Visit Norfolk’s Perk Up Pass

A Practical Guide to Visit Norfolk’s Perk Up Pass

If you’re headed to Norfolk, Virginia, and coffee is your fuel of choice, the Perk Up Pass is an engaging, wallet-friendly way to explore the city’s thriving coffee, craft beverage, and community scene. For $17, you gain access to seven unique stops—from cozy neighborhood cafes to waterfront breweries—each offering a taste of Norfolk’s local flavor. The experience is designed to fit into anywhere from a quick hour to a full day, making it adaptable to your schedule.

What we love about this pass is its focus on authentic, community-centered venues. Each spot offers more than just caffeine; they provide opportunities to connect with locals and enjoy Norfolk’s urban vibe. The second highlight? The discounts and rewards—$5 vouchers at each location—that practically pay for the cost of the pass itself if you indulge a bit.

A potential consideration is that this experience is primarily about tasting and exploring rather than sightseeing in the traditional sense—so if you’re looking for historical tours or scenic excursions, this might not be your primary focus. However, for those who want to immerse in Norfolk’s lively coffee and craft culture, it’s a perfect fit. This pass suits travelers who love discovering local flavor through food and drink, appreciate small community businesses, and want a flexible, budget-friendly way to experience Norfolk beyond the usual tourist spots.

Key Points

• Affordable and flexible: For just $17, you get a wide variety of stops that can be enjoyed over any length of time.
• Authentic local experiences: The stops are small, community-focused, and serve as a window into Norfolk’s vibrant local scene.
• Value-packed: The $5 vouchers plus discounts can easily cover your costs for coffee and snacks.
• Diverse venues: From waterfront cafes to neighborhood coffee shops and craft breweries, the tour offers a broad taste of Norfolk.
• Self-paced and customizable: You choose how many stops to visit and how long to stay, making it perfect for all kinds of travelers.
• Clear logistical details: Most stops are about an hour each, with some offering free admission, and the entire experience can stretch across one day or more.

Exploring Norfolk’s Perk Up Pass: A Deep Dive

The Introduction: What Does the Pass Cover?

The Visit Norfolk’s Perk Up Pass is an economical way to sample the city’s coffee, beer, and community spots. For just $17 per person, you’re granted access to seven carefully curated stops, each offering a taste of Norfolk’s local flavor. The experience is flexible, with most bookings happening about ten days in advance—giving you time to plan your visit without stress.

The experience is designed to be self-paced—you can spend anywhere from an hour to several days exploring the stops. This makes it ideal for travelers with varying schedules, whether you want a quick coffee hop or a leisurely day sipping craft brews by the waterfront.

Why We Think This Tour Works

What stands out most is the authenticity of each venue. These aren’t tourist traps but community-driven spaces that thrive on local patronage. For example, Coaster Coffee isn’t just about good coffee; it’s a place that fosters connecting people—a neutral ground for conversations and community-building. Their emphasis on being neighborhood-focused and welcoming for all ages, races, and beliefs makes it feel genuine.

Another highlight is COVA Brewing Company, where you can enjoy a beautiful indoor-outdoor setting with a self-serve tap system for craft beers. If you’re a beer lover, this spot offers the fun of trying different brews without the fuss of large-pour commitments. Plus, their daily food truck partnerships mean you can enjoy local eats alongside your drinks.

A Possible Drawback

Because the tour focuses heavily on cafes, breweries, and casual eateries, it may not appeal if you’re seeking historical insights, scenic tours, or more structured sightseeing. Also, gratuity isn’t included, so remember to tip accordingly—especially for the friendly staff at these local spots who often rely on tips.

Who Would Love This?

This experience is perfect for foodies and coffee enthusiasts eager to see Norfolk’s vibrant neighborhood scene. It also suits travelers who enjoy casual, social settings with a focus on local culture, and those who prefer a flexible itinerary with options to extend or shorten their visit.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown: What Makes Each Stop Special

Stop 1: Borjo Coffeehouse

Your journey begins at Borjo Coffeehouse, a spot renowned for serious coffee and good mood food. It’s the perfect introduction—friendly yet bustling. The $5 voucher here can be used for a satisfying breakfast or a hefty coffee to kickstart your day. The place has a welcoming atmosphere paired with a diverse menu of coffee and light bites.

Review insight: “We loved the variety of drinks and the lively vibe.” Expect a bright, community-oriented space that makes you feel at home.

Stop 2: Coaster Coffee

Next, you’ll visit Coaster Coffee, a neighborhood hub that emphasizes connection over just caffeine. It’s a non-profit business that sees the coffee shop as a safe space to gather, chat, and unwind. The tables are designed for conversation, and the focus on inclusivity makes it ideal for meeting locals or just relaxing alone.

