Norfolk, Virginia is rich with historic attractions, world-class museums, and offers unique and fun shopping and dining adventures, all within walking distance or a short car or train ride through the downtown waterfront.

Here is a list of just some of the self-guided ways you can experience our city to see for yourself.

Waterways to Freedom

Virginia’s Underground Railroad network succeeded in sending hundreds, if not thousands, of runaways to areas in Pennsylvania, New England and Canada. Experience the amazing story of Virginia's Underground Railroad Network through an online, interactive visual and audio tour, told through photographs and illustrations of wharves, steamships, and schooners on which fugitives departed, safe houses (especially churches and neighborhoods) that were used, conductors who assisted, and enslaved African Americans who attempted the journey to freedom. Visit »

The Civil War in Norfolk

In May of 1862, not long after the historic clash of the ironclads occurred just off its shores, the City of Norfolk was surrendered to Union forces. As you explore historic sites within the city, including the Customs House where the city was surrendered, use this story of the federal occupation of Norfolk as told by correspondents who accompanied the troops to Hampton Roads in 1862. Visit »

Journey to Freedom: Hampton Roads Cannonball Trail

Follow the Cannonball Trail through 400 years of Norfolk and American History. The Trail winds along the shoreline of the Elizabeth River and through the districts of Downtown Norfolk. Stroll through historic neighborhoods and downtown in the shadows of modern structures as narrative plaques provide windows into history marking places and events of significance in America’s heritage. Visit »

Tales by Rail

A way to see the city of Norfolk and experience stories of both past and present via The Tide light rail system. There are hundreds of stories to be shared about Norfolk; from a revolutionary cannonball lodged in the brick of a church and passages stolen in secret along the Underground Railroad, to an historic battleship and statues of our nation’s decorated heroes. Your detailed map provides descriptions of stations and points of interest at each stop. Visit »

Play SCVNGR

SCVNGR is a mobile phone game. Playing is simple: Go places. Do challenges. Earn points! You'll unlock badges and rewards and share where you are and what you're up to with friends. Visit »

Experience Norfolk Food Tours

For “foodies, ” Norfolk is vibrant destination fueled by eager, talented chefs and ambitious restaurateurs where local restaurants serve everything from traditional coastal dishes to modern, ethnic and sustainable cuisine. The diverse city possesses distinctive and attractive neighborhoods, sandy beaches, impressive architecture, and growing restaurant scene. Explore. Visit »