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Naval Station Norfolk

Norfolk, Virginia, is the proud home of the largest naval base in the world. No matter what your reason is for visiting Norfolk, you shouldn't miss the opportunity to tour Naval Station Norfolk .

Naval Station Norfolk's mission is to support and improve the personnel and logistics readiness of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. The Norfolk naval base provides seaport, airport, and squadron facilities, quality of life, and personnel management services.

Don't miss the tours of the Naval Base . The 45-minute tour departs from the Naval Tour and Information Center located at 9079 Hampton Blvd, next to Gate 5. Bus tours conducted by Navy personnel ride past aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates, amphibious assault ships and the busy airfield. The tour also drives by historic homes from the 1907 Jamestown Exposition. There is a charge for the tour. A picture ID is required for all adults.

Naval Station Norfolk, the world's largest Naval Station, occupies about 4,300 acres on a peninsula known as Sewells Point. Port facilities extend more than four miles along the waterfront and include some seven miles of pier and wharf space.

75 ships and 134 aircraft are home-ported here, and when they are not at sea they're along side one of the 13 piers or inside one of the 11 aircraft hangars for repair, refit, training and to provide the ship's or squadron's crew an opportunity to be with their families. Naval Station Norfolk is homeport to aircraft carriers, cruisers, destroyers, large amphibious ships, submarines, supply ships, airplanes and helicopters.

Air Operations conducts over 100,000 flight operations each year, an average of 275 flights per day or one every six minutes. Over 150,000 passengers and 264,000 tons of mail and cargo depart annually on Air Mobility Command aircraft and other chartered flights from the NSN airfield. It is the hub for Navy logistics going to the European and Central Command theaters of operations, and to the Caribbean.

The land on which Naval Station is located was originally the site of the 1907 Jamestown Exposition , a mammoth 300th anniversary celebration of the establishment of the first permanent English settlement in America in 1607. 21 states constructed buildings that celebrated their history and industry. Pennsylvania House, a 2/3rds replica of Independence Hall, is one of several state houses that are still standing at the Naval Station.

During the Jamestown Exposition, high-ranking naval officers agreed that this site was ideal for naval activity. After the United States entered World War I in April 1917, the Secretary of the Navy was persuaded to buy the property.

Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise

The Victory Rover makes 2-hour narrated cruises past Naval Station Norfolk. It departs from Nauticus on the downtown waterfront. Enjoy a fascinating and entertaining commentary along the way aboard this Navy-themed vessel. See aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines, guided missile cruisers and all of the other ships that form the world's most powerful fleet. On board, guests will enjoy plenty of comfortable seating, clean restrooms, air-conditioned enclosed deck, open-air upper deck, snack bar and souvenir shop.

Reservations are available. Bring a camera and binoculars.

Hampton Roads Naval Museum at Nauticus & the Battleship Wisconsin

The Hampton Roads Naval Museum presents 225 years of naval history in the Hampton Roads region. The museum is also responsible for the historic interpretation and day-to-day operations of the Battleship Wisconsin.

The Hampton Roads Naval Museum and the entrance to the Battleship Wisconsin are located on the second floor of Nauticus : The National Maritime Center in downtown Norfolk (at One Waterside Drive). There is no on-site parking, but there are several city operated parking garages within walking distance.

Naval Station Norfolk

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NAVAL STATION NORFOLK: IN-DEPTH WELCOME CENTER

Introduction

• Where Is Naval Station Norfolk?
• Google Map View
• Getting There – Directions to the Base

Check-in Procedures for Incoming Personnel

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• What Schools are Near Naval Station Norfolk?
• What’s the Weather Like in Naval Station Norfolk?

Things to Do Near Naval Station Norfolk

Where is naval station norfolk.

Pass and ID Office

Naval Station Norfolk Map

Directions to Naval Station Norfolk

Flights to naval station norfolk, driving directions to naval station norfolk, from norfolk international airport.

• Get on Interstate 64 west.
• Make a slight right at Interstate 564 west (signs for I-64 W/Hampton/Richmond).
• Naval Station Norfolk will be on the right.

