The Children's Museum of Virginia offers entertaining fun for all ages. While the focus of many of the exhibits and attractions are geared toward educating kids about the arts and sciences, bigger kids (including mom and dad) will no doubt enjoy experiencing the various activities that the venue offers. Some of the many highlights include interactive exhibits about paleontology, dental hygiene, nutrition, art, music, communications technology, sculpture and much more. For more interactive fun, the little ones will jump at the chance to get on board the kid-sized submarine, lobster boat and space shuttle. And even the smaller children won't be left out, as there is an excellent hands-on section for toddlers.
Tradition and art are dramatically combined at the Chrysler Museum of Art. This is one of the country's most lauded museums, and with good reason. The facility is home to over 30,000 pieces of art that are presented over the course of 55 impressive galleries. See stunning works by everyone from Rembrandt to Lichtenstein as you stroll from exhibit to exhibit. The museum also features an impressive library, charming gift shop and excellent restaurant.
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.
Go on a multicultural adventure when you visit the Hermitage Museum and Gardens. This museum is housed in a 1908 Tudor style home on a twelve acre estate along the Lafayette River. Within its walls, you will discover an amazingly eclectic collection of Western and Asian art. Numerous cultures are represented, with some dating all the way back to 200 BC. Marvel at attractions and exhibits that features English and European paintings and ceramics as well as Chinese bronze statues, Persian rugs, French and Italian textiles, and ivory carvings, among many other stunning pieces.
The Moses Myers House is one of Norfolk's most historically significant attractions for various reasons. It not only showcases an impressive example of Georgian architecture, but it tells Myers' story as he was Norfolk's first Jewish resident. Myers, an affluent 18th century merchant, was known for his impeccable style and taste, and you can see it when you take a tour of this elegant house. On the tour, you will get to see numerous collections from the 18th century that are history lessons in and of themselves.
Norfolk's Nauticus, The National Maritime Center marks the significance and value of Chesapeake Bay's fragile ecosystem. Engaging exhibits and attractions shine a light on the fascinating marine life that inhabits the waters that bring so much life to the area. The Battleship Wisconsin and the Hampton Roads Naval Museum are also located in the Nauticus Center. It is a truly memorable way to learn about the importance of Norfolk's natural resources and the role they played in its impressive Naval history.
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.
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, entertainment and scenery. You can take your cruise to celebrate a special occasion or to just enjoy some highly memorable quality time with the family.
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.
Fans of all different kinds of sports exhibitions under one roof, make a pilgrimage to the world-renown Virginia Sports Hall of Fame. The extensive collection of memorabilia at this attraction will delight even the most jaded of sports enthusiasts, as vintage baseball cards, sporting equipment, uniforms, autographed items and photographs make it an unforgettable feast for the senses. Also, learn about some of the area's most accomplished players and coaches from sports like football, baseball, and tennis.