Family Attractions in Norfolk
History and nature combine in a highly unique way in Norfolk. That combination is augmented by various family-oriented attractions that are not only fun, but educational. From visiting a real battleship to learning about the life that lives under the ocean, there is never a shortage of activities that the whole family will enjoy when spending some quality time in Norfolk.
The whole family will be enchanted by the natural beauty that lives at the
Norfolk Botanical Garden. This incredible natural haven was established in 1938 and has been offering visitors a chance to get closer to nature and its blooming attractions ever since. Over 3,000 roses of 300 different varieties make the garden as visually stunning as it is sweetly aromatic. Stroll along or just sit and take it all in, but either way, a truly memorable time awaits you at the Norfolk Botanical Garden.
Address: 6700 Azalea Garden Road, Norfolk, VA 23518- MAP
Phone: (757) 664-6879
Web: www.norfolkbotanicalgarden.org
Take a break from telling the kids to not touch anything when you visit the
Children's Museum of Virginia. Actually, you can encourage them to touch and interact with the various exhibits and attractions you'll find there. The will love learning about nutrition, art, music, communications technology and lots more in a fun way that will cleverly draw them into the exhibit. The kids will also love hopping on board the small-scale submarine, lobster boat and space shuttle.
Address: 221 High Street, Portsmouth, VA 23704 - MAP
Phone: (757) 393-8393
Web: www.childrensmuseumva.com
Learn about the vital role of the ocean in Norfolk's nature and history when you take the whole family to experience
Nauticus, The National Maritime Center. This incredible 120,000-square-foot multi-tiered facility features more than 150 exhibits and attractions. These interactive presentations will fascinate and educate the kids on such subjects as marine biology and nautical techniques and equipment. Plus, as an added attraction, the Battleship Wisconsin is located right next door.
Address: 1 Waterside Drive, Norfolk, VA 23510 - MAP
Phone: (757) 664-1000
Web: www.nauticus.org
The kids will go absolutely wild when you take them to visit the
Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. The Great Dismal has the impressive distinction of serving as the home of more mammals than any other local preserve. Among the more popular residents are the black bears and the endangered Dismal Swamp shrew. The refuge sprawls out 750 miles and includes Lake Drummond
among its many highlights.
Address: 3100 Desert Road, Suffolk, VA 23434 - MAP
Phone: (757) 986-3705
Web: www.fws.gov
The kids will just love the artwork that comes alive at the
Chrysler Museum of Art. And there is much to come alive here, when you consider the fact that this impressive facility houses three historic homes and 30,000 pieces that are showcased in 55 galleries. Also, there is a large library on site as well as a restaurant and gift shop. A visit to each of these will perfectly complete your time in a place that has consistently won kudos as one of the nation's top museum attractions.
Address: 245 West Onley Road, Norfolk, VA 23510 - MAP
Phone: (757) 664-6200
Web: www.chrysler.org
Take to the water with the whole family for a truly amazing aquatic adventure with the
Spirit of Norfolk Cruises. This incredible cruise ship attraction offers such top-drawer amenities as excellent food, entrainment and scenery. You can take your cruise to celebrate a special occasion or to just enjoy some highly memorable quality time with the family.
Address: 109 East Main Street, Suite 500, Norfolk, VA 23510 - MAP
Phone: (757) 625-3866
Web: www.spiritofnorfolk.com