From Richmond

• Take Interstate 64 east through the peninsula consisting of Williamsburg, Newport News, and Hampton. Interstate 64 will continue to the southside through the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel. The naval base exit (Exit 276) is approximately 4 miles after this tunnel.
• Take I-564 for 3 miles to Admiral Taussig Boulevard to the base. Gates 1 and 2 of the base are at the intersection of Admiral Taussig Boulevard and Hampton Boulevard.

From Washington, D.C.

• Take Interstate 95 south to Interstate 295 south (Exit 84).
• Go approximately 15 miles to Interstate 64 west (Exit 28).
• Go approximately 76 miles to Interstate 564, and you are at the base.

From the South

• Take Interstate 95 north into Virginia to U.S. 58 in Emporia (Exit 11).
• U.S. 58 will bring you into Norfolk, where you’ll take Interstate 64 for approximately 25 miles.
• Take Exit 276 to the base.

Public Transit near Naval Station Norfolk

Naval station norfolk transportation office.

Naval Station Norfolk Personal Property Office

Naval Station Norfolk Personal Property Office Hours

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday

Entering Naval Station Norfolk and Base Amenities

Building N-26

Naval Station Norfolk Pass and ID Office Hours

Monday through Friday

Naval Station Norfolk Pass & ID Office

Naval Station Norfolk Commissary Hours:

Sunday through Wednesday, Friday and Saturday

Naval Station Norfolk Exchange Hours:

Monday through Saturday

C9 Barber Shop

DeVary Court Barber Shop

Main Mall Barber Shop

V55 Barber Shop

W313 Fleet Barber Shop

Naval Station Norfolk Post Office Hours

Fleet & Family Support Center

Naval Station Norfolk Legal Office Hours

Naval Station Norfolk Navy Gateway Inns & Suites

Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads Navy Gateway Inns & Suites

Cities Near Naval Station Norfolk

Best places to live near naval station norfolk, newport news, virginia beach.

Hot Tip: Look for Naval Station Norfolk homes and apartments for rent or sale, and find BAH, PCS, TLA & ETS military housing information at AHRN.com .

Naval Station Norfolk Schools

Naval Station Norfolk Weather

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Norfolk Naval Base Cruise Tour: The Largest In The World

The Norfolk Naval Base is the largest in the world and while it is off-limits, one can see it with a naval base cruise.

Once Britannia ruled the waves, but that era ended with World War Two. After that war, the U.S. Navy has been the undisputed maritime power in the world and nowhere is that more apparent than at the naval base at Norfolk. While the naval base is a secure site and it is not open to tourists, parts of this massive base are visible from the roads and various vantage points. There is even a cruise down the harbor so that one can get a much better look at America's most powerful warships.

America has many superb naval museums that one can visit all around the country . While all these museums feature old ships that have been decommissioned and donated to become museums, one can also see America's mothball fleets. If one is up in Pennsylvania, one can see what's left of Philadelphia's once-mighty mothball fleet .

What To Know About The Naval Base At Norfolk

The American naval base in Norfolk is the largest American naval base and the most powerful in the world. It is the home port of the U.S. Navy's Fleet Forces Command with the largest concentration of naval forces with around 75 ships and 134 aircraft.

The Naval Station Norfolk stretches for 4 miles along the waterfront of Hampton Roads peninsula. The station supports the operational readiness of the US Atlantic Fleet, providing facilities and services to enable mission accomplishment.

• Largest:  The Norfolk Naval Base Is The Largest Naval Base In The World
• Supports: The US Atlantic Fleet
• Newport News Shipbuilding Yard: Where The Super Aircraft Carriers Are Built
• Number of Ships: Around 75 Naval Ships and Many More Aircraft and Other Facilities

The Norfolk naval base is home to four carrier strike groups and their assigned ships - that alone is perhaps more powerful than any other navy in the world.

Not far from the naval base is the Newport News Shipbuilding yard - it is this shipbuilding yard that builds all the super aircraft carriers of the U.S. navy.

