Norfolk Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Norfolk
The Southern forces were left dumbfounded when one of their own, Norfolk native Mary Louvestre, revealed their plans to the Union government. Mary's act gave the Union navy an upper hand in the sea battle against Confederate ships.
In 1636, English colonists established a small settlement along the Elizabeth River, recognizing the area’s natural deep-water harbor as a vital asset for trade and defense. By 1682, Norfolk was officially founded as a town, and it quickly grew into a key port within the Virginia Colony.
The city's name, derived from the English county of Norfolk, means “northern folk” or “people from the north,” a reminder of the English settlers who founded it.
Throughout the 18th century, Norfolk prospered as a center for tobacco, cotton, timber, and naval commerce. However, its success made it a target during the American Revolution. In January 1776, British forces bombarded and burned much of the town after colonial resistance, leaving it in ruins. Despite this destruction, Norfolk rebuilt and remained a vital maritime hub for the new nation. During the early 19th century, its shipyards and waterfront fueled growing trade across the Atlantic and the Caribbean.
The Civil War brought new turmoil. Due to its location, Norfolk became a strategic point for both Union and Confederate forces. The nearby Battle of Hampton Roads in 1862, featuring the famous clash between the ironclad ships Monitor and Virginia, revolutionized naval warfare and cemented Norfolk’s place in military history. After the war, the city’s economy shifted from agriculture to industry, supported by its expanding shipyards and trade routes.
A turning point came in 1917 with the creation of the Norfolk Naval Station, which remains the largest naval base in the world. World War I and World War II transformed Norfolk into a military and shipbuilding powerhouse, drawing thousands of workers and sailors from across the country. The city’s postwar years were marked by urban renewal, economic diversification, and the growth of institutions like Old Dominion University and the Port of Virginia.
Walking through downtown Norfolk, visitors encounter a lively mix of history and waterfront charm. Modern skyscrapers rise beside restored brick warehouses, while the Elizabeth River slides alongside the scenic Waterside District. The Nauticus maritime museum and the Battleship Wisconsin tell the city’s naval story, and tree-lined streets lead to local cafés, boutiques, and art galleries. Public murals, open-air plazas, and harbor views emphasize the welcoming atmosphere.
Once a colonial outpost and now a symbol of endurance, Norfolk invites you to see for yourself if Mary's act of bravery was worth it. Follow this self-guided walking tour and explore Norfolk at your own pace.
In 1636, English colonists established a small settlement along the Elizabeth River, recognizing the area’s natural deep-water harbor as a vital asset for trade and defense. By 1682, Norfolk was officially founded as a town, and it quickly grew into a key port within the Virginia Colony.
The city's name, derived from the English county of Norfolk, means “northern folk” or “people from the north,” a reminder of the English settlers who founded it.
Throughout the 18th century, Norfolk prospered as a center for tobacco, cotton, timber, and naval commerce. However, its success made it a target during the American Revolution. In January 1776, British forces bombarded and burned much of the town after colonial resistance, leaving it in ruins. Despite this destruction, Norfolk rebuilt and remained a vital maritime hub for the new nation. During the early 19th century, its shipyards and waterfront fueled growing trade across the Atlantic and the Caribbean.
The Civil War brought new turmoil. Due to its location, Norfolk became a strategic point for both Union and Confederate forces. The nearby Battle of Hampton Roads in 1862, featuring the famous clash between the ironclad ships Monitor and Virginia, revolutionized naval warfare and cemented Norfolk’s place in military history. After the war, the city’s economy shifted from agriculture to industry, supported by its expanding shipyards and trade routes.
A turning point came in 1917 with the creation of the Norfolk Naval Station, which remains the largest naval base in the world. World War I and World War II transformed Norfolk into a military and shipbuilding powerhouse, drawing thousands of workers and sailors from across the country. The city’s postwar years were marked by urban renewal, economic diversification, and the growth of institutions like Old Dominion University and the Port of Virginia.
