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| Free Norfolk Holiday Guide |
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Norfolk became a town in 1736 when it was incorporated by a charter from George II. During the Revolutionary war, English ships opened fire on the town, destroying many of the buildings; Colonial troops then further gutted the town to stop efforts by the British to occupy the town.
In 1801 the first navy yard was built in Norfolk beginning its long association with the sea. The city further elevated its importance in naval matters when it became the headquarters of the Atlantic command of NATO. The naval base in Norfolk is home port to most of the US Atlantic Fleet. |
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Nauticus – This is the nation’s national maritime center, and is a definite must see when in town. The complex includes the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration exhibits and the historic battleship USS Wisconsin, docked alongside. Exhibits include a shark lagoon; touch tanks, a weather deck and a destroyer battle simulation. The Wisconsin is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 5pm.
Norfolk Mermaids – There are a number of mermaid statues scattered around town. Hey were designed by local artists and auctioned off to raise funds for Hampton Roads arts organizations. The designs are all unique and are interesting to look at.
Cruise Tours – There are a number of companies offering cruises around the Norfolk area as a way of exploring the area. To name but a few of your options there is a paddle wheeler – Carrie B, a tall sail ship – American Rover and the Spirit of Norfolk a modern ship with many entertainment features on board. |
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19th Hole BBQ & Grill – You will find this restaurant at 9643 C Granby Street. Service is super-fast running Mondays to Saturdays from 11am to 4pm. The food is very affordable and tasty.
The Painted Lady – For a unique dining experience, this place is a must – especially if you are tiring of the ever-present BBQ steakhouse variety of American cuisine. This is a Victorian styled restaurant that has earned the “most romantic restaurant” award. The upscale, fine dining restaurant has a warm, comfortable ambiance that is unmatched. A Victorian tearoom and boutique are also on the premises. The address is 112 East 17th Street.
Spaghetti Warehouse – Combining a festive atmosphere with hearty portions of traditional Italian dishes makes this restaurant very popular indeed. |
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Cogan’s Instant Art Bar – A popular hangout of the young and arty crowd. The bar is smallish so it can get full quickly but still makes a nice place for a drink or two before moving on somewhere else. The address is 1901 Colonial Avenue.
Kelly’s Tavern – Located at 1408 Colley Avenue, this tavern is the local meeting place for most locals with its friendly atmosphere and decent selection of drinks, combined with a tasty menu should you want something to eat.
O’Sullivan’s Wharf – This is a friendly, popular beer lovers pub featuring nightly entertainment, with a view of the river. Popular with college crowds and the thirty something’s, you can also get food here if you are early enough for a table. The address is 43rd Street and Colley Avenue. |
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| Norfolk Beaches – Lifeguards are provided from the Memorial Day Weekend through to Labor Day. Picnic shelters are available at most beaches, as are restrooms. |
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MacArthur Center Mall – This mall offers upscale shopping with restaurants as well as entertainment.
Ghent District – This area has many fascinating boutiques, cafes and galleries to browse through. |
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