NEON District
A vibrant downtown district alive with colorful murals, local boutiques, and a thriving arts scene. Experience Norfolk's creative heart!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & art
NEON District
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & art
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant downtown district alive with colorful murals, local boutiques, and a thriving arts scene. Experience Norfolk's creative heart!
"Discover stunning street art and support local businesses in Norfolk's dynamic NEON District!"
📸 Mural Hunting Guide
Seek out the 'Tran' mural and other vibrant street art for unique photo ops. Ask locals for their favorites!
🅿️ Parking Perks
Utilize the free parking at the old Greyhound Bus Station for easy access to the district.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Murals
Throughout the NEON District
Discover stunning street art and murals that transform the district into an outdoor gallery. Perfect for photos!
NEON Festival
Granby Street & The Plot
An annual celebration of art, light, and community. Experience live music, art installations, and creative activations.
The Hurrah Players' TV & Film Academy
NEON District
Witness the future of storytelling with hands-on filmmaking and production experiences for young creatives.
Local Boutiques & Eateries
Granby Street
Explore unique shops like Stark & Legum and enjoy fresh, healthy options at places like Granby St Glow Juice Bar.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art & Light
Navigating the NEON District
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Mural Hunting Guide
Seek out the 'Tran' mural and other vibrant street art for unique photo ops. Ask locals for their favorites!
🅿️ Parking Perks
Utilize the free parking at the old Greyhound Bus Station for easy access to the district.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the art and shops, so comfy shoes are a must!
📅 Check Event Schedules
Plan your visit around events like First Fridays or the NEON Festival for a more immersive experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Mural Hunting Guide
Seek out the 'Tran' mural and other vibrant street art for unique photo ops. Ask locals for their favorites!
🅿️ Parking Perks
Utilize the free parking at the old Greyhound Bus Station for easy access to the district.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the art and shops, so comfy shoes are a must!
📅 Check Event Schedules
Plan your visit around events like First Fridays or the NEON Festival for a more immersive experience.
🛍️ Support Local Businesses
Discover unique finds at boutiques like Stark & Legum and enjoy fresh juices.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the NEON District for its vibrant street art and lively atmosphere, especially during events like First Fridays and the NEON Festival. The district is seen as a hub for creativity and local businesses, offering unique shopping and dining experiences. Some minor inconveniences may arise from ongoing construction, but free parking and the walkable nature of the area make exploration easy.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The NEON District is located in downtown Norfolk, VA. Many visitors find it convenient to drive and utilize the free parking available at the old Greyhound Bus Station. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving downtown Norfolk.
Yes, free parking is available at the old Greyhound Bus Station, which is conveniently located near many of the district's attractions.
Absolutely! The NEON District is best explored on foot to fully appreciate the murals, shops, and atmosphere. Wear comfortable shoes!
While the NEON District is a vibrant arts area, some online discussions mention areas to be cautious in within Norfolk. It's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring new neighborhoods.
Public transportation options to downtown Norfolk are available. It's recommended to check the local transit authority's website for specific routes and schedules that serve the NEON District area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the NEON District itself is a public area and does not require tickets for general access. However, specific events held within the district, like the NEON Festival, may have ticket requirements.
The NEON District is an outdoor area with public art and businesses, so it's generally accessible during daylight hours. Individual shops and galleries will have their own operating hours.
There are no general entrance fees to explore the NEON District. Enjoy the public art and vibrant atmosphere freely!
The NEON Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary on October 16 & 17, 2025. This is a major event with special programming.
While official guided tours might not always be available, you can create your own tour by following local recommendations for murals and points of interest.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
Many visitors rave about the murals, with 'Tran' being a personal favorite for some. Exploring the district will reveal a variety of artistic expressions.
The NEON District features a variety of local boutiques, including high-end shops like Stark & Legum, offering unique goods and a chance to support local artisans.
Yes, you can find places like Granby St Glow Juice Bar offering fresh, healthy options with no chemicals, just fruits and vegetables.
The NEON District is known for its vibrant street art, community events like the NEON Festival, and its growing collection of local businesses and creative spaces. 
The NEON District is a photographer's dream, with colorful murals, unique architecture, and a lively atmosphere providing endless opportunities for stunning shots.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire district is a canvas! Look for the vibrant murals, unique storefronts, and the general artistic ambiance. The 'Tran' mural is a popular choice.
Yes, the NEON District's artistic backdrop makes it ideal for photoshoots, including senior portraits.
Keep an eye out for the diverse range of murals that adorn the buildings. Each one offers a unique visual experience.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting for capturing the murals and street scenes. Midday can be bright but still offers good opportunities.
Generally, photography for personal use is welcome. For commercial shoots, it's always a good idea to check with local authorities or property owners if you plan extensive setups.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1 Don't miss the chance to capture the 'Tran' mural or explore the diverse street art. 🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies
When hunger strikes, options like Granby St Glow Juice Bar provide fresh and healthy choices. Supporting these local establishments is a key part of experiencing the district's charm and contributing to its vibrant economy.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of the NEON District
The district also fosters creativity through institutions like The Hurrah Players' TV & Film Academy, which provides hands-on experience in filmmaking and production for young creatives.
This commitment to the arts extends to community events, most notably the annual NEON Festival, which celebrates a decade of art, light, and community engagement. The festival transforms the district into a hub of activity, showcasing local talent and creative activations.Exploring Local Businesses
These establishments provide an opportunity to support small businesses and find one-of-a-kind items.For those seeking refreshment, places like Granby St Glow Juice Bar offer a healthy and delicious way to refuel. They pride themselves on using fresh, natural ingredients, ensuring a revitalizing experience.
Exploring these local spots is an integral part of the NEON District experience, offering a taste of the community's entrepreneurial energy.Community and Events
The highlight of the district's event calendar is the annual NEON Festival. Celebrating its 10th anniversary in October 2025, the festival is a major draw, featuring a curated mix of live art, music, and DJ sets.
It's a testament to the district's growth and its commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural scene. The festival also calls for local creatives to pitch their activations, ensuring a dynamic and evolving celebration each year. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit