Enjoying the Water in Downtown Norfolk 

The Elizabeth River serves as the central stage for some of the region's largest community celebrations, providing a perfect backdrop for aquatic adventures. Whether looking to command a classic tall ship, experience an elegant dinner cruise, or enjoy a lively atmosphere steps from the docks, the downtown waterfront offers an array of experiences directly on the water. 

Set Sail on the River 

Experience the magic of traditional sailing or learn the ropes with expert-led maritime excursions departing right from the downtown docks. 

• American Rover Sailing: Board Norfolk's iconic three-masted topsail schooner at Waterside Marina. Instantly recognizable by its striking red sails, this classic vessel offers narrated harbor tours and sunset cruises from April through October. Passengers can sit back and relax, take a turn at the helm, or lend a hand hoisting the sails with the crew. 

• Nauticus Sailing: Take a hands-on approach to the water through community sailing programs and workshops hosted on the downtown pier. From youth summer camps exploring the river to public maritime discovery sessions, these experiences offer accessible training and educational sails alongside the historic battleship of USS Wisconsin. 

• Naval Cruises: Climb aboard the Victory Rover for a fully narrated, two-hour cruise departing daily from the Nauticus pier. This excursion offers a front-row seat to the water, traveling down the Elizabeth River straight to the world's largest naval installation, Naval Station Norfolk. It is the absolute best way to view massive destroyers, aircraft carriers, and submarines from the water. 

Dining and Entertainment Cruises 

• Spirit of Norfolk / City Cruises: Take the celebration out onto the water with a curated brunch, lunch, or signature dinner cruise. Operating year-round out of the downtown waterfront, these cruises feature freshly prepared buffet dining, live DJ entertainment, and spacious rooftop decks perfect for dancing as the vessel glides past the lighted naval fleet. 

Enjoy the Water on Land 

• Waterside District: For those who prefer to keep their feet on solid ground while staying close to the action, this massive marketplace sits directly on the riverfront. It serves as a central hub for entertainment, offering multiple dining concepts, indoor and outdoor bars, live music stages, and sweeping views of the harbor. 

• Pagoda Oriental Garden : Located in Freemason Harbor, this stunning architectural gem and its surrounding Oriental Garden offer a tranquil escape right on the river's edge. You can relax by the water while admiring the intricate Chinese design, quiet ponds, and sweeping views of the passing river traffic. 

• Town Point Park: Spanning eight acres along the riverbank, this premier park is downtown’s favorite gathering spot. You can walk the wide riverside promenade, read the moving bronze letters at the Armed Forces Memorial, or sit right on the grass to watch massive cargo ships glide past. 

• Wisconsin Square: Situated directly opposite the permanent berth of the USS Wisconsin, this contemplative waterfront park is packed with naval history. It features the famous, life-sized Lone Sailor bronze statue looking out at the battleship, the historic USS Norfolk ship's bell, and a series of touching monuments honoring local veterans. 

• The Pier at Brooke Ave: A hidden gem at the end of Brooke Avenue, this quiet wooden pier juts straight out into the Elizabeth River. It offers an unobstructed, peaceful lookout point over the harbor, making it a favorite local spot for quiet evening walks or sunset photography. 

• Elizabeth River Trail: This 10.5-mile multi-use trail hugs the shoreline through the downtown waterfront district. Walking or biking this paved section keeps you parallel to the river the entire time, taking you past the Waterside Marina, Nauticus, and the historic Freemason district with constant water views. Need a bike? Check out E-Bike Alley for E-Bike rentals!  

• Festivals at Town Point Park: Throughout the year, the park morphs into an open-air amphitheater right on the river. From the Norfolk Harborfest to massive wine and craft beer festivals, these major events bring live music, food trucks, and thousands of people directly to the water's edge. 

Why It Matters: Engaging with the water connects you to the deeply rooted maritime heritage and community spirit of the region. From the deck of a sailing ship to a riverfront patio, experiencing the waterfront highlights the unique energy that drives the city forward. 

Ready to head downtown? Parking just got a lot easier. To support local businesses and make your visit stress-free, the City of Norfolk offers the first 2 hours of parking for FREE at 14 select downtown garages and lots. 

Note: After the initial 2-hour free period, standard hourly rates apply. Please keep in mind that special event parking (like major concerts or festivals) is typically excluded and may require a flat collect-on-entry fee.