Game Day in Downtown Norfolk 

When game day hits, navigating the city requires a solid strategy to catch every kickoff, puck drop, and game-winning shot. Downtown Norfolk is packed with energy, massive HD screens, and top-tier local spots that turn every matchup into an unforgettable fan experience. 

Local Teams & Stadium Transport 

Catch the local action live or make Downtown your official pre-game spot before heading to the stands. 

• Norfolk State University Spartans: Heading to a NSU game? Skip the campus traffic jams. Park downtown at the MacArthur South or North Garages and hop on The Tide Light Rail at MacArthur Station. The light rail offers a smooth, stress-free ride directly to the NSU Station on game days. 

• Old Dominion University Monarchs: Monarch fans use Downtown as their ultimate pre-game launchpad. Grab a meal or drink with fellow Monarchs before taking a quick ride up to S.B. Ballard Stadium.  

• Norfolk Admirals: Professional hockey is right in our backyard! The Norfolk Admirals light up the ice at the Norfolk Scope Arena, making Downtown the main destination for pre-puck-drop dinners and post-game celebrations. 

NFL & Watch Parties 

Looking for the ultimate crowd to root for your pro team? These Downtown hot spots deliver premier stadium-quality viewing setups and watch parties. 

• Baxter's: Baxter's will have game day specials Saturday & Sunday from 11:00am-7:00pm. Every NFL Sunday there will be a raffle for a chance to win multiple prizes including jerseys and more!  

• Waterside District: Football District starts now! Every game, all season long there will be DJs, food + drink specials, contests, cash giveaways and more.  

• Chicho’s Backstage: Enjoy the 2026 Gameday Menu packed with delicious bites and drinks for all your watch party needs!  

• Grain: Grain’s rooftop beer garden is stocked with 100+ beers on tap and plenty to eat between kickoffs.  

• Soiree Bistro: Sunday brunch paired with football all season long. Bring your crew, rep your team, and enjoy Sunday funday from 12:00-8:00pm.  

 

Experiencing game day downtown does not mean settling for just any bar seat. Pairing the local stadium action with Downtown’s premier sports bars lets you experience the very best of Norfolk's culinary, brewing, and sports assets while soaking up maximum fan energy. 

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.