The annual migration is underway. Several thousand boats will pass through Norfolk’s harbor headed south in the coming weeks and if you are one of them, chances are you will see substantial changes from when you passed through back in the spring.
Waterside District opened in May and Norfolk’s waterfront is alive with a new anchor called The Market and renewed energy tis evident throughout the city’s downtown. Music performances, food festivals, restaurants and myriad venues all within walking distance of Waterside Marina have positioned themselves to cater to boaters and visitors. This is an exciting time for the city, which sits at mile zero of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway.
If you are headed south and need to linger while you wait for the weather to subside into late fall, consider a few nights in Norfolk. I took the Waterway Guide flagship ADONIA to Waterside for the week of July 4th and was delighted with the ambience, energy and offerings of downtown. Having grown up in Norfolk, I’ve experienced years of changes and development there. The city is more vibrant than ever. As a boater, I think it’s not to be missed.
Here are some ideas for activities you might enjoy in the coming weeks:
The Elizabeth River Trail is a perfect way to stretch your sea legs. Walk it or bike it. The 10.5 mile trail takes you along Norfolk’s best historic sites and views. Along the way you will discover Norfolk’s place in history and its importance as one of the nation’s first seaports.
A fascinating and beautiful setting is the Pagoda & Oriental Garden. A gift to Virginia and Norfolk from Taiwan in 1983, the marine observation tower, also known as The Pagoda, is an enchanting spot tucked away about 3 blocks from Waterside Marina. The on-site restaurant offers light fare.
If you want to see how others have lived and designed their homes over the centuries, Norfolk’s Historical Sites and Buildings have been compiled into a list of locations open to the public. Just 30 miles from Jamestown, the first English settlement in North America, Norfolk’s history begins in 1622. Her architecture and culture provide important insights into that era of US history.
It’s time to eat! Ribtoberfest and Southern Foodways at Town Point Park on September 23rd is not to be missed. If you’re there on Saturday – enjoy!
Finally, on Saturday September 30, the VA Symphony Pops presents Unforgettable: The Music of Nat King Cole at Chrysler Hall. A 20-minute walk or short cab ride will get you there.
Stay and play in Norfolk this fall. Whether you’re headed south or looking for a weekend destination, it’s the new and the old on a great waterfront. Hope to see you there!