Spring in Downtown Norfolk
It's been a long and rainy winter, but the days are getting longer, the weather is warming up, and Granby Street is bustling with activity. There is officially a bit of spring in Downtown Norfolk's step! We've rounded up some fun, only-in-Downtown things for you to see and experience to celebrate the fresh new season.
Spruce Up Your Place for Spring
Swing by Selden Market and score some homegoods from Sugar and Grace, Pure Lagos, and visit Selden's other tenants. While you're there, get in on some brunch from Slide Thru #FAM, Baked AF and The Stockpot.
Update Your Spring Wardrobe
Downtown Norfolk has some stellar shopping opportunities, and our retailers are ready to help you get ready for spring. In Selden Market, you can score some serious vintage finds at Kor Vintage, check out the fresh new made-to-order spring line at women's boutique Gallagher, spruce up your boudoir look at Petit a Petit, and get yourself organized in style with a bag or wallet from Werther. Downtown is also home to MacArthur Center and UrbanOutfitters, excellent retail options for whatever your shopping needs may be. Xchange Norfolk buys, trades, and consigns high-end, collectible fashion, sneakers, clothing, accessories, hobbies, & electronics, and is located in the eclectic NEON District. See all of our Downtown shopping here.
Enjoy Some Nostalgia
Cure Coffeehouse is bringing the Girl Scout Cookie love with their special drinks for April: those over 21 can enjoy their shaken mudslide cocktail with toasted coconut flakes, and everyone can enjoy their latte of the month, the caramel delight cookie, with chocolate, caramel, and toasted coconut, all April long! Order online under signature lattes for quick pick up or enjoy in the shop with their latte of the month for March with a Lucky Charms latte, a marshmallow-vanilla-ginger latte topped with the marshmallows from the beloved breakfast cereal. Order online under signature lattes for quick pick up or enjoy in the shop. S'mores Amore is also releasing their Peaches-N-Dream vanilla blonde with a peach and white chocolate gooey layer, and their made-from-scratch peach marshmallow for April!
Experience Downtown's Nightlife
Things are looking up and Downtown’s iconic nightlife spots are now able to be open until midnight, so it's a great time to visit and support your favorite Downtown hangouts. Take a walk on the wild side at Hell's Kitchen, grab a drink at sporty Baxter's Sports Lounge or Buffalo Wild Wings, enjoy the patio vibes at Cork & Co. Wine and Martini Bar, or catch some local music at Tap It Local, Chicho's Backstage, or Scotty Quixx. And don't forget to grab some late night grub from Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint, Sanctuary tacos, or Brick Anchor Brew-House. Click here for all of Downtown's nightlife options.
Get Festive at the Chrysler Glass Studio
One of our favorite "Only in Downtown Norfolk" activities is making your own one-of-a-kind piece of glass art at the Chrysler Glass Studio — and for spring, they are really getting into the seasonal festivities with Glass Eggs! Choose your springy colors and, with an instructor’s help, you can create your very own glass egg! If you prefer, you can make a fairy orb, ornament, or a solid, sculpted starfish or heart instead of an egg. Click here to view the spring schedule and book your eggstravaganza.
Plan a Patio Hop in the Nice Weather
Take advantage of the nice spring weather and visit some of Downtown's best patio set ups. Big Wisky Porch at Nauticus returns for the season on April 1, bringing back a happy hour perfect for enjoying these beautiful waterfront sunsets. Or take in some amazing roof top Downtown views from Leone's and Grain, enjoy waterfront views from Blue Moon TapHouse and Stripers Waterside, snag some of Gershwin's retro drink specials on their back patio, enjoy the cozy decor on the outdoor patio at Omar's Carriage House, or enjoy a fancy time out on the patio at Four Eleven York.
Treat Yourself to a Spring Cocktail
A new season means new cocktails! Check out the new mimosa flights at Hair of the Dog, featuring fresh fruity flavors. Don't miss the craft mixology happening at Four Eleven York, with beautiful classic cocktails as well as extra special creations rotating regularly.
Spot New Blooms Along the Elizabeth River Trail
Spring is the perfect season for some flower hunting along the Elizabeth River Trail. Our favorite spot is at the Pagoda and Gardens, where the peaceful landscape really comes alive in Spring. Check out this map of all of the botanical points of interest along the trail.
Cruise Around Downtown
Enjoy the weather with a little outdoor exploration however you prefer to get around. Drive in with the top down and enjoy the free two hour parking on Saturdays and Sundays, hop on the Tide, or bike in along the beautiful Elizabeth River Trail to get here, or grab a Lime Scooter or a Pedego Electric Bike to cruise through Downtown in style. Pedego Norfolk even offers fun guided and self guided tours; check their website for how to book.
Help Us Do a Little Spring Cleaning
Get your hands dirty and help us spruce up the community on Spring Work Day at The Plot, Saturday, Apruil 17 from 10am-1pm. Assist with cleaning out flower beds and planters and plant new flowers and plants. Advance registration is required.