Photo: Jeff Wermers
Photo: Jeff Wermers
Photo: Terri Newman, Ph.D.
Ghent
FreeActivity
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for all ages. Babies and toddlers enjoy stroller-friendly sidewalks and small parks, preschoolers love the ice cream shops and bookstores with children's sections, while older kids and tweens appreciate the independent vibe and freedom to explore this safe, walkable area.
About
Ghent is Norfolk's most charming pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, perfect for families who love exploring on foot. With tree-lined streets connecting independent bookstores, delightful ice cream parlors, playful parks, and welcoming restaurants, it's an ideal destination for a leisurely family day out where kids can safely wander and discover neighborhood treasures.
Highlights
- ✓Independent bookstores with cozy children's sections perfect for browsing
- ✓Multiple artisan ice cream and gelato shops for sweet treats
- ✓Tree-lined streets with beautiful historic architecture to admire while strolling
- ✓Small neighborhood parks with play areas scattered throughout
- ✓Family-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating and relaxed atmospheres
Pro Tips
- 1.Start at Ghent Square (the fountain area at Colley Avenue and 21st Street) as your home base,it's central and easy to navigate from
- 2.Park along Colley Avenue or on residential side streets for free street parking; arrive before 11am on weekends for best spots
- 3.Bring a stroller or wagon even for older kids,the neighborhood covers several blocks and little legs tire quickly
- 4.Visit Prince Books for story time events and a great children's book selection, then reward kids with a treat from one of the nearby ice cream shops
- 5.Pack sidewalk chalk and bubbles to enjoy in the grassy areas at West Ghent Park or along the Elizabeth River Trail
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall weekend mornings (9am-12pm) offer perfect weather for walking and fewer crowds. Saturday mornings are especially lively with locals brunching and shopping, creating a vibrant community atmosphere kids will enjoy.
What to Know
Most shops and restaurants are independently owned with varying hours, so check ahead for specific destinations. Street parking is free but can fill up on weekends. The neighborhood is very stroller and wagon-friendly with smooth sidewalks throughout.
Seasonal Notes
Enjoyable year-round, though spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most comfortable walking weather. Summer can be hot and humid, so plan for morning or evening visits. December features holiday window displays and decorations that delight children.
Nearby Eats
Jessy's Taqueria offers excellent kid-friendly tacos and quesadillas, while Yorgo's Bageldashery is perfect for casual breakfast or lunch with little ones. Both have relaxed atmospheres welcoming to families.
More Activities Near Norfolk
Farm
Lamington's Farm
$
Lamington's Farm brings agriculture to life for families through hands-on seasonal activities that get kids excited about where their food comes from. From picking your own berries and pumpkins to bouncing along on hayrides through the fields, this working farm offers an authentic farming experience that's both educational and entertaining for the whole family.
Bowling
Bowling Barn
$
Bowling Barn in Norfolk is a family-friendly bowling alley that takes the stress out of bowling with young kids. With bumper lanes to keep balls out of the gutters, lightweight balls sized perfectly for little hands, and an arcade area for when kids need a bowling break, it's designed to keep the whole family entertained without the frustration that can come with traditional bowling.
Activity
Norfolk Botanical Garden
★4.8$$❤️313
Norfolk Botanical Garden offers 155 acres of natural wonder where families can explore themed gardens, spot wildlife, and let kids burn energy on scenic walking paths. With everything from colorful rose gardens to a tranquil Japanese garden, this beautifully maintained attraction provides the perfect blend of education and outdoor adventure that keeps children engaged while parents enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Museum
Chrysler Museum of Art
★4.8Free❤️449
The Chrysler Museum of Art welcomes families with free general admission and thoughtfully designed interactive galleries that make art accessible and engaging for young visitors. With dedicated family programs, hands-on activities, and a world-class collection spanning 5,000 years, this museum transforms art appreciation into an adventure that captivates kids while impressing parents.