Norfolk is one of Virginia’s oldest cities and serves as the home to the United States Navy’s Atlantic Fleet. Norfolk’s Naval Station occupies the original site of the 1907 Jamestown Exposition due to its land and water conditions. Today, it stands as the largest naval installation in the world and provides crucial facilities and services to ensure mission success. You will find a large community of active-duty personnel, retirees, family members, Reservists, DoD civilians, and joint forces residing in the area. As one of the world’s largest military facilities covering 4,300 acres of land, Norfolk serves as the home port for 75 warships and submarines, including five of the U.S. Navy’s 12 aircraft carriers. The city offers history buffs an enjoyable place to visit for its rich military history with fascinating tours of naval bases. This also includes engaging museums and impressive warships that provide an in-depth exploration of the area’s pivotal role in American defense. The best way to see it all? City Cruises, of course! 

Explore Norfolk’s Naval and Military Attractions with City Cruises 

Known for its web of waterways and miles of unspoiled sandy beaches, Norfolk offers locals and travelers to the area an endless list of things to see and do. There are some must-see sights and activities with top attractions, including naval history exhibits, art museums, lush botanical gardens, fantastic restaurants and breweries, and dining cruises on the Elizabeth River. With its strategic location in the southeastern Hampton Roads area, it’s one of the nation’s fastest-growing ports.  The area also happens to be a hub as the region connects the James, Elizabeth, and Nansemond Rivers to the Chesapeake Bay.  

Norfolk Dining Cruise on the Elizabeth River

Whether you’re in town for a quick getaway or you’re lucky enough to call Norfolk home, there’s a long list of things to “love” and explore that make it a perfect destination. And the city’s proud military presence contributes to the sense of tradition and camaraderie. Take the crew out for a Norfolk Signature Dinner Cruise for an unforgettable experience. Your whole gang will enjoy a delicious, chef-prepared buffet and gorgeous views of Norfolk’s spectacular architecture. You will marvel at the mighty Atlantic Fleet and Norfolk skyline from our cozy, climate-controlled interior and open-air roof decks. We keep the spirits flowing with a fully stocked bar, games, and lively music from our DJ. Join us for a memorable, one-of-a-kind evening on the water. This tends to sell out quickly, so make plans early! 

See the Atlantic Fleet on a Lunch Cruise 

A great option for taking a mid-day break from attractions is hopping aboard a relaxing mid-day cruise. Give your legs a break from land activities, sit back, and enjoy the best views from the water with a Signature Mid-Day Lunch Cruise. Sail the Elizabeth River with amazing views of the mighty Atlantic Fleet. The vibes are casual yet festive, making it an ideal atmosphere for the whole family! Dance along to our DJ entertainment, listen to our live narration, sip on cocktails from our fully stocked bar, or enjoy interactive games on our skyline deck – this lunch cruise has something for everyone. It’s also a great opportunity to get some great shots of the fleet from the comfort of a luxurious yacht. 

Naval and Military Attractions in Norfolk, Virginia 

With venues like Town Point Park nestled along the Elizabeth River, the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront, and Ocean View Beach along the Chesapeake Bay, Norfolk always has something going on. You will find high-energy festivals and events, maritime and military cultural attractions, and so much more. Let’s dive into some of the experiences you won’t want to miss.  

Battleship Wisconsin at Nauticus

One of the largest and last battleships ever built by the U.S. Navy, the Battleship Wisconsin at Nauticus offers a guided tour that will transport you back in time. Get an up-close and personal experience of this majestic ship that earned five battle stars during World War I. Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown Norfolk. It offers a unique form of experiential learning for all ages, historical displays, and several marine biology exhibits. Nauticus uses the museum Battleship Wisconsin to tell the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military. Knowledgeable tour guides will captivate you with amazing stories. 

Hampton Roads Naval Museum

You won’t want to miss a visit to the Hampton Roads Naval Museum. This museum is one of ten officially operated United States Navy museums reporting to the Naval History and Heritage Command. It’s home to a rich collection of authentic uniforms, weaponry, underwater artifacts, detailed ship models, and artwork. One cannot help but be impressed at this amazing collection. 

MacArthur Memorial

Norfolk’s City Hall is also known as the MacArthur Memorial. Built in 1847, this two-story stuccoed and granite-faced building measures 80 feet by 60 feet. This museum is dedicated to presenting the life and times of Army General Douglas MacArthur and is designated as both a Virginia Historic Landmark and a National Historic Place. It may surprise you to learn that he chose Norfolk as his final resting place as it was the birthplace of his mother, Mary Pinkney Hardy, and the site of the Hardy family home. 

Norfolk’s Naval and Military Influence: Shaping History by the Sea 

If you’re a fan of military and maritime history, then you are undoubtedly in for a treat when you plan a visit to Norfolk. Virtually everywhere you look in this city, you will find a piece of history or a world-class museum. Norfolk features many historical sites that create the feeling of stepping back in time and highlighting its rich maritime heritage. Home to the world’s largest naval base, Norfolk is very much still a Navy town almost two centuries later. Fans of seafaring history will appreciate all there is to see and do with countless historical locations that stand as a reminder to honor the brave souls who serve in our military. City Cruises Norfolk invites you to experience the dynamic panorama of the city with breathtaking on-the-water views of the Harbor, the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet, and more. 

Military families had an opportunity to take The Spirit of Norfolk’s inaugural voyage with City Cruises two years after the vessel was destroyed in a fire. This was in honor of military appreciation in partnership with USO of Hampton Roads, Visit Norfolk, and other community partners that provide resources to new military families at the end of PCS season. It was an exciting day for City Cruises Norfolk and military families in the area.

Original Post Date: July 25, 2024