Norfolk doesn’t always get as much love as it deserves. But pay a visit to this historic and naturally beautiful Virginia city, and you may never want to leave!
Situated along the Elizabeth River at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, Norfolk is blessed with 144 miles of waterfront. You can easily spend your entire trip kayaking on the Lafayette River, frolicking around the sandy beaches, and taking sunset cruises along the Elizabeth River.
You might also be surprised that Norfolk has a very cool side to it. You can check out the massive street art murals in the trendy Neon District, sip local craft beers at one of the many buzzing breweries, or go shopping and dining in Norfolk’s trendy retail incubator, Selden Market.
And, of course, Norfolk is probably best known as being the home of Naval Station Norfolk – the largest naval base in the world – as well as the Nauticus National Maritime Center and USS Wisconsin, where you can learn more about the city’s Naval history.
With so many fun things to see and do in Norfolk, you’ll want a nice hotel room to come back to at the end of a long day. Luckily, Norfolk just happens to be brimming with trendy boutique retreats, designer inns, and luxury hotels. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Norfolk, Virginia, to help you plan your perfect getaway!
- Short on time and don’t want to read the whole article? Here are our top 3 picks!
Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 12 Best Luxury Hotels in Norfolk, VA
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Where to Stay in Norfolk, VA
It’s no secret that downtown Norfolk is home to the best hotels in the city. Set right on the banks of the Elizabeth River, many downtown Norfolk hotels boast sweeping views of the water. Plus, if you base yourself in this part of town, you’ll have easy access to all of Norfolk’s best attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
If you’re searching for the coolest Norfolk hotels, look no further than the Neon District. Set just north of downtown, this is Norfolk’s arts district, so you’ll be surrounded by all sorts of cool shops, restaurants, and galleries.
The Ocean View neighborhood is ideal if you prefer to be at the beach, while the Ghent area is great if you want to be surrounded by boutique shops and lush parks.
There are also a surprising amount of stylish hotels situated around the Norfolk International Airport. Most of these hotels offer a complimentary airport shuttle service. Plus, downtown Norfolk is a short 15-minute drive away.
The 12 Best Luxury Hotels in Norfolk, VA
1. Glass Light Hotel & Gallery
If you want to stay in one of the best boutique hotels in Norfolk, look no further than the Glass Light Hotel. This hip hotel is housed in a revamped 1912 building and is brimming with works of glass art by famous artists, including Peter Bremers and Lino Tagliapietra.
Each of the 113 boutique rooms is outfitted with plush beds with Frette linens, 55-inch smart TVs with Netflix, and beautifully appointed marble baths. Plus, you’ll get Illy in-room coffee and a mini-bar stocked with locally sourced snacks. If you want to go big, the Corner Suite is well worth the upgrade for its large and stylish living room and spa-like bath with a standalone soaking tub.
Explore the hotel, and you’ll also find a glass art gallery, a 24-hour fitness center, and laundry facilities. If you want to dine at the hotel, Glass Light serves up delicious locally sourced French fare with a creative twist. Or, if you prefer to go out, all of downtown Norfolk’s best restaurants are just steps away from the Glass Light Hotel.
2. Hilton Norfolk The Main
Hilton Norfolk The Main is the perfect pick if you want to be in the heart of town. Set just across from Waterside Drive, most of the rooms at Hilton Norfolk The Main offer beautiful views of the Elizabeth River.
To take full advantage of the hotel’s location, choose one of the corner rooms with a full river view. You’ll get 400 square feet of space with wraparound picture windows overlooking the river. These sleek rooms also come with 50-inch flat-screen TVs, ergonomic workstations, and in-room coffee makers.
You’ll be surrounded by tons of bars and restaurants, but you don’t have to leave the hotel if you don’t want to! One of the coolest things about the Hilton Norfolk The Main is the 5th-floor rooftop patio. Here you’ll find the hip Grain bar, a giant lawn chess set, a billiards room, and a massive fire pit – all overlooking the Elizabeth River.
Head downstairs, and you’ll also find a seafood-centric restaurant called Saltine, a swanky wine and piano bar called VARIA, as well as an indoor pool and a fully outfitted 24-hour gym.
3. Delta Hotels by Marriott Norfolk Airport
Delta Hotels Norfolk Airport is one of the coolest hotels in Norfolk if you prefer to be based near the airport. Whether you’re in town for work or play, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, the hotel offers a free shuttle to whisk you to and from the airport.
Other freebies include Wi-Fi and bottled water each day, as well as use of the fitness center and indoor pool. Plus, you can get your morning Starbucks fix at the on-site café, or, for casual meals and drinks, Anchor Bar & Lounge serves up American fare and a long list of beer, wine, and cocktails.
The retro-chic rooms boast plush platform beds, designated workstations, 55-inch smart TVs with Netflix, and stylish marble ensuites. You’ll also get handy extras like coffee makers, microwaves, and mini-fridges perfect for storing drinks from the on-site convenience store.
If you need more space, upgrade to one of the suites. These guest rooms can sleep up to five and offer 604 square feet of space, a separate bedroom and living room, and a private balcony.
4. Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel
Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel stands proud as the city’s only waterfront hotel. Perched right on the banks of the Elizabeth River, you’ll have easy access to the Waterside Promenade, Town Point Park, and all of downtown Norfolk’s bars and restaurants.
You’ll love the thoughtfully appointed rooms, which are outfitted with pillow-top beds with hypo-allergenic pillows, large flat-screen TVs with HBO, and cool extras like iPod docking stations and complimentary Wi-Fi. Plus, the rooms are pet-friendly in case you want to bring your furry friend along!
Explore the hotel grounds, and you’ll find an outdoor pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a fully-stocked convenience store. You’ll have easy access to all of downtown’s buzzing bars and restaurants but be sure to enjoy at least one meal at the hotel’s Waterside Seafood Company restaurant.
There’s also an on-site bar and lounge, which serves light bites and drinks. Or, if you’re feeling really lazy, you can kick back and relax in your room and have meals and drinks delivered directly to you.
5. Norfolk Waterside Marriott
If you’re looking for upscale downtown Norfolk hotels, Norfolk Waterside Marriott might just be the perfect pick! Plus, this place is connected to the Waterside Convention Center, so it’s ideal if you’re attending a conference or event at the convention center.
In the mornings, head down to STEAM for a quick Starbucks fix or fill up on hearty breakfast dishes at START restaurant. After breakfast, you can keep up with your routine by working out in the fully outfitted fitness center or swimming laps in the heated indoor pool.
Before you retire to your room in the evening, head over to the hotel’s Capo Capo Italian steakhouse for a steak dinner and drinks. Or, if you feel like dining out, you’ll have a range of restaurants right outside your front door.
You’ll love relaxing in your polished room after a long day on the town. All guest rooms feature plush pillow-top mattresses, well-lit workstations, and cozy sitting areas with city or river views. You’ll also get thoughtful extras like THANN toiletries and coffee and tea makers.
If you’re willing to upgrade to an M Club Lounge level room, you’ll get access to the lounge. Perks include complimentary buffet breakfasts, midday snacks, evening hors d’oeuvres, late-night snacks, and an honor bar.
6. Home2 Suites By Hilton Norfolk Airport
Home2 Suites By Hilton Norfolk Airport is one of the coolest Norfolk hotels if you’re searching for a home away from home. Set on the outskirts of downtown, this all-suite hotel has everything you need for a comfortable and productive visit. Plus, you’ll be five minutes from Norfolk International Airport and 15 minutes from downtown Norfolk.
Freebies include daily hot breakfasts, parking, and Wi-Fi. You’ll also get access to the indoor saline pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, and business center. There’s also a patio area with barbeque stations if you feel like grilling up some burgers or steaks for your crew!
The suites are decorated with eye-catching colors, comfy beds, and living areas with a sofa, ergonomic workstation, and a 42-inch flat-screen TV. You’ll also get a surprisingly functional kitchenette with a full-sized refrigerator, microwave, sink, and dishwasher. So, while there is no on-site restaurant, you’ll have everything you need to make meals at home.
7. The Inn at Four Eleven York
If big hotel chains aren’t your thing, The Inn at Four Eleven York might just be your best bet. This bed and breakfast is comprised of two historic homes that were fully renovated in 2018 to create The Inn at Four Eleven. So expect everything to be new, modern, and top of the line!
You can choose from four totally unique but equally as luxurious suites. Opt for the Magnolia Suite, and you’ll get an incredible bathroom with a fireplace, heated floors, and a volcanic limestone soaking tub. Or, go for the Freemason Suite, and you’ll have two beautifully decorated bedrooms and a sitting area with a fireplace and a fully stocked bar cart.
In the mornings, you can enjoy the complimentary gourmet breakfast in the dining room or in bed. The innkeepers also host a complimentary wine and cheese happy hour each evening from 4-5 pm.
Plus, if you want to dine on-site, the chef serves up incredible Mid-Atlantic fare made from Virginia-sourced ingredients. We highly recommend dining here during their famous Sunday brunch! Think Blackened Shrimp Benedict or Bourbon Chocolate Cherry French Toast with a Bloody Mary or Pommosa (pomegranate juice and prosecco)!
8. SpringHill Suites Norfolk Old Dominion University
If you’re in town to visit Old Dominion University, SpringHill Suites Norfolk is one of the best hotels in Norfolk, VA. The university is just across the street, and the Ted Constant Convocation Center is just steps away.
You can fuel up for the day with the hotel’s complimentary buffet breakfast and customizable hot dishes. There’s also an indoor pool and a fully outfitted fitness center in case you want to fit in a workout before heading out for the day.
The guest rooms at this all-suite hotel offer everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing stay. Standard Suites boast 424 square feet of space with partitioned living areas with 32-inch flat-screen TVs and ergonomic workstations. You’ll also get a handy kitchenette with a sink, microwave, mini-fridge, and coffee maker.
