friendly.

🏨 Where to Stay in Norfolk

Luxury (5-Star Hotels):
Hilton Norfolk The Main – A high-end hotel with waterfront views and fine dining.

Mid-Range (4-Star Hotels):
Glass Light Hotel & Gallery, Autograph Collection – A boutique hotel with an artistic touch.
Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel – A comfortable stay with easy access to downtown attractions.

Budget-Friendly (3-Star & Local Stays):
Hampton Inn Norfolk Naval Base – A great option for travelers near the naval station.
Local Inns & B&Bs: Cozy, historic stays with Southern charm.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Norfolk

Casual & Local Favorites:
Handsome Biscuit – A must-visit for gourmet biscuit sandwiches.
Doumar’s Cones & Barbecue – Home of the world’s first waffle cone.

Fine Dining & Special Experiences:
Saltine – Upscale seafood dining with fresh oysters and craft cocktails.
Freemason Abbey Restaurant – A unique dining experience inside a 19th-century church.

Diverse Dining Options:
No Frill Bar & Grill – A local favorite serving American comfort food.
Luce – An intimate Italian eatery with handcrafted pasta dishes.

🎭 Things to Do in Norfolk

🏛️ Historic Landmarks & Museums:
Nauticus & USS Wisconsin: A maritime museum featuring a battleship you can explore.
Chrysler Museum of Art: A free museum with an impressive collection of European and American art.

🌊 Outdoor & Scenic Attractions:
Norfolk Botanical Garden: A stunning garden with themed exhibits and scenic walking paths.
Ocean View Beach Park: A beautiful spot for sunbathing and water activities.

🎶 Arts, Entertainment & Shopping:
The NorVa: A top-rated live music venue featuring major artists and bands.
MacArthur Center: A shopping destination with high-end and local boutiques.

⚓ Naval & Military Attractions:
Naval Station Norfolk: The largest naval base in the world, with public tours available.

🦁 Zoos & Aquariums:
Virginia Zoo: Home to over 700 animals, including elephants, giraffes, and lions.

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