i went to nauticus and did the self guided tour of the uss wisconsin battleship museum. we got to…read morego inside the battleship and walk through a bunch of different areas, which was probably the best part because it made everything feel more real instead of just looking at pictures or exhibits. the ship itself is huge, and seeing everything up close was really interesting. i liked being able to walk around at my own pace instead of being rushed through it. the deck views were really nice too, and the giant guns were honestly crazy to see in person because they're so much bigger than i thought they'd be. overall it was actually really fun and i'd definitely recommend it if you're in norfolk because it's something different and really interesting to experience. note -- it isn't handicap accessible, there are a lot of stairs you need to go up and down on.

A Must-See Winterfest Experience! I had such a magical time…read moreat Winterfest on the Wisconsin battleship! I went last Wednesday with family, and exploring the ship completely decked out in lights was honestly unforgettable. I knew ahead of time that they offered mocktails and cocktails, but I was not prepared for the surprises waiting onboard--like fresh donuts and spiked hot chocolate! Speaking of which... the spiked peppermint hot chocolate with a shot of white chocolate peppermint bark RumChata has officially changed my life. I don't think I can go back to regular hot chocolate for the rest of the season. It's the perfect holiday drink, and clearly a huge hit with the 21+ crowd. Beyond the festive drinks, Winterfest had so much more to offer, including a charming winter mini circus with magic and other fun acts. It was genuinely enjoyable for both kids and adults. I loved the added light displays leading up to the ship and throughout Town Point Park--they make the whole area feel like a glowing winter wonderland. Even if you can't make it onboard for the full Winterfest experience, the nighttime walk from the Pagoda in lights to Town Point Park is absolutely worth it. Such a wonderful holiday outing for families, friends, and anyone looking to soak up the season!

Built in 1894 for Mr. James Wilson Hunter & wife Lizzie. Hunter was a prominent merchant, banker &…read morecivic leader. The home is restored close to original and is in private foundation. Located in the Freemason District, one of the original neighborhoods in Norfolk. Beautiful two story eclectic nineteenth century homes line the street. Parking is off street. Hours Wednesday-Saturday 10 AM to 3:30 PM Sunday 12:30-3:30 PM. Ring the door bell and wait for a guide to answer. Admission is $5 adult, $4 senior, $1 child. No pictures are not permitted inside the home. Gift store on the third floor. Definitely a hidden gem off the beaten path that I have enjoyed over the years. Worthy for visitors and locals alike to check out.

Beautiful Victorian home that offers both guided and self-guided tours. Extremely knowledgeable and…read morefriendly staff were able to share fascinating details about the family and customs of the time. Definitely worth a trip when visiting Norfolk!

I was very impressed with the art here at the museum. It's free too, which is great since the…read moreexhibits were quite varied and interesting! Two floors of art and spent most of my time on the second floor. Didn't have time to have a detailed look on the first, but the glass exhibit and Eastern arts were cool. The museum itself is very pretty too. Would love to come back again if I have time.

The Chrysler is such an amazing and beautiful museum in the local area, that's free. I often visit…read moreto check out some new exhibits and also get some steps in! The staff is always so friendly; they great you at the door. A few things I've learned is that events are hosted here, sometimes for a fee, that allow you to be at the museum during the late evening a nights. I've attended an event that had a DJ and was fully decorated; I had a blast! I know also that they do host weddings! Overall I believe it to be a wonderful, well taken care of museum! There is also a glass shop across that street that I still have not checked out, but I heard it's great!

Went there the day after Thanksgiving and it was one of the best children's museums we've ever been…read moreto and that says a lot considering all of the free museums in DC where we are from. Also their miniature train exhibit is massive and very extensive. We could've spent all day there but we had to get back on the road to go home.

I took my niece to the Children's Museum today! It was so much fun! First of all it is an…read moreaffordable outing . Prices are excellent to get in. Parking is ample . Staff were super welcoming. The whole museum is interactive. There is a grocery store with fake food and checkouts. A train area with a tunnel and toys . There were science exhibits. There is a really cool race track in the circus area. My niece loved the dry erase marker art area and the blocks . We spent a good 2.5 hours! So much to see and do. We ended the day at the play area that had a cute bubble area next to it. Place was clean. I appreciated the hand sanitizer stations. Overall we had a wonderful experience at the Children's Museum in Portsmouth!

