Norfolk

Introducing Norfolk

Norfolk, home of the world’s largest naval base, consistently ranks near the bottom of ‘Best Cities for Singles’ lists, which is unsurprising given all the sailors around (and oddly enough, the headquarters of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals). The city pumps the arts, but a whiff of military officiousness and rowdy, off-duty fun always lingers in the air. The waterfront is packed with bars, Hooters (natch) and the usual Anywhere, America chains, and fair enough – sailors home from Iraq are entitled to bland Americana and winsome lasses stuffed into orange hot pants, and so are you. There are two visitor centers: Interstate (757-441-1852; I-64 exit 273; 9am-5pm) and Downtown (757-664-6620; 232 E Main St; 9am-5pm). The historic Ghent district, west of the city center, is where this town’s refugee population of artsy types, foodies and cappuccino lovers flocks.