Norfolk, Virginia, is a city that offers more than just its naval history and waterfront views. Its diverse range of tours makes it an ideal destination for curious explorers and families alike. Whether you’re interested in relaxing buffet cruises with stunning skyline views or active self-guided bike rides through historic neighborhoods, Norfolk has it all. Some of our favorites include the City Cruises Norfolk lunch or dinner cruise for a laid-back yet scenic dining experience, and the Electric Bike Rental downtown for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. With its mix of maritime charm, cultural spots, and outdoor activities, Norfolk’s tours truly cater to many interests.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover a variety of engaging tours including water-based cruises, self-guided biking adventures, family-friendly museum visits, and interactive scavenger hunts. We’ll also highlight options like the City Cruises Norfolk: Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise, which offers a relaxed way to see Norfolk’s skyline, and the Electric Bike Rental Downtown Norfolk, perfect for those who love active exploration. For family fun, the Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin combines maritime history with wildlife. Below are the top tours ranked by their unique appeal and value.
1. City Cruises Norfolk: Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise
Sailing along the Elizabeth River, this buffet cruise offers a delicious way to enjoy Norfolk’s skyline. For around $80, you’ll indulge in freshly prepared dishes from the buffet while taking in views of Navy vessels and the city’s skyline. The cruise lasts 2 to 2.5 hours and features music or a DJ to keep the atmosphere lively. The outdoor decks, especially the city’s largest patio, make for great photo opportunities. Many rave about the combination of good food and scenic vistas, noting it as a memorable way to unwind with friends or family.
What makes this cruise stand out is the relaxed atmosphere and stunning outdoor space. It’s well-suited for those celebrating special occasions or seeking a scenic yet casual dining experience. Keep in mind, the $80 price includes a variety of buffet options, making it good value for a sit-down meal with a view.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a leisurely meal onboard.
2. Electric Bike Rental Downtown Norfolk (self guided tour)
For just $60, you get an electric bike and helmet rental that lets you explore downtown Norfolk at your own pace. This self-guided tour covers key sights such as Harbor Park, the Town Point Park, and the scenic Elizabeth River Trail. The e-bike’s motor makes pedaling easier, especially in the summer heat or hilly areas, giving you more energy to enjoy the sights. Many riders find it a fun and efficient way to learn about Norfolk’s history and culture without the commitment of a guided tour.
The itinerary includes stops like the Pagoda & Oriental Garden and the Nauticus museum, giving you a mix of waterfront views and cultural insights. “We did the ERT trail and saw so much in just a few hours,” one reviewer commented, highlighting the ease of navigation and helpful staff. The 3- or 6-hour options make it flexible for different schedules.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want independence and a chance to see Norfolk’s highlights without rushing.
3. Norfolk: Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket
Priced at $42, this combo ticket offers access to two of Norfolk’s top attractions: the Virginia Zoo and the Battleship Wisconsin. The zoo features animals like tigers, giraffes, and red pandas, providing a fun and educational experience for families. Meanwhile, the Battleship Wisconsin, built in 1943, is the largest and last of its kind, offering an immersive look into naval history. The combo ticket also includes discounts at nearby museums and shops, making it a good deal for a full day of exploration.
Guests appreciate the variety—one said, “We loved the chance to see both the ship and the animals in one trip.” The museum discounts add extra value, especially for those planning multiple visits. The only potential downside is that it’s a 30-day validity, so you can spread out your visits.
Bottom Line: An excellent family-friendly package that combines maritime history with wildlife encounters.
4. Skip the Line: Virginia Living Museum Admission Ticket
At $22.39, this ticket guarantees quick entry to the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News. It features over 250 species of wildlife, including bald eagles and red wolves, plus interactive exhibits and a Dinosaur Discovery Trail. Ideal for families or animal lovers, the museum provides a hands-on experience with both indoor and outdoor displays.
Many visitors highlight the outdoor trail with life-like dinosaurs and fossil digs as a hit with kids. “It’s a great rainy-day activity,” one reviewer said, emphasizing the indoor-outdoor versatility. The ticket’s main advantage is skipping the lines, ensuring more time to explore. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., it’s a well-organized stop for a half-day adventure.
Bottom Line: A family favorite, especially for those wanting an interactive, educational experience with easy access.
5. Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise
For a more elegant evening, the Buffet Dinner Cruise at around $107 per person offers a 2.5-hour voyage along the Elizabeth River. Guests enjoy a delicious buffet featuring fresh entrees, salads, and desserts while the ship cruises past Norfolk’s naval ships and city skyline. The atmosphere is lively, with options to dance or relax in the lounge.
