Making the Most of a Rainy Day in Downtown Norfolk 

When the clouds roll in over the Elizabeth River, there’s no need to let the drizzle dampen your spirits. Downtown Norfolk is packed with indoor escapes that turn a gray afternoon into a day of discovery. From world-class art galleries to hands-on workshops, here is your guide to staying dry while staying inspired. 

Explore World-Class Exhibits 

Start your rainy day by getting lost in a gallery. The Chrysler Museum of Art offers rotating exhibits and events that can easily fill an afternoon, while Nauticus provides a deep dive into maritime history all under one roof. For a more contemporary vibe, check out: 

• d’Art Center: Explore diverse exhibits and resident artist studios. 

• The Gallery at Attucks: Located in the historic Attucks Theatre. 

• Perry Glass Gallery at Glasslight: A stunning space to admire the brilliance of glass art. 

• Offsite Gallery: Located in the MacArthur Center

• MacArthur Memorial: General Douglas MacArthur's final resting place. 

Experience the Creative Side 

If you’d rather make something than just look at it, a rainy day is the perfect excuse to pick up a new skill. Downtown’s creative hubs offer a variety of ways to get hands-on: 

• Perry Glass Studio: Catch a live glassblowing demonstration or sign up for a class to mold molten glass into art. 

• 757 Reuse Center: Offers unique classes and kids' activities focused on creative upcycling. 

• d’Art Center: Beyond viewing art, you can jump into one of their many creative workshops or special events. 

Culinary and Cozy Escapes 

Warm up from the inside out with a specialized tasting or a quiet moment with a good book. 

• Syd’s Fish Pig: Look for their exclusive wine dinners or cooking classes for a savory indoor experience. 

• Prince Books: Grab a new release and a coffee, and settle in for a quiet hour of reading while the rain taps on the windows. 

• Vino Wine Culture: Vino Culture is a hub for community and learning, offering weekly "open house" style tastings and deep-dive classes.  

 

Why It Matters 

A rainy day in Downtown Norfolk is a chance to slow down, step inside a building you’ve always walked past, and support the artists, and small businesses that make our city vibrant regardless of the forecast.