Norfolk Travel Guide
For details of what to do and see in Norfolk check out our Norfolk guide to car hire in Norfolk.
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Close to Virginia's Atlantic coast about 190 miles to the southeast of Washington DC, and well within driving distance of the nation's capital if you want to spend a few days in one or the other, Norfolk is the historic state capital, and Virginia's largest city.
The history of Norfolk dates back almost as far as the European conquest of North America, with the first settlement, a colony called Roanoke established on an island just off the coast in 1585, although this town quickly vanished, and it was not until 1682 that settlers returned to inaugurate the town of Norfolk on the mainland.
The city soon developed into one of the main naval centres for the nascent USA after the war of independence, and the nearby Norfolk Naval Shipyards have been the main base for the Atlantic Fleet for over 100 years.
These days, Norfolk has developed a twin reputation for education and retail, with two universities in the city, and the vast McArthur Center dominating the shopping experience in Norfolk, and acting as a major draw for people all over the region.
The city also boasts a great nightlife, although those visitors expecting the kind of saucy pleasures that you'd find in a sailors bar will have to look outside town among the strip malls, because the bars in the city centre are fairly sanitised, due to their popularity with students.
Most of the attractions in Norfolk are related to the sea, and no visitor to the city should miss out on the chance to experience the city's maritime history in the museums and galleries in the historic downtown area of Norfolk. You can also cruise through the harbour on one of several ships. Cruises take place at various times throughout the day and early evening, and some include a meal. Most popular are the tall ship American Rover, and paddle steamer Carrie B, while the Elizabeth River Ferry regularly crosses the river from Norfolk to Olde Towne Portsmouth where the Naval base can be found
The premier tourist attraction in Norfolk, Virginia is the National Maritime Centre - Nauticus, located on the down town waterfront. Inside the complex, you can see sharks in tanks, pet a stingray, and explore the maritime history of the USA. Other attractions within Nauticus include the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, and the chance to pilot an Aegis Class Navy destroyer on an advanced simulator. Virginia's capital is a great place to spend a few days, and a visit will leave you relaxed, as a holiday destination, Norfolk enchants.
