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Don't let summer heatwaves or surprise thunderstorms derail your plans! When the temperature soars or the skies open up, Downtown Norfolk transforms into your ultimate all-weather destination. Forget the forecast and dive into a world of incredible art, unique shopping, hands-on workshops, and world-class entertainment, all waiting for you inside our coolest air-conditioned havens.

Museums & Galleries: An Escape into Art and History

Step out of the heat and into a world of culture. Our downtown museums and galleries offer a refreshing and inspiring way to spend an afternoon.

  • Visiting Exhibits at Nauticus: Explore the vast, climate-controlled interiors of Nauticus, where fascinating ocean-themed and naval exhibits provide a captivating escape. Best of all, your ticket includes access to the historic Battleship Wisconsin, offering a mix of indoor and outdoor exploration.
  • Chrysler Museum of Art: Lose yourself for hours inside one of America’s most distinguished mid-sized art museums. With 50 galleries showcasing 30,000 objects spanning 5,000 years of history, the Chrysler is the perfect place to cool down your body while stimulating your mind.
  • Perry Glass Studio: Feel the heat of creation from a comfortable distance. Watch world-class artists masterfully shape molten glass during a live demonstration in the air-conditioned theater, or browse the stunning, finished works in the serene gallery space.
  • Glass Light Gallery: Looking to duck inside downtown? Head to the Glass Light Gallery, where you can wander among stunning works by world-renowned glass artists and enjoy a calm, comfortable break right in the heart of the city.
  • d'Art Center Exhibits: Discover your next favorite artist at the d'Art Center, located in the vibrant NEON District. Wander through the diverse galleries and studios, where you can see professional resident artists at work in their own creative spaces: a truly cool and inspiring experience.
  • Offsite Gallery at MacArthur Center: Conveniently located inside MacArthur Center, the Offsite Gallery is a contemporary art space managed by the Norfolk Arts Commission. It's the perfect cultural stop on a shopping day to see thought-provoking works from talented regional artists.
  • TCC Visual Arts and Design Center: Step into a sleek, modern gallery showcasing impressive works from students, faculty, and visiting artists. This hidden gem offers a quiet and contemplative retreat from the summer hustle.
  • MacArthur Memorial: Immerse yourself in the life and times of General Douglas MacArthur. This meticulously preserved nine-gallery museum and research center is a cool, quiet, and fascinating journey through a pivotal era of world history.
  • Hunter House Victorian Museum: Travel back to a more elegant era to escape the modern heat. Tour this beautiful example of Victorian architecture and decorative arts, where the stories of a prominent Norfolk family bring history to life.
  • The Myers House: Experience 200 years of history within the cool brick walls of the first brick home in Norfolk. The magnificent period furnishings and gardens offer a shaded, tranquil glimpse into the lives of an early American Jewish family.

Shopping & Markets: Retail Therapy is Always in Season

Indulge in some retail therapy where the only thing shining is the new merchandise.

  • Selden Market Small Business Shopping: Discover the next big thing before anyone else. Selden Market is an incubator for Norfolk’s newest and most innovative small businesses, offering a unique and ever-changing shopping experience in one stylish, air-conditioned space.
  • Freshtopia at MacArthur: Level up your sneaker game at Freshtopia, a premier buy, sell, and trade sneaker and streetwear boutique. It's the go-to spot for rare finds and the coolest styles, located conveniently inside MacArthur Center.
  • The Slover: Escape the weather inside this stunningly designed Downtown library, where you can explore books, digital collections, and quiet spaces, or simply enjoy the modern architecture and welcoming atmosphere.

Classes & Workshops: Learn Something New Indoors

Unleash your creativity and learn a new skill in a fun, comfortable, and air-conditioned setting.

  • Perry Glass Studio Classes: Ready to try it yourself? Sign up for a glass-making workshop and create your own masterpiece. Under the guidance of expert instructors, you'll work with heat to create something beautiful while keeping cool.
  • d'Art Center Classes: From painting and pottery to printmaking, the d'Art Center offers a wide range of workshops for all ages and skill levels. Spend a rainy afternoon learning a new craft from a professional artist.
  • Cooking With Greens Classes & Experiences: Escape the heat of your own kitchen and step into this one! Participate in classes like French Bistro Feast, Asian Fusion, or just hang out for the 8-course Tasting Experience.
  • Potted Make Your Own Boba Classes: Become a master of bubble tea! This fun and interactive class at Potted lets you mix your own flavors and create the perfect, refreshing iced boba tea to beat the heat.
  • 757 Reuse Center Classes: Get crafty with reclaimed materials at the 757 Creative Reuse Center. It's an eco-friendly and wonderfully imaginative way to spend a hot or rainy day, perfect for both kids and adults.
  • Syd’s Fish Pig Cooking Classes or Wine Dinner: For a more elevated culinary experience, book a spot at one of Syd’s acclaimed cooking classes or wine dinners. Learn gourmet techniques and savor an incredible meal, all within a chic, intimate setting.

Food, Drink & Entertainment: The Fun Doesn't Stop for Weather

When the sun goes down or the rain comes down, the lights come up on Downtown Norfolk’s incredible entertainment and dining scene.

  • Waterside District Dining & Entertainment: This waterfront hub is an all-in-one destination. With multiple restaurants, a giant TV for sports, and regular indoor events, you can dine, drink, and be entertained for hours without ever stepping outside.
  • Push Comedy Theater Shows: Get ready to laugh until you cry. The Push Comedy Theater offers hilarious improv and sketch comedy shows that are the perfect antidote to a dreary day or stuffy evening.
  • Shows at Chrysler Hall, Scope Arena, and Harrison Opera House: From Broadway shows at Chrysler Hall to major concerts at Scope Arena, the Seven Venues calendar is packed year-round. Check their schedule for world-class, climate-controlled entertainment.
  • Hurrah Players Shows: Delight the entire family with a spectacular performance from Virginia's premier family theatre company. Their vibrant and professional shows are a joyful way to spend any afternoon.
  • The Norva Shows: Catch your favorite band at a venue Rolling Stone once named the best in the country. This iconic, standing-room-only theater provides an intimate and unforgettable concert experience.
  • Chicho’s Shows: Grab a slice and a seat for a show at Chicho's Backstage. This local favorite combines delicious pizza with a fantastic lineup of live bands and comedy nights.
  • Wine Tasting at Vino Culture, Mermaid Winery, or Varia: Swirl, sniff, and sip your way through the afternoon. Downtown's wineries and curated wine bars offer a sophisticated and relaxing way to unwind and discover new vintages from around the world.
  • Ice Cream at Blyss or aLatte Cafe: There's no better way to beat the heat than with a scoop of delicious, creamy ice cream. Head to one of these local spots for a classic summer treat that's sure to hit the spot.
  • Murder Mystery Dinners at Granby Theater: Looking for dinner and a show with a twist? Participate in an interactive murder mystery dinner, where you can solve a thrilling whodunit while enjoying a fantastic meal. It's an entire evening of air-conditioned fun.
  • Regal Cinema at MacArthur Center: Settle into plush seats and catch the latest blockbusters, indie hits, or family favorites without worrying about the weather outside.

So next time the forecast looks too hot to handle or a little too gray, you know exactly where to go. A world of cool, creative, and delicious experiences is waiting for you inside Downtown Norfolk!