Waterside District
A vibrant waterfront hub in Norfolk, VA, offering diverse dining, lively bars, and entertainment with scenic river views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, live music
Waterside District
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, live music
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant waterfront hub in Norfolk, VA, offering diverse dining, lively bars, and entertainment with scenic river views.
"A great place to meet up with friends to have a few drinks and watch sports events."
🎯 Smart Parking Solutions
Consider parking near Tides stadium or Amtrak for cheaper options than garages.
🎶 Catch First Fridays Events
Experience the vibrant energy of First Fridays with live music and a great crowd.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Waterfront Views & Ambiance
Along the Elizabeth River
Enjoy scenic waterfront views, perfect for a stroll or a relaxing evening by the water.
Live Music & Entertainment
Various venues within the district
Experience vibrant live music, DJ sets, and energetic performances that liven up the district.
Diverse Dining & Bar Scene
Center bar, Blue Moon Taphouse, PBR
From casual eateries to sit-down restaurants and lively bars, find a spot for every craving.
Special Events & Markets
Central plaza and event spaces
Discover unique events like the Norfolk Flea Market and themed nights for a memorable visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Parking & Crowds
Best Times for Vibes & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Smart Parking Solutions
Consider parking near Tides stadium or Amtrak for cheaper options than garages.
🎶 Catch First Fridays Events
Experience the vibrant energy of First Fridays with live music and a great crowd.
🍸 Ask for Drink Recommendations
If you're at the center bar, ask Courtni for a sweet surprise drink! [^Review]
🌊 Enjoy the Waterfront Stroll
Take a walk along the river for beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Smart Parking Solutions
Consider parking near Tides stadium or Amtrak for cheaper options than garages.
🎶 Catch First Fridays Events
Experience the vibrant energy of First Fridays with live music and a great crowd.
🍸 Ask for Drink Recommendations
If you're at the center bar, ask Courtni for a sweet surprise drink! [^Review]
🌊 Enjoy the Waterfront Stroll
Take a walk along the river for beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere.
🍽️ Check Restaurant Closures
Some smaller eateries may be closed; focus on bars and main restaurants. [^Review]
👨🍳 Service with a Smile
Appreciate staff like Chloe at Blue Moon Taproom for exceptional service. [^Review]
🕹️ Fun Arcade Games
Enjoy the arcade and air hockey for some lighthearted fun. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Waterside District for its lively atmosphere, diverse dining and bar options, and beautiful waterfront views. It's a popular spot for meeting friends, enjoying live music, and experiencing events. However, some note that certain smaller eateries have closed, and parking can be expensive.
"A great place to meet up with friends to have a few drinks and watch sports events. Several different eateries to suit anybody’s pallet and several bars to have you choosing from. They also offer several sit down restaurants.
It can be rather loud so be prepared for that."
Joshua L
"I had a great time here with my fiancée and my cousin the other day! We came for the flea market but ventured inside to the center bar to get some drinks. Thank you Courtni for the amazing service!! She’s great at making recommendations, ask her to make you something sweet for a surprise!"
Haley Linkous
"Waterside District has a few bars and one seafood restaurant. Unfortunately, most of the other small restaurants options are closed. There is a fudge and ice cream place but all others are gone. If you want a bar scene, this may be for you, but the charm of a shopping and eating center at Waterside is gone."
Nathan Rice
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Waterside District is easily accessible by car, with several parking garages available. Public transportation options also serve the area. For those driving, Redditors suggest looking for parking near the Tides stadium or Amtrak station to save on costs.
Yes, local bus routes typically service the downtown Norfolk area, including stops near the Waterside District. Check with the local transit authority for specific route information and schedules.
From Virginia Beach, you can drive directly to Norfolk via I-264 W. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Rideshare services are also a convenient option.
Many downtown Norfolk hotels are within walking distance of the Waterside District, making it a convenient destination for a stroll along the waterfront.
While there isn't a dedicated ferry service directly to the Waterside District, the Elizabeth River Ferry connects Norfolk and Portsmouth, offering scenic water views and a unique way to explore the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no admission fee to enter the Waterside District itself. However, specific events, concerts, or ticketed attractions within the district may require separate tickets.
The operating hours for the Waterside District can vary, especially for individual establishments. It's best to check the official website or individual venue pages for the most up-to-date hours, particularly for restaurants and bars.