Related:  How To Get The Most Out Of A Historical Visit To The Pearl Harbor Museum & Memorial

Cruises Of The Norfolk Naval Base

If one would like to get a glimpse of this mighty naval base, then enjoy a Norfolk Harbor cruise aboard the Victory Rover . On the cruise one will be able to see destroyers, submarines, and other vessels while taking in the sights of the harbor.

The Norfolk Harbor Cruise is a two-hour Narrated Naval Base Cruise with the captain providing entertaining and fascinating commentary on the navy and base. The tour departs daily from Nauticus, home of the Battleship Wisconsin.

One will see destroyers, aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, submarines, guided missile cruisers, and more.

The Victory Rover that one will cruise on provides plenty of comfortable seating, an air-conditioned enclosed deck, an open-air shaded upper deck, a snack bar, and a souvenir shop.

Tickets can be purchased online, over the phone, or at the ticket window at Nauticus - although reservations are strongly recommended. This naval base tour is one of Norfolk's most popular attractions.

• Departure Point: Nauticus Museum - Home of the USS Wisconsin
• Price: From $28.00
• Duration: A 2 Hour Cruise
• See: Aircraft Carriers, Submarines, Destroyers, Amphibious Assault Ships, Guided Missile Cruisers, and More

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Don't Forget the Nauticus and Wisconsin!

The USS Wisconsin was one of four completed Iowa class battleships - the largest battleships ever built for the US Navy. She was built at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard in Philadelphia and served in the latter part of the Pacific War against Japan.

After the war, she served in the Korean War and in Operation Desert Storm in 1991 against Iraq. She spent most of her career mothballed and from 1944 to her decommissioning in 1991 she only spent a total of 14 years in active service.

• Battle Stars: 6
• Class: Iowa Class Battleship

Like the others in her class, she was spared strapping and instead donated as a museum ship and today operated by Nauticus, The National Maritime Center.

Nauticus offers both the might battleship for tours as well as a superb naval museum to discover the history of the navy and what naval life is like.

• Nauticus Hours:  Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday, Noon – 5 p.m.
• Closed: Mondays

Make A Full Day With The Combo Ticket

To see the Nauticus museum , the Wisconsin, and go on a Norfolk Base Harbor cruise, consider buying a combo ticket. This is a full-day tour was the Naval Base Crusie takes around two hours one should then allow 2 to 3 hours for Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin. This discounted ticket must be used on the same day and one should keep in mind that Nauticus closes at 4.00 pm.

• Cost: Adult $41.35 / Children (ages 4-12): $27.45
• Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 4pm / Sunday 12pm – 4pm

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Tour of U.S. Navy’s Norfolk Naval Station and Shipyards

Naval news takes you on a tour of the us navy base in norfolk and some of the naval shipyards in the area. the video was recorded in may 2019..

Xavier Vavasseur 15 Aug 2019

Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia is the largest navy base in the world. It supports naval forces in the United States Fleet Forces Command, those operating in the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and the Indian Ocean.

The shipyards seen in the video:

• General Dynamics NASSCO-Norfolk
• Marine Hydraulics International, Inc
• BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair
• Colonna’s Shipyard Inc
• Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipbuilding

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Victory Rover Naval Base Tour

August 2 - august 12 2022, 11 am, 2 pm, 5:30 pm.

Victory Rover cruises the smooth waters of the Elizabeth River and Hampton Roads Harbor. Their professional captains provide a fascinating and entertaining commentary.

In 2001 the Victory Rover began operating Naval Base Cruises from Nauticus, Home of the Battleship Wisconsin. The Victory Rover can accommodate up to 149 guests. The Victory Rover has a climate controlled main cabin with large picture windows and ample comfortable seating. More seating is available on the open air bow and top deck. A large portion of the top deck has an awning to provide shade. In the main cabin, there are restrooms as well as a fully stocked ship store and bar with all your favorite refreshments and souvenirs.

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CRUISING TODAY AT 3PM - SEE YOU ON BOARD!

Frequently Asked Questions

Check out our Frequently Asked Questions!

• Chevron down Where do I park?

Closest parking is the Town Point Garage on Main street, directly across from the Nauticus museum.

• Chevron down I have a large RV where can I park?

