
Naval Station Norfolk Tour
Explore the world's largest naval base! See aircraft carriers and warships on guided bus or boat tours.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better access

Naval Station Norfolk Tour
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better access

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the world's largest naval base! See aircraft carriers and warships on guided bus or boat tours.
"An awesome learning about our nation's great Navy, totally worth the money and time."

Book Bus Tour Ahead
Secure your spot on the popular 1-hour bus tour to see the base. :ticket:
Combine with Boat Tour
Enhance your visit by pairing the bus tour with a Victory Rover cruise for a full naval experience. :ship:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Naval Station Norfolk Bus Tour
Departs from the tour & information center
An hour-long guided bus tour offering an informative and up-close civilian view of the world's largest naval base.

Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise
Departs from downtown Norfolk waterfront
A boat tour providing a unique perspective of the Atlantic Fleet, complementing the land-based tours.

Aircraft Carriers & Warships
Visible from tours
Witness impressive aircraft carriers and various warships, a highlight for many visitors interested in naval power.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Understand Access & Security
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Bus Tour Ahead
Secure your spot on the popular 1-hour bus tour to see the base.
:ticket:Combine with Boat Tour
Enhance your visit by pairing the bus tour with a Victory Rover cruise for a full naval experience.
:ship:Arrive Early for Security
Allow extra time for background checks and security, especially for events.
:stopwatch:Knowledgeable Guides
Enjoy the informative narration on tours; guides are very knowledgeable about the Navy.
:bulb:Tips
from all over the internet
Book Bus Tour Ahead
Secure your spot on the popular 1-hour bus tour to see the base.
:ticket:Combine with Boat Tour
Enhance your visit by pairing the bus tour with a Victory Rover cruise for a full naval experience.
:ship:Arrive Early for Security
Allow extra time for background checks and security, especially for events.
:stopwatch:Knowledgeable Guides
Enjoy the informative narration on tours; guides are very knowledgeable about the Navy.
:bulb:See Active Ships
Look for active aircraft carriers and warships for an impressive display of naval might.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Naval Station Norfolk tours for their informative content and up-close views of impressive naval vessels. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable tour vehicles enhance the experience, making it a worthwhile activity for understanding the U.S. Navy's operations. Some visitors note the importance of booking in advance and arriving early for security checks.
"The bus tour to the Norfolk Naval Station lasts about an hour and is totally worth the money and time. It’s an awesome learning about our nation’s great Navy. We get to see and learn some of the aircraft carriers, etc. The bus is very comfortable and the narrator is very knowledgeable. The office and gift shop are good. Plenty of parking available"
Gautham Viswanathan
"Great way to get a very informative and up-close view of the US Navy. Just an hour ride thru the base; packed with trivia and cool views of the ships we wouldn't otherwise receive as civilians."
Mandy S
"For me, this was visit to the base after over 30 years. What a relaxing and informative tour it was. I learned things about it I didn't even know when I was stationed there. If you're visiting the area, this tour is a must. To compliment it, I highly recommend taking the victory rover naval base cruise from downtown Norfolk. You can take the one-hour bus tour at 11am and have plenty of time to get downtown to catch the 2 pm cruise. Parking is easy with the garage just across the street from the USS Wisconsin, which is also a must see!"
Scott Charney
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tours for Naval Station Norfolk typically depart from a dedicated tour and information center. If you're taking the Victory Rover cruise, it departs from the downtown Norfolk waterfront. Driving is an option, with parking available near the USS Wisconsin.
Yes, there is parking available, particularly near the USS Wisconsin, which is a convenient starting point for accessing tours and information.
Access to Naval Station Norfolk is generally restricted to authorized personnel. Civilian visitors typically need to join an official tour to explore the base.
Many visitors find driving convenient, especially if they are exploring other attractions in the Hampton Roads area. Public transportation options may be available but can be less direct for reaching specific tour departure points.
Yes, Nauticus and the USS Wisconsin are located nearby and are often visited in conjunction with Naval Station Norfolk tours. The downtown Norfolk waterfront is also a popular area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your Naval Station Norfolk bus tour in advance, as spots can fill up. You can typically book through the official tour operator's website or at their information center.
