Arts & culture

Museums, art and historic places in Norfolk

Museums, galleries and historic places in Norfolk, each with photos, an address and directions.

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Cultural places

Decorative arts museum

Hunter House Victorian Museum

Decorative arts museum · 240 W Freemason St

The Hunter House Victorian Museum is a museum in Norfolk, Virginia, that showcases Victorian decorative arts and architecture. It features a collection of furniture, books, and decorative objects. The museum is located in a historic home and offers guided and self-guided tours. Visitors can explore two floors of the home and learn about the history of the Victorian Era. The museum is closed on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and major holidays. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and events throughout the year, and visitors can learn about the history of the Hunter family and their home. The museum is a non-profit organization and relies on donations to support its programming.

Historic site

220 West

Historic site · 220 W Brambleton Ave

220 West is a music project rooted in the spirit of historic 220 West, a family home where music was always part of the atmosphere. The project blends Southern Soul music with blues and R&B, and features relatable storytelling in its songs. The music project is built around original songs and soulful sound, with each song taking on the voice that fits its story, while the writing and creative vision remain the thread connecting it all. 220 West is located in Norfolk, Virginia, and its story began with a place where generations gathered under one roof to listen to music and share stories. The project can be found on various music platforms, including YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, where listeners can follow along, save songs, and stay connected as new stories are released.

Art gallery

Janice Gay Maker Fine Art

Art gallery · 740 Boush St

Janice Gay Maker Fine Art is an art gallery located in Norfolk, Virginia, showcasing the work of Janice Gay Maker in oils and oil pastels. The gallery features a wide range of artwork, including landscapes, waterscapes, urban scenes, and character studies of animals, all created using oils and oil pastels. The artist's work is inspired by the natural world and the city, with pieces such as 'FRINGE TREE IN SPRING' and 'NARO CINEMA' showcasing their ability to capture the beauty of the world around them. In addition to the artwork on display, the gallery also offers a range of services, including commissions and representation at the d'Art Center in Norfolk. The gallery is located in Norfolk, Virginia, and is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the work of a local artist.

Music venue

Taste ‘N See

Music venue · 455 E Brambleton Ave

Taste 'N See is a banquet and conference center located in Historic Norfolk, Virginia, providing services for various events such as weddings, meetings, and receptions. The center offers four distinct and uniquely designed banquet rooms, which provide seclusion and privacy for events. One of the notable rooms is the Grand Theater Ballroom, which features a stage, gleaming chandeliers, and a state-of-the-art sound system. The Grand Theater ballroom can accommodate different types of events, including 450 dining affairs, 700 theater-style seating, 400 guest buffet seating, and stand-up receptions for up to 550 guests. The team at Taste 'N See, including the Chef, Maitre'd, and Catering Director, work together to create memorable events. Taste 'N See is committed to providing exceptional service and using the freshest ingredients available. They offer a range of services, including anniversaries, formal banquets, corporate events, concerts, business meetings, dinner theater, school awards, wedding receptions, retirement dinners, sales seminars, formal dining, and family reunions. The center is conveniently located in Downtown Norfolk at 455 E. Brambleton Ave. and can be contacted by phone at (757) 622-5660.

Art gallery

Aspire Art Gallery

Art gallery · 645 Church St

Aspire Art Gallery is located at 645 Church Street in Norfolk, Virginia, and showcases contemporary art, exhibitions, workshops, cultural programs, and community events. The gallery features original artwork, rotating exhibitions, and opportunities to purchase art, take classes, and engage with the local creative community. Aspire Art Gallery offers a range of programming, including arts education, art exhibitions, community arts, and literary activities, with the goal of stimulating arts creativity, awareness, education, and diversity for the residents of Norfolk and the Hampton Roads community. The gallery provides hands-on artistic opportunities, with skilled artists sharing their knowledge and exploring new ideas with students, and offers classes and workshops for artists of all ages and skill levels. Aspire Art Gallery is also a place to purchase art prints, with a collection of original paintings and prints by local, regional, national, and international artists available for sale.

History museum

Norfolk Historical Society

History museum · 801 Front St

The Norfolk Historical Society is committed to preserving the diverse history of the Norfolk, Virginia area. The society maintains space at Historic Fort Norfolk and is available via mail, e-mail, and social media. The society's mission is to promote the collection, interpretation, and preservation of Norfolk's history through educational programs, preservation support, community awareness, and advocacy. It also provides opportunities for people to learn about and participate in the city's rich history. The Norfolk Historical Society has various programs and events, including the Louis Guy Lecture Series, which features presentations on historical topics. The society also has a video series called Norfolk Celebrates, which showcases the city's diverse and culturally rich community. People can get involved with the Norfolk Historical Society by becoming a member, donating to the organization, or participating in its events. The society also has an internship program in partnership with the Department of History at Old Dominion University. The Norfolk Historical Society can be contacted through its website, by mail at P.O. Box 6367, Norfolk, Virginia 23508-0367, or by email at info@norfolkhistorical.org. The society's physical location is at Fort Norfolk, 810 Front Street, Norfolk, VA 23510.

