By: Caylie Egger A girl’s weekend is always a good idea! Whether you’re looking for a relaxing or eventful weekend, the Norfolk Area has a lot to offer. Take this guide to help you plan the perfect weekend that you won’t forget!

Where to stay?

Norfolk has a wide selection of hotels with a variety of amenities. Divot’s Lodge and Suites offers beautiful, countryside views and includes Norfolk’s only brewery. Experience their new Roof Top Terrace with tasty food, happy hour, and an outdoor patio with tabletop fireplaces. Spend a day relaxing by the pool and playing a game of miniature golf or sand volleyball. Don’t forget to pamper yourself at their new, full-service spa. For a more inner-city hotel, I recommend the newly remodeled Holiday Inn Express. This updated hotel is a short drive to anywhere in Norfolk and has an excellent, hot breakfast. Next door is the Hampton Inn. The Hampton Inn is highly rated because of their helpful staff and comfortable beds. Down the street is Rodeway Inn which is walking distance to Big Red Keno and Buffalo Wild Wings. Not only is the location convenient, they are also praised for their clean rooms and friendly staff.

Where to eat?

Brunch is a must for the perfect girl’s weekend. Enjoy a roof top brunch at White Mulberry Bakery with homemade pastries and brewed coffee. Another local favorite is Black Cow Fat Pig. They offer a fantastic brunch with a variety of drinks including bottomless Bloody Mary’s. For a more city feel, try the Downtown Coffee Company. Their menu offers a variety of different sandwiches, pastries, and specialty coffee. The best part of downtown Norfolk on the River Point is that there’s a variety of locally owned restaurants. Napolis has the best Italian food that pairs great with their tasteful wine. Your girls will feel like they took a quick trip to Italy! You can never go wrong with margaritas from Leon’s. This authentic Mexican restaurant is best known for their happy hour and food. The atmosphere is the perfect way to start your night out.

What to do?

After grabbing a bite, take a stroll through downtown Norfolk on the River Point where you can find clothing boutiques and our famous Magnolia’s. There’s no disappointment when it comes to shopping downtown because there’s a variety of styles and the customer service is phenomenal.
Is your group more artsy? Revitalized studio and Creatively Fired offer events or classes that make for a relaxing evening. Each studio has projects they specialize in from pottery to canvas painting. Book these classes in advance so you are guaranteed a spot! Did I mention that you can enjoy a few drinks while you create?

Nightlife

The O is the newest addition to Norfolk’s nightlife. Their rustic touch, fun games, and outdoor bar make it easy to have an entertaining night with the girls. Mel’s Lounge is another enjoyable bar that locals love. Their unique, signature drinks are delicious and popular. Head back to downtown Norfolk for the Harbor Bar and 5th Street Tavern. Both bars are known for their creative décor and swanky vibes. I recommend these bars to any group who is looking for a quieter, laid-back night. South of Omaha Avenue is the well-known Hank and Snooks Mint Bar. Get a shuffleboard game or a round of pool started after getting a drink. A fun tradition here is signing a dollar bill and hang it above the bar.
There’s so much to do in the town of Norfolk and, as you can see, it makes for a perfect weekend getaway with the girls. To see more of what is going on around the area, visit www.visitnorfolkne.com.