Walking through downtown Norfolk, visitors encounter a lively mix of history and waterfront charm. Modern skyscrapers rise beside restored brick warehouses, while the Elizabeth River slides alongside the scenic Waterside District. The Nauticus maritime museum and the Battleship Wisconsin tell the city’s naval story, and tree-lined streets lead to local cafés, boutiques, and art galleries. Public murals, open-air plazas, and harbor views emphasize the welcoming atmosphere.
Once a colonial outpost and now a symbol of endurance, Norfolk invites you to see for yourself if Mary's act of bravery was worth it. Follow this self-guided walking tour and explore Norfolk at your own pace.
How it works: Download the app "911±¬ÁĎÍř: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. The app turns your mobile device into a personal tour guide and its built-in GPS navigation functions guide you from one tour stop to next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Norfolk Introduction Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Norfolk Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: USA » Norfolk (See other walking tours in Norfolk)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 12
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: USA » Norfolk (See other walking tours in Norfolk)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 12
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center
- USS Wisconsin (BB-64)
- Hampton Roads Naval Museum
- Nauticus
- Pagoda & Oriental Garden
- Hunter House Victorian Museum
- MacArthur Center
- Wells Theatre
- MacArthur Memorial
- Granby Street
- Owen B. Pickett United States Custom House
- Waterside
1) Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center
The Half Moone Center serves a dual role as Virginia’s only cruise ship terminal and a versatile event venue. Since its opening in April 2007, this modern structure has welcomed cruise passengers for sailings and provided a picturesque setting for celebrations and conferences alike.
Its architecture is as impressive as its purpose. The 80,000‑square‑foot terminal features glass windows that flood the interior with light and offer panoramic views of the river and skyline. Inside, flexible event spaces-including the Bermuda Room, Half Moone Vista, Lido Deck, and Promenade Deck-are thoughtfully designed for weddings, banquets, and corporate functions, complete with retractable walls and mobile fixtures for spatial versatility.
Beyond its practical role, the Half Moone Center also contributes to Norfolk’s larger effort to rejuvenate its downtown waterfront. As the city’s primary cruise terminal, it has become the departure point for thousands of travelers each year. In 2023, Cruise Norfolk reported record-breaking activity, with nearly a quarter-million passengers passing through the facility, underscoring its growing importance as the region’s connection to major cruise lines and international destinations.
Its architecture is as impressive as its purpose. The 80,000‑square‑foot terminal features glass windows that flood the interior with light and offer panoramic views of the river and skyline. Inside, flexible event spaces-including the Bermuda Room, Half Moone Vista, Lido Deck, and Promenade Deck-are thoughtfully designed for weddings, banquets, and corporate functions, complete with retractable walls and mobile fixtures for spatial versatility.
Beyond its practical role, the Half Moone Center also contributes to Norfolk’s larger effort to rejuvenate its downtown waterfront. As the city’s primary cruise terminal, it has become the departure point for thousands of travelers each year. In 2023, Cruise Norfolk reported record-breaking activity, with nearly a quarter-million passengers passing through the facility, underscoring its growing importance as the region’s connection to major cruise lines and international destinations.
2) USS Wisconsin (BB-64) (must see)
The USS Wisconsin (BB‑64) is a majestic Iowa‑class battleship turned floating museum-that graces the Elizabeth River. This imposing vessel is one of the largest battleships ever constructed by the U.S. Navy and offers an unforgettable window into America’s naval legacy. Commissioned in 1944, the USS Wisconsin earned it stripes in some of World War II’s most vital operations, including the Philippines campaign, and the fierce battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa, even engaging in bombardments of the Japanese homeland as the war drew to a close.
It service didn’t stop there, returning to action during the Korean War and was reactivated in the 1980s to play a pivotal role in Operation Desert Storm. After retiring in 1991, it was decommissioned for good in 2006 before being gifted to Norfolk to serve as a museum-welcoming visitors from around the world aboard it teak‑decked decks since the early 2000s.
As a museum, the USS Wisconsin offers both self-guided and guided experiences that bring naval history to life. Visitors can freely explore the main and upper decks, stepping into spaces where sailors once stood watch. For a deeper dive, specialized tours such as "Command & Control" and "Life in the Engine Room" take you into the heart of the ship-from the Captain’s Cabin and Combat Engagement Center to the bowels of the engine room, descending seven decks.
The ship’s interior-featuring the mess hall, crew bunks, ship's post office, and brig-is a walk through real naval life and indispensable for a hands-on appreciation of life aboard a WWII-era battleship. Beyond her decks, the USS Wisconsin is part of a cultural center. It forms one leg of the Nauticus center, which blends interactive maritime exhibits, aquaria, and STEM-focused programming.
It service didn’t stop there, returning to action during the Korean War and was reactivated in the 1980s to play a pivotal role in Operation Desert Storm. After retiring in 1991, it was decommissioned for good in 2006 before being gifted to Norfolk to serve as a museum-welcoming visitors from around the world aboard it teak‑decked decks since the early 2000s.
As a museum, the USS Wisconsin offers both self-guided and guided experiences that bring naval history to life. Visitors can freely explore the main and upper decks, stepping into spaces where sailors once stood watch. For a deeper dive, specialized tours such as "Command & Control" and "Life in the Engine Room" take you into the heart of the ship-from the Captain’s Cabin and Combat Engagement Center to the bowels of the engine room, descending seven decks.
The ship’s interior-featuring the mess hall, crew bunks, ship's post office, and brig-is a walk through real naval life and indispensable for a hands-on appreciation of life aboard a WWII-era battleship. Beyond her decks, the USS Wisconsin is part of a cultural center. It forms one leg of the Nauticus center, which blends interactive maritime exhibits, aquaria, and STEM-focused programming.
3) Hampton Roads Naval Museum
The Hampton Roads Naval Museum offers an enriching experience about naval history. Operated by the U.S. Navy as part of the Naval History & Heritage Command, this museum is one of just ten officially maintained Navy museums nationwide. It’s dedicated to celebrating and interpreting the U.S. Navy’s storied past in the Hampton Roads region, spanning from the Revolutionary War to modern times.
Founded in 1979 and originally housed in “Pennsylvania House” - a replica of Independence Hall from the 1907 Jamestown Exposition - the museum relocated to a much larger and more central space within Nauticus in 1994. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums since 2008, the facility holds itself to rigorous standards of preservation and public engagement.
The museum’s permanent exhibitions offer a chronological journey through naval history. Visitors can explore artifacts related to pivotal moments like the Battle of the Chesapeake from 1781, the Civil War battles in Hampton Roads, the era of the Great White Fleet, World War II, and the Cold War. Highlights include detailed ship models, naval prints, underwater archaeological finds, and the remains of two Civil War wrecks - USS Cumberland and CSS Florida. Notably, many artifacts recovered from these wrecks-including cannons, ordnance, and a ship’s bell-are on display.
Beyond its permanent displays, the museum regularly presents temporary exhibitions on engaging topics such as “Animals and the U.S. Navy”, “Cuba Libre”, and “Pax Americana”. A dedicated reference library and photographic archive are available by appointment for researchers or curious visitors.
Founded in 1979 and originally housed in “Pennsylvania House” - a replica of Independence Hall from the 1907 Jamestown Exposition - the museum relocated to a much larger and more central space within Nauticus in 1994. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums since 2008, the facility holds itself to rigorous standards of preservation and public engagement.
The museum’s permanent exhibitions offer a chronological journey through naval history. Visitors can explore artifacts related to pivotal moments like the Battle of the Chesapeake from 1781, the Civil War battles in Hampton Roads, the era of the Great White Fleet, World War II, and the Cold War. Highlights include detailed ship models, naval prints, underwater archaeological finds, and the remains of two Civil War wrecks - USS Cumberland and CSS Florida. Notably, many artifacts recovered from these wrecks-including cannons, ordnance, and a ship’s bell-are on display.