Jazz and blues venue

Gershwin's

Jazz and blues venue · 332 Granby St

Gershwin's is a jazz and blues venue located in the heart of downtown Norfolk's Theater District. The business offers specialty menus and linens for large parties or private events, and it is known for its live entertainment, including pianists and jazz events. The venue has a wide selection of drinks, including whiskey, cocktails, and mocktails. It also serves a variety of food, including appetizers, shareables, soups, salads, entrees, and desserts. Some of the notable dishes include seared ribeye steak, hummus, escargot, and braised beef short ribs. Gershwin's is available for private events, including birthday parties, office functions, and other special occasions. The business takes care of all the fine details to bring the event to life as imagined. Reservations can be made online, and guests are encouraged to book ahead of time to ensure a great table. The venue is located at 332 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510, and it can be contacted by phone at (757)-226-0814 or by email at thefoodguyz.cd@gmail.com. Gershwin's has a social media presence on Facebook, Instagram, and Google, and it offers online reservations and event booking. Gershwin's strives to make its website accessible to everybody, and it provides information on its menu, drinks, and events. The business also offers a newsletter and has a careers page for those interested in working at the venue.

Museum

Norfolk History Museum

Museum · 601 E Freemason St

The Norfolk History Museum is located in the historic Willoughby-Baylor House, which was built in 1794. The museum features permanent exhibits on the history of Norfolk, as well as changing exhibits. The museum is situated at 601 East Freemason Street in Norfolk, Virginia. It can be visited in conjunction with other nearby historic sites, including the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum, Moses Myers House, St. Pauls Church, and the MacArthur Memorial. These sites are all located near MacArthur Mall, making it convenient to visit multiple locations in one day. Parking is available at street parking meters, and it is free on Sundays. The Norfolk History Museum provides a unique glimpse into the city's past, with exhibits and documents showcasing significant events and figures in Norfolk's history. Visitors can explore the museum and learn more about the city's rich history. For more information about the Norfolk History Museum, visitors can call (757) 333-1087 or visit the website at www.chrysler.org. Admission to the museum is free, making it an accessible and enjoyable destination for anyone interested in history.

Performing arts venue

The Governor's School For The Arts

Performing arts venue · 254 Granby St

The Governor's School for the Arts is a regional public arts high school located at 254 Granby Street in Norfolk, Virginia. It offers intensive pre-professional training in dance, music, theatre, and visual arts. The school provides conservatory-style training in six arts disciplines: Dance, Instrumental Music, Musical Theatre, Theatre & Film, Visual Arts, and Vocal Music. Students participate in professional-level performances and exhibitions throughout the year, with over 50 productions and exhibitions presented yearly. The school serves students across Hampton Roads, providing tuition-free arts education alongside public high school enrollment. Transportation is provided to the school by the local school divisions, and students may earn three credits for each year they attend. Admission to the school is by audition, and applicants must be enrolled in a public high school in one of the eight participating school divisions. The school's mission is to develop excellence, nurture creativity, inspire artistic vision, and build communities with a passion for the arts. Each department at the school is tailored to meet the demanding needs of each art form, and students learn the real-life workings of on-stage, backstage, and gallery life in a professional atmosphere.

Performing arts venue

Virginia Stage Company

Performing arts venue · 108 E Tazewell St

Virginia Stage Company is the premier professional theatre in southeastern Virginia, making memories together and building community through the power of sharing a story. The company is based in Norfolk, with its home at the Wells Theatre, a National Historic Landmark in downtown Norfolk. The Wells Theatre is located close to MacArthur Center, local parking, and a variety of local dining spots. Virginia Stage Company produces a range of stories, including those of unexpected kindness, bold choices, and complicated relationships. The company invites audiences to experience stories that bring people together, such as The Heart Sellers, a story about friendship and finding one's place in a new country. The company values collaboration and has partnerships with many arts, educational, and social service institutions in Hampton Roads. Virginia Stage productions are created on site, working with local artists and artisans as well as leading actors, directors, and designers from around the country. Virginia Stage Company connects the Hampton Roads community through education and community engagement programming, striving to reflect the needs of the communities it serves and to advocate for arts integration and experiences that promote literacy and critical thinking.

