Drayage Brokersin Norfolk, VA

There’s nothing like gathering your best group of girlfriends and making memories together in a fantastic destination. In friendships and in travel, your vibe attracts your tribe, and Norfolk’s vibe is one you’ll definitely be attracted to. We’ve got places to wine and dine, shop ’til you drop, bring out your creative side or enjoy the great outdoors. Take a break from running the world, and take in all that Norfolk has to offer for a great girlfriend getaway.

Not only does Norfolk have an amazing selection of restaurants serving high quality cuisine, but we also have a good number of women-owned restaurants and businesses. What better way to commemorate an all-female getaway than by supporting some of Norfolk’s women entrepreneurs? Enjoy an elevated menu inspired by the rustic cooking in France, Spain and Italy, plus premium wines at Blanca Food + Wine, located in Riverview. Share a cheese board that’s out of this world, then delight in a seasonally focused menu at Four Eleven York. Have fun testing out the Bartenders’ Experience in which personalized cocktails are crafted on the spot. Or, start the evening with a round of mojitos or margaritas at Luna Maya, a celebration of Latin American cuisine owned by two sisters. See more women-owned businesses in Norfolk here.

Shopping is more than an activity in Norfolk; it’s an experience and one that you can tailor to your group’s interests. To support small businesses and find some truly one-of-a-kind Norfolk wares, check out our local shopping guide. For unmatched deals on all the greatest name brands, head to the Norfolk Premium Outlets. For an ever-changing mix of pop-up shops, locally loved stores and even some rising restaurants, take your time strolling through Selden Market. Finally, stop in our very own Mermaid Market, located in the VisitNorfolk Visitors’ Center, where you can find a curated selection of items unique to Norfolk and Virginia, including home decor, kitchen essentials, apparel and mermaids of every kind.

Norfolk is known for many things, including plenty of opportunities to get outdoors. Take a leisurely stroll-through Norfolk Botanical Garden, and take some stunning photos together while you’re there. Enjoy foliage in the fall, roses blooming during the summer, Garden of Lights during the holidays and flourishing azaleas all spring long! On warm days, you can bask in the beach vibes of Ocean View and East Beach, and in spring and fall, your gal pals can embark on a kayak tour or a walking tour of Norfolk.

Brunch is a staple of a great girlfriend getaway, and we’ve got just the places to sip mimosas, indulge in French toast and laugh the day away. Grain is known for their fabulous brunch buffet and unrivaled rooftop views while Hair of the Dog has the ideal menu to cure a hangover. Grandiflora Wine Garden is celebrated for their Turkish brunches in a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. See all our favorite spots for brunch here.

There’s nothing that brings a group closer than creating something together. Take the opportunity to paint and decorate your very own mermaid keepsake at the Mermaid Factory, combine painting with sipping at Pinot’s Palette, or try your talents at glassblowing while visiting the Chrysler Museum’s Perry Glass Studio.

We’ve got an abundance of events for each season and interest, including many that are popular among groups of girlfriends. The spring and fall Town Point Virginia Wine Festival is always a favorite among ladies who love to sip and sample Virginia wines. The Stockley Gardens Arts Festival is another popular place for friends to wander through aisles of art in all its forms. Check out our events calendar to see what’s coming up during your stay.

Looking for a spring break destination the whole family can enjoy? Consider breaking tradition by spring breaking in Norfolk. We’ve got sandy beaches (minus the crowds), engaging attractions with a little education sprinkled in for the kids, plus family-friendly breweries that are perfect for unwinding after a fun day of adventuring. Here are some ideas for spending spring break in Norfolk, VA.

^{Photo Credit: @jessicahubbardphotography, Instagram}

Nauticus

Spend the day exploring Nauticus, a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in Downtown Norfolk. Wander through their fun and educational exhibits before exploring the Battleship Wisconsin, one of the last and largest battleships built by the Navy. Explore the decks and depths of the ship, and don’t forget to take a family photo!

