We know the overwhelming feeling of restlessness that is about to strike during our self-isolations and homeschooled mayhem. We also know how crucial social distancing is right now. So we’re here to help you stay a little saner during this pandemic. Believe it or not, Norfolk has a tremendous amount of things to do while maintaining proper social distance.
NEON District Murals
Norfolk’s NEON Arts District is home to ever changing street art. We can’t help but appreciate our national and local artists to the fullest for adding flare to once-dull alleyways. Have you discovered Magazine Lane? We won’t spoil it too much, but here you’ll find graffiti art intermingled with professional muralists whose work has become a staple to the NEON district, like 27 Beecycles. Let the bright art inspire you! Once our nation’s health is restored, we highly suggest booking a guided tour with Norfolk Tour Company. Click here for a guide to the murals!
Elizabeth River Trail (ERT)
With 10.5 miles of trail, keeping true to the acceptable social spacing on the ERT will be a breeze! Whether you’re walking or biking the trail, there are parks and pull offs along its route (Plum Point Park, Town Point Park, and Jeff Robertson Park) that will offer the perfect spot to read a book, take a lunch break or even soak up some fresh air.
Norfolk Botanical Garden
The Garden is a spot of serenity and has effectively served as a refuge during this time of stress. With 175 acres of lush foliage and blooming flowers, the Norfolk Botanical Garden makes for the perfect house escape. Their new hands-free ticket and membership card scanning will be conducted at the entry gate making for a seamless transition. Buy a ticket online here.
Sunrise or Sunset
No matter which you prefer, grab your coffee or tea and head to Ocean View and East Beach for the most picturesque sunrises and sunsets. The 7.3 miles of beach allows you to spread out and enjoy the view. Local coffee shops may be closed but keep an eye out for those stores who are still selling their beans online. Other favorite places for you to start and end your day with nature’s colorful canvas are located downtown at Town Point Park, the Waterside District waterfront and the Pagoda.
Historic Freemason
Arguably the most picturesque place in Norfolk, the Freemason neighborhood is lined with cobblestone streets and historic homes dating back to the 1800s, bordered by the dazzling waterfront. Take a stroll with a pet or loved one, soak in the blooming trees and relish in the stunning architecture. Located in this neighborhood is Cure Coffeehouse and the Restaurant at Four Eleven York which are both offering food to-go and gift cards online during this time.
Virtual Tours
Gather your household around the computer for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Battleship Wisconsin, or a virtual walk through of the finest pieces of art at the Chrysler Museum. Perry Glass Studio’s YouTube channel also has mesmerizing glass blowing videos from their Third Thursday events. Can’t get to the Norfolk Botanical Gardens? Don’t worry, the Nature Bus has put together a virtual walking tour for you to explore its beauty from home.
Cannonball Trail
Educate yourself on Norfolk’s deep-rooted history by taking this self-guided outdoor tour. This tour allows you to follow the Cannonball Trail through 400 years of Norfolk and American history. The trail winds along the shoreline of the Elizabeth River and through multiple districts of downtown Norfolk where you’ll find memorials and even, yes, a real cannonball embedded in a church wall. Follow the historic sites and homes highlighted on this tour and allow a minimum of two hours to walk the entire trail. Click here to download the map now.
Click here to find the latest status of museums, attractions and events in and around Norfolk.