Hermitage Museum and Gardens
Explore a historic estate and stunning gardens with a world-class art collection, offering a serene escape and free admission.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wisteria in full bloom
Hermitage Museum and Gardens
Best Time
Wisteria in full bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a historic estate and stunning gardens with a world-class art collection, offering a serene escape and free admission.
"Such a surprise! This place is beautiful, and that sculpture is awesome. Great trails, wonderful museum and beautiful scenery."
🎯 Free Admission Surprise!
Enjoy the beautiful grounds and museum for free! A true hidden gem for budget travelers .
🌸 Wisteria Season Magic
Visit in spring for breathtaking wisteria blooms, offering incredible 'Regency era garden vibes' .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Gardens
Throughout the grounds
Explore meticulously curated gardens, a serene escape with stunning scenery and peaceful walking paths.

Asian Art Collection
Museum interior
Discover one of the most extensive Asian artifact collections on the East Coast, spanning 5,000 years of art.

Burden of the Beast Sculpture
Outdoor exhibit
A massive, 32-foot-tall bison sculpture made from salvaged materials, symbolizing resilience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & Hidden Gem Status
Garden Vibes & Art Collections
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission Surprise!
Enjoy the beautiful grounds and museum for free! A true hidden gem for budget travelers.
🌸 Wisteria Season Magic
Visit in spring for breathtaking wisteria blooms, offering incredible 'Regency era garden vibes'.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
The gardens and historic estate provide a majestic environment for photography and videography.
🎶 Summer Concerts
Catch 'Sunsets on the River' concert series for a fun summer evening with music and views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Surprise!
Enjoy the beautiful grounds and museum for free! A true hidden gem for budget travelers.
🌸 Wisteria Season Magic
Visit in spring for breathtaking wisteria blooms, offering incredible 'Regency era garden vibes'.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
The gardens and historic estate provide a majestic environment for photography and videography.
🎶 Summer Concerts
Catch 'Sunsets on the River' concert series for a fun summer evening with music and views.
🖼️ Explore Diverse Art
Don't miss the extensive Asian art collection and rotating indoor/outdoor exhibits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hermitage Museum & Gardens as a beautiful and surprising 'hidden gem' with stunning gardens and a rich art collection. Many are delighted by the free admission, the friendly and knowledgeable staff, and the serene atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls and photography. Some note that the museum's art placement can feel a bit chaotic with limited information provided.
"Such a surprise! This place is beautiful, and that sculpture is awesome. Great trails, wonderful museum and beautiful scenery. Will definitely return."
Diane Leiter
"Awesome gardens and historic house museum. The staff was super friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. This place is a hidden gem and highly recommend."
Dark Seraphim
"The pictures I provided are from a showing by an artist so tickets were required. Otherwise, visiting the Hermitage is free and is absolutely gorgeous! I recommend it 100%."
M M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hermitage Museum & Gardens is located at 7637 North Shore Road in Norfolk, VA.
It's nestled behind the Lockhaven neighborhood and offers peaceful walking paths. While public transport options might be limited, driving is the most common way to access this beautiful spot.Yes, parking is available for visitors. It's a convenient way to access the museum and its extensive grounds.
The grounds offer great trails for walking,
and the serene environment makes it a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll. Biking might be an option depending on your starting point in Norfolk.While the gardens offer walking paths, specific accessibility information for indoor exhibits and all outdoor areas should be confirmed directly with the museum. The grounds are generally described as serene and beautiful.
Many visitors enjoy exploring the gardens first, taking in the scenery and waterfront views.
Afterwards, head inside to discover the art collections.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Surprisingly, admission to the Hermitage Museum & Gardens is often free! This makes it a fantastic value and a highly recommended 'hidden gem' for visitors.
Operating hours can vary, especially for special exhibits or events. It's always best to check the official Hermitage Museum & Gardens website for the most up-to-date information on daily hours and any specific closures.