While the Waterside District is generally family-friendly, some bars and lounges may have age restrictions, typically 21 and over, especially during evening hours or for specific events.
Yes, there are parking garages associated with the Waterside District, and they typically charge a fee. Redditors have noted these can be expensive, suggesting alternative parking locations.
Yes, the Waterside District offers spaces for private events, including parties, corporate gatherings, and celebrations. Inquire directly with their event services for details.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Waterside District offers a variety of dining options, including casual eateries, bars with food menus, and sit-down restaurants. Popular spots include Blue Moon Taphouse and PBR, with some smaller food stalls also present. 
Yes, there is a seafood restaurant mentioned within the Waterside District, offering a taste of local flavors. [^Review]
The Waterside District has several bars, including a central bar known for great service and recommendations, as well as venues like Blue Moon Taphouse and PBR. [^Review]
While specific menus vary, many restaurants in the district offer diverse options. It's recommended to check the menus of individual establishments or inquire with staff about vegetarian and vegan choices.
Many of the bars and restaurants in the Waterside District offer happy hour specials. It's a popular spot for meeting friends for drinks and appetizers after work.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront promenade offers stunning views of the Elizabeth River and ships, perfect for scenic shots. The architecture of the district itself, especially at sunset, also makes for great photos.
Drone photography may be subject to local regulations and venue policies. While some aerial shots exist, it's advisable to check with district management before flying a drone.
Yes, the Waterside District is beautifully lit at night, offering a vibrant and dynamic backdrop for evening photography. The reflections on the water add to the ambiance.
Look for shots with the Norfolk skyline in the background, the docked ships, and the lively atmosphere of the central plaza. The unique bar areas also provide interesting visual elements.
Absolutely! The district frequently hosts events, concerts, and markets, providing dynamic and engaging scenes for event photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, consider the timing to avoid the peak late-night crowds. Weekday afternoons or early evenings can offer a more relaxed experience. It's also worth checking the schedule for any family-oriented events or activities that might be happening during your visit. Remember to check the operating hours for specific restaurants and attractions to ensure they align with your family's needs.
💰 Budget Travelers
While some dining options can be pricey, looking for casual eateries, happy hour specials at the bars, or even just enjoying the waterfront ambiance can be done without breaking the bank. Consider visiting during off-peak hours or on weekdays when prices might be more favorable. Focusing on the free entertainment like waterfront views and people-watching can also be a great way to enjoy the district on a budget.
💖 Couples & Date Nights
Exploring the district hand-in-hand, enjoying the sunset over the water, or catching some live music can all contribute to a memorable date. The variety of venues means you can tailor the evening to your preferences, whether it's a sophisticated dinner or a more casual night out with drinks and entertainment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Waterside District Experience
Visitors often highlight the energetic atmosphere, especially during evenings and weekends when live music and events are common. The central bar area is a popular spot for drinks and socializing, with staff known for making great recommendations. While the district is designed to be a lively destination, some reviews note that certain smaller food options may be closed, suggesting a focus on the bar scene and main restaurants. [^Review]
Beyond dining and drinks, the Waterside District also hosts various special events and markets, such as the Norfolk Flea Market, adding another layer of attraction. It's a place that encourages exploration, whether it's a leisurely walk along the water, enjoying arcade games, or simply soaking in the bustling ambiance.
Navigating Parking and Transportation
Redditors have shared practical tips for saving on parking, suggesting areas like the Tides stadium or near the Amtrak station as viable options for cheaper or even free parking. This advice is invaluable for those looking to manage their trip expenses. For those relying on public transport, local bus routes service the downtown area, making the district accessible without a personal vehicle.
For a more scenic approach, consider the Elizabeth River Ferry, which connects Norfolk and Portsmouth, offering a unique perspective of the waterfront. Many downtown hotels are also within walking distance, making it easy to incorporate a visit to the Waterside District into a broader exploration of the city.
Events and Entertainment at Waterside
Beyond regular events, the district also hosts special markets and themed nights, such as the Norfolk Flea Market, which offers unique shopping opportunities and adds to the district's appeal.
The presence of live music and DJ sets is a common feature, contributing to the energetic ambiance, especially on weekend evenings. For those planning celebrations or looking for unique experiences, the Waterside District also offers private event spaces and partnerships, such as luxury hotel room setups for special occasions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit