DJ onboard City Cruises vessel in Norfolk
City Cruises / Group Events / Norfolk / Special Events & Holidays / Things To Do / United States / Virginia

Super Fun Sweet 16 Birthday Ideas in Norfolk

Turning 16 is a milestone birthday, and there’s no better place to celebrate than Norfolk, Virginia. Nestled along the beautiful Chesapeake Bay, Norfolk is a charming city with plenty of unique attractions and experiences perfect for a Sweet 16 birthday celebration. From waterfront fun to unforgettable city views, this coastal city provides an array of activities that will make this birthday one to remember. Here are some top ideas for a Sweet 16 celebration in Norfolk, VA, including experiences on City Cruises’ incredible vessels.

women captains
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Women at the Helm: Celebrating International Women’s Day at Hornblower

  International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the achievements and contributions of women across every industry and community. It’s a day to recognize progress toward gender equality while

Retirement Party on City Cruises in Norfolk
City Cruises / Group Events / Norfolk / Special Events & Holidays / United States / Virginia

Norfolk is the Perfect Place for a Retirement Party on the Water

The closer you get to retirement, the more exciting it is to think about how you plan to spend your time. After all those years of working hard, commuting to and from work, and not having enough time to do the things you want, it’s time to break free and step into your golden years. With that said, when you’re ready to retire, there is nothing better than celebrating in style with a retirement party.

When choosing a venue to host your milestone celebration in Norfolk, it is essential to choose a unique place that your guests will enjoy and talk about long after the party is over. Why not have it on a City Cruises yacht on the Elizabeth River? Norfolk is known for its maritime history, with incredible views of the Navy’s Atlantic fleet. It also has a great arts scene and delectable restaurants along a modern waterfront. It’s the perfect setting for your retirement party.

While aboard one of City Cruises’ private yachts, it’s just you, your guests, our crew, the water, and the spectacular views as the backdrop for your party. We will help you make memories that will last a lifetime surrounded by your closest friends and family!

Group celebrating Memorial Day in Norfolk with City Cruises
City Cruises / Norfolk / Special Events & Holidays / United States / Virginia

Nonstop Fun in Norfolk for Memorial Day Weekend (2025)

Memorial Day in Norfolk, VA, offers the perfect blend of patriotic reflection and vibrant waterfront fun. As a historic naval hub, Norfolk honors the day with heartfelt ceremonies, including the annual commemoration at the MacArthur Memorial and special tributes aboard the Battleship Wisconsin. These events provide a meaningful way to remember and honor those who served in the armed forces.

Fun Things to Do in Norfolk for the Holiday Weekend

Beyond the commemorations, Norfolk’s scenic waterfront comes alive with activities. Take a stroll through the bustling Waterside District, where you can enjoy live music, local dining, and views of the Elizabeth River. Families can spend the day exploring Nauticus, an interactive maritime museum, or relaxing on the nearby sandy beaches. A sunset harbor cruise is the perfect way to cap off the day, offering breathtaking views and a serene reflection of the holiday’s significance. With its mix of history, natural beauty, and community spirit, Norfolk makes Memorial Day both memorable and meaningful.

Couple dining on Norfolk waterfront
City Cruises / Eat & Drink / Norfolk / Things To Do / United States / Virginia

Gorgeous Waterfront Dining on the Elizabeth River in Norfolk

When it comes to beautiful waterfronts, Norfolk boasts one you won’t want to miss. The unique and popular space along the Elizabeth River serves as the ideal destination for a range of experiences, including dining. In fact, with the spectacular surrounding views, every meal is elevated to unforgettable heights. With several popular restaurants around the area—and City Cruises as the ultimate option for taking waterfront dining—we’ve compiled this guide on the top places to eat with insights to help you discover the best waterfront dining that Norfolk has to offer.

Sail the Elizabeth River with City Cruises in Norfolk

Traditionally, waterfront dining means eating at a restaurant that resides on a shoreline. The benefit to this is breathtaking views and fantastic food, yet the vantage point from this spot isn’t a full 180 degrees. But when you opt to book with City Cruises—whether it’s for a private event or one of our signature products—you get the best of both worlds: top-notch, chef-prepared menus and stunning views of the surrounding area on every side of our stylish floating venues. When you Explore our Norfolk Fleet, you’ll find that our vessels are some of the largest and most luxurious in class, with exceptional, climate-controlled interiors and open-air exterior decks that immerse every guest in the city’s exquisite surroundings.

couple toasting norfolk
City Cruises / Group Events / Norfolk / United States / Virginia / Wedding

Love, Laughter, and Happily Ever After: An Engagement Party with City Cruises Norfolk

Now that you have found the one, it’s time to party! Norfolk, Virginia offers big-city life with a small-town atmosphere making it the perfect destination for an engagement party. With Norfolk’s art exhibits, waterfront sights, and world-class seafood, Mermaid City beckons couples looking for a romantic city to host an engagement party in a beautiful setting. Take in the picturesque views of the Elizabeth River as you embark on an exciting adventure with City Cruises Norfolk and escape with your loved ones to celebrate your upcoming nuptials-all from the water.