Since admission is often free, advance booking might not be necessary for general visits. However, for special ticketed events or exhibits, like the 'Echos of the Heart' installation
or the 'Burden of the Beast' sculpture viewing, booking ahead is recommended.Yes, the Hermitage frequently hosts special exhibits, such as 'Echos of the Heart' by Claudia Bueno
and the 'Burden of the Beast' sculpture. They also have a 'Sunsets on the River' concert series in the summer.Absolutely! Many visitors highlight that visiting the Hermitage is free, making it an accessible and wonderful experience.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore beautiful formal gardens, a historic estate with a diverse art collection spanning 5,000 years, and enjoy waterfront views.
Don't miss the 'Burden of the Beast' sculpture and the extensive Asian art collection.Yes, the picturesque gardens and historic architecture make it a fantastic spot for photos, especially during spring blooms or fall foliage.
Indeed, the grounds offer great trails and walking paths, providing a serene environment to explore the acreage and enjoy views of the Lafayette River.
The museum houses a diverse art collection from around the world, spanning 5,000 years, with a notable focus on Asian artifacts.
They also feature rotating indoor and outdoor exhibits.Absolutely! It's a perfect destination for a day trip, offering a blend of art, history, and beautiful natural scenery that can easily fill several hours.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Currently, there are no on-site dining facilities mentioned. Visitors often bring their own snacks or plan to dine at nearby restaurants in Norfolk after their visit.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally permissible to bring snacks and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in designated outdoor areas of the gardens. Check with the venue for specific policies.
Norfolk offers a variety of dining options. You can find everything from casual cafes to upscale restaurants in the Ghent or downtown areas, a short drive from the museum.
The expansive grounds and beautiful gardens provide ample space for a picnic. Enjoying a meal amidst the scenery is a popular way to extend your visit.
Yes, the Hermitage Museum & Gardens is a popular venue for weddings and events, known for its stunning gardens and historic estate.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, and the grounds are a photographer's dream! The gardens, historic architecture, and waterfront views offer endless opportunities for stunning shots.
While personal photography is encouraged, commercial photography or videography might require special permits or arrangements. It's always best to check with the museum for specific guidelines, especially for professional shoots.
The blooming gardens, especially during wisteria season,
the waterfront areas, and the exterior of the historic estate are prime locations for memorable photos.Absolutely! The Hermitage is a highly sought-after venue for engagement and wedding photography due to its picturesque setting.
While not explicitly advertised, the Goode Family Visual Arts School at the Hermitage might offer workshops or classes that could involve photography. Keep an eye on their official schedule for opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the art collection might appeal more to older children and adults, the overall atmosphere of discovery and the beautiful natural surroundings make it a pleasant visit for all ages. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, turning your visit into a full-day family adventure.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus your visit on exploring the stunning gardens and grounds, which are a highlight in themselves. You can easily spend hours wandering the paths, enjoying the scenery, and taking fantastic photos, all for free. Pack your own snacks or a picnic to save on food costs, making this a truly economical yet enriching experience.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Key spots include the blooming gardens (especially during wisteria season ), the serene walking paths, and the exterior of the Sloane estate. The 'Burden of the Beast' sculpture also offers a unique and dramatic subject. Remember to check for any specific guidelines regarding commercial photography to ensure a smooth experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gardens: A Living Masterpiece
Florence Sloane, the original owner, was deeply involved in the garden's design, and her vision continues to be honored. The museum actively imagines how she would adapt the gardens based on current ecological practices, drawing from her writings and research. This dedication ensures the gardens remain a vibrant and evolving testament to her passion for horticulture, offering beautiful walking paths and picturesque views of the Lafayette River.
A World-Class Art Collection
In addition to its permanent collection, the Hermitage frequently hosts captivating temporary exhibitions. These can range from contemporary installations like Claudia Bueno's 'Echos of the Heart' and the striking 'Burden of the Beast' sculpture, to various other art showcases. These rotating exhibits ensure there's always something new and exciting to discover with each visit, making the museum a dynamic cultural hub.
A Premier Wedding and Event Venue
From the meticulously maintained gardens that provide stunning backdrops for photography to the elegant estate itself, every element at the Hermitage contributes to an unforgettable event. The venue's unique charm and picturesque surroundings have made it a favorite among wedding planners and couples alike, solidifying its reputation as one of the top event locations in the Hampton Roads area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit