Norfolk, Virginia is located on the Elizabeth River near the wide mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. Established in 1682, the town soon became a shipbuilding hub. During the American Revolution, Virginia militiamen and riflemen engaged in numerous skirmishes with the British. Finally, the British bombarded the town from the water before the Virginians burned the remaining buildings to prevent British occupation. However, the Virginians left St. Paul’s Church intact. After the Revolutionary War, Norfolk’s recovery was stifled due to several external factors. During the War of 1812, local militiamen twice saved the town from the British. In subsequent decades, Norfolk again prospered due to railroad and canal construction. During the Civil War, Norfolk fell to the Union Army in May 1862. The town remained under Union occupation until the war’s conclusion. After 1880, Norfolk began to boom as railroad systems better served the city’s shipping port. During World Wars I and II, Norfolk became a major maritime center as Naval Station Norfolk gradually took shape. This expansive naval base and naval-air installation is now the largest of its kind.

The Norfolk metro area is chock full of enjoyable activities for the entire family – not far from the house. Norfolk offers boating, exploring, shopping, sunbathing, and other photo-worthy experiences.

Fishing and Boating
With Norfolk’s proximity to Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, boating and fishing are popular activities. Boaters head out on diverse types of powerboats. Sailors enjoy cruising across the Bay on a fresh breeze or sneaking in a quiet sunset sail after work.

Nauticus
The ship-shaped Nauticus is an innovative maritime discovery center situated along Norfolk’s waterfront near an urban resident’s house. Norfolk offers an all-ages facility combining maritime history, interactive marine world exhibits, and exciting science discoveries. Outside, visitors can see the mammoth Battleship Wisconsin and graceful Schooner Virginia.

Norfolk Botanical Garden
Virginia’s most expansive botanical garden, the Norfolk Botanical Garden comprises 175 acres of floral collections and walking paths. The Children’s Garden and Butterfly House are popular destinations. The gardens are bordered on three sides by water, enabling entry by boat.

Ocean View Beach
Beautiful Ocean View Beach offers numerous outdoor activities. Besides swimming and basking in the southern Virginia sun, beach fans enjoy fishing, crabbing, and kayaking. Many visitors savor locally sourced food at Ocean View’s multiple restaurants.