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ORF Layover Ideas Norfolk Airport Layover Guide

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Top 5 Layover Ideas for Norfolk Airport

If you find yourself with a long layover at Norfolk Airport, don't fret. There are plenty of exciting activities to explore within the vicinity of the airport. Here are our top 5 recommendations:

1. Fort Norfolk

This historic site is the last surviving fort from the Revolutionary War. It played a significant role during the Civil War, changing hands twice, and providing Confederate ammunition during the Merrimac-Monitor battle. Located at 810 Front St, Norfolk, it's an ideal spot to soak in some history.

2. Carrie B Cruises

Experience the East Coast’s most interesting nautical sights with the Carrie B Cruises. They offer a 1½ hour inner harbor and Norfolk Naval Shipyard cruise, a 2½ hour Hampton Roads and Norfolk Naval Base cruise, and a 2½ hour sunset cruise. It's a perfect way to relax and enjoy the stunning views.

3. General Douglas MacArthur Memorial

Located at Bank St and City Hall Ave, MacArthur Square, this memorial honors one of the most important and well-known military men the US has ever seen. The museum is situated in the City Hall rotunda and includes nine galleries detailing the life and times of General MacArthur. You can also find a library, a gift shop, and a theater here.

4. Norfolk Botanical Garden

Just a short journey from the airport, at 6700 Azalea Garden Rd, is the Norfolk Botanical Garden. This sprawling 155-acre garden is known for its lush scenery and promotion of ecological and botanical education. It's a perfect place to unwind amidst nature during your layover.

5. Norfolk Naval Base

Being the largest naval base in the world, the Norfolk Naval Base boasts the massive nuclear-powered USS Theodore and more than 100 ships of the Mediterranean and Atlantic fleets. Tours depart daily from the Naval Tour and Information Center located at 9079 Hampton Blvd. It's a must-visit for those interested in naval history.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through ORF Airport:

  • Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
  • If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of ORF's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
  • If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
  • Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
  • Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Norfolk airport's internet (free!)
  • For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near ORF to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
  • Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If your layover at Norfolk Airport extends beyond 12 hours, there's no need to confine yourself to the airport's vicinity. Here are some exciting attractions within reasonable proximity that you can visit:

1. Virginia Beach

Just a 20-minute drive from the airport, Virginia Beach offers a variety of activities. Enjoy the sun at the beach, walk the length of the boardwalk, visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, or explore the First Landing State Park. It's an ideal location to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.

2. Colonial Williamsburg

Step back in time and immerse yourself in history at Colonial Williamsburg. This living-history museum and private foundation showcases part of the historic district in the city of Williamsburg. It's a 45-minute drive from the airport, and you can easily spend a day exploring the historic buildings and interactive exhibits.

3. Busch Gardens Williamsburg

If you're a thrill-seeker, Busch Gardens Williamsburg is the place to be. This European-themed amusement park is about an hour's drive from the airport and offers a variety of roller coasters, water rides, and animal attractions. It's a fun-filled destination for both adults and children.

4. Jamestown Settlement

Located about an hour from the airport, the Jamestown Settlement is a living history museum that tells the story of 17th-century Virginia. Explore the Powhatan Indian Village, climb aboard replicas of the three ships that brought the colonists to Virginia in 1607, and visit the colonial fort.

5. Historic Yorktown

Yorktown is about an hour's drive from the airport and is one of America's most historic towns. Visit the Yorktown Battlefield, take a stroll along the Riverwalk Landing, or explore the American Revolution Museum. It's a great way to learn about American history while enjoying picturesque views.

Updated on: November 22, 2023