Fun on City Cruises vessel in Norfolk
Arts & Music / City Cruises / Eat & Drink / History & Architecture / Norfolk / Things To Do / Tours & Attractions / United States / Virginia

The Ultimate Itinerary for 3 Days in Norfolk, Virginia

Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend getaway or a quick city break, Norfolk delivers a little something for everyone. From scenic waterfront strolls and fascinating museums to fantastic dining and vibrant neighborhoods, this three-day itinerary will guide you through the best of Norfolk. This includes unforgettable experiences offered by City Cruises, which allow you to see Norfolk from a whole new perspective—on the water.

Wedding party on a City Cruises vessel in Norfolk
City Cruises / Group Events / Norfolk / Special Events & Holidays / United States / Virginia / Wedding

Hosting Wedding-Related Events in Norfolk with City Cruises

Engagement parties. Bridal showers. Post-wedding brunches. In addition to the nuptials, numerous wedding-related events take place when couples decide to tie the knot. If they host them in Norfolk, there’s a unique opportunity to book a range of beautiful venues. Not every place can offer stunning surroundings with breathtaking views of the Elizabeth River and the Navy’s Atlantic fleet. Norfolk is a venue that seamlessly combines a variety of impressive amenities. That’s where City Cruises comes in. Not only do we offer all of this (and more) for couples to choose from, but as a premier option for wedding celebrations in Norfolk, our vessels boast elegant event spaces that make every celebration a unique and memorable experience for everyone onboard—bride and groom included!

Wedding-Related Events in Norfolk
Once a couple decides to spend their lives together and embark on the journey to marriage, it’s time to start planning several wedding-related events. With Norfolk as the ideal destination for hosting them—and City Cruises as the perfect vessel for a venue—everything from engagement, bachelor, and bachelorette parties and bridal showers to rehearsal dinners and the wedding itself can be booked. For the ultimate, unforgettable experience on the water with breathtaking views, top amenities, and desirable add-ons, choosing City Cruises makes all the difference. Review our Norfolk Wedding Events page for some stunning examples!

Why Choose City Cruises for Your Wedding-Related Event
When it comes to wedding-related events, it’s about where you host them. For couples who opt for a floating venue in Norfolk, they are starting their plans for an innovative and unforgettable space. Compared to traditional settings, City Cruises vessels offer a unique experience on the water that features breathtaking views, top-notch amenities, and unparalleled service. With the picturesque waterfront vistas of the city as a scenic backdrop, wedding-related events are elevated and enhanced so that brides, grooms, and their guests will have the time of their lives.

Wedding on the water with City Cruises
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The Top 10 Reasons to Have an Epic Wedding on the Water

Your wedding day is one of the most significant moments in your life—a celebration of love, commitment, and the beginning of a new chapter in your love story. So why not make it unforgettable by hosting it on a luxury yacht? There is something undeniably magical about being on the water, offering couples a unique option to celebrate their love in an unforgettable way. It brings a sense of romance and adventure that can’t be matched by any land-based venue. With a plethora of benefits and amenities, such as breathtaking views, all-inclusive packages, and exceptional service, City Cruises offers everything you need to create the wedding of your dreams. Here are the top 10 reasons to host an epic wedding on the water.

1. Scenic Beauty and Dynamic Backgrounds

One of the most compelling reasons to have a wedding on the water is the breathtaking scenery that will surround you. Imagine exchanging vows against a backdrop of glistening waves, a vibrant sunset, or a city skyline reflected on the water. Water-based venues provide a naturally stunning setting that enhances the romance of the occasion. Every direction offers a new perspective: the endless horizon, the play of light on the water, or the silhouette of a distant landmark.

Since your yacht will be continuously cruising, you’ll have a variety of scenic views—whether it’s the city skyline, an iconic landmark, or a serene sunset over the water. City Cruises operates in some of the world’s most beautiful cities, from New York and San Francisco to Chicago and Toronto. You can sail past the Statue of Liberty in New York, under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, or alongside the Toronto skyline. The ever-changing views create a dynamic environment, keeping your guests engaged and adding a magical touch of adventure to your special day.