Top Rated Attractions in Norfolk

The Old Isle of Wight Courthouse was used as the main courthouse by the town of Smithfield for almost 50 years. Nestled in the Historic District in Smithfield, this building is known for its exterior beauty, while the interiors retain their original charm. This building is open for tours all throughout the year. Built between the years 1750 and 1751, it is one of the few remaining architectural examples of arched colonial courthouse. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970.

The Isle of Wight County Museum is home to one of the most prized artifact 'The World's Oldest Edible cured Ham'. The story goes back to 1902 when a local pork processor, Pembroke D. Gwaltney Jr. cured a ham, which then got misplaced and forgotten. It was rediscovered, decades later and Pembroke knew he had a ham which was as valuable as gold. He then had a brass collar outfitted on the ham and called it his 'Pet Ham' and kept it on display for his customers, as proof of his ability to preserve meat without refrigeration. The ham became famous and featured in Ripley's Believe It or Not, in the years 1929, 1932 and 2003. In present times the appearance of the ham looks like dried leather or an expired human arm. It occupies a climate-controlled display case with two other hams, one of which is supposed to be the largest ham in the world.

This historic home was built in 1854 for James Hunter, his wife Lizzie, and their three children. All of the children remained unmarried, and the youngest, Eloise, converted the house to the museum as part of her Hunter Foundation. The museum opened in 1988 and gives visitors a glimpse into lives of a wealthy family at the end of the 19th Century. Friendly docents conduct tours every half hour, explaining the history of the house as well as the lives of the Hunter family.

The Riddick House is a monumental home site in the Suffolk vicinity of the U.S. State of Virginia. The ancient historic house dates back to 1837 and is a fine example of the Greek Revival style of architecture. It has also been registered on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974.

St. Luke's Church is a monolithic Goth-style church that was built in the year 1632. It is known as one of the oldest surviving churches in the country. Today the church operates as a museum. It features an interesting collection of ancient period furniture, 17th-century artifacts and the old organ. The church cemetery also makes for interesting viewing. Hourly tours take you back in time as you enjoy the exquisite intricacies of beautiful colonial architecture and the unique relics on display.

The Hermitage Foundation Museum holds the Sloan art collection that includes pieces collected from across the world. The Chinese tomb figures and pieces from Czar Alexander's collection are particularly striking pieces. The museum also conducts art classes and holds workshops. Surrounded by 12 acres of well planned gardens, the Hermitage Foundation Gardens are a particularly picturesque. The gift shop sells creations of local artisans and designers.