Norfolk, a City Rich with History and Natural Beauty
Norfolk, Virginia is a city steeped in history. Officially founded in 1682, the area started out as the Upper and Lower Norfolk Counties, the latter eventually becoming what we know today as Norfolk. It was incorporated in 1705 but became a casualty by the later part of the century, having burned down during the Revolutionary War. It was, of course, rebuilt and remains alive and well today.
Here are a few interesting facts about Norfolk and the surrounding vicinity to get you acquainted with the area and its history:
Lay of the Land: The city of Norfolk is comprised of 66 square miles of land, including 7 miles of
Chesapeake Bay beachfront. Much of the land is dedicated to residential neighborhoods, and as of July of 2007, 235,747 residents call Norfolk home. In the immediate area, Norfolk is second only to Virginia Beach in population.
Climate: The average temperatures place Norfolk in the humid subtropical category. The area tends to enjoy milder winters and hot, humid summers. Although snow falls every winter, the average for the year is only 7 inches.
Natural Beauty: The area has been designated as a Tree City, since it is surrounded by beautiful trees and flowers, and it also houses the Norfolk Botanical Garden. The luxurious landscape is just one of the attributes that add to the city’s incredible charm.
Military Background: Norfolk is home to the largest naval base in the world and serves as the headquarters for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
Art & Culture: Norfolk has become a cultural center, housing several major performing arts companies, yearly festivals, and parades. To awaken the art lover in you, visit one of the area’s fine museumslocated in nearby Williamsburg and Newport News. You can choose whether you would prefer a more historical attraction like Colonial Williamsburg or one devoted to wildlife.
A Day at the Theatre: If you are in the mood for something to get your heart pumping, attend a show at the Mystery Dinner Playhousein Virginia Beach. Now in its twelfth year, they are pros at keeping the audience involved and entertained throughout the performance. You will laugh at the hijinks that ensue as the gang tries to make sense of the clues that surface, which will hopefully lead them (and you) to the ultimate conclusion of whodunit. For those closer to the Williamsburg area, you will not be left out in the cold. You can also jump on the murder mystery bandwagon, as there is a Mystery Dinner Playhouse waiting for you as well.
Travel: Norfolk is in an optimal location, giving you easy access to seven local cities. The Seven Cities of Hampton Roads, located in the southeast portion of Virginia, are composed of Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach.
Keep tuned in to www.norfolktours.net for up to date information on the tours and shows going on in the area.
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