All over sized vehicles need to park at Harbor Park (the local baseball stadium), located at 150 Park Avenue, Norfolk Va, 23510. It is approximately a 10-15 minute walk from Harbor Park to our location.

• Chevron down Is there handicap parking?

There are a few handicap spaces in front of the Nauticus Museum that are available on a first come-first served basis. If those spaces are full the closest parking is the Town Point garage on Main street directly across from Nauticus.

• Chevron down What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept Discover, MasterCard, Visa, American Express, and cash.

• Chevron down Is there food available on board?

We have a ship store with snacks, e.g., chips, soft pretzels, hot dogs, beers, wines, sodas, and mixed drinks all available for purchase. Please keep in mind this is not a lunch or dinner cruise and there are no meals served on board.

• Chevron down Can we bring our own food and drinks?

You are welcome to bring your own snacks and water on board. You cannot bring any alcohol. Any coolers that you bring must be small and soft sided, any large or hard sided coolers will not be allowed on board. Please keep in mind that there are no tables on the vessel, so whatever you bring with you will need to be held on your person.

• Chevron down Are you wheelchair accessible?

We are accessible for standard sized non electric wheelchairs. We cannot accommodate electric wheelchairs or mobility scooters on board. If you have an electric wheelchair or a scooter you can take it down to our dock where we can lock it up for you. You can then transfer to our manual wheelchair for boarding.

• Chevron down Do you allow smoking on board?

No. This is a Non Smoking Vessel, smoking and vaping are prohibited both indoors and on the outer and upper deck.

• Chevron down Are you pet friendly?

We allow well behaved small dogs (under 30 pounds) on board. They must be on a leash at all times and on the upper deck at all times. They are not allowed in the main cabin due to health department regulations. The captain/crew have the right to deny entry to anyone whose dog is over the size limit or who is not well behaved/controlled.

• Chevron down Do you cruise in inclement weather?

We typically cruise rain or shine. Due to our geographical location the weather can change quickly, especially in the summer months. We monitor the forecast constantly and make decisions about cancellations as the forecast changes. In the event of severe weather with winds that are too high or if there are visibility issues and we cancel the cruise, we will contact everyone with reservations and either reschedule you or issue a refund.

• Chevron down How long will it take to process a refund?

Refunds are processed on our end immediately.  It may take up to 10 business days to see the refund on your statement.

• Chevron down Can I walk up and buy tickets?

We strongly encourage that you purchase your tickets in advance. If there is space available we can sell tickets to walk ups, but we do often sell out cruises, so walking up for tickets is not recommended.

• Chevron down What does the Victory/Battleship combo include?

The combination ticket includes general admission to the Nauticus museum, the Battleship Wisconsin, and the 2 hour narrated naval base cruise aboard the Victory Rover. All activities must be completed on the same day, please allow 2-3 hours to complete the Nauticus museum and the Battleship Wisconsin. Museum hours are Tuesday – Saturday 10am-4pm and Sunday 12pm-4pm.

• Chevron down Where is your ticket office located?

We are the very first ticket window at the Nauticus museum in downtown Norfolk. Walk up the ramp to go to Nauticus and simply walk left around the deck to the first ticket window.

• Chevron down If I purchase my tickets in advance do I need to come to the ticket window?

If you have purchased a combo ticket you must come to the ticket window PRIOR to your cruise. If you have purchased tickets online or over the phone for only the cruise then you do not need to come to the ticket window and instead can go directly to the Victory Rover once boarding has started.

• Chevron down What time should we arrive for the cruise?

We recommend arriving 30 minutes prior to departure time to give yourself pleanty of time to park and walk to the vessel. The Victory Rover leaves promply at its scheduled times and cannot be held. If you purchased the combo ticket and are cruising with us in the afternoon or evening, then it is recommended that you arrive at the Nauticus museum no later than 12pm to ensure it can be completed prior to your cruise. The musuem and battleship will be closed when returning from your afternoon or evening cruise.

• Chevron down Is there inside seating?

The lower deck is enclosed and climate controlled. That seating is first come first served, so we cannot guarantee inside seats. The upper deck is open but does have a canopy, so you won’t be sitting directly in the sun or getting wet if it’s raining.