One reviewer mentioned, “The food was very good and the sunset views were beautiful,” capturing the essence of this experience. The cruise is perfect for celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, or simply a special night out. The price includes the meal, making it a good value for an enjoyable dinner with a view.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking an upscale dining experience combined with scenic Norfolk sights.
6. Nutty Norfolk Scavenger Hunt
This fun and quirky scavenger hunt costs $29 and lasts around 2 hours. Using your phone, you’ll explore Norfolk’s streets, uncovering hidden attractions and completing wacky challenges. The remote-guided format makes it flexible and interactive. One reviewer said, “We had so many laughs and learned about the city,” which highlights how this activity combines sightseeing with entertainment.
It’s well suited for families or groups wanting a lighthearted way to see Norfolk differently. The game encourages photo-taking and interaction with locals, adding a social element. The challenge is balancing the puzzle difficulty with the available clues, but most find it a creative and engaging way to learn.
Bottom Line: A playful, interactive option for groups or families who enjoy a bit of competition.
$29.00 per person
7. Full-Day Electric Bike Rental in Norfolk
For around $100, this full-day e-bike rental offers the perfect way to experience Norfolk’s parks and trails at your leisure. The rental includes a battery-powered bike, allowing you to cover more ground without fatigue. With the nearby bike trails being safe and scenic, this option is great for outdoor enthusiasts. One happy rider shared, “It’s the most fun activity I did on my trip,” highlighting its popularity.
This experience suits travelers who want maximum flexibility and a full day exploring at their own pace. It’s especially good for those who prefer a more active, independent adventure. The only drawback might be weather dependency, so check the forecast.
Bottom Line: A top pick for active explorers seeking a flexible day of sightseeing.
$100.00 per person
8. Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Newport News by Zombie Scavengers
This unique zombie-themed scavenger hunt costs just $20 per group and lasts about an hour. It turns your visit into a fun survival game where you find items and complete challenges while avoiding zombies—an amusing twist for families or groups of friends. One reviewer said, “It was a blast, even for my non-gamer friends,” emphasizing how accessible it is for all ages.
It’s best suited for adventurous types who enjoy challenges and storytelling. The virtual host provides guidance if needed, ensuring everyone stays on track. It’s a quick, lively activity that adds excitement to your trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for groups looking for a quick, engaging adventure with a humorous theme.
$20.00 per group (up to 10)
9. Norfolk’s Combo Tickets – Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin
At around $40, this combo pass combines Virginia Zoo and the Battleship Wisconsin for an immersive day. It includes a tour of the historic ship and a walk through the zoo’s animal exhibits. The discounts on additional attractions make it excellent for families wanting to maximize their Norfolk experience. One reviewer noted, “The battleship tour was fascinating, and the zoo was beautiful,” showing this combo’s appeal.
The pass is valid for 2-3 days, giving flexibility for leisurely exploration. It’s a practical option for travelers wanting a diverse cultural and outdoor experience.
Bottom Line: A flexible, value-packed way to enjoy Norfolk’s highlights over multiple days.
10. Scavenger Hunt in Newport News by Operation City Quest
For just $10, this city scavenger hunt uses your smartphone to guide you through Newport News in a fun, competitive way. Over 2 hours, you’ll solve puzzles, find objects, and complete challenges while earning points on a leaderboard. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s a fun way to see the city, even if some challenges are a bit tricky,” which highlights its appeal for puzzle lovers.
Suitable for small groups or families, it’s a quick way to add some adventure to your itinerary. The app-based format makes it easy to participate and customize the pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who love puzzles and friendly competition.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour in Norfolk, consider your budget, interests, and activity level. For a relaxing experience, the City Cruises Norfolk lunch or dinner cruise offers scenic dining, while active explorers might prefer the full-day electric bike or self-guided bike tours. Families with kids will enjoy the Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin, and those seeking a quick adventure can opt for the Zombie Scavengers.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular activities like the Fourth of July fireworks cruise or scavenger hunts. Think about your preferred pace, whether it’s a leisurely boat ride, energetic bike ride, or interactive scavenger game, and pick what fits your style best.
Final Thoughts
Norfolk offers a wide range of tours that cater to every type of traveler—from scenic waterfront cruises and adventurous bike rides to family-friendly zoo visits and interactive quests. If you’re after a relaxing day with stunning views, the City Cruises buffet is a top choice. For those who want active exploration, the self-guided electric bike tour offers flexibility and fun. Families and history buffs will appreciate the combination tickets that include both wildlife and maritime history.
Remember to book early, plan according to your interests and energy level, and enjoy all that Norfolk’s diverse tour options have to offer. Happy exploring!