The Nauticus Maritime Center is a huge complex on the waterfront in Downtown Norfolk. The interactive exhibits help visitors explore nautical science, Nofolk's naval history and marine life. Touch tanks bring you as close as you can get to sea creatures like starfish, anemones, even nurse sharks! Included in the admission price is entrance to the 3D Theater.
Stemming from a streetcar station dating back to the 1880's, the Ocean View Station Museum houses exhibits on the history of Ocean View. Get a chance to browse through photographs, memorabilia, and stories showcasing the history of the city, its various neighborhoods and its past culture. In addition to the fascinating historical exhibits, the Ocean View Station Museum also plays hosts to special events, such as movie showings and book signings.
In 1999, the year after Norfolk adopted the mermaid as their city logo, a city-wide art project was developed to bring this symbol to life throughout the city. Local artisans created the mermaid statues scattered throughout the city, interpreting the mermaid mythology and life in Norfolk. Dozens of mermaid statues adorn the city's streets and buildings. See how many you can find! One of them is installed at the famous Nauticus.
Established in 1979, this historic theater is named for its original proprietor, the Father of Vaudeville, Jake Wells. Today, the Wells is home to the Virginia Stage Company and regularly hosts productions. The Wells and the VSC in the past have put on such productions as My Fair Lady and A Christmas Carol. Besides theatrical productions, workshops, residential programs for artists and performers and summer camps at the theater are also organised by the company.
As part of a tribute to all that have served in our nation's military, and especially those that died in battle, sits the Armed Forces Memorial in Norfolk. The memorial is located on a port that carried servicemen and off to war and then returned them home to their family and friends. Also found at this memorial are 20 letters written by servicemen to their families, all of whom eventually lost their lives in battle. Each of these letters are cast in bronze and found all across the memorial.
Naro Expanded Cinema is a charming old-fashioned cinema with an always eclectic line-up. From independent indie films to documentaries, it shows left-field theater, usually neglected by multi-plexes. The cinema itself is a little dated and run-down but for many loyal patrons, that's part of its charm. Check the website for details of upcoming shows.