Norfolk Tourist Attractions
|
|
Norfolk, which is linked with Hampton by a massive bridge and tunnel structure over the Hampton Roads, is one of the most important ports on the eastern seaboard and the largest naval base in the world (bus tours, Apr.-Oct., starting from Tour and Information Office; harbor cruises). Also of interest is the large Naval Museum - and, as a reminder there's more to life than things naval, the Chrysler Museum, with an exhibition not of cars but excellent paintings.
Norfolk Botanical Garden
The Norfolk Botanical Gardens, in the city of the same name, make for a pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here, amongst the beautiful and fragrant flowers, visitors can relax and enjoy the wonderful surroundings. Spread over 155 acres, the Norfolk Botanical Gardens have displays of every type imaginable from A to Z. One of the largest collections of azaleas, roses, camellias and rhododendrons on the east coast. It alsofeatures over 25 themed gardens, 95 species of birds and 30 kinds of butterflies.
Chrysler Museum of Art
The Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk offers a large permanent collection as well as temporary exhibitions. The museum's collection includes American and European paintings and sculptures, contemporary, decorative arts, glass and photography. Check with the Chrysler Museum of Art to see what exhibitions are currently on display.
Moses Myers House
Moses Myers House in Norfolk was built near the end of the 18th Century by Moses Myers, a wealthy local entrepreneur. The home was restored almost 100 years after it was built and again in 2005. Today many of the family's original furnishings can still be seen in the home.
Hermitage Foundation Museum
The Hermitage Foundation Museum in Norfolk presents a permanent collection of works from around the world as well as temporary exhibitions. The Hermitage is located along the Lafayette River and features beautifully landscaped grounds with gardens and natural areas. After you have toured the museum be sure to take the time to stroll around the grounds.
Hunter House Victorian Museum
The Hunter House Victorian Museum in Norfolk provides visitors with a glimpse of life in the Victorian ages. The home is designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style of architecture and has been restored to the original condition. The home is furnished in period pieces and one of the highlights to keep an eye out for is the stained glass window.
MacArthur Memorial Museum
The MacArthur Memorial Museum is devoted to the memory of General Douglas MacArthur. The life and times of the famous man are chronicled and many interesting exhibits are on display. The memorial is spread out across four buildings and is located in downtown Norfolk.The museum also functions as a Historical Center and Research Center with 2.5 million documents and in excess of 150,000 photos.
Nauticus, National Maritime Center
Nauticus, the National Maritime Center located on the downtown Norfolk waterfront is a wonderful place for those interested in naval history and all things related to the sea. Here visitors will find a multitude of displays along with the permanently docked USS Wisconsin.
Hampton Roads Naval Museum
Located adjacent to Nauticus, the Museum provides more than two centuries of naval history as seen through the eyes of the sailor in and around the great harbor of Hampton Roads. Featured exhibits include paintings, documents and memorabilia of naval history.
St Paul's Episcopal Church
St Paul's Episcopal Church located in Norfolk is the town's oldest building. It was originally built in the early 1700's, but burned until only the walls were standing in the confrontation of 1776. The church was rebuilt in 1785-86 and retains much of its original look and feel.
Virginia Zoological Park
The Virginia Zoological Park in Norfolk features an exciting array of animals from around the world. Over the past number of years the zoo has been expanding and continues to expand all of its various "world regions" as well as a planned addition of an Education Complex and Visitor Center.
Harrison Opera House
The Harrison Opera House is home to the Viriginia Opera with 16 performances performed here each season. The building, a former World War II USO theater, seats over 1,600 people.
Naval Station Norfolk
The Naval Station Norfolk can be visited on a tour that allows visitors to see aircraft carriers, destroyers, and a variety of other large equipment.
