Kornblau Field at S.B. Ballard StadiumNorfolk, Virginia

Historic Oyster Bowl (1946-1995) featured major NCAA teams. ODU's 2018 upset of #13 Virginia Tech put the program on the map.

💡 Experience the historic Oyster Bowl legacy and modern ODU football.

A hands-on maritime science center on the downtown waterfront featuring interactive naval and ocean exhibits, plus the massive decommissioned WWII-era Battleship Wisconsin you can walk the decks of.

💡 General admission ($19.95 adults) covers both the museum and Battleship Wisconsin deck access. Arrive early on weekends — the ship draws crowds. Military and veterans get a discount.

One of the finest regional art museums in the American South, housing a world-class glass collection alongside old masters, American art, and ancient antiquities — all completely free to enter.

💡 Free parking is available on site. The Glass Studio (attached) offers glassblowing demonstrations on select days — check the calendar before your visit.

A 175-acre garden with more than 65 themed garden rooms — including rose, Japanese, and Renaissance gardens — that can be explored on foot, by tram, or by boat through its canal system.

💡 Adults are $21; book online to save time. The tram tour is included in admission. Boat tours are seasonal (typically April through October) — confirm availability before visiting. Late spring is peak bloom season.

A remarkably intact 1794 fort authorized by George Washington, featuring original earthwork ramparts, a powder magazine, officers' quarters, and a dungeon overlooking the Elizabeth River — one of the oldest military fortifications remaining on the East Coast.

💡 Bring a government-issued REAL ID — the site sits on active Army Corps of Engineers property and ID is required at the gate. Guided tours by the Norfolk Historical Society run Sundays noon–4 PM from May through late August. Self-guided exterior access is available weekdays 9am–4pm.