When the sun is shining and a warm breeze is blowing off the river, there's no better place to be than outside in Downtown Norfolk. Our city is a vibrant playground, buzzing with energy and packed with opportunities to get active, explore the waterfront, and soak up the amazing atmosphere. It's time to trade the treadmill for the trail and the couch for a cruise. Your next outdoor adventure starts here!

On the Elizabeth River: Your Waterfront Awaits

The glittering Elizabeth River is the heart of our city. Whether you want to power the sails yourself or just sit back and enjoy the ride, there's a perfect on-the-water experience waiting for you.

• Sailing Class at Nauticus: Don't just admire the water—conquer it! Nauticus offers a variety of Sail Voyagers camps and classes throughout the summer for ages 11-14. It's a fantastic, hands-on opportunity to learn the ropes and experience the thrill of sailing firsthand.
• Spirit of Norfolk Cruises: Experience the river in style. The Spirit of Norfolk offers a variety of cruises, from bottomless mimosa brunches to lively dinner cruises with DJs. It's a perfect way to see the skyline, enjoy a great meal, and celebrate a special occasion on the water.
• American Rover Sailing Cruise: Let the magnificent red sails of the American Rover carry you away. This iconic tall ship offers daily harbor and sunset tours that are perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Feel free to lend a hand with the sails, take a turn at the helm, or simply sit back and enjoy the stunning views.
• Victory Rover Military Base Tours: Prepare to be amazed by the sheer scale of the U.S. Navy. The Victory Rover provides an impressive, two-hour narrated tour that gets you closer than anyone else to the destroyers, submarines, and massive aircraft carriers of the world's largest naval base.
• Ferry Ride to Old Towne Portsmouth: For just a few dollars, you can take one of the most scenic trips in Hampton Roads. The Elizabeth River Ferry offers a quick, 10-minute ride between Downtown Norfolk and Portsmouth, serving up million-dollar views of the skyline and the bustling harbor along the way.
• Norfolk Kayak Rentals: Looking for a refreshing adventure just minutes from Downtown? Norfolk Kayak Rentals offers single and tandem kayaks on the scenic Lafayette River, a peaceful waterway that winds through Norfolk’s historic neighborhoods. It’s a fun, active way to explore the city from a new perspective, with skyline views, wildlife sightings, and plenty of fresh air just a short drive from the heart of downtown.

Parks, Trails & Tours: Explore on Foot or by Wheel

Discover the art, history, and natural beauty woven into the fabric of our city streets and waterfront paths.

• Elizabeth River Trail (Running, walking, or biking): As the spine of Norfolk's outdoor life, the 10.5-mile ERT is your path to adventure. Enjoy a waterfront run, a leisurely stroll, or a family bike ride as you wind through beautiful parks, historic neighborhoods, and iconic city landmarks.
• E-Bike Alley & Lime Scooter/Ebike Rental: See more of the city with less effort! Renting an e-bike or scooter is a fun, breezy, and efficient way to zip between attractions, explore different neighborhoods, and cover more ground than you could on foot.
• Social Cycling NFK Bike Rides: Find your new riding crew with Social Cycling Norfolk. Join them for casual, friendly group rides, typically held on Wednesday evenings. It's a great way to build community, stay active, and explore different routes around the city together.
• Run Your Best Mile Run Club: Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting, this supportive club is for you. Meeting on Monday evenings at The Plot in the NEON District, the group focuses on well-being and community, offering 1-3 mile runs to help you stay motivated. Sometimes they move location, be sure to check Instagram ahead of time.
• NEON Self-Guided Art Tour: Turn your walk into a vibrant art crawl. The NEON District is an outdoor gallery of stunning, large-scale murals from local and international artists. Grab a map online and spend the afternoon discovering the creativity around every corner.
• Norfolk Tour Company Tours: Let a passionate local guide lead the way. The Norfolk Tour Company offers a variety of excellent walking tours that dive deep into the city's history, art, and intriguing stories. It's a fantastic way to learn something new while getting your steps in.
• Picnic at the Pagoda: Nestled on the edge of the river, the Pagoda & Oriental Garden is a tranquil oasis. Pack a basket, spread out a blanket on the lush lawn, and enjoy a peaceful outdoor meal with a beautiful view of the water and surrounding gardens.

Outdoor Fitness & Wellness: Find Your Zen in the City

Center your mind and body with an outdoor yoga class, where the sky is your ceiling and the city provides the soundtrack.

• Bhav Brigade Sunset Yoga at the Pagoda: Breathe in, breathe out, and find your flow in a serene setting. Bhav Brigade offers donation-based yoga classes near the beautiful Pagoda, allowing you to connect with nature and community right on the waterfront. Sunsets yoga is on Wednesday all summer long, weather permitting. Times change to accommodate the changing sunset times.
• Bhav Brigade Yoga at The Plot: Join the Bhav Brigade at the central hub of the NEON District for an energizing outdoor class. Practicing yoga at The Plot means you're surrounded by public art and the creative spirit of the neighborhood. Select Saturdays through the summer.
• Sky's the Limit Yoga at Neptune's Fury: Start your weekend with a refreshing yoga session on the lawn in front of the iconic "Neptune's Fury" sculpture. Held on the first Saturday of the month, it's the perfect way to stretch and center yourself with beautiful views of the harbor.

Unique Outdoor Fun: Celebrate in the Streets

Experience the electric energy of Downtown Norfolk when the community comes together for these one-of-a-kind outdoor events.

• Various Festivals at Town Point Park: From the massive ships of Harborfest in June to the spicy rhythms of the Latino Music Festival in July, Town Point Park is the epicenter of summer fun. Check the calendar for a season packed with food, music, and cultural festivals along the waterfront.
• First Fridays Block Parties: On the first Friday of the month, the NEON District transforms into the best block party in town. Enjoy live music, food trucks, local vendors, and an incredible community vibe as you celebrate art and culture in the streets.

From the river to the trails and the parks to the parties, Downtown Norfolk is calling. So get outside, explore, and make this a summer of adventure!