Review insight: “Coaster Coffee is an answer to the increasing demand for a neutral community meeting place.” You’ll love the casual atmosphere, music, and pastries, all served in a place that values community.

Stop 3: COVA Brewing Company

The third stop is a brewpub with a beautiful indoor-outdoor space. Here, you can sample craft beers, wine, or craft coffee—all in a setting that’s family-friendly and welcoming. The self-serve tap system allows for tasting flights, making it easy to try a little of everything. Food trucks often park outside, so you can pair your drinks with local eats.

Review insight: “A beautifully designed place where you can relax and enjoy a variety of beverages.” The views of the Elizabeth River add a scenic touch to your visit.

Stop 4: Mudita Cafe & Bar

Mudita offers a hybrid experience—a place for coffee, cocktails, breakfast, lunch, or tapas. A local favorite, it’s located just next to Ocean View Beach Park, making it a lovely beachside stop. The $5 voucher, 15% discount on orders, and 20% off merchandise add great value.

Review insight: “They focus on sharing happiness and community,” which translates into a warm, friendly vibe. Expect delicious small plates and craft drinks.

Stop 5: Neptune’s Fury Cafe & Roastery

This is Norfolk’s only waterfront cafe and roastery, offering freshly roasted specialty coffees with stunning views of the Elizabeth River. It’s perfect for a relaxing lunch or a quick coffee while watching ships go by. Parking is validated, which is a bonus on busy days.

Review insight: “A must-visit for the scenic views and quality coffee.” You’ll enjoy the breathtaking waterfront backdrop and the aroma of freshly roasted beans.

Stop 6: Rich Port Coffee

Rich Port Coffee provides a personalized coffee experience with its Puerto Rican-roasted beans. Their focus on storytelling through coffee makes each cup feel special. You can grab a latte, espresso, or cold brew, along with pastries.

Review insight: “There’s a story in every cup,” and we agree that their focus on quality and local roasting makes it stand out.

Stop 7: Vessel Craft Coffee

Finally, Vessel Craft Coffee emphasizes ethically sourced, premium coffee and social entrepreneurship. It’s a thoughtful, socially conscious spot to end your tour, with a focus on serving with purpose.

Review insight: “A great way to support local, ethical coffee.” Expect a calm, focused atmosphere and good coffee.

Why This Pass Offers Good Value

For $17, you’re essentially getting seven vouchers—each worth $5—plus access to diverse, high-quality venues. Many stops also offer free admission or discounts on food and merchandise. If you visit even four of these spots, the pass practically pays for itself.

Compared to paying individually at each location, this package offers cost savings and convenience. Plus, it encourages you to experience places you might not have found on your own, especially neighborhood spots that are often overlooked.

The self-guided format means you can tailor your experience—spend more time at your favorites or breeze through the ones that interest you less. It’s a flexible, stress-free way to enjoy Norfolk’s local coffee and craft culture.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider the Perk Up Pass?

If you’re a traveler eager to connect with Norfolk’s vibrant local scene, especially through its coffees and craft beverages, this pass is a delightful way to do so. It’s particularly suited for foodies, casual explorers, and those seeking authentic, community-driven experiences.

The value is undeniable—especially if you plan to enjoy multiple stops—and it offers a relaxed pace for discovering Norfolk beyond the typical tourist checklist. Whether you’re here for a quick coffee fix or a leisurely day of tasting and chatting, the Perk Up Pass makes exploring Norfolk’s neighborhood gems both fun and economical.

FAQs

Is the Perk Up Pass available for purchase on the day of the tour?
Most likely, it’s best to book about 10 days in advance, but availability can vary. Planning ahead ensures you get the full experience and any discounts.

Can I visit all stops in one day?
Yes, most stops are about an hour each, so with good planning, you could visit them all in one day, especially if you’re staying local.

Are the vouchers usable at any time?
The tour provider doesn’t specify restrictions, so most likely, the vouchers are valid during the operating hours of each venue.

Is parking included or free?
Parking varies by location—some spots, like Neptune’s Fury, validate parking. It’s wise to check in advance or plan for nearby street parking.

Are children or families welcome on this tour?
Since the stops are community-focused cafes and breweries, families are generally welcome, especially at spots like COVA Brewing and Mudita Cafe that are family-friendly.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. To get a full refund, plan to cancel prior to this window.

Final Words

The Visit Norfolk’s Perk Up Pass offers a window into Norfolk’s lively, community-oriented side—through its cafes, breweries, and waterfront spots. It’s a fantastic way to meet locals, enjoy quality drinks, and savor authentic flavors—all without breaking the bank. Perfect for curious travelers who want flexibility, value, and a taste of Norfolk’s vibrant neighborhood spirit. Whether you’re here for a quick coffee break or a full day of exploration, this pass helps you do it with ease and enjoyment.