Beyond its permanent displays, the museum regularly presents temporary exhibitions on engaging topics such as “Animals and the U.S. Navy”, “Cuba Libre”, and “Pax Americana”. A dedicated reference library and photographic archive are available by appointment for researchers or curious visitors.
4) Nauticus (must see)
Nauticus, officially known as the National Maritime Center, is a maritime-focused science museum that provides interactive, hands-on experiences through exhibits, aquariums, theaters, and educational programs aimed at engaging both children and adults.
It is an immersive journey through the rich maritime, industrial, and military legacy of the region. One of its standout features is the inclusion of the Battleship Wisconsin, one of the largest and last battleships constructed by the U.S. Navy. Visitors can explore its decks through self-guided or in-depth themed tours that bring naval history vividly to life.
Inside the museum, you'll encounter captivating exhibits like “Norfolk in Time”, which weaves together stories of history, culture, technology, and resilience, and Aquaticus, a playful underwater-themed space bursting with interactive features like slides and sensory experiences designed specifically for younger visitors.
Beyond its learning exhibits, Nauticus integrates other maritime experiences: Sail Nauticus, a nonprofit sailing center offering youth and adult education programs, including STEM-based after-school learning; and the Victory Rover Naval Base Cruises, which showcase Norfolk's working harbor and naval operations from the water.
It is an immersive journey through the rich maritime, industrial, and military legacy of the region. One of its standout features is the inclusion of the Battleship Wisconsin, one of the largest and last battleships constructed by the U.S. Navy. Visitors can explore its decks through self-guided or in-depth themed tours that bring naval history vividly to life.
Inside the museum, you'll encounter captivating exhibits like “Norfolk in Time”, which weaves together stories of history, culture, technology, and resilience, and Aquaticus, a playful underwater-themed space bursting with interactive features like slides and sensory experiences designed specifically for younger visitors.
Beyond its learning exhibits, Nauticus integrates other maritime experiences: Sail Nauticus, a nonprofit sailing center offering youth and adult education programs, including STEM-based after-school learning; and the Victory Rover Naval Base Cruises, which showcase Norfolk's working harbor and naval operations from the water.
5) Pagoda & Oriental Garden
The two-story pagoda serves as the serene centerpiece of the Oriental Garden. Gifted in 1989 by Taiwan to honor its trade and diplomatic ties with Virginia and the City of Norfolk, this structure stands atop what was once a molasses tank foundation-a historic nod to the area’s industrial. The pagoda’s upper balcony yields stunning panoramic views of the Elizabeth River, Downtown Norfolk, and even the imposing USS Wisconsin battleship moored nearby. During golden hour, the vistas become especially magical.
Though modest in size, the Oriental Garden captivates with its thoughtfully curated landscape featuring koi ponds, fountains, lush Asian plantings, and ornamental features such as moon gates and graceful walkways.
Designed by landscape architect W. Christian Busk, it blends Chinese and Japanese design elements into a space of harmony and cultural storytelling. The venue often hosts cultural programming-think tea ceremonies, tai chi sessions, even Lunar New Year celebrations-that bring to life traditional Asian heritage for residents and visitors alike.
Though modest in size, the Oriental Garden captivates with its thoughtfully curated landscape featuring koi ponds, fountains, lush Asian plantings, and ornamental features such as moon gates and graceful walkways.
Designed by landscape architect W. Christian Busk, it blends Chinese and Japanese design elements into a space of harmony and cultural storytelling. The venue often hosts cultural programming-think tea ceremonies, tai chi sessions, even Lunar New Year celebrations-that bring to life traditional Asian heritage for residents and visitors alike.