NEON District

Need to burn off some energy? Skip, hop and stroll throughout the NEON District to discover colorful murals around every corner. Even the sidewalks have points of interest in this arts centric neighborhood. While you’re here, grab some poke or açaí bowls at Zeke’s Beans and Bowls, or sit down for a farm-to-table feast at Commune.

Norfolk Botanical Garden

With more than 60 different gardens to explore, the Norfolk Botanical Garden has something for every taste and season, but spring is an especially vibrant time to visit as so many beautiful trees and flowers are in bloom. Spend some time in the WOW Children’s Garden where you’ll see, smell and touch edible plants and take a nature walk through their Plant Safari Habitat. Don’t forget to pause every once in a while to say hello to the toads and turtles.

Virginia Zoo

Did you know that Norfolk is home to the only zoo in our region? Spend some time exploring the Virginia Zoo’s beautiful walking paths and learning about more than 700 different species. Here you can walk among Australian wallabies and their joeys, spot Africa’s majestic rhinos, lions and cheetahs, gaze at beautifully colored reptiles and even play with goats at the Zoo Farm.

Beach Day

Spend a day making sand castles, soaking up the sun and perhaps even spotting dolphins in the distance. Ocean View is ideal for families with young kids as the mild waves of the Chesapeake Bay gently lap on the beachfront—perfect for wading. Enjoy local seafood while overlooking the Chesapeake Bay at the Ocean View Pier Restaurant. Don’t want to leave the beach? Pack a picnic with food from Taste!

Looking for a way to get out on the bay? Sunset cruises on the American Rover, themed dinner and lunch cruises aboard a City Cruises Norfolk vessel, sailing lessons through Sail Nauticus, and kayaking are all great ways to experience the Chesapeake Bay. For the more educational cruises, check out the Norfolk Naval Base Cruises aboard Victory Rover where they showcase aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines, guided missile cruisers and more! The Elizabeth River Ferry also runs between Norfolk and Portsmouth daily for a quick jaunt across the water.

With an abundance of different cuisine in Norfolk, it is easy to please everyone’s palates, and our family-friendly breweries are eager to entertain you. Doumar’s is a great spot to show the kids the world’s first waffle cone machine, and if you’re lucky they will be making fresh cones while you’re there! Want more sweets? Check out the sweetest of treats in Norfolk here, and see our ice cream and gelato shops here!

Norfolk is home to the Norfolk Tides, which always makes for a memorable outing. Head to Harbor Park for loaded franks for the kids and local beers for the adults as you cheer on the home team. Keep an eye out for themed nights featuring special activities like costumed characters, fireworks or a chance to run the bases after the game!

Norfolk has some fantastic options to make your home away from home truly an enjoyable experience. Score an unbelievable view of the Elizabeth River to wake up to, opt for adjoining rooms to enjoy some peace and quiet, or go for the place that allows you to walk everywhere you need to be. Wherever you choose, we’re happy you’re here. Check out these lodging options.

Norfolk State will host a triple-header of Virginia High School League basketball state semifinals on Friday:

Winners get a berth in next week’s state championship games at VCU’s Siegel Center in Richmond.

Tickets for the state semifinals are scheduled to go on sale Friday at gofan.co (not .com).

Boys basketball

All games are Friday, March 1

Class 6 semifinals

Hayfield vs. South Lakes at Westfield HS, 7 p.m.

Oscar Smith vs. Patriot at C.D. Hylton HS, 7:30 p.m.

Class 5 semifinals

Albemarle at L.C. Bird, 7 p.m.

Woodside vs. Green Run at Norfolk State’s Echols Hall, 4 p.m.

Class 4 semifinals

Tuscarora vs. Loudoun Valley at Woodgrove HS, 7 p.m.

Varina vs. Hampton at Heritage HS, 7:30 p.m.

