Plan A Summer Staycation In Norfolk, VA

by | Aug 15, 2019 | News & Events

June signals the start of summer, and for many, that means planning a summer getaway with friends or loved ones. When you live in charming, historic Norfolk, VA, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy the leisure life, and you can make the most of an extended weekend or week off of work by planning a local staycation in your own backyard!

If you’re considering planning a staycation in our award-winning, coastal city, you won’t be short on ways to get out and play. Whether you’re a foodie in search of the region’s finest cuisine and cocktails or prefer to shop until you drop for unique finds and exciting sales, you can do it all without traveling more than 15 minutes from your front door! Sports enthusiasts, artistic types and those who want to relax beside the open water can also find a variety of activities and events to satisfy their staycation needs.

We’ve put together a list of ways to stay and play this summer in beautiful, sunny Norfolk, VA, so that you can begin planning your most epic staycation yet! 

Arts/Culture
Plan to take a day and visit one of Norfolk’s local treasures, The Chrysler Museum of Art, and its exciting Glass Gallery. When you’re finished, walk a few blocks to NEON, Norfolk’s burgeoning Arts District and explore local artists, live music, comedy acts and more. If you prefer a visit to the theater to stimulate your cultural senses, check out upcoming performances at the Wells Theater, Chrysler Hall, the NorVa and The Harrison Opera House. 

Sporting Events and Activities
Sports enthusiasts can celebrate spending an afternoon or evening at Harbor Park, watching The Tides play a game of minor league baseball before catching college sports in live action at Old Dominion University. Check out Ted Constant Convocation Center’s list of events and activities, as they frequently host sporting events like the Harlem Globetrotters!

Retail Therapy
Shop until you drop during your staycation at Norfolk’s Premium Outlets, or visit downtown’s beautiful mall, The MacArthur Center. You can also pick up unique finds and antiques in Norfolk’s Ghent neighborhood by strolling along Colley Avenue and 21st street, or along Granby Street downtown. 

Dining in Style
Norfolk is home to the area’s finest restaurants and coffee shops, and if you like to spend your time off with good food and great drinks, you’re in good luck! Head downtown to The Main and enjoy craft brews and eclectic cuisine at one of three top rated restaurants, or walk along Granby Street and grab a glass of wine and a small plate at Luce, Leone’s, Gershwins, 219 Bistro and more! Norfolk’s Ghent neighborhood features a few of our favorite local restaurants, like Luna Maya and Press 626, and a short trip to Ocean View means you can grab good eats at Captain Groovy’s or Razzo.

Along the Waterfront
Norfolk, VA is surrounded by water in all directions, and this means you can explore beautiful waterfront views and activities on the water. Visit Ocean View beach to relax, swim and play in the Chesapeake Bay. Travel 15 minutes to downtown and kick back at Town Point Park with epic views of the Elizabeth River Waterfront. While you’re at it, you can hop aboard the Spirit of Norfolk for a sunset cruise and dinner, or take an afternoon ride on local favorite, the American Rover.