6) Hunter House Victorian Museum
Steeped in elegance, the Hunter House Victorian Museum stands as a beautifully preserved time capsule. Designed by Boston architect William Pitt Wentworth in the Richardsonian Romanesque style, this red-brick residence was completed in 1894 and served as the family home for merchant and banker James Wilson Hunter, his wife Lizzie Ayer Barnes Hunter, and their three children.
Stepping through its doors feels like traveling back in time. The museum preserves nearly all of the original furnishings, decorative arts, and personal belongings of the Hunter family. Visitors wander through two floors curated to reflect the domestic flair of the era, with features such as curved walls, stained-glass cabinetry, pocket doors, and a lavish walk-in closet that highlights the grandeur of turn-of-the-century Victorian living.
Since opening as a museum in 1988, the Hunter House has remained a nonprofit institution dedicated to historical education and preservation. Guided tours provide insightful narratives about the family’s life, their social context, and the broader cultural currents of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Equally compelling is the story of the Hunter family itself-the three Hunter children-James Jr., Harriet, and Eloise-never married and lived their entire lives in this home. They passed away one after the other, with the last sibling Eloise dying in 1965. After that, the house remained untouched until it officially opened as a museum in 1988, essentially preserving their lives within its walls.
Editors note: Temporarily closed.
Stepping through its doors feels like traveling back in time. The museum preserves nearly all of the original furnishings, decorative arts, and personal belongings of the Hunter family. Visitors wander through two floors curated to reflect the domestic flair of the era, with features such as curved walls, stained-glass cabinetry, pocket doors, and a lavish walk-in closet that highlights the grandeur of turn-of-the-century Victorian living.
Since opening as a museum in 1988, the Hunter House has remained a nonprofit institution dedicated to historical education and preservation. Guided tours provide insightful narratives about the family’s life, their social context, and the broader cultural currents of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Equally compelling is the story of the Hunter family itself-the three Hunter children-James Jr., Harriet, and Eloise-never married and lived their entire lives in this home. They passed away one after the other, with the last sibling Eloise dying in 1965. After that, the house remained untouched until it officially opened as a museum in 1988, essentially preserving their lives within its walls.
Editors note: Temporarily closed.
7) MacArthur Center
The MacArthur Center is a three-level indoor shopping destination, establishing itself as the largest mall in the city and one of the premier retail centers across the Hampton Roads region. Its development was a city-wide effort, with nearly $100 million of public investment fueling infrastructure upgrades and parking expansions to support this major commercial venture.
Stepping inside MacArthur Center, you'll find an upscale environment featuring a diverse array of over 140 shops, dining spots, and entertainment hubs, including a sprawling 18-screen Regal cinema on the top floor. Notably, this mall brought several new-to-market retailers, such as Nordstrom, White House Black Market, Coach, and Pottery Barn.
Beyond just shopping, MacArthur Center played a pivotal role in revitalizing downtown Norfolk. The mall’s success catalyzed street improvements and new residential developments. Outside the mall, you’ll find 16 captivating display windows known as “Windows on History.” Each one walks you through 400 years of Norfolk and Hampton Roads history, starting with the Jamestown settlement and continuing through the late 20th century.
Stepping inside MacArthur Center, you'll find an upscale environment featuring a diverse array of over 140 shops, dining spots, and entertainment hubs, including a sprawling 18-screen Regal cinema on the top floor. Notably, this mall brought several new-to-market retailers, such as Nordstrom, White House Black Market, Coach, and Pottery Barn.
Beyond just shopping, MacArthur Center played a pivotal role in revitalizing downtown Norfolk. The mall’s success catalyzed street improvements and new residential developments. Outside the mall, you’ll find 16 captivating display windows known as “Windows on History.” Each one walks you through 400 years of Norfolk and Hampton Roads history, starting with the Jamestown settlement and continuing through the late 20th century.
