Description

View cruises with Norfolk, Virginia

Norfolk was chartered in 1682 when 10,000 pounds of tobacco was paid to Nicholas Wise for 50 acres of land to lay out the town. In 1736, it became a borough and is the region's oldest city. Originally established as a port city for the purpose of exporting tobacco and importing goods for the colonists, Norfolk has seen extraordinary events during her 320 years of existence. The city was burned by British soldiers during 1776, occupied by Northern troops during the War Between the States, and home to thousands of transient military personnel during World War II. Norfolk experienced a severe overcrowding problem during the postwar years, resulting in one of the first urban renewal programs in the country. During the past two decades, Norfolk has seen the waterfront warehouses replaced by the Waterside Festival Marketplace, elegant condominiums, as well as hotels, parks, additional attractions and new office buildings. Harbor Park baseball stadium and Nauticus, The National Maritime Center now anchor either end of the rejuvenated waterfront. The battleship USS Wisconsin is permanently berthed at Nauticus with the top deck open for touring. The brand new MacArthur Center has brought world-class shopping to downtown Norfolk. With a population of approximately 235,000, Norfolk is Virginia's second-largest city.

Points of Interest

Colonial Williamsburg
Jamestown Settlement
Yorktown
Virginia Aquarium
Military Aviation Museum
Norfolk Botanical Garden
Governor's Palace & Capitol Building
Outdoor Adventure

More about Norfolk, Virginia Points of Interest

Colonial Williamsburg -
Take a walking tour of historic Colonial Williamsburg with its meticulously restored buildings, cobblestone streets and costumed characters. This settlement was the capital of Virginia from 1699 until 1780.
Jamestown Settlement -
Jamestown was England's first permanent colony in the New World. This city serves as an enduring legacy of American language, culture and government. Enjoy costumed characters and learn about historic trivia during your tour.
Yorktown -
Yorktown is the site where Lord Cornwallis surrendered to General George Washington, bringing an end to the last major battle of the American Revolutionary War.
Virginia Aquarium -
Discover a remarkable 800,000 gallons of aquatic marvels and over 300 interactive exhibits from specialized tanks to touch tanks as well as the Restless Planet exhibit, consisting of four immersive habitats.
Military Aviation Museum -
Housed in two hangars at its own private 105-acre airfield, the state-of-the-art facility holds one of the world's largest private collections of vintage military airplanes.
Norfolk Botanical Garden -
A trackless train ride meanders through the 175 acres of displays within 52 themed enclaves showcasing floral techniques and landscaping artistry at the fragrant Norfolk Botanical Gardens, which dates back to 1938 and is considered a premier example of horticultural excellence.
Governor's Palace & Capitol Building -
This historic residence was home to seven royal governors, Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson. A reconstructed version of the Capitol Building is the focal point and centerpiece of Colonial Williamsburg.
Outdoor Adventure -
Enjoy a guided walking tour of Norfolk's storied past, embark on a relaxed e-bike adventure that begins in downtown Norfolk and takes in the colorful sights along the Elizabeth River Trail, or experience Norfolk Harbor's beauty aboard a charming three-masted schooner.