Theatre venue

Wells Theatre

Theatre venue · 108 E Tazewell St

The Wells Theatre is a professional theatre venue located in downtown Norfolk, Virginia, and is home to the Virginia Stage Company. The Virginia Stage Company is the premier professional theatre in southeastern Virginia and makes memories together, building community through the extraordinary power of sharing a story. The Wells Theatre, a National Historic Landmark, hosts various productions, including stories about finding where we belong, unexpected kindness, bold choices, complicated relationships, mystery, music, and the search for connection. The theatre is close to MacArthur Center, local parking, and a wide variety of local dining, with plenty of dining spots within walking distance, including 219 Bistro, Black Eyed Peas, and Tap It Local. The Virginia Stage Company connects the Hampton Roads community through initiatives that enrich lives and encourage artists and audiences for the future, and relies heavily on the generosity of individuals, corporations, municipalities, and charitable foundations in reaching its mission.

Art gallery

d'Art Center

Art gallery · 740 Boush St

The d'Art Center is a non-profit community art center located in Norfolk's NEON District, offering classes, studio space, exhibitions, art events, and venue rental. The center has a mission to make the visual arts welcoming and accessible to all. The d'Art Center features three galleries, resident artist studios, and multiple activity rooms. The Main Gallery and Vault are rotated monthly with new and nationally curated exhibitions, while the Artist Wing displays frequently updated community artists' work. The center provides opportunities for people to create, learn, and enjoy art together, with classes and workshops offered in a variety of mediums and skill levels. It also offers summer camps for kids and hosts national exhibitions that generate over 4,000 submissions annually. The d'Art Center is supported by private donations, events, and workshops, and the City of Norfolk supports 8% of its budget. The center also has a boutique shop that sells items from local and national artists, including artwork, jewelry, and home decor. The d'Art Center is located at 740 Boush Street in the heart of the NEON District, with a 2,200 sq ft gallery that has incredible visibility to Boush Street traffic and pedestrians. The center is also close to a thriving new apartment community and other creative small businesses and arts partners.

Performing arts venue

Generic Theater For Kids

Performing arts venue · 112 College Pl

Generic Theater for Kids is an acting school for children ages 5 through 18, located in Norfolk, Virginia. The school offers classes in acting, musical theater, and acting for TV and movies. During the school year, classes are held on Saturdays, and after each session, students perform a play or musical with every student having a speaking part. The school also runs theater and video camps during the summer. The classes are held at 112 College Place in downtown Norfolk, and performances are held on the Old Dominion University Theater stage. The school uses professional cameras, sound, and lighting equipment, and students are videotaped doing sample TV commercials and acting in a movie. The school was established by Judy Ziegler, who is the Executive Director and lead instructor. She has a background in musical theater, summer stock, movies, and voice-over work, and has directed and acted at local theaters. The school offers various classes, including Musical Theater, Acting for Stage, and Acting for TV/Movies, with tuition ranging from $275 to $375 for 10 to 12 weeks of classes, rehearsals, and performance.

Museum

Historic Fort Norfolk

Museum · 801 Front St

Historic Fort Norfolk is a cultural site located at 810 Front Street in Norfolk, Virginia. The site has a long history dating back to when Congress authorized its construction to protect American harbors. The fort was originally built with earthen walls and wooden supports, but was later upgraded with brick and masonry walls and buildings. During its history, the fort played a significant role in the War of 1812, serving as a key defense for Norfolk's inner harbor. It was also home to the frigate Constellation and was involved in the Battle of Craney Island. After the war, the fort's importance declined with the construction of another fortification. In the mid-19th century, the Navy took over the fort and established a naval weapons station. The site includes a large powder magazine that still stands today. The fort was later used for storage and was occupied by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Today, the Corps of Engineers still occupies the site. The Norfolk Historical Society maintains space at Historic Fort Norfolk and offers guided tours of the site on Sundays from May 1 to the last Sunday in August. The site is also open for self-guided tours around the outside of the buildings from Monday to Friday. Visitors must show a REAL ID or equivalent to enter the site, and free parking is available behind the guard house. The Norfolk Historical Society is committed to preserving the diverse history of the Norfolk area and can be contacted via mail, email, or social media. The society's address is P.O. Box 6367, Norfolk, Virginia 23508-0367, and its email is info@norfolkhistorical.org.