Class 3 semifinals

Tunstall at Northside, 7 p.m.

James Monroe vs. Lake Taylor at Norfolk State’s Echols Hall, 8 p.m.

Class 2 semifinals

Graham at Virginia High in Bristol, 7 p.m.

Bruton vs. John Marshall at Huguenot HS in Richmond, 8 p.m.

Class 1 semifinals

Auburn vs. Honaker at Lebanon HS, 8 p.m.

Middlesex vs. Lancaster at New Kent HS, 7 p.m.

Girls basketball

All games are Friday, March 1

Class 6 semifinals

Centreville at Manchester, 7 p.m.

Thomas Dale vs. Osbourn Park at C.D. Hylton HS, 5:30 p.m.

Class 5 semifinals

Patrick Henry of Roanoke at James River (in Midlothian), 7 p.m.

Deep Creek vs. Princess Anne at Norfolk State’s Echols Hall, 6 p.m

Class 4 semifinals

Tuscarora vs. Woodgrove at Loudoun Valley HS, 6 p.m.

Monacan vs. Hampton at Heritage HS, 5:30 p.m.

Class 3 semifinals

Liberty Christian vs. Abingdon at Virginia HS in Bristol, 7 p.m.

Lake Taylor vs. Meridian at Alexandria City HS, 7 p.m.

Class 2 semifinals

Ridgeview vs. Wise County Central at UVA Wise, 7 p.m.

Strasburg vs. John Marshall at Huguenot HS in Richmond, 6 p.m.

Class 1 semifinals

Honaker at Eastside, 7 p.m.

Brunswick vs. Buffalo Gap at Harrisonburg HS, 7 p.m.

From pillowy biscuits to piled-high Benedicts and waffles topped with all the fixings, brunch in Norfolk never disappoints. No matter what your taste buds are craving, these popular brunch spots have all the essentials. Gather your brunch squad, order a mimosa or Bloody Mary and get ready to dig in!

Canvas Social Cuisine

Excite your palate with brunch at Canvas, where they offer every option under the sun. Choose from entrees like the Sunglasses and Advil Burger or King of Norfolk Breakfast Platter (fried lobster, blackened shrimp and salmon, crab cakes, eggs and potatoes with a side of grits). Their Benedicts come with fried chicken or lobster, their French toast is available in flights, and their omelets come stuffed with all your favorites. Sweeten things up with a Down and Dirty Waffle or a festive Party Waffle. Canvas even features brunch options for kids, ranging from classic French toast or waffles to a breakfast wrap.

Grain

Every Saturday and Sunday, locals and visitors alike flock to the fifth floor of Norfolk Hilton The Main to enjoy the rooftop brunch at Grain. The incredible views of the waterfront paired with an all-you-can-eat brunch buffet will make for a picture-perfect Sunday brunch. Enjoy specialties like fresh oysters and made-to-order omelets and tacos.

Hair of the Dog

Whether or not you’re in need of a little hair of the dog, you’re bound to find something to improve your day at Norfolk’s two Hair of the Dog locations, one Downtown and one near ODU. From classic options (eggs with bacon or sausage, home fries or grits, toast and more) to Benedicts and omelets, there’s plenty of comfort food options at this Southern-inspired eatery. That’s not to say the menu is standard. You’ll also find offerings out of the ordinary such as a Benedict flight, cookie dough pancakes and homemade meatloaf wrapped in bacon and served with mashed potatoes, spicy tomato chutney and seasonal veggies. Choose from a variety of fun mimosas and bloodies, as well as brunch shooters like jelly donut.

Stockpot

Specializing in modern healthy comfort food, Stockpot features a menu with the freshest ingredients, good-for-you ingredients that translate to the perfect mix of guilt-free indulgence. Look for options you won’t find elsewhere like the green Shakshuka featuring tomatillo sauce, asparagus, green chickpeas, kale, herbs and a poached egg with cotija cheese and pita bread. On the sweeter side, check out their irresistible blueberry lavender French toast. When it comes to brunch cocktails, Stockpot doesn’t disappoint with a lineup of mimosas (by the glass, bottle or flight), espresso martini or Irish coffee and a classic bloody mary.

