Norfolk might not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a trip to Virginia, but it’s packed with surprises that make city tours a great way to get to know the area. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing boat ride, a lively scavenger hunt, or a unique outdoor adventure, Norfolk offers options that suit all tastes. The City Cruises Norfolk buffet cruise stands out for its combination of stunning river views and delicious food, while the Operation City Quest scavenger hunts add a playful twist to exploring the city. We love the variety here because they each give you a different way to experience Norfolk’s charm.
If you’re after a more interactive and competitive experience, the Norfolk City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks or the Adventurous Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest make for fun team activities. Each offers a chance to move at your own pace and discover hidden corners of the city. For those who want a relaxing, scenic outing with good food, the buffet cruise has a lot to offer. Keep reading to find the best city tour for your style and schedule.
1. City Cruises Norfolk: Lunch, Brunch, or Dinner Buffet Cruise
Sail along the Elizabeth River with this buffet cruise that offers a flexible dining experience—whether for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Priced at around $80 per person, this 2 to 2.5-hour cruise combines scenic views with great food. As the boat drifts past Norfolk’s skyline and its impressive Navy vessels, you’ll enjoy a buffet featuring freshly prepared dishes, perfect for a leisurely meal. The outdoor decks provide a fantastic vantage point, especially on sunny days when the cityscape looks its best.
Music and DJ entertainment onboard add to the festive atmosphere, making this cruise perfect for families, couples, or friends looking for a relaxed outing with a touch of elegance. The largest outdoor patio deck in the city allows for plenty of space to soak in the views and enjoy the fresh air. Many reviewers highlight the quality of the buffet and the friendly crew, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on over 300 reviews.
Bottom Line: This cruise blends scenery, good food, and entertainment, making it a top pick for anyone wanting a comfortable yet scenic experience on Norfolk’s waterways.
2. Scavenger Hunt in Newport News by Operation City Quest
For around $10 per person, this fast-paced scavenger hunt turns city exploration into a game. Using your smartphone, you’ll follow clues to find objects, solve puzzles, and complete challenges around Newport News. The hunt lasts about two hours, and a remote host is available via chat to give hints if you get stuck. It’s a flexible and fun way to see parts of the city you might not encounter on a traditional tour.
Some challenges are simple, like finding a specific object, while others are more creative, like completing a challenge to earn points. The ability to play at your own pace makes this ideal for casual explorers or groups looking for an active adventure. The experience is rated 4.5 out of 5 from just two reviews, with players noting the challenge of some tasks but overall enjoying the lively, engaging format.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or groups wanting a lighthearted, interactive way to explore, this scavenger hunt provides a fun twist on city sightseeing.
3. Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Norfolk by Operation City Quest
At around $10 per person, this adventurous scavenger hunt pushes players to use an app for completing exciting tasks and collecting points. Unlike the previous hunt, this one emphasizes strategy and competition, as teams aim to earn the highest score on the leaderboard. The game invites you to explore Norfolk in any order you choose, with a remote host available to help through chat.
This experience is great for travelers who enjoy a bit of rivalry and challenge, making it ideal for friends or colleagues who want to turn sightseeing into a game. It’s a flexible activity, lasting approximately two hours, and offers a chance to discover lesser-known spots around the city. Since it’s a newer experience without reviews yet, it’s more suited to those comfortable trying something slightly different and tech-savvy.
Bottom Line: For competitive groups or those seeking a strategy-based exploration, this hunt adds a lively, game-like element to your Norfolk visit.
$10.00 per person
4. Norfolk City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks
This royal-themed scavenger hunt combines fun and history with a playful twist. Using an app, teams compete in “royal tournaments” to become the next King or Queen, searching for items and completing challenges around Norfolk. The game lasts about two hours, but you can extend it if you wish.
What makes this tour stand out is its themed rivalry—your team’s leader (the King or Queen) tries to maintain their crown through strategic item collection and challenge completion. The game encourages creativity, as players take photos and do challenges through the app. Since it’s a newer experience with no reviews yet, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of role-playing or a themed adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or groups wanting a playful, themed activity that combines exploration with a bit of friendly competition.
$10.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Norfolk City Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and group size. If you love scenic views combined with good food, the City Cruises Norfolk buffet cruise offers a relaxed, scenic experience with a meal included. For a more active and playful outing, the scavenger hunts—whether the traditional Operation City Quest or the themed Wacky Walks—offer fun challenges for all ages.
For families or groups seeking a straightforward fun experience, the buffet cruise provides comfort and scenery, while those who prefer energetic, interactive activities might prefer the adventurous or royal-themed hunts. Keep in mind that some tours are more flexible in timing and difficulty than others, so plan accordingly.
Booking early is always wise, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you get your preferred time slot. Think about what kind of experience will make your Norfolk visit most memorable—scenic, playful, or competitive—and choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Norfolk offers a surprising variety of city tours that cater to different interests and energy levels. For those wanting to relax on the water while enjoying good food, the City Cruises Norfolk buffet cruise is an excellent pick. If you’re looking for a lively, puzzle-solving challenge, the Operation City Quest scavenger hunts provide a fantastic way to discover the city’s corners. The themed Wacky Walks adds a creative, playful element that’s perfect for families or groups wanting a story-driven adventure.
No matter which tour you pick, Norfolk’s blend of maritime charm, history, and friendly local vibe makes it an excellent destination for exploring in a fun and engaging way. Book early, plan your interests, and prepare for a memorable adventure in this dynamic city.