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Go on a safari-type adventure when you visit the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk. The facility's mission of education, recreation and conservation is communicated through every animal exhibit and information station that you'll find throughout this impressive venue. In addition to stunning specimens of lions, tigers, giraffes and kangaroos, the zoo also works hard to offer several activities for the kids as well as fun seasonal events that the whole family will enjoy.

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.

You can almost feel the historical heaviness when you visit Fort Norfolk, which was the last surviving fort from the Revolutionary War. This site was also highly significant during the Civil War because it changed hands twice and supplied Confederate ammunition during the Merrimac-Monitor battle. Make sure to bring a camera as you enjoy a self-guided tour that is complemented by a comprehensive set of information that will educate you about this highly historic and significant site.