Summer is all about making memories! Instead of hearing "I'm bored," fill your family's days with adventure, creativity, and delicious treats right here in the heart of the city. Downtown Norfolk is your one-stop destination for summer fun that will have everyone from toddlers to teens (and parents, too!) smiling. Get ready to build your perfect family day with these amazing activities.

Attractions & Tours: See the City in a Whole New Way

All aboard for adventure! These tours and attractions offer a front-row seat to the best sights of Downtown Norfolk, from the water to the streets.

• Visiting the Battleship Wisconsin and Exhibits at Nauticus: Prepare for a "wow" moment as your family steps aboard one of the largest battleships ever built. Explore the massive decks of the Wisconsin, then head inside Nauticus to discover hands-on exhibits that bring the power of the sea to life. It’s a full day of maritime fun and discovery.
• Victory Rover Military Base Cruises: Get an unforgettable, up-close look at the naval giants that call Norfolk home. These two-hour narrated cruises take you right past aircraft carriers, submarines, and destroyers at the world's largest naval station: a thrilling experience for kids and history buffs.
• American Rover Sailing Cruises: Feel the wind in your sails! Kids love the magic of seeing the iconic red sails rise on this majestic tall ship. Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Elizabeth River, help the crew, or even take a turn at the helm for a truly memorable family photo op.
• Norfolk Tour Company Tours: Put on your walking shoes and let an expert guide show you the city's hidden gems. With a variety of engaging tours, from history to public art, the Norfolk Tour Company makes exploring the city's stories fun and accessible for all ages.
• Ferry Ride to Portsmouth: Sometimes the journey is the destination. This quick, breezy, and budget-friendly ferry ride across the Elizabeth River offers fantastic views of the Norfolk skyline and is an easy adventure that little ones find absolutely thrilling.
• NEON District Self-Guided Art Tour: Turn a walk into a work of art! Stroll through the NEON District and lead your family on a colorful scavenger hunt to discover dozens of vibrant, larger-than-life murals.
• Norfolk Tides Baseball Games: Take them out to the ball game! Nothing says summer like an evening at Harbor Park, cheering on the Norfolk Tides. With hot dogs, mascots, and the crack of the bat, it's a classic American experience the whole family will love.

Creative & Educational Fun: Spark Their Imagination

Channel that summer energy into creativity! These indoor activities are perfect for inspiring young minds and offer a great escape from the midday heat.

• Chrysler Museum (look for family-focused events): Introduce your children to a world of art in a beautiful, welcoming space with free admission! Check their calendar for family-day events and kid-friendly activities that make exploring the stunning galleries an engaging experience for everyone.
• Perry Glass Studio (demos are fascinating for all ages): Watch in awe as artists shape molten glass into incredible works of art. The live glassblowing demonstrations are mesmerizing for all ages, offering a unique glimpse into this fiery and fascinating art form.
• Hurrah Players Shows, Classes & Camps: See a show or join the cast! Virginia's premier family theatre company, The Hurrah Players, offers incredible, high-energy performances that captivate young audiences. Or, sign your aspiring star up for a summer camp to let them shine on stage.
• Summer Camps at The Governor's School for the Arts: The Governor's School for the Arts offers a variety of summer programs for kids and teens passionate about everything from dance and music to visual arts and theatre. It's a fantastic opportunity for them to hone their skills with professional instructors.
• d'Art Center Classes & Events: Located in the NEON District, the d'Art Center is a hub of creativity. Sign the family up for a fun, one-day workshop or simply walk through the studios to see professional artists at work, inspiring your own little creators.
• 757 Creative Reuse Center Classes/Kids Activities: Let your kids' imaginations run wild at a place where anything can become art. Using a warehouse full of reclaimed materials, the 757CRC offers fantastically inventive and eco-friendly classes that are perfect for a crafty afternoon.
• MacArthur Memorial: For families with older kids interested in history, the MacArthur Memorial is a must-visit. Walk through the life of General Douglas MacArthur and see real artifacts from a pivotal time in world history. It's a quiet, cool, and educational stop.

Outdoor & Active: Play the Day Away

When it's time to burn off some energy, these outdoor spots offer fresh air, green space, and plenty of room to run and play.

• Picnic at the Pagoda & Oriental Garden: Pack a lunch and relax in one of Downtown's most serene settings. The lush landscape, winding paths, and tranquil koi pond at the Pagoda are the perfect backdrop for a peaceful family picnic by the water.
• Elizabeth River Trail for a family walk or bike ride: Stretching for miles along the beautiful waterfront, the ERT is a safe and scenic path for a family stroll, bike ride, or scooter session. Enjoy the fresh air and watch the boats go by.
• Lime scooter or E-bike Rental (for teens and up): Give your teens a "cool" way to see the city. Renting e-scooters or e-bikes is a fun, breezy way for families with older kids to cover more ground and explore Downtown together. In addition to Lime, check out E-Bike Alley on City Hall Ave for hourly or daily rentals and a fleet of stylish, easy-to-ride electric bikes.
• Waterside District (offers games and open space): More than just a place to eat, Waterside offers an open-air plaza with lawn games like cornhole and giant Jenga. It's a great spot to let the kids play while parents relax and enjoy the waterfront views.

Treats: The Sweetest Part of Summer

No day of family fun is complete without a delicious reward. End your adventure on a high note with these can't-miss local treats.

• Ice Cream at Blyss or aLatte Cafe: Beat the heat with the universal cure-all: ice cream! Grab a scoop (or two) of your favorite flavor from one of these fantastic local shops for a guaranteed smile.
• Potted Make Your Own Boba Classes: Let the kids become "mixologists" at Potted! Their interactive boba-making classes are a fun, hands-on experience where everyone can create their own perfect, refreshing bubble tea. It's a drink and an activity all in one!
• Cookies from Insomnia: Need a sweet ending that runs late? Insomnia Cookies has you covered with warm, gooey cookies and chilled milk, perfect for a post-dinner treat or spontaneous dessert run.
• Gourmet S’mores at S’mores Amore: Take the classic campfire treat to the next level at S’mores Amore inside of Selden Market. Toasted marshmallow, melted chocolate, and creative twists make this stop a must for dessert lovers of all ages.