Coming up a date idea can be a scary task. You want everything to be perfect and memorable, but also try not to take any major risks that may not be rewarded. One of the best ways to come up with unique date ideas that will ensure that you impress your date is to reach out to the community around you.
Whether you own a house in Norfolk, Virginia for a while, recently started renting a house, or you’re new to town and renting an apartment in downtown Norfolk, it’s also helpful to have some fun dating ideas for when you’re meeting someone new or bringing a partner for a few years. Please see details.
In this article:
Watch the show at Chrysler Hall
Classic beer and pizza date
Jazz at Cafe Stella, delicious food, and more
Grab a beer and visit Luna Maya
Visits and Treatments to Pagoda and Oriental Garden
Visit Equinox Coffee on your bike along the Elizabeth River Trail
Check out two museums in Norfolk
Flowers, coffee, sightseeing – Ah, my!
Dance the night
Check out Norfolk Botanical Gardens
Enjoy a romantic date in downtown Norfolk
Curated Day Norfolk Date
In conclusion: Choose the one that suits you
1. Watch the Chrysler Hall show
For a fun evening in town, check out Chrysler Hall. “One other favorite date night in Norfolk is dressing up the Nines and hitting a Broadway show at Chrysler Hall,” says Megan Gallt, owner of Novel Grounds, a Virginia romance bookstore. “It’s enough to roam around and see the surrounding area, so you can make an overnight exploring downtown before you settle for a show you’ll soon never forget in the theatre.”
2. Classic beer and pizza dates
Everyone loves good beer and pizza dates, so hear these recommendations from Grace Mallamo at Elation Brewing. “Beer and pizza are the perfect pairing no matter what date you go. Perfect for everyday date nights or an anniversary celebrations to celebrate your unique union. Spend time together in beautiful Corywood,” says Grace.
“The CEO’s building Park Riverside will take a walk to Eration Brewing for local beer and local wine. Regardless of your mood, order both pizza and nachos, or see new local artists featured in Eration’s gallery.
3. Jazz at Cafe Stella, delicious food, and more
When you’re looking for a versatile space to take someone, look no further than Cafe Stella. “A great date place is Cafe Stella. It’s especially the first date. A great conversation in a fun space filled with artistic and vintage decorations has a casual atmosphere where you can listen to live jazz every week and enjoy delicious food, coffee and cocktails.” “For many years, we have witnessed wedding proposals, held wedding receptions, and created their wedding and baby shower celebration cakes in-house. It has to be a special place for dates!”
4. Grab a beer and visit Luna Maya
It replaces the classic beer and pizza dates, and this is just as good. “We start with benchtop brewing in search of quality craft brewing, then head to Luna Maya for authentic Bolivian/Mexican cuisine. Spicy guacamole and pique highly recommend the macho.” “From Luna Maya, we end the night by walking down Cory Avenue and heading to White Ch to explore some of the best beers from around the world.”
5. Visit to Pagoda, Oriental Garden and Cafes
A romantic walk and some good coffee is always a great plan for a date. “Start your date by strolling through the enchanting Taiwanese pagoda and Oriental Gardens of Freemasonry, where impressive architecture and calm water features create an unexpectedly romantic setting.”
“After that, walk a few blocks to heal the coffee shop on Botetoute Street. Here you can enjoy the skillfully crafted pouring path featuring the roasted beans of the house, as you discuss the fascinating history of Norfolk’s international gifts, symbolizing peace and friendship.”
6. Visit a carriage coffee by bike along the Elizabeth River Trail
If you are looking for something more active with you and your date, look no further. “Rent a bike, explore parts of the 10.5 miles of scenic Elizabeth River Trail and pause at Town Point Park for breathtaking views of the harbor and the passing ships,” says Jo Daniels of Cofieroastersnearme.com. “We complete the adventure with Equinox Coffee in the Neon District, where their distinctive lavender honey lattes are paired perfectly with locally made pastries while surrounded by vibrant murals and creative energy that define the Norfolk art scene.”
7. Check out two of the Norfolk museums
For all the enthusiasts of museum dates, Norfolk has covered you. “The Chrysler Museum is a must-see for art lovers who have boasted an impressive collection for centuries, ranging from Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary works.”
“One of my favourite parts is the glass collection, one of the best in the country. You can also watch live glass demos in the glass studio. Above all, the museum is a free and accessible date idea.