• Chevron down Will I get seasick?

We cruise on the calm waters of the Elizabeth River, we do not get out into the ocean or the bay where the waters are rough. It is extremely rare for someone to get sick on board.

• Chevron down What ships will we see on our cruise?

Naval Station Norfolk is the worlds largest naval base and generally speaking, you will see a little bit of everything on our cruise, e.g., carriers, cruisers, destroyers, amphibious assault ships, submarines, tug boats, and even some private yachts. The ships do come and go on a daily basis, and because of this, every cruise is a little bit different. We cannot guarantee that any specific ship or type of ship will be in on a specific day.

• Chevron down I have a brochure with different prices than your website, which is the correct price?

There are old brochures with outdated prices and times on them, they also say “rates and schedule subject to change”. The information on our website will always be the most current and correct information.

• Chevron down I'm running late, can you hold the boat?

No, we cannot hold the boat for passengers who are running late.

• Chevron down I've missed my cruise, what happens now?

If you’ve missed your scheduled cruise and we were not sold out you can be reschedule for another available day or time by calling our office at 757-627-7406.

• Chevron down Do you allow strollers on board?

Strollers are permitted on board.

• Chevron down Do you have life jackets?

Yes, we possess all the required safety equipment and are inspected annually for safety by the Coast Guard.

• Chevron down Can I take pictures?

Yes! You are absolutely welcome to take photos on our cruise, however large telephoto lenses are not permitted.

• Chevron down Do we get off of the boat at the Naval Base?

No. You do not get off of our boat at any point during the cruise.

• Chevron down What is the dress code?

All of our cruises are casual attire. It can be cooler on the water, especially in the early and late months of our cruising season, you may want to bring a jacket if you choose to cruise with us during those cooler months.

• Chevron down Can I get a transcript of the cruise?

Unfortunately no transcripts are available for the cruises. Every cruise is a live narration from our ships captain. Norfolk is a very busy port and Naval Station Norfolk is the worlds largest naval base, because of this large amount of activity every cruise is different.

• Chevron down Can we fish from your boat?

No, this is a sightseeing cruise of the naval base, no fishing is permitted. We do not do fishing charters.

• Chevron down Will we see dolphins?

There is a  chance that you may see dolphins and other wildlife on our cruise, however this is NOT a dolphin watching cruise. If you’re looking specifically for a nature/wildlife cruise we recommend taking the Atlantic Explorer or the Atlantic Scout located at the Virginia Aquarium. You may contact them by phone: 757-385-3474, or on their website virginiaaquarium.com

• Chevron down Does my infant need a ticket?

Yes. All passengers on our tours need a ticket prior to boarding. Although children 2 years old and under are not charged, they must be included in your reservation as they are counted as passengers under U.S. Coast Guard regulations.

• Chevron down Can I purchase tickets for just my children?

We do not allow unaccompanied minors on board.

• Chevron down Can I bring my luggage on board?

No, unfortunately, we do not have storage space on board.

• Chevron down I've lost my Nauticus wristband can I have a replacement?

No. Nauticus/Battleship Wisconsin wristbands cannot be reissued. It is important that you do not take your wristband off until you are certain you are finished with the museum and battleship. If you lose/damage/prematurely take off your wristband and wish to re-enter either the museum or the battleship you must purchase another ticket at full price.

• Chevron down How far out should I make reservations?

As soon as you know when you’d like to go we would recommend purchasing your tickets. Our cruises often sell out and if you wait until the last minute to purchase your tickets there is a good chance we won’t be able to accommodate you.

• Chevron down How long are your cruises?

All of our regularly scheduled naval base cruises are 2 hours.

• Chevron down How will I receive my tickets?

Once you purchase a ticket you will receive a confirmation email with a link to your boarding pass. You do not need to print out a physical ticket, you can show us your ticket from your smartphone or tablet.

• Chevron down What is your weapons policy?

For the safety of all guests, weapons (concealed or otherwise) are not permitted on Rover Cruises’ property, including our office, ticket booth, and boats.

