Traveling alone can be a truly liberating experience. From start to finish, you’re in full control of what you see and do. You’re free to go about your travel experience any way you like! Here we’ve listed the top 5 must-have Norfolk experiences for the solo traveler.
Chrysler Museum of Art and Glass Studio
The Chrysler is renowned for its illustrious collection of glass with more than ten thousand glass objects spanning nearly three thousand years. The museum’s most celebrated collection is that of work made by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Other collections include a robust European painting and culture gallery, modern, contemporary and decorative arts galleries; an ancient worlds gallery and a strong photography collection. Perfect for a rainy afternoon, block off several hours to truly enjoy the beautiful pieces found in this cultural enclave. Adjacent to the museum sits the glass studio, an educational facility with a full slate of public demonstrations and performances (there’s a free glass blowing demonstration Tuesday-Sunday at noon!)
Abundance of Fresh Seafood
Norfolk is surrounded almost entirely by water so it makes sense for this city to be a seafood haven. The city’s chefs and restaurateurs pride themselves on serving only the freshest seafood, from Lynnhaven oysters, scallops and shrimp to mussels, clams, and, of course, the Chesapeake Bay’s star crustacean, blue crabs. Stop by Freemason Abbey or Todd Jurich’s Bistro to try their award-winning she-crab soup; or order freshly shucked oysters at Saltine. Solo traveler tip: ask to sit at the bar and chat with the local bartenders – they have the best insight to the city.
Enjoy the Water
There are so many ways to enjoy the water in Norfolk. Grab your suit, a towel and magazine and head to Ocean View Beach to work on your tan! Cruise the Elizabeth River harbor aboard the American or Victory Rover; learn to sail at Sail Nauticus, or head to Grain – located on the 5th floor of the Hilton hotel – for a cold one and simply enjoy the water view!
Explore the Elizabeth River Trail
Hop on a bike, walk or run along the Elizabeth River Trail, a 10.5-mile urban biking and pedestrian trail built on several former railroad right-of-ways. Spend the morning or afternoon exploring the waterfront and the historic Freemason District, Ghent and Chelsea neighborhoods. Along the way, you’ll pass Plum Point Park, Weynoke Bird Sanctuary, Hermitage Museum and Gardens and beautiful residential streets. For more things to do along the ERT click here.
Shop Locally
We can’t promise you won’t break the bank, but we can promise an array of local gifts and souvenirs you can cherish for a lifetime. While free two-day shipping is convenient, there is just something about meandering a boutique store looking for the best gift for your loved ones. Click here for an outline of the best gift shops, artisan, consignment and antique stores that are scattered throughout the city.