Norfolk City Guide

Seafood like crab cakes and oysters are highlights. International cuisine includes Asian, Mexican, and Italian. Options for vegetarians and vegans are growing. Some late-night food spots in entertainment areas.

Nightlife centers around Ghent and Downtown with bars, breweries, live music, and clubs.

Coffee scene is growing with local shops and chains offering quality brews. Specialty roasters are present.

Tipping is expected for many services. Restaurants usually 15-20%. Taxis 10-15%. Other services like delivery or hairdressers 15-20%. Hotel housekeeping $2-5 per night.

SIM cards are available at AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile stores, and electronics shops. No ID usually required for prepaid SIMs. eSIM option depends on carrier and device.

Main areas are generally clean though some neighborhoods vary. Recycling and waste services are standard.

Some late-night pharmacies and minimarts open. Emergency rooms are 24/7. Late-night food is available mainly at fast-food and diners.

Supermarkets like Kroger, Harris Teeter, and Food Lion serve daily needs. Specialty international products are found in some stores. Norfolk Farmers Market offers local fresh produce. Stores usually open early and close late, with some open 24 hours.

Most businesses accept credit and debit cards. Cash is rarely needed for daily expenses.

ATMs are common at banks, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Out-of-network ATM fees typically range from $2.50 to $5 per use.

Norfolk Public Schools teach mainly in English. International schools are rare locally but available nearby. Admission timing varies by district.

The digital nomad community is small but growing. Few formal meetups and co-living options. Work-friendly cafes exist.

Good access to green parks like Lafayette Park, Town Point Park, and Norfolk Botanical Garden.

Popular running trails include Elizabeth River Trail and parks. Generally safe with several running groups and races yearly.

Several gym options include mainstream and specialty fitness centers.

Tennis courts are ample in parks and clubs. Booking varies; some public courts are first-come. Equipment rentals available at pro shops.

Padel courts are very rare and just starting to appear.

Multiple yoga studios offer various styles with drop-in classes and English-speaking instructors.

Several gyms offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, Taekwondo, and Karate. Most instructors speak English.

No ski resorts nearby; closest are several hours away.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing occur on local rivers and Chesapeake Bay. Rentals and tours offered seasonally.

Surfing is available at Virginia Beach Oceanfront about 20-30 minutes away. Spring and fall have the best swells. Suitable for beginners and advanced surfers.

Diving spots off Virginia Beach and Chesapeake Bay include shipwrecks and reefs. Best in warmer months with equipment rental and scuba training available.

Hospitals like Sentara Norfolk General and CHKD have English-speaking staff. Quality care but costly without insurance. Pharmacies are widespread with common OTC meds.

Tap water meets federal and state safety standards and is safe to drink.

Good parks and kid-friendly spots are available, including Town Point Park and Virginia Zoo. Baby supplies easy to find in major stores.

LGBTQ+ friendly with legal protections, community groups, and annual pride events.

Many parks welcome pets and vets and supply stores are common. Pet-friendly accommodations and restaurants are available.