8) Wells Theatre
The historic Wells Theatre is an architectural and cultural landmark built in 1913 and designed by the noted New York firm E. C. Horn & Sons. This Beaux-Arts masterpiece originally served as the flagship of the Wells brothers’ vaudeville circuit across the South. With its ornate plasterwork, stained glass, murals, and luxurious detailing, the Wells was lauded upon opening as the most extravagant playhouse of its time-and much of that opulence remains today.
Step inside, and you'll be amazed by a richly decorated interior featuring Renaissance-style box seats that appear to float serenely above the audience, gilt plaster accents, marbleized walls, and a pastel-hued ceiling mural.
From its grand opening on August 26, 1913, the theatre has hosted a dazzling array of stars-from Maude Adams’s aerial Peter Pan, to legendary performers like Fred and Adele Astaire, Will Rogers, Billie Burke, and John Philip Sousa. Originally a vaudeville and first-run movie house, the Wells continued evolving through decades of cultural shifts-from silent films to burlesque, eventually becoming an adult movie venue by the 1960s.
By 1979, the theater’s fortunes were changing. The Virginia Stage Company took occupancy after a restoration, launching live theatrical programming in February 1980. A further round of renovation in 1986 helped it earn recognition as a National Historic Landmark, ensuring both its preservation and its continued role as a regional cultural pillar.
Today, the Virginia Stage Company presents a full season of compelling performances-from Broadway classics and adaptations to powerful regional premieres in their signature American Soil Series. Beyond the stage, the Wells Theatre is layered with stories-some even say it's haunted. Legends speak of ghostly figures like “a man in a top hat”, “a lady in white”, a sailor named Ned, and a boy nicknamed Boots who allegedly roam the dim corridors and box seats.
Step inside, and you'll be amazed by a richly decorated interior featuring Renaissance-style box seats that appear to float serenely above the audience, gilt plaster accents, marbleized walls, and a pastel-hued ceiling mural.
From its grand opening on August 26, 1913, the theatre has hosted a dazzling array of stars-from Maude Adams’s aerial Peter Pan, to legendary performers like Fred and Adele Astaire, Will Rogers, Billie Burke, and John Philip Sousa. Originally a vaudeville and first-run movie house, the Wells continued evolving through decades of cultural shifts-from silent films to burlesque, eventually becoming an adult movie venue by the 1960s.
By 1979, the theater’s fortunes were changing. The Virginia Stage Company took occupancy after a restoration, launching live theatrical programming in February 1980. A further round of renovation in 1986 helped it earn recognition as a National Historic Landmark, ensuring both its preservation and its continued role as a regional cultural pillar.
Today, the Virginia Stage Company presents a full season of compelling performances-from Broadway classics and adaptations to powerful regional premieres in their signature American Soil Series. Beyond the stage, the Wells Theatre is layered with stories-some even say it's haunted. Legends speak of ghostly figures like “a man in a top hat”, “a lady in white”, a sailor named Ned, and a boy nicknamed Boots who allegedly roam the dim corridors and box seats.
9) MacArthur Memorial
The MacArthur Memorial is a distinctive institution that blends a museum, research center, mausoleum, and memorial dedicated to General of the Army Douglas MacArthur. It occupies Norfolk’s former city hall, a neo-classical building that reflects the city’s civic heritage. At the heart of the memorial lies the Rotunda, where General MacArthur and his wife rest in crypts beneath the dome.
Surrounding exhibition galleries highlight his military achievements with displays of medals, uniforms, weapons, photographs, and personal artifacts. Visitors can also explore the Visitor Center. Here, a short film titled “The MacArthur Story” introduces the general’s life and career, while rotating exhibits provide fresh perspectives. Highlights include unique objects such as MacArthur’s World War II-era staff car, which helps bring his legacy into sharper focus.
The Jean MacArthur Research Center, named for his wife, serves as an archive containing documents, oral histories, and family collections, accessible mainly by appointment. Norfolk became the memorial’s home not because the general lived there, but because it was his mother’s birthplace. In 1960, MacArthur agreed to establish the memorial on the condition that he and his wife be laid to rest within its walls and that his papers be preserved there.
