Norfolk does not experience an excessive amount of crime, thus general street smarts should keep you safe. Use the same commonsense precautions you would in any city: Be aware of your surroundings, don't walk alone at night and never leave valuables unattended in your car. Popular areas in the downtown vicinity are safe, but it's wise not to venture down dimly lit side streets and less-traveled corridors. The lower sections of Granby Street, past the Virginia Zoo, can become a bit seedy at times and warrant moderate attention. Consult your hotel's concierge or the front desk about any areas you may wish to visit.
Dos & Don'ts
Don't pronounce the
r or the
l in Norfolk; residents say
NAW-fook.
Do take at least one boat ride—the water is what makes Norfolk famous.
Do take in a baseball game in the summer months with the professional team, the Norfolk Tides, or with the collegiate standouts who play at historic War Memorial Stadium.
Do tie a chicken neck to a string, get a long-handled net and go crabbing along a sandy shoal in the brackish waters in and around Norfolk in summertime.
Do spend some time exploring the city's neighborhoods on foot.
Do rent a full- or half-day charter-fishing boat session on the Chesapeake Bay.
