Founded in 1682, Norfolk has a unique position in history as a vital seaport. Located on the Chesapeake Bay with the Elizabeth River meandering through it, Norfolk represents all things nautical, from its waterfront downtown to the largest naval base in the world.
Norfolk Naval Base was established in 1917 on the Jamestown Exposition site of 1907. As the world’s largest naval base, this base is home to 75 ships, 134 aircraft, and the largest concentration of naval forces.
While Norfolk is a nautical city, it has much to offer on land, as well. Old Dominion University is a top-ranking university established in 1930. The Chrysler Museum of Art is one of the best museums in the state. Established in 1933, it contains over 30,000 objects representing over 5,000 years. Nauticus is a maritime museum that includes the Battleship Wisconsin and a re-creation of the schooner Virginia.