{"id":21891,"date":"2011-05-18T14:44:36","date_gmt":"2011-05-18T18:44:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/?p=21891"},"modified":"2025-09-02T02:56:49","modified_gmt":"2025-09-02T06:56:49","slug":"things-to-do-norfolk-virginia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/ny\/21891\/things-to-do-norfolk-virginia\/","title":{"rendered":"A Norfolk State of Mind: Things to Do in Virginia"},"content":{"rendered":"

Norfolk, Virginia has been turning a deeper shade of green lately. This waterfront city\u2019s eco-conscious side is coming into full bloom with the opening of its light rail system, the Tide<\/a>. It gives locals and visitors the possibility to get to the farthest reaches of the city without leaving a carbon footprint. The Tide joins the already popular Net<\/a>, the free electric trolley system that makes a 2.2 mile circuit around the revitalized downtown. And don\u2019t forget to pack your sturdy walking shoes, which will come in handy as you comb the pedestrian-friendly streets that host a vibrant art, music and food scene.<\/p>\n

\"mermaid\"

The town has put major efforts into polishing its city center, but maintains an earthiness that keeps its essential salty character. The modern port is the focal point, as the town is nestled where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. If you ever do forget that you are seaside, the town\u2019s symbol is the mermaid, and 375 colorful renditions of this mythical lady-sea creature grace the landscape, and pull you towards geographic reality.<\/p>\n

Bring Your Appetite <\/strong><\/h2>\n

Once known mainly for its Naval base, Norfolk is currently creating waves in culinary circles. If you plan your trip for mid-January, you will be treated to budget- priced menus that are featured during Restaurant Week<\/a> <\/strong>. Norfolk\u2019s location ensures that fresh-caught seafood is a mainstay of many menus. What may surprise you is Norfolk\u2019s embrace of an eclectic mix of ethnic eateries that use fresh, local ingredients to create a varied global menu. Two neighborhoods are vibrant hotbeds for ambitious cuisine: Downtown and Historic Ghent.<\/p>\n

\"Freemason

A fun way to sample a variety of what the town\u2019s talented chefs are up to is to try one of Coastal Food Tours<\/strong><\/a> itineraries. Join a small group of fellow foodies, led by a knowledgeable local, as you walk to five restaurants. You will sample a course at each restaurant, ending the evening with a full stomach and a better idea of the unabashed love of food that prevails in this town.<\/p>\n

The Waterfront is Festival Central<\/strong>
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