Music venue

The Annex

Music venue · 2500 Church St

The Annex is a music venue located in Norfolk, Virginia, at 2500 Church Street, Unit A. It hosts various events and shows, including concerts and private events. The venue has a bar and kitchen, offering a space for people to gather and enjoy live music. The events calendar is regularly updated with new shows and performances. Some of the upcoming events at The Annex include Lip Sync Battle, LAVA Presents Fonville x Fribush, and Fresh Radio Presents Fresh Radio 16th Birthday. These events showcase the diversity of performances hosted at the venue. The Annex provides a platform for both local and touring artists to perform, making it a hub for live music in Norfolk. The venue is open to all ages for most events, although some shows have age restrictions. To stay informed about upcoming events and shows, visitors can sign up for The Annex's newsletter or follow their social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.

Art gallery

The Gallery at Paint Pink

Art gallery · 2200 Colonial Ave #15

The Gallery at Paint Pink is an art gallery located in Norfolk, Virginia, and is part of Paint Pink Inc, a 501(c)3 organization that raises funds for those battling cancer. The gallery was the idea of friends and fellow artists Kim Keene and Laura Henderson, who shared a studio together at d'Art Center and wanted to have a gallery together. The gallery currently features the work of Laura Henderson, who specializes in acrylic abstract art, as well as that of various rotating guest artists. A portion of all art sales is donated to Paint Pink Inc to help those battling cancer. The gallery is open for scheduled shows and by appointment only, and is located in the Ghent Market Shoppes at 2200 Colonial Avenue #15, Norfolk, VA 23517.

Performing arts venue

Ambrosia Quartet

Performing arts venue · 1709 Colley Ave Ste 302

Ambrosia Quartet is a group of fully professional and classically trained musicians based in Norfolk, Virginia. They are a string quartet that performs a wide range of music, from classical favorites to contemporary compositions. The quartet consists of four members, each with a diverse background. Violinists Simon Lapointe and Mayu Kuroda Cipriano hail from Québec and Tokyo, respectively, while violist Beverly Kane Baker is from Hampton and cellist Rebecca Gilmore is from Charlotte, North Carolina. They have all studied at prestigious conservatories, including the Peabody Conservatory and the Juilliard School. Ambrosia Quartet has performed in various venues, including churches, museums, and concert halls, both locally and internationally. They have also worked with composers from the Hampton Roads area, recording and premiering their works. The quartet is currently the Quartet in Residence for The Academy of Music, a community music school in Norfolk. The quartet's performances have been well-received, with critics praising their chemistry and elevation of playing. They strive to reach diverse audiences and share their love of chamber music with the community. Ambrosia Quartet's name is inspired by classical mythology, where ambrosia is the food of the gods, and they aim to share this 'ambrosia' with their listeners.

Art gallery

Harbor Gallery

Art gallery · 1508 Colley Ave

Harbor Gallery is located in the historic Ghent neighborhood of Norfolk, Virginia, and offers fine art, custom framing, and unique gifts. The gallery has been a part of the community for over 30 years and is known for its eclectic mix of art, gifts, and framing services. The gallery features original work from regional and local artists, which rotates seasonally. Some of the artists whose work is currently on view include Bill Bensen, Eric Unser, Carrie Jacobson, and John Gagnon. The gallery also offers custom framing services, where experts can frame anything from art and photos to mirrors and memorabilia. The custom framing process at Harbor Gallery involves four simple steps: arriving with the piece to be framed, browsing the hundreds of mouldings on the wall, consulting with the team to pick the right mat, glass, and finish, and collecting the finished piece. The gallery uses conservation- and archival-grade materials to ensure that each piece is framed with care and attention to detail. In addition to its art and framing services, Harbor Gallery also offers photo and video preservation services in partnership with EverPresent. This service allows customers to digitize their photos and home movies, making it easy to share and preserve their memories. Harbor Gallery is a unique and welcoming space that is home to a team of art lovers, including the owner Amy, and a few resident cats. The gallery is a member of the Ghent Business Association and a partner of Norfolk Festevents and HarborFest. Visitors can stop by the gallery to browse the current exhibition, learn more about the custom framing services, or simply to say hello.

Music venue

For Creatives

Music venue · 271 Granby St

For Creatives is a hub for people to gather, celebrate, learn, and create in Norfolk, Virginia. It offers unique event spaces, community experiences, and entrepreneurial resources. The business has two spaces, Elevate and Deluxe, which can be booked for private events. Elevate is an intimate setting that can accommodate up to 70 guests, while Deluxe can accommodate up to 125 guests. For Creatives also hosts signature functions, such as The Living Room Worship Experience, and provides resources for entrepreneurs and innovators to help their businesses thrive. The business is located in Downtown Norfolk, with two addresses: 255 Granby Street and 271 Granby Street. It offers a curated marketplace experience, where brands can showcase their products and services. For Creatives provides a prime downtown location, curated marketplace experience, and increased exposure for partner businesses. It also offers flexible partnership options, including daily and monthly partnerships, and revenue share partnerships.