This is a fun place to visit, especially around the Christmas season…read more I must say I hardly ever step foot in here unless an event is taking place. As a result, my recent visit here was during the Christmas holiday season 2016. During this time, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday the center offers several fun filled activities for the children - well for the whole family. So bring the newborns to great grandmas for a day or two of fun and lasting memories. Events as such: pictures with Santa, arts & crafts, cookie decorating, face painting and ornament making just to name a few are offered in December. And far as I can remember these sort of events have been in existence since the center opened some time ago. You can usually find out about these events online through PortsVaEvents or just by being in the Old Towne area of the city. Circulars and fliers are posted. Again, I haven't shopped nor have I browsed in the center, but from just passing I have noticed different crystals and novelty items are sold here. it's a small house turned into a small shop, very cute. It's also decorated on the inside and outside with Christmas holiday decor. If you choose to not partake in any of the activities, the scenery outside makes for a great background during Christmas time. I'd like to think this place is worth a visit, especially if you are in the area. Oh did I mention...these activities during the days mentioned above in December are FREE!!!! My type of fun!! Parking is available on the street, but if you're one of the unlucky ones, parking garages are within walking distances. And the garages are FREE of charge. The Old Towne area of the city offers several: shops, restaurants and much more. Everything is within walking distance. It's definitely a family oriented town especially during the holiday season. It's a great day to have a great day!!

Not super impressed - not going to lie…read more At Christmas, when we visited, there is an event inside this center which, from the website, seems like it's a Christmas Market or winter wonderland experience. So my friends visiting from out of town and I drove from ALL the way in Pungo to this - only to find that it's $3 entry per person (no biggie) but is mostly for children, there were no vendors selling anything anywhere, very little food or drink, and the displays are more like the dated animatronic Christmas teddy bears from malls of years past. Maybe ok for small small children, but not something for adults by any means, and not paid entry. Major disappointment. I'm glad this is here for locals and I'm sure it has it's time and place. But the description on the website was completely misleading. We looked around the gift shop and roamed the town before heading to downtown Norfolk for more adult friendly Christmas things to do.

I attended a Fantastic Planet event at Old Dominion University which seemed to center around Barry…read moreArt Museum. Admission was $15, free for students. There is a check-in of your information for their statistics. The museum is two floors. The bottom is mainly compromised of glass with some items from Chihuly. Everything in the entire museum is behind plastic. A bit disappointing. Restrooms, water fountain and elevator are in the rear. The second floor has a hands on video game display and dolls. Surprisingly I found the dolls to be the most fascinating aspect of the museum. The Madame Alexander Dolls were impressive. My wife is a collector of the brand. They have a small display of Barbies. However the most intriguing display was a three story wood doll house the Barry Family commissioned. It reflects their Suffolk, Va home they lived and raised their family for decades. The different rooms represent with extreme details their home. The doll house could easily be insured over a million as the tiny bulbs in one chandelier alone cost $3,000 each I was told. Although I recommend the Barry Art Museum it's small. However, it's worth a visit and support. You have an option for membership when providing your information. 4.5 is a great fit.

Wowww what a gem!! I found this museum on a humble. While searching for things to do indoors on a…read morerainy day. This museum popped up. Also guess what's even better. It's FREE YES you heard me correctly. They also offer a free parking garage right around the corner. The gallery has four sections with the lower level and the upper level. Everything was truly amazing!! You can take the stairs or the elevator. They have a restroom on both levels. Expect to see amazing sculptures also some very fine art. There was never a dull moment. So expect to stay at least an hour or longer to enjoy it all. They have the staff around to explain any questions you might have. I am so glad I found this place and would highly recommend. This was perfect for my rainy day and not overly crowded. So if you're in the area. Come check them out.

What a cool place! Great family outing or date night activity. We went in the fall for…read morePumpkinpalooza and were able to make our own glass blown pumpkins. The facility looks brand new even though it's been around for a while, and the staff was very helpful and friendly. We will be coming back next year for sure!

Took the Introduction to Glass class with Lorelei and Michelle. It was so much fun. They are…read morewonderful teachers and very patient. They explained everything ao easily and made me feel comfortable doing every part of the Glass making. And I got to make 3 pieces of Glass. Highly recommend this class.

