This summer, travelers can enjoy many of Norfolk, Virginia’s exciting and easily accessible events and activities without having to open their wallets. With a diverse range of offerings, Norfolk has something for everyone to enjoy at no cost. Residents and visitors alike can experience culture, family fun, concerts, and festivals at one of the more affordable waterfront destinations on the East Coast. Below is a sampling of the sensational free events and activities the beautiful seaport city of Norfolk has to offer this summer:
Chrysler Museum of Art
After recently undergoing expansion and renovations, the Chrysler Museum of Art reopened May 10, 2014 with free general admission and parking to the public. The Chrysler Museum of Art’s extensive collection spans over 5,000 years and is comprised of over 30,000 objects. Museum goers can also check out The Chrysler Museum Glass Studio, a state-of-the-art facility designed to complement the museum’s comprehensive glass collection. Free daily demonstrations are presented at noon every Wednesday through Sunday. The Chrysler Museum of Art is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. For more information visit: http://www.chrysler.org/.
Hampton Roads Naval Museum
Visitors can celebrate 238 years of the U.S. Navy’s history in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia. The Hampton Roads Naval Museum is an accredited museum operated by the United States Navy, and its gallery exhibits tell the courageous story of American sailors and ships in the Hampton Roads. Some of the artifacts visitors will be able to see include a 1798 18-pound cannon from the frigate USS Constellation, a Mark 7 undersea mine from World War I, and a 1944 coxswain navigation map of Omaha Beach. The Hampton Roads Naval Museum is open with free admission daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information visit: http://www.history.navy.mil/museums/hrnm/index.html.
32nd Annual Fourth of July Great American Picnic & Fireworks
This patriotic and fun celebration is held each year on July 4th at the Norfolk waterfront. Family and friends can relax and picnic with traditional all-American fare, while listening to patriotic music provided by the United States Army Training and Doctrine Command Band. In Fourth of July tradition, attendees will also be able to watch the sky light up in a spectacular fireworks display. The 32nd Annual Fourth of July Great American Picnic & Fireworks takes place Friday, July 4, 2014, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. in Town Point Park. For more information visit:https://festevents.org/events/current-events/31st-annual-t-fourth-july-great-american-picnic-fireworks/.
Big Bands on the Bay
Visitors and locals can conclude their summer weekends watching the sun set on Chesapeake Bay and dancing under the stars to free, live Big Band music. Big Bands on the Bay occurs every Sunday evening from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Gazebo at Ocean View Beach Park. The series concludes on August 31 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the Big Season Finale. To view the Big Bands on the Bay performance schedule and for more information, visit:
Fountain Field Days
Every Wednesday this summer from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., families and children are invited to TowneBank Fountain Park to enjoy some fun in the sun. Fountain Field Days offer free family programming, including an interactive fountain, children’s activities, exercise programs, lawn games, theater, dance and more. Fountain Field Days starts June 18 and concludes August 27. For more information and to schedule a visit:
Outdoor Exploration
In addition to free museums, festivals and events, Norfolk has plenty to offer visitors looking to explore the outdoors. Cyclists, joggers and walkers can enjoy The Elizabeth Trail, a nine-mile trail that runs from Norfolk State University to Terminal Boulevard. Visitors can also brush up on Norfolk’s rich history while exploring the cobblestone streets of the award-winning historic Freemason District or walking the Cannonball Trail. For culture lovers, the pedestrian-friendly Ghent District is great for discovering unique restaurants, boutiques and art galleries. Travelers who are fond of the water can bring their own kayak to one of Norfolk’s many kayak launch sites or visit one of the many public beaches, like Ocean View Beach Park.
For more information on the events and attractions listed above, visit www.visitnorfolktoday.com.
~ Norfolk, Virginia ~
Considered the dynamic heart of Southeastern Virginia, Norfolk attracts thousands of travelers each year to enjoy its lively downtown waterfront and 144 miles of coastline. Offering a vibrant blend of history and heritage with contemporary attractions, outdoor adventure and the Commonwealth’s most revered cultural institutions, Norfolk is an exciting destination. Here, where the Elizabeth River meets the Chesapeake Bay, visitors will find an easily walkable downtown that offers eclectic dining options, a rich arts scene, high-end shopping and year-round special events. For more information about Norfolk, visit the city on the Web at www.visitnorfolktoday.com, or call 757-664-6620 or toll free at 800-368-3097
Follow us on Twitter: @TraveloreReport
No comments:
Post a Comment