Cafe Milo

Tucked within the NEON Arts District, Cafe Milo features made-to-order dishes, locally roasted coffee and baguettes from neighboring bakery La Brioche. We recommend their Savory Hash, a gluten-free mashup of potato, bacon, bell peppers, onions, mustard greens and egg, topped with red-eye gravy. Vegan and vegetarian options are also available, including Avocado Toast, avocado drizzled with Green Goddess dressing, topped with pickled onion, radish and field greens on top of Sourdough toast. Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays.

Commune

Get a taste of Commune’s farm-to-table fare inside their open and expansive dining area with exposed brick in Norfolk’s NEON District. Start out with a pimento cheese and pickle board before diving into a cornmeal waffle, pancake stack, crispy potato bowl or sweet potato falafel. You can’t go wrong with Commune’s coffee selection, or perhaps you’d rather sip on a hummingbird or sorbet mimosa. Keep in mind that Commune is closed on Saturdays but ready to rise and shine on Sundays.

Four Eleven York

Four Eleven York knows how to whip up some fabulous dishes any time of the day, and they shine bright during rise-and-shine hours. Take advantage of life near the bay by ordering a fried oyster Benedict with Eastern Shore oysters or an oyster po-boy featuring Korean fried oysters with Asian slaw. Step on the healthy side with a farro bowl featuring carrots, peas, blistered tomatoes, creme fresh and an egg. Of course, you can’t go wrong with strawberry buttermilk pancakes served with a fresh Carolina strawberry compost. Pair these downright delicious options with a Fairy Kiss (kiwi, zirbenz, lime, sage simple syrup and Prosecco) or a perfectly spiced Bloody Mary.

Omar’s Carriage House

Originally an 1840s carriage house, Omar’s is located along the cobblestone streets of the historic Freemason District and serves up scrumptious brunch dishes such as a smoked salmon platter, Nashville Hot Chicken Sammy, Hangover Burger, or a seafood omelet. Opt for something out of the ordinary with their Moroccan Tagine, poached eggs in chermoula (light tomato sauce) with merger (lamb sausage) and breakfast potatoes.

Grandiflora Wine Garden

If you like your Sunday brunches to be easy, breezy and intimate, give Grandiflora a try. This vegetarian and natural wine-focused restaurant is situated in a historic home in Chelsea where owners Erin, Jason and Kenny tend to the trees, herbs and flowers that they inherited with the purchase of the property. Grandiflora is a true delight any time you visit, but Saturdays and Sundays are reserved for Turkish breakfast. Three courses take guests on a culinary and cultural journey with fresh options like cucumber salad with Greek olives and dried Turkish apricots, feta and kasseri cheese with tomato-pepper-walnut sauce and tahini-grape molasses on a baguette, and savory pastries with a fried egg. Add a wine pairing or enjoy with their specialty Turk black tea or coffee.

The Bird

The Bird was formed out of a deep love for breakfast classics and craft cocktails. This fusion formed the core of The Bird’s brunch, cocktail, and small plates-based menu. Grab and go, or sit and stay for a while. Any way you want, it’s at The Bird.

Handsome Biscuit

While this isn’t your typical brunch outing, you can ask any local for a brunch recommendation and we can guarantee that Handsome Biscuit is near the top of their list. This trendy biscuit shop popped up in 2013 and has been slinging the best breakfast sandwiches ever since. They specialize in sweet potato biscuit sandwiches, like fried chicken biscuits, pulled pork biscuits and more. Their more breakfast-forward biscuit, the Shorty (over hard egg and cheddar with the option to add thick cut bacon or pork sausage) can be paired with their hash-tots to really tie in the brunch vibe. It’s common for Handsome Biscuit to have a line out the door, but the wait is well worth it.