Kieran has an alternative option if you’re looking for something more intimate. “Hermitage Museum & Gardens offers a more intimate and peaceful experience with vast gardens along the Lafayette River and historic art and craft style mansions,” Kieran says. “The scenic waterfront views and lush greenery make it perfect for a romantic walk. The museum’s rotating display adds an artistic touch. The Hermitage feels like a hidden gem, offering a quiet escape from the city filled with beauty and history.
8. Flowers, coffee, sightseeing – Ah, my!
You never get the wrong combination of flowers, coffee or sightseeing. “Oasis is poised to offer a great first date! First, we dive into a small meadow flower shop for a breathtaking bouquet,” says Grace Malamo of Eleon Brewing. “Then meet the next sweets at Voyager Coffee and get to know each other with cold brews and skillfully crafted cappuccinos. Take a walk along the bridge of Larchmont and return to enjoy the stunning river views.
Another place for fun food and drinks is Mudita. “Our favorite place for coffee, breakfast, lunch and fun cocktails is Mudita. We serve Blanchard coffee in a fun waterfront spot with great staff and drinks!” We share our team at Blanchard’s Coffee Roasting Co.
9. I’ll dance the night
If you’re looking for a unique and fun date night in Norfolk, Bank is a must-see. “This classic country western bar offers live music, a welcoming crowd and ample space for dancing the night,” says a team at Arthur Murray Dance Studios in Virginia. “This is a great way for couples to show off their two-stage and country dance skills in a real social environment, recommended by the team at Arthur Murray Dance Studio Virginia Beach.
10. Check out Norfolk Botanical Gardens
Looking for more peace and tranquility? Explore Norfolk Botanical Gardens. “Our favorite dates usually relate to the outdoors, so we love visiting the Botanical Gardens in Norfolk,” says Shauna Fredericks, a photo and film from Virginia wedding photos and videographer Fredericks. “I order coffee from Bearhouse Coffee Mobile Cafe, walk through the garden and take lots of photos along the way. I’ll allow my dog on Sundays.
Megan Gallt, owner of Novel Grounds, agrees to Shawna. “One of my favorite date ideas in Norfolk is to stuff dinner and eat it at the botanical garden,” she says. “The flower fields bring a special kind of magic to an early dinner picnic, and the walk paths are not to be missed.”
11. Enjoy a romantic date in downtown Norfolk
There’s a lot to see in downtown Norfolk. “With cobblestone streets, cozy restaurants on every block and sunsets above the water, downtown Norfolk has everything you need for a special person and a date to remember,” the team at Vino Culture Wine Shop shares. “If you want something more casual, I recommend grabbing an ice cream cone at the Alatt Café on Granby Street and walking to the Nauticus Museum to dig deeper into the history of the US Navy.”
The team said, “Go on a date all day? Start Cure Coffeehouse for a cold brew at Cure Coffeehouse in the Masonic district, get a carry-out sandwich from the siren submarine next door, and create a mini picnic in a luxurious setting with Pagoda and Oriental Garden Foundation. Along the way, eclectic shops and galleries.”
“To check out the stunning glass art for cocktails, check out Glass Light Hotel & Bar. Finally, finish this romantic day with dinner at Luce, everyone’s favorite Italian spot, where you can explore downtown Norfolk.
12. Curated whole day Norfolk dates
If you and your partner enjoy the time together and explore the whole day, Tim Ryan of Innovate Hampton Road is covered in a day itinerary that follows.
“We’re starting the morning with the world’s biggest Apple Fritters in the Donut Duggout. You’d better get there early, they’ll sell out quickly! After that we’ll take a walk along Granby Street to Town Point Park.
A few hours later I swing at Dahmer for an old-fashioned car hop experience. Fun fact: They invented waffle corn, so don’t skip desserts.
Dining at the Norfolk Zoo, then return to downtown to explore Nauticus and the USS Wisconsin and the Hampton Road Naval Museum.
Next, head to Chelsea for Chelsea Bakery’s iconic pizza pie and pints of Smart Mass Brewing.
End your day with sea views on the pier and soak in the breathtaking sunset over the water. ”
In conclusion: Choose the one that suits you
Norfolk offers an incredible variety of date experiences, from leisurely coffee house meetups to exciting nights in live music and theatres. Whether it’s a night of classic beer and pizza, a scenic walk in the garden, or an active bike adventure, there’s something about each couple in this city.
Its rich culture, vibrant dining scenes and breathtaking waterfront views make Norfolk a perfect place to create special people and unforgettable memories. No matter your style, there is always a new place to explore and the perfect date waiting for you.