Surrounding exhibition galleries highlight his military achievements with displays of medals, uniforms, weapons, photographs, and personal artifacts. Visitors can also explore the Visitor Center. Here, a short film titled “The MacArthur Story” introduces the general’s life and career, while rotating exhibits provide fresh perspectives. Highlights include unique objects such as MacArthur’s World War II-era staff car, which helps bring his legacy into sharper focus.
The Jean MacArthur Research Center, named for his wife, serves as an archive containing documents, oral histories, and family collections, accessible mainly by appointment. Norfolk became the memorial’s home not because the general lived there, but because it was his mother’s birthplace. In 1960, MacArthur agreed to establish the memorial on the condition that he and his wife be laid to rest within its walls and that his papers be preserved there.
10) Granby Street
Granby Street in Norfolk, Virginia, serves as the city’s historic main corridor, known for its mix of early 20th-century architecture, commercial heritage, and modern redevelopment. This storied thoroughfare began in the 18th century and, by the early 1900s, evolved into Norfolk’s primary commercial spine-flourishing with merchants, theaters, and notable department stores, transforming from a residential lane into the heart of the city’s retail life.
As time marched into the mid-20th century, Granby Street faced decline. Suburban malls offering climate-controlled comfort and ample parking drew both shoppers and businesses away. In a bid to adapt, city leaders transformed it into the “Granby Mall,” closing it to automobile traffic and revamping its streetscape. That experiment, however, backfired-making the street less accessible and diminishing its activity and appeal.
Fortunately, a renewed spirit emerged in the late 1990s with the construction of MacArthur Center, a modern shopping mall nearby. Its arrival injected new life into Downtown Norfolk-prompting infrastructure upgrades, streetscape improvements, and private investment. Granby Street’s once-vacant storefronts were reborn as stylish restaurants, bars, offices, and lofts.
It features fine examples of Classical Revival, Beaux Arts, and Italianate architectural styles: landmarks such as the Beaux Arts–style Virginia Bank and Trust Building and the Art Deco–styled Walter E. Hoffman U.S. Courthouse. Moreover, the Downtown Norfolk Council organizes a free walking tour of Granby Street that highlights its historical evolution, covering its early role as a retail hub, the decline brought by suburban development, and the large-scale revitalization projects that shaped its modern identity.
As time marched into the mid-20th century, Granby Street faced decline. Suburban malls offering climate-controlled comfort and ample parking drew both shoppers and businesses away. In a bid to adapt, city leaders transformed it into the “Granby Mall,” closing it to automobile traffic and revamping its streetscape. That experiment, however, backfired-making the street less accessible and diminishing its activity and appeal.
Fortunately, a renewed spirit emerged in the late 1990s with the construction of MacArthur Center, a modern shopping mall nearby. Its arrival injected new life into Downtown Norfolk-prompting infrastructure upgrades, streetscape improvements, and private investment. Granby Street’s once-vacant storefronts were reborn as stylish restaurants, bars, offices, and lofts.
It features fine examples of Classical Revival, Beaux Arts, and Italianate architectural styles: landmarks such as the Beaux Arts–style Virginia Bank and Trust Building and the Art Deco–styled Walter E. Hoffman U.S. Courthouse. Moreover, the Downtown Norfolk Council organizes a free walking tour of Granby Street that highlights its historical evolution, covering its early role as a retail hub, the decline brought by suburban development, and the large-scale revitalization projects that shaped its modern identity.
11) Owen B. Pickett United States Custom House
The Custom House stands as a proud testament to the city’s rich maritime and trade history. The original Customs Service presence in Norfolk dates back to 1819, and as commerce boomed, it became clear that a more grandiose, permanent structure was needed.
Constructed between 1852 and 1858, the building was designed by Treasury Supervising Architect Ammi B. Young. Young crafted the structure with a nod to classical Roman architecture-complete with a commanding granite façade, a sweeping staircase, and a monumental two-story portico supported by six fluted Corinthian columns. The granite, sourced from Blue Hill, Maine, features a rusticated base and smooth ashlar above, enhancing its enduring presence.
