The area boasts the world's largest naval base, and you can tour it by joining a cruise. See docked warships, or enjoy a sunset harbor tour. Norfolk is also a popular long-distance holiday cruise hub and makes an ideal base before setting off to the Caribbean or Bermuda.
See Norfolk's most popular museum, the Chrysler Museum of Art. Housing the heritage collection of automotive heir Walter Chrysler, the museum has priceless works from renowned painters such as Rubens, Tintoretto, Delacroix, Manet, and Cezanne. Other must-sees include the Hampton Roads Naval Museum and the Hermitage Museum, home to an extensive art collection spanning 5,000 years.
Norfolk's Ghent district, developed in the late 1800s, is considered a national heritage site today. The stylish suburb has theaters, art galleries, cafés, and restaurants. Wander through the area and appreciate the historical buildings juxtaposed with modern businesses and trendy eateries.
The Virginia Zoo, a great day trip with children, is popular for its Asian and African exhibits, the Trail of the Tiger and the Okavango Delta. The exotic collection of Malay tigers, orangutans, gibbons, lions, rhinos, and ostriches is sure to delight the young ones. Also popular are the Virginia Living Museum and Bluebird Gap Farm.