City Guide: Norfolk

     Norfolk, Virginia, is tied to the sea.

     Its maritime past as a military post continues through to the city's present. Even though the most of 144 miles of its shoreline is in private ownership, Norfolk is a location for the world’s largest naval base with NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization headquartered in the area.

     Away from the security business, Norfolk is a charming city to explore with Booked.net. From cheap to luxury hotels in Norfolk all are available at our website. Check them out with maps, photos and secure forms.

     Norfolk acquired modern influence in the late 17^th century being concerned with tobacco business and by 1775 it has developed into the most influential of Virginia cities. The city expanded on exporting goods to the British Isles and that drew a large number of merchants to the area. Since then the city boasts a troubled history. It suffered from Lord Dunmore's attack and afterwards a devastating fire burned to the ground more than 300 buildings in the area. The 20^th century brought construction to the Norfolk city that revitalized the city's urban core.

     Today nothing is left from its past decay, only renovated piers and alleyways - adding to the cultural tapestry in Norfolk. The downtown harbor was under renovation, but today offers unforgettable experience of shops, cafes and beautiful sculptures dotted throughout. Walking along the banks of the Elizabeth River, you will face the pearl of the Virginia waterfront – Fort Norfolk. Serving for military purposes, it is regarded as the oldest of its kind in the nation and America's best preserved remnant of wartime.

Other attractions include;

- Chrysler Museum of Art traces the history of art from the old collections to modern art

- Nauticus - National Maritime Center, a attraction to explore with kids and find out more about maritime history of Norfolk

- Virginia Zoo has various animal specious on display

- Norfolk Botanical Garden, a green park with unique plants in the surrounding area

- The MacArthur Center, the best shopping mall in the area

     Despite the city brimming with culture and art, its maritime past has left its mark on the waterfront. Its coastline is lined with bars, off-duty entertainment and beer-perfumed air. Quiet by day, Norfolk rocks by night, therefore it is placed on the best cities for singles list.

     Even though the city has notorious reputation for the night adventures it offers, Norfolk is a very welcoming city. Compact, but with big heart Norfolk, will present you with the comforts of big city with advance booking at Booked.net.