Port Guide | United States | Worth a Wander

Norfolk

Alexis Tonken | Editor

Published on 2025-11-21

Welcome to Norfolk, Virginia-a maritime gem where naval prowess and Southern charm collide, somewhere between a salty old sailor's yarn and a genteel garden party. Sure, you've docked at a city famed primarily for its formidable navy fleet (think anchors tattooed on biceps rather than sailboat sweaters tied around necks), but there's more here than battleship gray hulls and salute-ready decks. After all, this is the hometown of the world's largest naval base, but also birthplace of the ice cream cone machine-because clearly, nothing says maritime might like portable frozen treats. Step ashore and shake off your sea legs by strolling the picturesque Elizabeth River waterfront, exploring Nauticus Museum, or standing awestruck before the hulking majesty of the battleship USS Wisconsin. As you wander through charming neighborhoods peppered with craft breweries and street murals, don't hesitate to dive headfirst into the city's evolving culinary scene-because oysters taste better when eaten close enough to the dock that you can still hear the seagulls laughing.