Toast

With a name like Toast, you know what’s on the menu, but that’s where assumptions must end. Toast makes their bread in-house and tops them with everything under the sun. Try the Eggy Dub, two soft boiled eggs on toast with cheddar and ricotta alongside bacon and a side salad, or the Smoked Salmon with creme fresh, pickled onions, tomato and capers. They also have a fantastic selection of chili and grits bowls, sandwiches and sweets. Brunch is offered Friday through Sunday.

The Fishin’ Pig

Did someone say bottomless mimosas? The Fishin’ Pig offers a choice of pineapple, orange or cranberry mimosas made fresh and ready every Sunday morning from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. starting at $16.95. These pair perfectly with the restaurant’s hearty selection of mornin’ skillets, breakfast sandwiches and specialties like biscuits and gravy, French toast sticks and chicken and waffles.

Mudita Cafe & Coffeehouse

Mudita Cafe & Coffeehouse specializes in internationally inspired craft coffee and tea— rotating specialties seasonally—and also features a variety of brunch options. You really can’t go wrong with a sharable pancake platter, especially if it’s paired with a mimosa pitcher.

Stony’s Dockside Bar and Grille

Prefer brunch with a view? Stony’s is owned and operated by Chef Stony and Laura Johnson and is located in East Ocean View, offering complete views of the East Beach Marina. Their brunch menu offers typical dishes like Cinnamon French Toast and eggs Benedict, but they also have Southern classics like scrumptious shrimp and grits and, of course, chicken and waffles. We know Bloody Marys and mimosas are a must at any proper brunch, but try a local favorite cocktail that rivals the mimosa, the Orange Crush featuring orange juice, Sprite and flavored vodka.

With an abundance of outdoor activities, Norfolk is the perfect destination to enjoy some sunshine. From exploring our gardens to setting sail along the Chesapeake Bay, there is a variety for you to explore. You won’t want to miss these top outdoors things to do in Norfolk, VA.

Gardens

Norfolk is home to plenty of lush green spaces, including the largest botanical garden in Virginia. No matter what time of year you’re visiting, there’s a beautiful assortment of greenery to peruse at these locally loved gardens.

The Hermitage Museum and Gardens offers visitors a dose of history, art and horticulture all in one spot. With the Hermitage sitting right on the Lafayette River, it’s a perfect backdrop for a day spent outdoors! During the warmer months, be sure to check out the museum’s Sunsets on the River concert series for an evening of outdoor entertainment including local music, food trucks, art, local craft beer and wine. Best of all, your well-behaved dog can join in on the fun!

The beautiful Norfolk Botanical Garden has over 60 themed gardens on the property, and there is always something to explore. Most blooms can be spotted during the spring and summer months, but make sure to check out their year-round gardens too. The WOW Children’s Garden features world-themed splash fountains, plus a nature walk through Plant Safari habitat gardens.

Trails

Taking the road less traveled is certainly an option. But when there’s well-established trails featuring historic points of interest, restaurants, breweries and wildlife nearby, we say it’s okay to stick to the path. Explore these trails as you get to know more about Norfolk’s past and present!

This self-guided tour marks 400 years of Norfolk and American history. The Cannonball Trail winds along the shoreline of the Elizabeth River and through the districts of Downtown Norfolk. Pay attention to the historic sites noted on this tour for bonus history lessons on this walking trail adventure!

The Elizabeth River Trail (ERT) is a 10.5-mile biking and pedestrian urban trail that will satisfy the highly active. No bike? No problem. Pedego Electric Bikes are available to rent Downtown, so get ready to cruise along as you enjoy some fantastic scenery.