Beyond its exterior grandeur, the Custom House is rich in architectural details. Inside, graceful cast-iron columns, girders, and beams support the structure, while a broad corridor with ceramic tile flooring leads visitors to an elegant circular cast-iron staircase with a mahogany handrail. Historic touches like marble-tiled corridors, vaulted ceilings, and fireplaces remain intact.
An addition was crafted in 1935 to blend seamlessly with the original design. After enduring Confederate occupation early in the Civil War, it has consistently functioned as a customs office for well over a century. Recognized for its historic and architectural significance, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, and following a restoration at the turn of the millennium, it was renamed in honor of U.S. Representative Owen B. Pickett in 2001.
Constructed between 1852 and 1858, the building was designed by Treasury Supervising Architect Ammi B. Young. Young crafted the structure with a nod to classical Roman architecture-complete with a commanding granite façade, a sweeping staircase, and a monumental two-story portico supported by six fluted Corinthian columns. The granite, sourced from Blue Hill, Maine, features a rusticated base and smooth ashlar above, enhancing its enduring presence.
Beyond its exterior grandeur, the Custom House is rich in architectural details. Inside, graceful cast-iron columns, girders, and beams support the structure, while a broad corridor with ceramic tile flooring leads visitors to an elegant circular cast-iron staircase with a mahogany handrail. Historic touches like marble-tiled corridors, vaulted ceilings, and fireplaces remain intact.
An addition was crafted in 1935 to blend seamlessly with the original design. After enduring Confederate occupation early in the Civil War, it has consistently functioned as a customs office for well over a century. Recognized for its historic and architectural significance, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, and following a restoration at the turn of the millennium, it was renamed in honor of U.S. Representative Owen B. Pickett in 2001.
12) Waterside
The Waterside District is a dynamic destination where entertainment, dining, and waterfront leisure converge. Originally opened as a festival marketplace in June 1983, this redeveloped zone aimed to revitalize Norfolk’s declining waterfront by combining restaurants, shops, and leisure venues. Following a period of decline in the mid‑1990s, Waterside underwent a dramatic transformation. In May 2017, after a $40 million rebranding and renovation led by The Cordish Companies, it re-emerged as the modern Waterside District.
Today, the Waterside District shines as Norfolk’s premier hub for dining and nightlife. Visitors can savor a wide array of cuisines-ranging from craft beers at Blue Moon TapHouse and seafood at Rappahannock Oyster Co., to the flavors of Guy Fieri’s Smokehouse and casual fare at The Market food hall. Beyond food and drink, the district bursts with life through live music, themed nights, and events, from country‑themed PBR Norfolk to bustling festivals and concerts set right against the waterfront backdrop.
Its prime location along the Elizabeth River ensures that waterfront charm is a key part of the experience. Scenic views, relaxing promenades, and direct access to other attractions. With waterfront views and regular programming-from festivals to fireworks-it's a place where locals and tourists alike can relax, celebrate, or simply soak in the atmosphere.
Today, the Waterside District shines as Norfolk’s premier hub for dining and nightlife. Visitors can savor a wide array of cuisines-ranging from craft beers at Blue Moon TapHouse and seafood at Rappahannock Oyster Co., to the flavors of Guy Fieri’s Smokehouse and casual fare at The Market food hall. Beyond food and drink, the district bursts with life through live music, themed nights, and events, from country‑themed PBR Norfolk to bustling festivals and concerts set right against the waterfront backdrop.
Its prime location along the Elizabeth River ensures that waterfront charm is a key part of the experience. Scenic views, relaxing promenades, and direct access to other attractions. With waterfront views and regular programming-from festivals to fireworks-it's a place where locals and tourists alike can relax, celebrate, or simply soak in the atmosphere.
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