Norfolk was established in 1682 as a small town. It became a borough in 1736 and was incorporated as a city in 1845. The city grew significantly in the 1770s, becoming what observers argued as Virginia's most prosperous city. Norfolk was a crucial port city for exporting goods to other areas, including the British Isles. Traders in the city enjoyed close ties with other parts of the British Empire, as more goods were supplied there. The city served as a strong base for Unionists during the early part of the American Revolution. In 1907, Norfolk experienced several infrastructural developments including the Virginia Railway and Jamestown Exposition. The Exposition hosted a large Naval Review that demonstrated the city's favorable location. It also laid the groundwork for the creation of the world's largest naval base. As the country prepared to enter World War I in 1917, the Naval Air Station Hampton Roads had already been developed on the exposition grounds. This made Norfolk play a vital role during both World Wars. In the early years of the 20th century, Norfolk significantly expanded its borders through annexation. For instance, the town of Berkley was annexed and incorporated in 1906, expanding Norfolk's territory. This move also saw the city cross the Elizabeth River. The city further expanded in 1923 to include Willoughby Spit, Sewell's Point, the Ocean View area, and the town of Campostella. It also acquired the Navy Base along several miles of beachfront properties on the Chesapeake Bay and Hampton Roads. Norfolk assumed its current borders after another annexation in 1959 and a land swap with Virginia Beach in 1988. The city's economy has long been diversified. Towards the end of the 20th century, Norfolk experienced a massive population increase that was initiated by a strong economy. At some point during that time, the city had the strongest economy in Virginia. Mobile homes for sale in Norfolk, Virginia, were on a high at that time thanks to the surge in population.

Being one of the largest cities in Virginia, Norfolk offers a lot to see and do. One of the biggest attractions is the Chrysler Museum of Art. Located in the artistic district of Ghent that overlooks a small water body commonly referred to as The Hague, this art museum is one of the largest in the Southern region. The facility has a unique collection that includes European and American paintings by famous artists like Eugene Delacroix, Tintoretto, Auguste Rodin, and Édouard Manet. There are also sculptures from the Middle Ages.

The Norfolk Botanical Garden is another great place to visit in the city. It is a 155-acre garden that features over 40 themed gardens including the special WOW Children's Garden and other seasonal gardens. Strategically located on the Azalea Garden Road, some of the themed gardens at this facility Include a Japanese Garden designed in the pond and traditional hill style. There is also an Enchanted Forest filled with hickory, oak, and pine trees that create a perfect environment for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

You will also enjoy the Virginia Zoo found within Norfolk. It is situated next to Lafayette Park and is home to over 500 animals including the African elephant. There are also countless species of plant species.