General Douglas MacArthur was America's war hero for over 52 years and a Norfork, Va hometown…read morefavorite. This memorial is a stunning lifetime tribute as well as a final resting place to an individual (and his 2nd wife) who fought and succeeded in four(4) major wars. A 5-star rating for one of our own 5-star generals well-earned especially since the entire site has FREE Admission for 1. The history/tribute museum 2. A 34 minute biographical movie 3. Memorial/crypts 4. The research library Don't miss this site and it is a worthwhile side trip if ever visiting Virginia Beach too. Plan to spend at least 2 hours which includes the 34 minute movie.......However, be aware: 1. Its closed Sunday and Monday 2. You will need to pay for parking which runs around $4 per hour.

This is an incredible museum that is rich in history and detail. Two separate buildings that are…read morefilled with the details of America's General. Details from his family history, academy and rise to 5 stars this is a MUST do when in Norfolk. Best thing...IT'S FREE!!

This Zoo is wonderful for all ages. So many wonderful options for every visit…read more The flowers, foliage, animals, and layout are well thought out. When you think, hey I need a drink, a water fountain or food station happens to be close by. The locations of park benches, bathrooms, etc. appear to be well planned. The featured events are always changing, they usually have a different theme each time we go so we aren't bored coming back every month. The park is well maintained, cleaned, and park personnel always seem to be close by if you need them. The animals are active and look healthy so the children love visiting them. The monkeys are always a hoot. They are natural performers. The petting zoo for children is full of "cute animals" for the young ones. I love the shady places, smiles! Great well maintened, well lighted parking lot with free parking near the entrance. We all had a great time. The admission price is still reasonable.

I was extremely eager to finally come to the zoo. It's been years since I've visited one. I came…read morehere on a Friday with my son, who was also excited to see animals for the first time. There were many children, which looked like they were on a school trip. Before coming, I searched the zoo's website and found out they had admission discounts for whomever had Medicaid. It stated that admission price was $7. Of course, they had to ID you to see if your name matched the card. To my surprise, admission was just $4.95, which was a steal. I brought in food and water for my son and I, as most people did. First stop was the Fountain Plaza, where I had to figure out which way I wanted to maneuver. I went left to Asia and Africa trails, as my son wanted to view tigers, lions, giraffes, and monkeys. Each exhibit had 1 or 2 animals. Very bare. The monkeys had 3 the most. Not too many animals were active, which is understandable because this is their normal wild habitat. I was expecting to see my favorite animal, the elephant. Apparently, they are no longer there, as well as gorillas. I enjoyed the giraffes, rhinos, and zebras in Africa. They had the most energy. The cheetah and lion were off the exhibit that day. Following those trails, my son wanted to ride on the train. It is $3/rider. They have a strict policy of having all hands and feet at all times during the ride. This all took 2hrs. I didn't bother checking the other side of the park because it was starting to drizzle. This zoo was just ok to do something with your kids so that they can get acquainted with various animals from other parts of the world or just a date. I've been to better zoos, it was just so bare. Be prepared for lots of walking, so bring water.

The Garden was mentioned in a book that I'm currently reading "Virginia 100 Best Places to Visit"…read more According to the book the Garden is 175 acres of gardens. We get a membership annually and it is most certainly worth it. I love the many different gardens. You can walk the gardens everyday and find something new each trip. They offer classes, have activities and they even have a butterfly garden. They do not currently have a restaurant but they have visiting food trucks. I inquired. about the restaurant and was advised that they are hoping to open the restaurant in the fall.

It's a beautiful park with outstanding landscaping, and picturesque scenes. It is building a large…read moreconservatory, which will add a lot to the entire operation. I have one complaint. The map that you are given is absolutely worthless. A single sided photocopy of an inaccurate map which fails to show the most obvious and prominent landmarks in the garden makes navigating almost impossible. They are obviously spending millions on expansion and construction, but they have failed to make any effort to provide accurate and useful map for people who visit. My wife was using a walker and has limited endurance. Having been led astray by the abysmally poor map, we were at a loss as to how to return to the parking lot. Fortunately, a frequent visitor gave us the guidance we needed that the map failed to do.