Think of Norfolk, Virginia and you’re likely to conjure up visions of anchored naval vessels and sailors wandering the streets alongside the gritty downtown waterway.
Well, that’s about to change!
Given, Norfolk is home to the world’s largest naval base complex (Norfolk Naval Station) with tons of historic legacy. And yes, Norfolk was once merely a sea-port filled with bawdy sailors.
Today, however, Norfolk still embraces the power of the sea, but is beginning to place more and more emphasis on a city planning for the future. The once gritty seaside docks have been replaced with swanky night clubs, upscale waterfront cafes, luxury condos, as well as a scattering of boutiques.
At the center of all the action is the Macarthur Center, a glitzy new shopping center nestled on the riverbanks. Nearby, The Chrysler Museum of Fine Art, is home to over 40,000 original pieces – a mix of both the old masters and contemporary artisans. This resurrected downtown corridor, a tourist destination in the making, is also home to the Norfolk Botanical Gardens, award winning dinning, an interactive sea-themed museum, a zoo, and of course harbor cruises.
Tittering on the edge of a public relations triumph, Norfolk’s efforts for a brighter future are not without a nod to the past as well. Originally 500 acres of land, granted by King James I, the original "Norfolk Towne" was little more than a half moon shaped fort (now the site of Towne Point Park). The emerging town was soon struck by hardship as the Revolutionary War saw the port bombarded and all of the early structures demolished, with the exception of Borugh Church (now called St. Paul’s). Down but not beaten, the people of Norfolk recreated their city….just as they are doing again today.
Living in Richmond, just a short drive from Norfolk, my wife and I often find ourselves passing through this nautical town both on business and pleasure. No matter how busy, we always take time to cruise Church Street, 35th Street region, and the unique storefronts along Colley Avenue in Ghent. For a pleasant evening's diversion, we’ll often take in a show at the Virginia Stage Company or at several of the dinner theaters in town. And if we’re staying the evening, there is no way we’d miss Granby Street at night for lively crowds, jazz, and world famous drink concoctions.
Quick Tips:
Check out the Macarthur Center – not just for shopping, it’s a place of world class entertainment, situated in the heart of the historic harbor. Serving as the main vein of Norfolk’s revitalization, the waterfront mall is equipped with anchors stores, boutique shopping, a mega-plex theatre, and street festivals. 757/627-6000, or http://www.shopmacarthur.com
Elizabeth River Ferry - this charming paddle-wheel ferry, once only a way for locals to beat midtown traffic, now serves as both a tourist attraction as it hops from one historic district to the next. 757/222-6100 or http://www.hrtransit.org.
Chrysler Museum of Art - With the likes of Renoir, Cezanne, Degas, and Monet – The Chrysler Museum boasts over 60 galleries. 757/664-6200
Blue Hippo - Among the trendiest, the Hippo’s slogan, "Life is too short to eat boring food", says it all. This award winning bistro, with a sophisticated and imaginative flair, is by far the most popular destination for pre-show drinkers, serious foodies, and romantic couples. 757/533-9664
Take a spin through the infamous Granby Street, also in the downtown vicinity. Expect to find young professionals and a post collegiate-hipster crowd, sipping Cucumber Martinis and sampling tappas in a scattering of funky bistros.
Best Way To Get Around:
Traffic can be a nightmare in Norfolk!
If you’re not familiar with the area, I’d suggest NET. Inside the city, look for the free Norfolk Electric Transit (NET) system, which will link you to downtown Norfolk’s best attractions. With 16 stops along Granby St., Main St., Water St., and Harbor Park – you’re always likely to spot this commuting service making routine weekly routes (757/222-6100).
Also, it’s important to note that Norfolk is home to the famed Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel – serving as an 18-mile link, this is easily the world’s largest tunnel complex. World records aside, stay away from it if at all possible.
The real value to the bridge is the fact that it saves motorists 95 miles (and about two hours) between Virginia Beach and popular destinations such as New York. The US one way fee is well worth every dime if you’re short on time.