Barrel-Art

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.

Norfolk's connection to the United States Navy is quite obvious when you visit the city. But nowhere is it more vividly brought to life than at the site of the USS Wisconsin. This is the last U.S. Battleship to be built. The impressive vessel has enjoyed a colorful career that includes being employed in three wars over 50 years. Relive the details and see some fascinating attractions when you visit the ship's museum.

The Lightship Portsmouth Museum tells the story of this retired lightship that was built in 1915 and is now a National Historic Landmark as well as a history-laden maritime museum. The "Portsmouth" was launched in 1916 then went through some reconstruction and was relaunched in 1926. After several years of service as well as collision damage, the vessel was finally retired in 1964. Three years later it was donated to the city and has undergone extensive renovation and repair that has restored this impressive ship to its original glory.