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
The United States Navy has been a vital part of life in Norfolk for generations. The Hampton Roads Naval Museum does an impressive job of collecting the Navy's history and contributions to the growth and prosperity of the area. Those stories are what fill the museum in various forms. They include hundreds of artifacts, including more than 60 ship models, uniforms and vintage instruments used for navigation. Through fascinating exhibits and attractions, the museum chronicles 220 years of the Navy's history in the Hampton Roads region, which is considered to be the Navy's most important port.
Breathe in Norfolk's natural beauty when you visit the awe-inspiring Norfolk Botanical Garden. This incredibly beautiful slice of nature was first opened in 1938 and has offered the unforgettable solace of nature ever since. Once entering the garden, you will be greeted by 3,000 rose plants that represent the more than 300 varieties. Although peak bloom is from mid-May to October, a truly unforgettable experience awaits you no matter what time of year you visit this attraction.