The cost for the bus tour is generally considered worth the money and time, offering an hour of informative content. Specific pricing can be found on the tour operator's website.
For official tours, a visitor pass is usually not required as part of the tour package, but you will undergo security checks. For unescorted access, specific protocols apply.
Information on discounts is best obtained directly from the tour operator. Military personnel and their families may have specific access or pricing.
Tour schedules can vary, but the bus tours typically run for about an hour. It's advisable to check the specific tour operator's schedule for departure times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
On a tour, you'll see various warships, including aircraft carriers, and learn about the operations of the world's largest naval base. The guides provide detailed information about the Navy's role.
The guided bus tour of Naval Station Norfolk is approximately one hour long, offering a concise yet comprehensive overview.
During special events like Fleet Fest, there are opportunities for the public to tour US Navy and US Coast Guard ships. Regular tours may offer views but not always direct access to board.
The tours are generally informative and engaging for all ages, offering a glimpse into naval operations. Some reels show K-9 units, which can be exciting for younger visitors.
Photography is usually permitted on tours, but always follow the instructions of your guide. Capturing images of the impressive ships and the base's scale is a popular activity.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While official tours may not include dining, there are typically facilities on base for service members. For visitors, dining options are more readily available in downtown Norfolk or near the tour departure points.
It's best to check the specific tour operator's policy regarding food and drinks. Generally, for bus tours, it's advisable to consume food before or after the tour.
Downtown Norfolk offers a variety of restaurants and cafes. The area around Nauticus and the USS Wisconsin also has dining establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities include the massive aircraft carriers, destroyers, and other naval vessels. The sheer scale of the base itself is also impressive.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but always adhere to any specific instructions from your tour guide regarding restricted areas or sensitive equipment.
A camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture details of the ships from a distance. Wide-angle lenses can help capture the vastness of the base.
It's important to be respectful and avoid photographing military personnel without their explicit consent. Focus on the ships and the infrastructure.
The bus tour and the Victory Rover cruise offer excellent vantage points. Some areas along the Norfolk waterfront may also provide distant views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While direct interaction with sailors might be limited on standard tours, the sheer sight of massive aircraft carriers and warships is often awe-inspiring for kids. The nearby Nauticus and USS Wisconsin also offer excellent hands-on exhibits that complement the naval base experience, making for a well-rounded family outing.
⚓ Military Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Combining the bus tour with the Victory Rover cruise offers a comprehensive view of the base and its fleet. If your visit coincides with events like Fleet Fest, you might have the rare opportunity to tour active ships, which is an unparalleled experience for any military enthusiast. Researching the types of ships typically stationed there beforehand can enhance your understanding and appreciation during the tour.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Naval Station Norfolk: Tours and Access
Beyond the bus tour, the Victory Rover naval base cruise offers a complementary perspective from the water. This boat tour allows you to appreciate the scale of the ships and the base from a different angle, often providing excellent photo opportunities. It's important to note that Naval Station Norfolk is an active military installation, and access is controlled. Visitors should be prepared for security checks, and booking tours in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. Special events, like Fleet Fest, sometimes offer broader public access and ship tours, but these are periodic.
When planning your visit, consider combining the bus tour with the boat cruise for a comprehensive experience. Arriving early for your scheduled tour is crucial to allow ample time for security procedures. While civilian access is primarily through these organized tours, the experience offers a fascinating glimpse into the power and operations of the U.S. Navy.
Naval Station Norfolk: A Hub of Activity
Beyond its military significance, Naval Station Norfolk is a major economic driver for the Hampton Roads region. The constant movement of personnel and families associated with military orders and relocations creates a dynamic environment. The base also plays a role in international relations, hosting foreign naval vessels and participating in joint exercises. For those interested in military history and modern naval capabilities, a visit offers a unique educational opportunity.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit