Five Reasons to Live in Central Norfolk

So you’ve decided to move to the Tidewater area of ​​Virginia. You can choose from Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Portsmouth or, if you prefer to live on the peninsula, Hampton or Newport News. While there are plenty of reasons to move to any of the “seven cities” in the Tidewater area, the city of Norfolk stands above the rest in overall quality and distinctive sites. Here are just five reasons why you should live in central Norfolk:

Norfolk is culturally diverse.

Norfolk is a mecca for several culturally diverse hot spots. If you’re looking for live theater, Wells Theater in downtown Norfolk is home to the Virginia Stage Company, known throughout the state and Mid-Atlantic region for its exceptional regional theater.

If you’re in the mood for a bigger production, then Chrysler Hall’s Broadway series fits the bill. The Virginia Symphony and Virginia Opera are also mainstays of the Norfolk experience. The Norfolk Scope hosts a wide range of venues, from hockey games, monster truck relays, and concerts and exhibits.

There’s no act too big or small for Norfolk, as the Attickus, Norva, Roper and Ted Constant theaters offer musical shows both large and small, seating 1,500 to 6,000 guests.

Norfolk is home to many places of historical interest.

Another unique feature of Norfolk is the number of historic sites. The Moses Myers House, located downtown and built in 1792, is one of the oldest houses in the area. In addition to its impressive age, the Moses Myers House also retains 70% of its original furnishings.

Or you can take a stroll through the impressive grounds of the Hermitage Museum, built in 1904. The Hermitage acts as a museum, a school of visual arts, and a backdrop for many programs and events.

For history enthusiasts, the MacArthur Memorial celebrates one of the most distinguished generals and one of only five men to achieve the rank of General of the Army, General Douglas MacArthur.

There are unique dining in Norfolk.

If you want one of those chains that you see in every city in the country, then Norfolk is not for you. If you want a truly unique dinner, Norfolk is ready to serve you.

Not only does Norfolk have many unique establishments, but it also has one that is credited with creating the first ice cream cone. Doumar’s Cones and Barbeque in downtown Norfolk, founded in 1934, is one of the oldest restaurants in the area and still has drive-thru service.

From a homemade breakfast at Charlie’s, or fabulous gourmet omelettes and crepes at Baker’s Crust, to a pizza lunch at Cogans, or a Mediterranean twist at Orpax Greek restaurant, the dining experience is unmatched in any other city.

For casual dining with a view to the wallet, choose Greenies on the Beach with succulent steamed shrimp and an ice cold beer. More formal gourmet dining is everywhere.

Some of the best regional chefs have establishments in and around the city center. Bobbywood, Tod Urich’s Bistro, and 456 Fish, to name a few. No matter what your taste is, we have it in Norfolk.

There are many activities available in Norfolk.

Norfolk has endless things to do. Indoors and outdoors, Norfolk has plenty of attractions to please everyone.

The Virginia Zoo is located in central Norfolk and has more than 400 different types of animals on its 53 acres. Recently adding an exhibit from Africa, the Virginia Zoo now houses zebras, lions, and giraffes.

If you want to learn more about the maritime community, the Nauticus Maritime Museum in Norfolk is your ticket. Nauticus uses its Norfolk Harbor location to educate visitors about the navy and the customs of the nautical world. If you want to learn more about the navy, you should take a trip to the Norfolk Naval Base, which has daily tours available.

Convenience.

Everything in Norfolk is convenient, no matter what area you live in. Thanks to Norfolk’s modest size, anything you want to do within the city is just 15 minutes or less away.

There are ocean view beaches available if you want to have fun in the sun. The annual Ocean View Festival allows for the perfect summer carnival experience. Ocean View is also the site of the annual local St. Patrick’s Day parade in March, a fun time for anyone looking to try “the luck of the Irish.”

For shopping, unique boutiques and eclectic stores dot downtown Norfolk. Or if you prefer name brand shopping, MacArthur Center is an upscale mall and shopping center located in downtown Norfolk for your shopping convenience.

This is just a small overview of what Norfolk has to offer. No matter who you are, young or old, rich or “not so rich,” there’s something for you in downtown Norfolk.