Joe Thompson - State Farm Insurance Agent

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.

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.

Travel back in time to get a taste of what life was like in Norfolk in the 1700s when you visit the Willoughby-Baylor House. Constructed in 1794, this federal townhouse tells the story of the city's beginnings through the creative use of its décor and ambiance. The house museum and its property also features a lovely flower and herb garden as well as other interesting amenities that help paint a classic picture of how Norfolk's forefathers lived.