The Only Itinerary You’ll Ever Need for a Weekend Getaway in Norfolk

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Known for its military history and natural beauty, Norfolk, Virginia, is an idyllic destination for a weekend escape full of fun, relaxation and plenty of exploration. To get there, there’s no better way to fly than with Breeze Airways™ from LAX to ORF. The airline offers three travel tiers: Nice, Nicer and Nicest. With the Nice tier, travelers are allowed one personal item, while the Nicer tier provides more legroom and a carry-on or checked bag. The Nicest tier has all the perks of the Nice and Nicer tiers plus priority boarding and upgraded seating. High-speed WiFi is available on select flights with more coming in the near future. 

Ready for takeoff? Here’s your three-day itinerary for the ultimate weekend trip to Norfolk.

 

Day 1

Check In at Glass Light Hotel & Gallery, Autograph Collection

After your comfortable flight with Breeze Airways™, head over and check into Glass Light Hotel & Gallery, Autograph Collection. Nestled on the picturesque Norfolk waterfront, where the shimmering waters of the Elizabeth River meet the vibrant energy of the city, stands the sleek Glass Light Hotel & Gallery, Autograph Collection. This architectural marvel is a haven for the discerning traveler seeking a truly immersive experience. As you step through its grand entrance, a symphony of light dances off the glass façade, illuminating the gallery within. The sleek and modern design seamlessly blends with the rich artistic heritage of Norfolk, creating a captivating ambiance. Each guestroom is a sanctuary of elegance, adorned with large windows that offer sweeping views of the river or the city’s enchanting skyline. 

 

Lunch at Commune

We don’t know about you, but jet setting always works up our appetite! In Norfolk, there’s no nicer way to kick off your trip than with some local fare from Commune! Nestled in a brick building near Push Comedy Theater and The Plot, Commune is a local favorite that’s known for using ingredients sourced as locally as possible. Some of our favorite menu items include the hot honey chicken biscuit and the apple ham melt.

 

Explore the Norfolk Botanical Garden

With over 60 gardens with unique themes, a stunning Japanese garden and a butterfly house, the Norfolk Botanical Garden is the perfect way to ease into the weekend. While the Botanical Garden is beautiful all year round, it’s especially lovely during spring, so if you’re traveling during the months of March through May, be prepared for some amazing photo ops with daffodils, cherry trees, camellias and more.

 

Dine at Leone’s Italian

After a full day of adventure, head back to the hotel and get gussied up for an authentic Italian meal at Leone’s Italian. Set in Historic Downtown with its elegant decor, professional service and warm, inviting vibes, Leone’s Italian is easily one of the best spots to grab a bite in Norfolk. Local favorites include cocktails like Leone’s Negroni and the Italian margarita along with the calamari, pan-seared duck breast and sausage and broccolini orecchiette.

 

See a Show at Attucks Theatre

What better way to wind down at the end of a long day than by catching a show at Attucks Theatre? Financed, designed and built by African American entrepreneurs, Attucks Theatre has a rich history of entertaining locals and visitors for over 100 years. Some of the most notable past performers in this gorgeous theater include Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington and Nat King Cole.

 

Day 2

Rise and Dine at Handsome Biscuit

Your itinerary for day two is packed with adventure and sightseeing, so be sure to fuel up with a hearty, filling breakfast at Handsome Biscuit. Opened in 2013, Handsome Biscuit swiftly became a Norfolk favorite for its stacked sandwiches, Lupo Hot Sauce and, of course, its perfect biscuits! Don’t miss the Nashville or the Shorty—and maybe consider taking a double chocolate chip cookie to go.

 

Explore the NEON District

The Chrysler Museum, the Scope Arena and public art tours—you’ll find all of it in Norfolk’s famous NEON District! Historically known as Auto Row, the NEON (New Energy of Norfolk) District got its name from an electrifying rush of creative and cultural development, and it’s been bustling with visitors ever since! With over 60 shops and eateries to explore, it’s easy to see why the NEON District is a must-do on any Norfolk itinerary. 

 

Coffee at Elliot’s Fair Grounds

Still feeling full from your breakfast at Handsome Biscuit? Treat yourself to a little pick-me-up at Elliot’s Fair Grounds, Norfolk’s oldest independent coffee shop. For the full experience, we recommend finding a spot indoors to enjoy your cup of joe (or the Drink of the Day) and a delicious pastry—you’ll feel like you’ve gone to an old friend’s house for a visit!

 

Bike the Elizabeth River Trail

We know a weekend getaway can be a quick trip, so if you want to see as much of Norfolk’s natural beauty as possible, we recommend renting a Pedego electric bike and taking a spin on the 10.5-mile Elizabeth River Trail. With its waterfront views and cornucopia of local shops and eateries, the Elizabeth River Trail is the perfect way to get to know the area and enjoy all it has to offer.

 

Shop at Selden Market

 

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After your bike ride, it’s time for a cool down—and what better way to do that than with some retail therapy? Shop small and support local business owners and craftspeople at Selden Market, where you can find handmade leather goods, beautiful jewelry, soy candles and more. Trust us, it won’t be difficult to find souvenirs for everyone on your list (and maybe a few for yourself).

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Indulge at Blanca Food+Wine

Drop off your shopping haul and freshen up at the hotel before heading to dinner at Blanca Food+Wine. This restaurant offers a rotating menu of Old World-inspired wines and mouthwatering food from French, Spanish and Italian cuisines—all set against a chic and gorgeous backdrop. Blanca is super popular, so definitely make a reservation before your trip starts!

 

Day 3

Fuel Your Final day at The Stockpot

Treat yourself to a delicious, healthy breakfast at The Stockpot for a strong start to your last day in Norfolk. Scratch-made, health-minded and satisfying, The Stockpot is a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s known for its delicious vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. Enjoy some Southern comfort with dishes like the Southender or enjoy twists on breakfast staples like green shakshuka and blueberry lavender French toast. 

 

Embark on a Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise

As one of Norfolk’s most notable tourist attractions, we definitely recommend taking a Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise. This two-hour cruise is the perfect opportunity to learn about the largest naval base in the world, its history and different military vessels while appreciating the base’s beautiful natural views of the Port of Virginia.

 

Brewsy Lunch at Grain

After taking your tour, head over to the roof of the Hilton Norfolk The Main to grab some grub and beer at Grain. With its beer-garden vibes, dedication to regional craft beer and a tasty menu, it’s easy to see why Grain has been a favorite local watering hole since opening in 2017. Don’t miss out on the loaded Grain fries, the Tidewater roast pork sandwich or a gumbo bowl, and be sure to try your server’s recommendation of what’s on tap!

 

Explore Ocean View

No trip to Norfolk is complete without visiting one of the city’s most notable neighborhoods, Ocean View. Whether you want to walk around and take in views of the boardwalk, Ocean View Beach Park and Chesapeake Bay or find a spot on the sand to watch the tides roll in, Ocean View is definitely the nicest way to end your weekend getaway. 

 

Take Off on Breeze Airways™

As much fun as this trip was, there’s truly no place like home. Enjoy a safe, relaxing flight home on Breeze Airways™ while catching some Zs or watching a flick or two. If you want to stay on theme, check out movies that have been filmed in Norfolk like “Best Friends,” “Captain Phillips” and “American Dreamer”—you may recognize some familiar sights!