The Best Hub for Fun Things to Do in Downtown Norfolk
Picture yourself on a patio eating delicious foods and enjoying views of the Elizabeth River. Next, you’re stepping inside for a nightcap, whether that be a sweet treat or a final round of drinks.
Norfolk’s Waterside District is your all-season, all-day option for fun times in Norfolk. From carefully curated events to great restaurants and entertainment, this fun area has it all.
The Waterside District is set up as one major hub. Once you’re there you get to choose from restaurants, bar hop with ease, snag a spot with a view or post up to watch sports.
If you’re lucky, you may even swing by on a night with live music, during their night market or while they have football specials complete with games and giveaways.
With so much to do you’ll want to head over before you go, but as you’re grabbing your keys and hopping in the car, don’t forget about parking. Norfolk’s Waterside building does not have its own parking lots or garages. Instead, you get to choose from all of Downtown Norfolk’s options.
CityParking has affordable, contactless parking ready for you to use at our Parking Deck 500 on Plume Street.
Restaurants to Try in Norfolk’s Waterside
1. Blue Moon TapHouse
This versatile venue has it all, from an outdoor gaming area and riverfront patio to old-school booths and plenty of TVs to watch sports on. Their menu features plenty of casual food favorites such as wings, burgers and tacos.
2. Cogan’s Pizza
Looking for a local favorite? Cogan’s has long made its mark on Norfolk and their waterside location is no exception. Get a classic pie or try their signature spicy sauce for a little bit of kick.
3. Rocky Mountain Grill
The Rocky Mountain Grill mixes food and fun with tons of popular games like air hockey and darts for patrons to play. Get your food and drinks from one of their bar kiosks and then enjoy dining indoors or outdoors on the patio.
4. Stripers Waterside
Get a taste of the Outer Banks right here in Virginia. Stripers’ Norfolk location has a great lunch selection, delicious seafood dinners and even a Sunday brunch.
5. The Market
The self-proclaimed “Living Room of Norfolk” is designed for the ideal sports watching experience. Get all your game day needs thanks to their menu of appetizers and sandwiches.
What About Special Events?
The Waterside District was designed for standard and special gatherings. Looking for something a little different than your typical night out? There are multiple great ways to make memories in Norfolk.
Waterside District Events
Keep an eye on their calendar for fun times such as:
- Hot Country Nights
- Silent Discos
- Sports Watching
- Happy Hours
- Girls Night Outs
On top of their weekly, monthly and annual events there’s always some extra special. For October Waterside is getting spooky with Frightmare on Waterside Drive: Fears and Phobias, a costume contest and huge Halloween party. During September the venue even hosted a mac and cheese festival.
Host Your Own Private Events
It’s not all sports bars and patios at the Waterside. This multi-purpose space also boasts The Harbor Club, a wedding venue with room for up to 200 guests. They handle tables, linens, yard games, a spot to prep and even offer planning services. All you need to do is bring the party and the love!
Not ready for a wedding, but just looking for a place for your next party? The Harbor Club, PBR Norfolk, Blue Moon TapHouse, The Market and Rocky Mountain Grill all offer private event experiences whether they’re for work or fun.
The Fun Doesn’t Stop at Dinner
You’ve finished your burger, enjoyed a brew or two and are now looking for one last thing to do. No need to switch venues, Waterside still has you covered. Party late into the night at PBR Norfolk. This exciting country bar is complete with great music and a mechanical bull ready for you to ride.
Not looking to party the night away? Turn in early after grabbing a sweet treat. Waterside District has two prime spots for dessert:
Carolina Cupcakery
Delicious bites of scratch baked cupcakes are nearly impossible to turn down. Once you hear about their huge range of flavors and food allergy friendly options, you’ll be lining up for your little cake and coffee.
The Fudgery
Nothing beats the sweet smell of fresh baked fudge. Indulge in delicious delights like fudge, caramel apples and ice creams at The Fudgery.
Don’t Forget About Parking
Norfolk’s Waterside District doesn’t have a free lot for patrons. However, there are nearby paid garages, lots, valet and street parking.
At a place you can stay all day, you don’t want to worry about your car being towed away. For easy, secure, affordable and contactless parking look no further than CityParking.
Our Parking Deck 500 on Plume Street is convenient for Waterside District visitors and leaves you the option to explore the rest of Downtown Norfolk too. Park with ease and enjoy the harbor breeze any day of the week!