• Chevron down Is WiFi available on board?
• Chevron down Do you offer special rates for Military/First Responders/Seniors...etc.?

We are not currently offering any discounted tickets.

The Boat Tour You Can Only Take In Virginia Will Bring Out Your Inner Adventurer

A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.

More by this Author

One of the best parts about living in Virginia is the opportunity to experience all kinds of adventures, from rugged mountain hikes to historic walks and just about everything in between. Today’s feature activity is one that relatively few know about, but almost everyone who experiences it agrees that it’s a must: Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise. Operating from Norfolk, this fascinating boat tour will showcase the world’s largest naval base from a truly unforgettable perspective. Here’s more on this boat tour in Virginia that belongs at the top of your bucket list.

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What are your thoughts on the Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise? Is this a boat tour in Virginia that you’d sign up for? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! For more information, including rates and reservations, be sure to check out Victory Rover Naval Base Cruises online.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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• In This Issue

Home to the World’s Largest Naval Base, Norfolk Combines History with Culture for a One-of-a-Kind Vacation

The colors of art, sky, and sea beguile in Norfolk.

By Renee Sklarew September 20, 2022

It’s not just the bright brushes of pigment on the street murals in the NEON District, or the glowing statues in the Glass Light Hotel & Gallery that leave visitors in awe. What is most electrifying is seeing the sunset over Norfolk Harbor , where layers of magenta, violet, and gold paint the horizon.

Turns out every night is showtime in Norfolk, because this Tidewater city has 144 miles of shoreline. The colors of the sky are reflected on the glasslike Chesapeake Bay, and the city feels more like an island than a bustling metropolis.

As you walk along Norfolk Harbor promenade, listen to the “honks” from ships announcing their arrival at Naval Station Norfolk , the largest naval base in the world. The base encompasses 75 ships, 14 piers, and 11 aircraft hangars, and a fun way to see this bustling port is cruising aboard the American Rover , a tall ship with bright red sails.

Norfolk’s historic downtown has 12 walkable city blocks. From Steam Coffee House at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott , make your way to the USS Wisconsin . This breathtaking battleship was built during World War II and deployed in every American war until retiring in 1991. The ship’s silhouette slices through the sky like an anvil, its weapons ready for battle.

Attached to the USS Wisconsin is Nauticus, a museum featuring the region’s rich maritime history. Families will enjoy the interactive STEM exhibits and learn how Navy servicemembers endured extreme challenges during battles at sea. History buffs can wander through the Hampton Roads Naval Museum , also housed inside Nauticus.

Inspired by its natural surroundings, Norfolk has become the culture capital of the Tidewater. The city has a lively energy, in part due to artists who transformed an industrial neighborhood into the NEON Arts District. Take a walking tour with Joshua Weinstein of Norfolk Tour Company to discover more. “NEON is an acronym that stands for the New Energy of Norfolk. It refers to the 120 works of public art and the creative energy of this neighborhood and city at large,” Weinstein explains. “It also refers to the Chrysler Museum of Art collection because they have the largest glass art collection in North America.”

It’s a quick walk to the Chrysler Museum of Art , where your first encounter is light shining through the multihued drapes created by DC artist Sam Gilliam. The museum has exhibits spanning over 5,000 years of world history, a premier assemblage of glass art, and the Wonder Studio , where kids can create their own masterpieces.

Stop by the Perry Glass Studio next door to watch how artisans fashion glass tubes into stunning colors and shapes. In 2019, the Perry family, founders of this workshop, opened Glass Light Hotel & Gallery to show off their own astonishing collection, including Crayola-colored bowls by Dale Chihuly and a flirty glass rabbit by Peter Bremers.

Don’t leave without sampling local delicacies and experiencing the cheerful vibe of Norfolk’s restaurants and bars. You’ll find Virginia beverages at Grain , a rooftop beer garden with views of the Waterside District, and Chesapeake Bay rockfish at Saltine . Before driving home, pick up a sweet potato biscuit with red-chile chicken and blue cheese at Handsome Biscuit . It’s the perfect metaphor for Norfolk, a city awash in color.

