Exploring Norfolk in 4 Days

  • Day 1 - Downtown Norfolk
  • Start your trip off with a walk around the Waterside District for some shopping and dining. Take a stroll along the Elizabeth River Trail before visiting the Chrysler Museum of Art. End the night with some delicious seafood at the Crab Shack on the Bay.

  • Day 2 - Virginia Beach
  • Head to the Virginia Beach Boardwalk for a day of sun, sand, and fun. Take your family to see the marine life at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and enjoy lunch at the Beach Bully BBQ. End the day at the Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium for ziplining and other exciting activities.

  • Day 3 - Colonial Williamsburg
  • Take a trip back in time by visiting the Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area where you'll experience life in the 18th century. Explore the shops, homes, and gardens before enjoying lunch at the King's Arms Tavern. End the night with a spooky ghost tour around the area.

  • Day 4 - Norfolk Zoo and Gardens
  • Visit the Norfolk Botanical Garden for a peaceful morning walk and take a ride on the tram tour to experience the diverse flora. Afterward, head to the Virginia Zoo to see over 500 different animals, including the famous lions and tigers. For dinner, enjoy some classic southern dishes at St. Paul's Boulevard Bistro.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Waterside District (1-2 hours, $)
  • Elizabeth River Trail (2-3 hours, $)
  • Chrysler Museum of Art (2-3 hours, $)
  • Crab Shack on the Bay (1-2 hours, $$)
  • Virginia Beach Boardwalk (4-6 hours, $)
  • Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center (2-3 hours, $$)
  • Beach Bully BBQ (1-2 hours, $$)
  • Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium (2-3 hours, $$)
  • Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area (4-5 hours, $$)
  • King's Arms Tavern (1-2 hours, $$)
  • Ghost Tour (2-3 hours, $$)
  • Norfolk Botanical Garden (2-3 hours, $$)
  • Virginia Zoo (3-4 hours, $$)
  • St. Paul's Boulevard Bistro (1-2 hours, $$)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $$$

Transportation

Travelers will need a car to get around Norfolk and the surrounding areas. The cost to rent a car for the 4-day trip usually ranges from $100-$200 depending on the car and rental company. There may be additional parking fees at some of the destinations. Plan ahead and pack snacks and drinks for the car rides.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Virginia Air & Space Center in Hampton. To save some money, skip the Adventure Park and opt for a free stroll through the First Landing State Park instead. If you have less time, consider skipping the Ghost Tour in Colonial Williamsburg and head straight to the Norfolk Botanical Garden instead.

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