Attraction
There many attraction in Norfolk, Virginia, for both the resident and visitor to enjoy. For instance, the AFR AM Festival is one of the most popular ethnic cultural festivals on the east coast and is sponsored by the Southeastern Virginia Arts Association. Residents can also spend an enjoyable day cruising the Elizabeth River and the Hampton Roads region of the city on the biggest schooner in the country, the American Rover. It leaves the downtown area for seasonal two and three hour cruises. Another popular tourist destination is the Armed Forces Memorial, which overlooks the Elizabeth River. The Memorial centers around 20 letters, written by troops, who lost their lives in war.
The Festival Marketplace, a concept engineered by developer James W. Rouse, is located in downtown Norfolk. Touted as being a redevelopment success story, the festival marketplace helped to turn the seedy harbourside neighborhood into a vibrant and lively shopping and tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy casual dining, exquisite shopping and boat cruises around the harbour. The Waterside, as it is also known, is served by public transportation, so it is easy and convenient to get to.
One of the city’s most popular attractions is Nauticus, the National Maritime Museum, which herald’s the region’s naval heritage. Its mission is to educate the public about the economic and military potential of the sea. Visitors can explore hands on exhibits, aquaria, and enjoy multi-media presentations. The complex is also the permanent home of the USS Wisconsin, the largest- and last- naval battleship commissioned by the U.S. Navy.