Get a taste of U.S. naval history on a grand scale when you visit the Norfolk Naval Station, the world's largest naval installation.
The station covers more than 3,400 acres and features 20 piers that are home to aircraft carriers, cruisers, destroyers, large amphibious ships, submarines and supply and logistics vessels. Among them are some of the U.S. Navy's largest aircraft carriers. There are more than 85 ships in all.
When you visit, be sure to take one of the public tours, which are offered 10 times each day starting at 10 a.m. and run every 30 minutes, with the last one departing at 2:30 p.m. There are no tours on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.
Tours leave from the naval station's tour and information center, located at 9079 Hampton Boulevard in Norfolk. Navy personnel will accompany you on the bus tour and tell you more about the ships you'll see. You'll also get a chance to see historic mansions from the 1907 Jamestown Exposition on what is known as "Admiral's Row." Norfolk is the oldest U.S. naval port that offers guided tours to the public.
