Valentine’s Day is all about spending time with the one you love, and because you want it to be a romantic experience to remember, deciding where to go and what to do can be a challenge — especially if you’re hoping to make a lasting impression. Of course, your surroundings can make everything special, if you find the right place of course. Take for example, Norfolk, Virginia. With its breathtaking views, it’s hard to beat — and it will also make your heart beat faster! So it seems pretty obvious that Valentine’s Day in Norfolk is where you want to be. Not only is there a wealth of things to enjoy from arts and culture to dining and entertainment, but quality time on the water as well. We have all the intel on that last one, but we’ll provide some other ideas too, so that you’ll have numerous options to consider for the occasion.
Smooth Sailing with City Cruises in Norfolk
With romance on the mind this Valentine’s Day, you want everything to be smooth sailing when you celebrate. And whether it’s day or evening, City Cruises will deliver. Our two offerings that you should book around the big occasion include the Norfolk Signature Brunch Cruise and the Norfolk Signature Dinner Cruise. The brunch cruise provides an unforgettable experience that features dining and dancing on the Elizabeth River while stunning views of the city’s gorgeous skyline, amazing architecture, and local landmarks — including the Navy’s impressive Atlantic Fleet — serve as your backdrop. During the 2-hour excursion, guests indulge in a delectable, chef-prepared buffet brunch of fresh entrees, salads, and desserts from the comfy, climate-controlled interior and open air-roof decks. There’s a fully stocked bar with innovative cocktails, wine, and beer available for purchase including free-flowing champagne, mimosas, and sparkling cider; music from the live DJ onboard; and games to put everyone in a festive mood. Dress code is casual attire so you can feel comfortable on the dance floor should you choose to get in the groove. Cruise-style seating is the layout for the trip, and pro tip: For the best views, be sure to reserve a table by the window.
A Valentine’s Day Dinner to Remember
Meanwhile, the Norfolk Signature Dinner Cruise offers a memorable evening out where guests dine and dance as they travel along the beautiful Elizabeth River. With stunning views of the city’s skyline, its spectacular architecture, and local attractions surround them, everyone onboard will be treated to an enticing chef-prepared dinner buffet of fresh entrees, salads, and desserts. There are also beverages including cocktails, wine, and beer available for purchase from the fully stocked bar. And whether sitting in the comfy, climate-controlled interior or on the open-air roof decks, the surroundings make for an unforgettable experience during the 2.5-hour excursion underneath the stars. Live music is provided by the DJ onboard, games add to the festive mood, and a casual dress code helps you relax on the dance floor. Window table reservations are advised for the best views with our cruise-style seating; additional upgrades are available to customize the experience; and our crew will always do our best to accommodate any dietary restrictions.
Love on Land for Valentine’s Day 2024 in Norfolk
With plenty of choices for dining, arts and culture, and local attractions, Downtown Norfolk is a great place for romance. For food lovers, there’s a wealth of restaurants to try from Italian at Varia (which also features entertainment and events) to the cozy European specialties at Monastery with its intimate vibe. Meanwhile, arts and culture enthusiasts fall for the blooms at the Norfolk Botanical Garden; hear music to their heart’s content at The NorVa; gaze upon glass objects, sculpture, paintings, and more at the Chrysler Museum of Art; and get blinded by the lights in the NEON Arts District. The sunsets are free at Ocean Beach and East Beach with the views will take your breath away, while Nauticus Pier is the perfect spot to just sit together and savor the moment. Outdoor lovers can walk along the Elizabeth River Trail for a seascape stroll designed to keep you and your sweetheart in close contact, while animal devotees can share quality time at the Virginia Zoo or at the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center in nearby Virginia Beach.
Book Your 2024 Valentine’s Day with City Cruises in Norfolk
No matter what you decide to do for Valentine’s Day in Norfolk we do not doubt with all of the options in front of you, you’ll find something that suits you and your special someone. And while we think combining a City Cruises experience with some activities on land makes for the perfect partnership, we’ll leave it up to you to decide how to develop an itinerary that you know will be “the one.” Since “Virginia is for lovers,” it won’t be a matter of finding memorable ways to celebrate — it will just be a matter of how much time you’re able to spend in this enticing city.