Norfolk Naval Station

Address:Norfolk, Virginia

The Norfolk Naval Station is the largest naval complex in the world, stretching over 4,631 acres of land. The complex is the combined home to the headquarters for Commander Naval Base Norfolk and for Naval Air Station Norfolk, as well as the Defense Department's largest supply center. Nearby is the headquarters compound for the Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Atlantic Command and the Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Atlantic Fleet. The Naval Complex includes Norfolk Naval Base as well as other Naval Facilities of the Sewells Point Naval Complex. Naval Station Norfolk is the homeport to aircraft carriers, cruisers, destroyers, large amphibious ships, submarines, and supply and logistics ships. The Port Services controls the passage of more than 3,100 ships every year.

Until 1952, The Naval Station Norfolk was known officially as Naval Operating Base. Over the years, The Naval Station Norfolk has made various changes and improvements, including the opening of the Navy Exchange Mall in1989, which was further expanded in 1998. Also in 1998 was the opening of Enterprise Hall, a modern housing building. Initially, the station was made of different components, mainly the Naval Station and Naval Air Station, however in 1999, all parts were consolidated to form the Naval Station Norfolk as it is now known.

Feel like a naval officer as you tour one of the busiest airfields in the country, conducted by Naval personnel. There you can join the 45 minute naval tour of aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates, and amphibious assault ships—kids will love this up close and personal experience! Tour frequencies depend on the season, and most tours depart in the late morning and early afternoon. Adults must have a photo ID. Besides for organized tours, recreation on the actual station is strictly for station members and their families who enjoy the facilities, programs, and activities to meet their recreational and social needs. For their use only are fitness facilities, cafés, bowling, fitness, golfing, boating, movies, special events, and more. Naval Station Norfolk's Nimitz Hall is a popular stopping-off point for about 30,000 people every year on their way to board ships, aircraft squadrons, and stations overseas.

In the surrounding area of Norfolk, there is much to do for the general public, as well as many places to sleep and eat. Some worthwhile attractions to visit while in downtown are the Chrysler Museum of Art, Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin, and the Waterside. For shopping, visit the MacArthur Center Mall. At night, there are several bars and clubs to keep you busy, such as BAR Norfolk at the Waterside, where you will find a younger college aged crowd, Have a Nice Day Café, which has a disco-themed dance floor, and the Mardi Gras styled Dixie's Tavern. Within Norfolk, visitors can travel on the free North Electric Transit to popular destinations or hotels from 6:30 am to 11 pm during weekdays.

The most popular place to eat in Norfolk is the Blue Hippo, where there is a sophisticated dining atmosphere and a fancy menu. Another suggestion for some tasty yet classy food is Kincaid's Fish, Chop & Steakhouse. At the Freemason Abbey, which is housed in a century-old church, the food is elegant and affordable, and at La Galleria, you can choose from a large selection of wines and authentic pizzas.

The hotels in Norfolk are mostly limited to commercial chains such as the Sheraton Norfolk, which is the only waterfront hotel in downtown Norfolk, and the Radisson hotel, which offers package deals that include cruise tickets. Other recommended accommodations include the centrally located Tazewell Hotel, and the James Madison Hotel, another good option.

The Naval Station Norfolk is found in Norfolk, Virginia in the southeastern part of the state within the "Hampton Roads" area. The nearest public airport is the Norfolk International Airport, which is a short shuttle or taxi ride to downtown Norfolk. To get to Norfolk by car, take I-95 to I-64 and then go through the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel to Interstate 264 West towards Norfolk. The whole family will have a great time learning about our nation's Navy and seeing all the ships on the bases. Go Navy!