Upgrade to the VIP Suite, and you’ll get twice as much space as the Standard Suite, as well as a huge living room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city and a massive ensuite with a two-person whirlpool tub.
9. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Norfolk Airport
Holiday Inn Express & Suites is situated just three miles from the Norfolk International Airport and 15 minutes from downtown Norfolk. With contemporary rooms and practical amenities, you’ll have everything you could possibly need during your trip to Norfolk.
You’ll love all of the thoughtful freebies, including an airport shuttle, daily breakfast, coffee and tea, high-speed internet, weekday newspaper, and parking. You can also take advantage of the state-of-the-art gym, large indoor pool, and coin-operated laundry facilities.
Head into your newly-renovated guest room, and you’ll find a large living area with a sleeper sofa and workstation and a kitchenette with a mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee maker. Plus, the pillow menu, blackout blinds, and extra bedding ensure you get a good night’s sleep.
While there is no on-site restaurant, there are a variety of drive-through restaurants surrounding the hotel.
10. Courtyard Norfolk Downtown
Set right downtown, Courtyard Norfolk Downtown is one of the best Norfolk hotels if you want to be in the center of the action. You’ll have easy access to the shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues of MacArthur Mall, Chrysler Hall, and Granby Street. Plus, the Waterfront Promenade is just minutes away by foot.
When you’re not out on the town, you can swim laps in the indoor pool, soak in the hot tub, or fit in your daily workout in the fitness center. If you need to get some work done, there’s also a 24-hour business center with a handy boarding pass printing service.
If you prefer to dine at the hotel, the Bistro-Eat. Drink. Connect offers Starbucks coffee drinks and breakfast dishes in the morning and American dishes and cocktails in the evenings.
If that’s not enough, you’ll love unwinding in your modern room at the end of a long day. All guest rooms boast comfy beds, oversized reading chairs, and work desks with free internet. You’ll also appreciate the in-room coffee makers, mini-fridges, and premium movie channels.
11. Wyndham Garden Norfolk Downtown
Located in the trendy Neon District, Wyndham Garden Norfolk Downtown is the perfect pick if you are planning on doing some serious sightseeing during your trip. Plus, this place is pet-friendly if you plan on traveling with your dog.
Explore the hotel grounds, and you’ll find a seasonal outdoor pool, a fully outfitted gym, laundry facilities, and a full-service business center. There’s also the on-site Black Tuna Bar & Grill, which serves up locally-sourced dishes and a long list of Virginia wines.
Once you’re ready to retire to your room, you’ll have everything you need for a comfy night’s sleep. You’ll love the plush beds, large flat-screens, and in-room coffee makers. If you want more space, you can always upgrade to the Executive Suite, which boasts a large sitting area with a sleeper sofa, workstation, and dining area.
12. Hampton Inn Norfolk-Naval Base
Hampton Inn Norfolk-Naval Base is a budget-friendly option if you’re in town to tour the Norfolk Naval Base. Not only is the base a mere three-minute walk away, but all of the attractions of downtown Norfolk are an easy 20-minute drive to the south.
You’ll love all of the thoughtful freebies you’ll get at Hampton Inn, including parking, Wi-Fi, hot breakfasts on the weekends, and grab-and-go breakfast bags on the weekdays. You can also take advantage of the state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor pool, business center, and laundry facilities.
Then there’s the refreshingly stylish rooms, which feature comfy beds, designated workstations, and plush chairs with ottomans. Plus, you can have a movie night with the 40-inch flat-screen HDTV, get some work done with the free Wi-Fi, and brew your morning coffee with the in-room coffee maker. Upgraded rooms are outfitted with extras like wet bars, kitchenettes, and whirlpool tubs if you’re planning on an extended stay.
That completes our list of the 12 best hotels in Norfolk, VA! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Norfolk? Comment below so we can add them to the list!
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Frequently Asked Questions
If you want to stay in one of the best boutique hotels in Norfolk, look no further than the Glass Light Hotel. This hip hotel is housed in a revamped 1912 building and is brimming with works of glass art by famous artists, including Peter Bremers and Lino Tagliapietra.
Delta Hotels Norfolk Airport is one of the coolest hotels in Norfolk if you prefer to be based near the airport. Whether you’re in town for work or play, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, the hotel offers a free shuttle to whisk you to and from the airport.
Set right downtown, Courtyard Norfolk Downtown is one of the best Norfolk hotels if you want to be in the center of the action. You’ll have easy access to the shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues of MacArthur Mall, Chrysler Hall, and Granby Street. Plus, the Waterfront Promenade is just minutes away by foot.
Located in the trendy Neon District, Wyndham Garden Norfolk Downtown is the perfect pick if you are planning on doing some serious sightseeing during your trip. Plus, this place is pet-friendly if you plan on traveling with your dog.
Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel stands proud as the city’s only waterfront hotel. Explore the hotel grounds, and you’ll find an outdoor pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a fully-stocked convenience store. You’ll have easy access to all of downtown’s buzzing bars and restaurants but be sure to enjoy at least one meal at the hotel’s Waterside Seafood Company restaurant.