Where to Shop

The historic Selden Market in downtown Norfolk supports the community’s up-and-coming businesses. Try do-it-yourself candle-making at Sugar & Grace, choose elegant earrings at Lorak Jewelry, find frilly lingerie at Petit à Petit, and treat yourself at S’mores Amore. 208 Main St.

To learn from experts on architecture, art, food, and ghosts, sign up with Norfolk Tour Company and learn the stories behind this fascinating port city. 208 E. Main St.

When you follow the Mermaid on Parade Trail , you’ll find Norfolk’s mascots positioned in key spots around town. Each of the fiberglass mermaids is distinctive, with nautical and civic pride motifs. Look for the golden-haired mermaid at Waterside Marina and scarlet mermaid at the Pagoda in Friendship Park.

Twenty minutes from Norfolk, stop at Fort Monroe National Monument in Hampton to learn 400 years of American history including the landing of the first Africans at Point Comfort in 1619. The new museum explains the role Fort Monroe played in pivotal battles during the Civil War.

Where to Stay

Staying at the new Glass Light Hotel & Gallery on Norfolk’s Granby Street is a twofer. In addition to a luxurious, full-service boutique hotel, attached is a stunning glass art gallery with jaw-dropping sculptures. The hotel’s guest rooms have unique touches, like glass lamps, a vintage mini Frigidaire, and upholstered rocking chairs. The views overlook the city, and you’ll be steps from dozens of restaurants and Norfolk’s streetcar, The Tide. Rates range from $230–$400 per night. 201 Granby St.

You also can’t go wrong with Hilton’s The Main , the city’s new luxury hotel within walking distance to shopping, dining, and the Elizabeth River. It’s home to three eateries, including Saltine. Rates start around $200 per night. 100 E. Main St.

Where to Eat

Don’t miss the French pastries and baguette sandwiches at La Brioche in the NEON District. The scratch-made cakes, croissants, and breads are as tasty as they are pretty. Pair with an espresso, or, if you arrive in the afternoon, try the French wines by the glass. 765 Granby St.

Food Network’s Guy Fieri knows a good sandwich when he eats one, and he gives the Grilled Cheese Bistro a big thumbs-up. This über-popular lunch spot serves the American classic in a dozen combinations. We’re partial to GCB BLT with fried green tomatoes on nine-grain bread, but the Don Quixote won best grilled cheese in Virginia, so maybe get both. 345 Granby St.

The Moroccan family that owns Omar’s Carriage House in the Freemason District welcomes every diner with their country’s tradition of hospitality. The restaurant features recipes from their homeland, but with Tidewater specialties mixed in. The Moroccan tagine and paella are standouts, along with cocktails packed with fresh juices and herbs. 313 W. Bute St.

Relax in Hummingbird Macarons & Desserts ’ Victorian-style sitting room to sample colorful macarons and elegant desserts. The unique flavors include Black Truffle Cherry and the honey-filled Bee Love. 809 Granby St.

This story originally ran in our  September issue . For more stories like this,  subscribe  to our monthly magazine.

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Naval Station Norfolk to open to public for aircraft carrier tours

The world’s largest naval base will open to the public on Saturday and allow visitors to tour one of the Navy’s newest aircraft carriers.

The USS George H.W. Bush will be open for public tours at Naval Station Norfolk as part of Fleet Fest. The destroyer USS James E. Williams also will be open for tours.

Naval Station Norfolk’s Gate 2 will open to the general public at 11 a.m. with ship tours taking place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

There also will be multiple exhibits, performances and demonstrations showcasing the mission of Naval Station Norfolk as part of Fleet Fest.

The festival gives those who don’t have friends or relatives who serve in the military a chance to come on base, interact with naval personnel and tour ships that demonstrate American naval power.

The Bush is the final Nimitz-class aircraft carrier and was completed in 2009 at a cost of $6.2 billion.

The Navy says visitors should wear comfortable clothing and shoes and that all bags will be searched prior to entering. Strollers or baby carriages are permitted on the pier, but not allowed on the ships. The ships also are not handicap accessible.

Brock Vergakis, 757-222-5846, [email protected]?

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