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Bold murals, naval vessels, and calming waters greet you in Norfolk, where the relaxing qualities of a coastal destination meet the energizing elements of an artsy urban city. From glassblowing demonstrations to Filipino eateries, here’s where to go in this southeastern Virginia treasure. This story is part of our July Explore Virginia by Train issue. Check back as we share additional weekend trips in Virginia that are just a train ride away.
Norfolk is home to the largest naval base in the world and the North American headquarters for NATO. Begin your trip by visiting Nauticus, a maritime discovery center appropriate for all ages, with interactive exhibitions illuminating Norfolk’s naval legacy. Located within the museum, the Nautical Neighborhood Aquarium explores animals found in the Elizabeth River and Chesapeake Bay. Included in Nauticus admission is the Battleship Wisconsin, one of the largest and last battleships built by the U.S. Navy. Take a self-guided or guided tour of the behemoth WWII vessel. Adventurous families can even opt to stay overnight on the ship for as little as $120 a person, sleeping in the original berthing that military members did.
Ten years ago, the city designated its first arts district, the NEON District (“New Energy of Norfolk”) to revitalize a historically commercial corridor. It’s bloomed into a vibrant hub for arts and culture, with more than 60 large murals, along with galleries and public art installations. The district is anchored by the Chrysler Museum of Art, a renowned regional art museum with more than 30,000 works of art, most notably a glass collection that features more than 10,000 objects, from ancient Roman vessels to modern glass art. Adjacent to the museum, the Perry Glass Studio hosts live glassblowing demonstrations and workshops.
Take a break from urban charms to explore the natural attractions of the area, such as the Norfolk Botanical Garden, the largest botanical garden in Virginia. At Hermitage Museum & Gardens, rotating indoor and outdoor exhibitions often include large-scale sculptures thoughtfully placed in the 12 acres of gardens. Through October 12, you can see the work of New Orleans artist Walker Babington in the exhibition Burden of the Beast, including a 30-foot sculpture constructed from salvaged materials like hurricane debris and Mardi Gras floats.
Start the day with a fried chicken and sweet potato biscuit at Handsome Biscuit, a casual comfort-food spot that was a finalist in _Garden & Gun’_s Best Biscuit in the South contest. The Norfolk area has one of the largest Filipino American populations in the country, and its dining scene reflects that. Head to Maymar Norfolk for authentic adobo or Lumpia House for the veggie-packed spring rolls. For a taste of history, stop for ice cream at Doumar’s, where waffle cones are still rolled on the original machines from 1905. Owner Abe invented the world’s first waffle cone. Freemason Abbey boasts upscale dining and Southern staples in a converted church circa 1873. Or dine on Moroccan specialties in a cozy bistro atmosphere at Omar’s Carriage House.
Stay on the downtown waterfront at the sleek, upscale Hilton Norfolk The Main to be close to cultural attractions. It’s also where you’ll find some of the best food and nightlife in town. Take in views of the city and the Elizabeth River at its rooftop beer garden, Grain, where live music plays most nights, and feast on some of the best seafood in town (including a raw bar) and sip Virginia wine on the menu at Saltine. Also downtown, the Glass Light Hotel & Gallery showcases works from artists like Dale Chihuly and has a stylish French-inspired restaurant.
