Highlights

Itinerary

Day 1 – Norfolk, VA

Arrive in Norfolk, VA, home of Harborfest, for a three night stay.  Dinner is included this evening at a local restaurant. (D)

Day 2 – Nauticus – Parade of Sail – Harborfest – Waterside District

After breakfast, explore Norfolk’s science center, Nauticus, with interactive maritime history and science exhibits. You’ll find the Hampton Roads Naval Museum in Nauticus which introduces over 200 years of naval history in Coastal Virginia. Located next to Nauticus is the Battleship Wisconsin, the largest and last battleship ever built by the U.S. Navy. Walk her teak decks, explore interior rooms and discover the vast history of this great ship.

Then you will board either the Spirit of Norfolk or the Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise for the spectacular Parade of Sail event. Watch tall ships sail down the Elizabeth River in a spectacular two-hour parade. You’ll have the best view of the harbor, with tall ships and over 200 boats and vessels to see.

After the Parade of Sail, it’s time to visit Norfolk’s 45^th annual Harborfest at Town Point Park. Enjoy live music and great food accompanied by art and educational programs. Tall ships will be open for tours where you can explore the decks and talk to sailors.

Next to Town Point Park is Norfolk’s newest entertain­ment venue, the Waterside District. Poised at the mouth of the Elizabeth River on Norfolk’s downtown waterfront, The Waterside District houses major restaurants such as Guy Fieri’s Smokehouse, Rappahannock Oyster Company, Cogan’s Pizza, The Fudgery, Blue Moon Taphouse and much more.  Stop in for a delicious meal, and exciting nightlife with music, dancing and live entertainment.  Dinner is on your own this evening. (B)

Day 3 – Naval Station Tour – Free Time at Granby Street – MacArthur Memorial – Harborfest

This morning you tour of the world’s largest naval installation, Naval Station Norfolk. A knowledgeable, active duty Navy guide will narrate an engaging tour of the base highlighting the U.S. Naval Fleet, Admirals Row, and the base as a working city.

Next, stroll over to Granby Street for lunch on own. Located just one block walking distance from Norfolk’s Harborfest, Granby Street features over 30 locally owned and operated restaurants from American Bistro, to Tapas or Mexican. Whatever you crave, Granby Street is sure to satisfy! Along the way, step in one of the many downtown retailers on Granby Street to take home the perfect souvenir.

Then visit the MacArthur Memorial, and discover the compelling story of General Douglas MacArthur, a five star General of the Army and the millions of Americans who served our nation through five wars. Located in downtown Norfolk’s restored 1850s City Hall, the complex contains a museum, theater and special exhibit galleries.

This evening head back over to Town Point Park for Harborfest and enjoy over 50 food vendors, live concerts on three stages and fireworks along the downtown waterfront. Do not forget you can also jump aboard the Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise or Spirit of Norfolk for the best seats in the house for the fireworks! (B) 

Day 4 – Depart for Home

After breakfast depart for home. (B)