Art gallery

Clayton Singleton Fine Art

Art gallery · 208 E Main St

Clayton Singleton Fine Art is an art gallery located in Norfolk, Virginia, showcasing uplifting visual art by Clayton Singleton. The gallery features a range of artistic mediums, including acrylics, ink, graphite, paper, and found objects. The artist's inspiration comes from everyday living and the lives of everyday people, as well as the juxtaposition of images and words that provide a metaphor for the reality of our lives and the possibilities of our dreams. Clayton Singleton's style is a blend of realist-expressionism, which is both academic and freestyle. He believes that working in a single medium is restrictive to his artistic process, and each idea manifests in its own individual message with its own material needs. The gallery offers commissioned paintings, and Clayton Singleton is available for shows and loves to hear what viewers think of his work. He can be contacted through his website or social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. To get in touch with Clayton Singleton Fine Art, visitors can send a message through the website or call (757) 797-6221. The gallery is located in Norfolk, Virginia, and provides a space for art lovers to discover and appreciate uplifting visual art.

History museum

MacArthur Memorial

History museum · 198 Bank St

The MacArthur Memorial is a museum and research center located in downtown Norfolk, Virginia. It is dedicated to preserving and presenting the story of General Douglas MacArthur's life. The memorial also honors the millions of men and women who served with him in several wars. The memorial complex consists of several facilities, including a museum, archive and research center, education center, theater, welcome center, and a gift shop. Visitors can explore the life of General MacArthur and learn about his experiences. The MacArthur Memorial offers various activities and programs for visitors, including guided tours, scavenger hunts, and a museum backpack program for younger audiences. The memorial also features a theater that shows a film about General MacArthur's story. The memorial is open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, and visitors can access the museum, visitors center, and other services during this time. The MacArthur Memorial is located at 198 Bank Street in Norfolk, Virginia, and can be contacted by phone or email. The memorial provides information about its facilities, services, and activities on its website.

Art museum

Hermitage Museum and Gardens

Art museum · 7637 N Shore Rd

The Hermitage Museum and Gardens is located in Norfolk, Virginia, and offers free admission from Tuesday to Sunday. The museum features a nationally recognized art collection spanning 5,000 years, as well as traveling exhibitions and immersive experiences. The Hermitage Museum and Gardens is situated on a 12-acre waterfront estate along the Lafayette River. The estate includes the historic home and gardens of Florence Sloane, as well as the newly renovated Goode Family Visual Arts School. The museum offers a variety of programs and events, including art classes, workshops, and live music concerts. Visitors can also explore the gardens, which feature seasonal blooms and stunning views of the Lafayette River. The Hermitage Museum and Gardens is committed to making its galleries, gardens, and events accessible to all visitors. The main floor is wheelchair accessible, and ADA-compliant restrooms are available. Leashed dogs are welcome in the gardens, but not inside the museum. The Hermitage Museum and Gardens is part of the prestigious Smithsonian Affiliations program and was awarded accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums. The museum's mission is to invite people of all backgrounds to explore and discover nature and the arts through spaces that inspire creation, learning, conservation, and connection.

Music venue

North Shore Point House Concerts

Music venue · 1602 Runnymede Rd

North Shore Point House Concerts is a nonprofit house concert series located in Norfolk, Virginia, featuring contemporary singer/songwriters. The series has hosted notable performers, including Grammy nominees and winners. The concerts are intimate, smoke-free evenings of music with a few snacks provided. The series has been hosting shows since 2001 and has built a community of people who enjoy listening to great music. North Shore Point House Concerts partners with the Virginia Arts Festival to co-host shows in their venues. They also host shows at The Annex and Vessel Craft Coffee. The series became a non-profit in 2016 and donates are tax deductible. The shows are permitted under a Norfolk special events ordinance supporting organic cultural events, and city permits are secured for each show. To attend shows, one can sign up for the email list, and invites are sent out a few weeks before each show.

Art gallery

Nancy Thomas Gallery

Art gallery · 814 W 45th St

The Nancy Thomas Gallery is an art gallery located in Norfolk, Virginia, and it features contemporary folk art by American artist Nancy Thomas. The gallery has a new brick and mortar location in partnership with Borjo Coffeehouse, where visitors can view the current show featuring original works by Nancy Thomas and other local artists. The gallery's collection includes a variety of products such as paintings, prints, pillows, and garden flags, all of which are available for purchase online. The gallery also has a presence on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, where customers can stay up to date with the latest news and events.

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