On the Water

Some of the best outdoor things to do in Norfolk aren’t on dry land. Did you know that Norfolk has 144 miles of shoreline? We’re home to the Chesapeake Bay, plus the Elizabeth and Lafayette Rivers, which equals no shortage of water activities, whether you feel like being active, exploring via boat or simply relaxing on the sand.

Did you know that Norfolk has its very own sandy beach? The areas of Ocean View and East Beach are your gateway to beach days, sandcastles, water activities, seafood and gorgeous sunsets. These beaches are perfectly situated on the Chesapeake Bay where warm waters and gentler waves make it ideal for families. Here are ideas for things to do in Ocean View, Norfolk.

There’s arguably no better way to reconnect with nature than by paddling out on a kayak tour to explore the gentle rivers and quiet coves which some of Norfolk’s most beautiful wildlife calls home. Rent a vessel through Norfolk Kayak Tours, embark on a guided journey at the Norfolk Botanical Garden, or BYOK (bring your own kayak) to paddle off from a public launch.

Bordered almost entirely by water and home to the longest fishing pier in North America, Norfolk is geographically positioned for the ultimate fishing trip. No matter what your choice of fresh catch may be, you’re sure to find it in the nearby Chesapeake Bay, Atlantic Ocean or Elizabeth River. Norfolk’s mild climate and wide variety of aquatic life have made the region’s waterways one of the top fishing destinations in the world. Thousands of visitors flock to the area’s shores each year in search of the perfect fishing trip.

With the Elizabeth River and the Chesapeake Bay running along its west and north borders, Norfolk is the ideal home for sailing. Still learning? Check out Sail Nauticus and its informative boating excursions. Sign up for a weekend course emphasizing on-the-water instruction and earn a U.S. Sailing Basic Keelboat certification.

Tours on Water

Sometimes it’s nice just to sit back, relax and let someone else be your guide for the day. Here are some tours you can sign up for if you’re looking to learn more about Norfolk’s history, see the city line from a new point of view or perhaps indulge in a scrumptious buffet, cocktails and dancing.

Norfolk’s own tall sailing ship, the American Rover is a three-masted topsail schooner with “tanbark” sails. They offer two-hour narrated harbor tours and sunset cruises April through October embarking from Waterside Marina on the Downtown Norfolk waterfront. Once on board, guests can choose to hoist a sail with the crew, take a turn at the helm or just sit back and enjoy the scenic view. The sunset cruise also features live, acoustical entertainment.

See incredible views of the Norfolk harbor and the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet aboard City Cruises Norfolk. Enjoy delicious new menus and specialty drinks. Then, dance to DJ entertainment or relax on the new rooftop lounge. It all adds up to the perfect Norfolk experience. Cruising year-round from downtown Norfolk, Spirit offers lunch, brunch, dinner, cocktail, moonlit cruises and more.

Experience the most popular way to see the world’s largest naval base and the Port of Virginia. Two-hour cruises depart daily from Nauticus, home of the Battleship Wisconsin, in Downtown Norfolk. Cruise past the vessels that ensure our freedom—destroyers, cruisers, submarines, aircraft carriers and more. A fascinating fact and fun-filled narration is provided.

Tours on Land

There’s plenty to see, do and learn off the water as well! Take a self-guided tour of Norfolk’s incredible public art murals, or join a guided tour to learn more about Norfolk’s history, art, architecture and more!

Experience Norfolk in a whole new light with guided tours from Norfolk Tour Company. Explore Norfolk’s most haunted houses and theatres or enjoy the colors of the murals in the NEON District. Walk the city and learn more about its unique history with a tour through Historic Freemason or the “Underground River: Black History Tour on the ERT.”

With self-guided tours aplenty and even guided tours focused on Norfolk’s NEON District, our city’s burgeoning arts scene provides a platform for a multitude of artists to create public murals on local businesses showcasing Norfolk. Any space, whether on a building wall, a house, a shed or even the sidewalk, can be transformed into a stunning display by local artists whose love for the city is obvious in every scene.