Discover Norfolk Nightlife - 7 Best Spots For Evening Fun And Entertainment

s the day turns into night, the city of Norfolk comes alive. There is plenty to do after dark, from trendy bars to cozy restaurants. Whether you’re into live music, craft cocktails, or late-night eats, Norfolk’s nightlife scene has you covered.

Norfolk’s nightlife is literally buzzing with energy, and everything you want is conveniently located close together. Whether you’re craving great food, live music, or a fun drink, you can easily hop from one spot to another without missing a beat. It’s the perfect city to enjoy your evening and feel right at home.

Here are the best spots for evening fun and entertainment in Norfolk:

 

1) Experience The Magic Of Chesapeake Bay – A Sailing Adventure

Experience Norfolk’s stunning waterfront with evening sailing adventures on the Chesapeake Bay. Here at SailTime Virginia, we want our visitors to love the bay as much as we do.

Our passionate team is ready to show you the best way to enjoy the Norfolk nightlife. Whether you want to spend the evening making new friends or would rather spend a quiet night with someone special, we have sailing adventures that promise to be unforgettable:

• Fun Friday Mixer – Spend the evening on the beautiful Chesapeake Bay while making new friends, playing games, listening to music, and sipping on delicious mocktails.

• Sunset Cruise – Set sail on a luxury catamaran and watch as the sun sets on the Chesapeake Bay. Whether it’s a date night or a night out with friends, get ready for an unforgettable time.

Make your night in Norfolk truly unforgettable – explore, enjoy, and create memories that last. Ready for an adventure? Visit our website to plan your perfect evening with us!

 

2) Nightlife In Norfolk – Granby Street 

When night falls, head to Granby Street to find the heart of Norfolk’s nightlife scene. The downtown area is filled with bars, clubs, eateries, and entertainment, making it perfect for an evening of exploring. Whether you want craft cocktails, listen to live music or a laid-back pub, Granby has it all:

• The NorVA –  NorVA is one of the best live music venues in Norfolk, it’s known for its intimate setting and great acoustics. Local and big-name artists perform here.

• The Boot – A casual bar to meet up with friends after a long day. It has a lively atmosphere, extensive craft beer selection, and great food.

• Baxter’s Sports Lounge – Baxter’s is the ideal place for sports lovers, featuring over 25 screens. Relax and shoot some pool, and on weekends, the dance floor comes alive. 

• Hell’s Kitchen – This place is a nightlife staple, offering great drinks, food, and an edgy vibe. 

Pro Tip: Many nightlife venues in Norfolk offer special events and live music on specific nights, so check their schedules in advance to catch the best entertainment. Arrive early to secure a good spot and make the most of your evening experience.

 

3) Ghent – The Artsy Part Of The City

Ghent stands out as Norfolk’s most artistic and culturally rich neighborhood. It is a blend of charm, culture, and creativity. There is everything from jazz lounges and nightclubs to cocktail bars. Whether you are looking for a night filled with laughter or an evening with a touch of elegance, Ghent has it all:

• Gershwin’s – Return to the time of the Speakeasies. Enjoy live entertainment, one-of-a-kind cocktails, and bistro-style food.

• Push Comedy Theater – A favorite for stand-up comedy and improv, offering a laid-back atmosphere and fun time.

• The Birch – What could be better than an evening of draft beers, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, and good friends?

• Bugatti’s Norfolk – Bugatti’s is considered the best after-hours club in the city. Get ready to hit the dance floor in this neon-lit space.

Pro Tip: Some upscale places do enforce a dress code. Check websites before heading out for the night.

 

4) Enjoy the Vibrant Waterfront Scene

For a nightlife experience with stunning views, the waterfront is the place to be. Sitting along the Elizabeth River, the district has a variety of bars, entertainment, and dining, all with a lively atmosphere. Enjoy everything from cocktails at rooftop bars to silent discos and themed events.

• PBR Norfolk – Grab your cowboy hat for an evening of live music, mechanical bull riding, and drinks.

• Grain – Sit around a fire pit and enjoy the views from Norfolk’s only rooftop beer garden.

• Silent Disco Nights – Grab a headset and decide what music genre will get you dancing under the stars.

• Waterside District Events – The area hosts regular events like watch parties, seasonal festivals, and concerts.

Pro Tip: Purchase your Silent Disco tickets early. Advance tickets are $10 and include headphones and a drink ticket. Tickets are $20 at the door.

 

5) Things To Do In Norfolk At Night – Brewery Hopping

Norfolk has a thriving craft beer scene. The local breweries offer everything from the classics to experimental flavors. If you want a relaxing experience or something more action-packed, these breweries offer top-quality craft brews.

• Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint – A casual place to stop on your way home, Jack Brown’s is known for its gourmet burgers and craft beer selection.

• Starr Hill Market Bar – The casual bar in the Waterside District has a selection of craft beers.

• Cogan’s Pizza – The bar has over 30 beer taps and serves some of the best pizza. They hold special events throughout the year.

• Rip Rap Brewing Co. – This nautical-themed brewery draws inspiration from maritime history for its unique flavors.

Pro Tip: Many breweries offer rotating seasonal selections, so check their menus online before visiting – you might find new flavors worth trying.

 

6) Nighttime Fun & Games

Norfolk has interactive entertainment, social activities, and unconventional ways to have fun after dark. Whether you want to hit an arcade, pedal through the city, or soak up the energy at an Irish pub, there’s no shortage of ways to spend your night out:

• Circuit Social – An arcade bar featuring self-serve beer taps and a mix of retro and modern games, perfect for a playful night.

• Trolley Pub Norfolk – Hop on a pedal-powered mobile bar, where groups can cycle through downtown while enjoying drinks and music.

• Grace O’Malley’s Irish Pub – A lively spot with live music, great food, and an authentic pub atmosphere.

Pro Tip: Activities like the Trolley Pub and Circuit Social are better with friends, so book reservations early to secure your spot.

 

7) Hidden Gems For Nighttime Adventures

The city’s nightlife is filled with well-known hotspots, but are you looking for something a little less known? These hidden gems bring a unique, unforgettable experience to your night out. From secret speakeasies to tucked-away breweries, these spots reveal a different side of Norfolk:

• The Veil Brewing Co. – An out-of-the-way brewery is known for its experimental craft beers and minimalist vibe.

• 508 Crafthouse– A speakeasy-style bar with handcrafted cocktails and vintage style.

• The Attucks Jazz Club – A historic venue with intimate jazz performances, perfect for a music-filled night.

Pro Tip: Plan your night ahead by checking event schedules and making reservations where possible to avoid long waits. Arrive early to enjoy the best spots and soak in the vibrant Norfolk nightlife atmosphere fully.

 

Explore The Best Things To Do In Norfolk After Dark

The city offers plenty of activities after dark. Whether you want good food and cocktails or prefer music and games, Norfolk has something for everyone. However, at SailTime Virginia, we want to take an ordinary night and make it extraordinary. 

Ready to turn your night in Norfolk into an unforgettable adventure? Join us and make memories that will last a lifetime. Book your spot now and let the magic of the Chesapeake Bay light up your evening!