Norfolk Safety Guide

Health, security, and travel safety information

Safe with Precautions

Norfolk, Virginia is a historic port city and home to the world's largest naval base. As a mid-sized American city with a population of approximately 245,000, Norfolk is generally safe for tourists, particularly in well-traveled areas like the waterfront, downtown, and the arts district. The city has invested significantly in revitalizing its downtown and waterfront areas, making them attractive and relatively secure destinations for visitors. Like many American cities, Norfolk experiences varying levels of safety across different neighborhoods. Tourist areas such as the Waterside District, Ghent, and the naval base tours are well-patrolled and maintained. However, certain residential areas experience higher crime rates, particularly property crime. The city's crime statistics show that while violent crime exists, tourists who take standard urban precautions and stay aware of their surroundings rarely encounter serious problems. Visitors should exercise normal urban safety precautions, particularly after dark and when venturing outside main tourist zones. The presence of military personnel and facilities contributes to overall security in many areas, and the city's tourism infrastructure is well-developed with helpful resources for visitors.

Norfolk is a generally safe destination for tourists who exercise standard urban awareness and stick to well-traveled areas, particularly during daylight hours.

Emergency Numbers

Save these numbers before your trip.

Police (Emergency)

911

For immediate emergencies requiring police response

Police (Non-Emergency)

757-441-5610

For reporting non-urgent incidents or requesting information from Norfolk Police Department

Ambulance/Medical Emergency

911

Emergency medical services are dispatched through 911; response times are generally quick in tourist areas

Fire Emergency

911

Norfolk Fire-Rescue responds to all fire emergencies and some medical calls

Norfolk Visitor Information

757-664-6620

Visit Norfolk tourism office for non-emergency assistance and travel information

Poison Control

1-800-222-1222

24/7 poison control hotline for accidental poisoning or overdose

Healthcare

What to know about medical care in Norfolk.

Healthcare System

Norfolk operates under the U.S. healthcare system, which is primarily private and can be extremely expensive for those without insurance. The city has several major hospitals and medical facilities, including those affiliated with the military. Healthcare quality is high, but costs can be prohibitive without proper insurance coverage.

Hospitals

Major hospitals include Sentara Norfolk General Hospital (600 Gresham Drive), Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (601 Children's Lane), and Sentara Leigh Hospital (830 Kempsville Road). All emergency rooms accept walk-ins 24/7, but be prepared for potentially long wait times for non-life-threatening conditions and significant costs.

Pharmacies

CVS, Walgreens, and other chain pharmacies are widely available throughout Norfolk, many open 24 hours. Prescription medications require a U.S. prescription. Over-the-counter medications for common ailments (pain relievers, cold medicine, etc.) are readily available without prescription.

Insurance

While not legally required for visitors, travel health insurance is STRONGLY recommended. Medical costs in the U.S. can be extraordinarily high - a simple emergency room visit can cost $1,000-$3,000, and serious medical issues can result in bills exceeding $100,000. Ensure your insurance covers medical evacuation if needed.

Healthcare Tips

Always carry your insurance information and a credit card, as hospitals may require payment information before treatment for non-emergencies
Urgent care centers (like Patient First or MedExpress) are cheaper alternatives to emergency rooms for non-life-threatening issues
Bring sufficient quantities of prescription medications as getting refills requires seeing a U.S. doctor
Keep copies of prescriptions and a list of generic drug names, as brand names may differ in the U.S.
If you have serious allergies or medical conditions, consider wearing a medical alert bracelet

Common Risks

Be aware of these potential issues.

Property Crime/Car Break-ins

Medium Risk

Vehicle break-ins and theft from cars are among the most common crimes affecting visitors. Thieves target vehicles with visible valuables, rental cars, and those parked in less-monitored areas.

Never leave valuables visible in your vehicle, even for short periods. Use hotel parking garages when available. Park in well-lit, busy areas. Remove GPS units and rental car documentation from view. Consider using the trunk for all belongings before arriving at your destination.

Petty Theft/Pickpocketing

Low to Medium Risk

While less common than in major tourist cities, opportunistic theft can occur in crowded areas, particularly during events and festivals at the waterfront.

Keep valuables secured and close to your body. Use anti-theft bags or keep wallets in front pockets. Don't leave phones or bags unattended at restaurants or bars. Be especially vigilant during Harborfest and other large events.

Traffic Accidents

Medium Risk

Norfolk has numerous tunnels, bridges, and complex intersections that can be challenging for unfamiliar drivers. The Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel and Downtown Tunnel experience heavy traffic and accidents. Aggressive driving and speeding are common on highways.

Use GPS navigation, allow extra travel time, avoid rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM), familiarize yourself with tunnel routes before driving, maintain safe following distances, and be prepared for sudden traffic stops.

Violent Crime

Low (in tourist areas) Risk

While Norfolk has areas with higher violent crime rates, these incidents rarely affect tourists who stay in recommended areas. Most violent crime is concentrated in specific residential neighborhoods away from tourist zones and is often related to domestic disputes or gang activity.

Stay in well-traveled tourist areas, avoid walking alone late at night, don't engage with aggressive individuals, stay aware of your surroundings, and avoid confrontations. Use ride-sharing services or taxis late at night rather than walking.

Water-Related Incidents

Low to Medium Risk

Drowning, boating accidents, and injuries from water activities occur periodically. Strong currents, boat traffic, and alcohol consumption contribute to water-related incidents.

Always wear life jackets when boating, never swim alone, avoid swimming after consuming alcohol, check weather conditions before water activities, be aware of boat traffic, and only swim in designated areas with lifeguards when possible.

Scams to Avoid

Watch out for these common tourist scams.

Overpriced Taxi/Transportation Scams

Some unlicensed taxi drivers or even licensed drivers may take longer routes or claim meters are broken, charging inflated flat rates to tourists unfamiliar with the area, particularly from the airport or cruise terminal.

Use ride-sharing apps (Uber/Lyft) which show upfront pricing, verify taxi credentials and insist on meter use, check approximate route and cost on your phone before departure, or arrange transportation through your hotel

Ticket Resale Scams

Scammers sell fake or invalid tickets to events at Scope Arena, Harbor Park baseball games, or naval base tours outside venues or through online classifieds.

Only purchase tickets from official venues, authorized ticket sellers, or reputable platforms like Ticketmaster. Never buy tickets from individuals on the street or through unverified online sources

Military/Veteran Charity Scams

Due to Norfolk's military presence, scammers pose as representatives of military charities soliciting donations on streets or door-to-door, keeping the money for themselves.

Never give cash donations to street solicitors. Research charities independently before donating. Legitimate charities don't pressure for immediate cash donations. Donate directly through official charity websites

Parking Ticket/Towing Scams

Fake parking tickets placed on vehicles or aggressive towing from lots with unclear signage, demanding immediate cash payment.

Carefully read all parking signs before leaving your vehicle. Official Norfolk parking tickets include specific violation codes and payment instructions. Never pay parking tickets with cash to individuals on the street. Verify tickets through the city's official website or parking authority

Hotel/Accommodation Phishing

Fake hotel booking websites or calls claiming to be from your hotel asking for credit card verification or additional deposits.

Book hotels directly through official websites or reputable booking platforms. Never provide credit card information through unsolicited calls or emails. Verify requests by calling the hotel directly using a number you find independently

Safety Tips

Practical advice to stay safe.

General Safety

Keep copies of important documents (passport, ID, insurance) separate from originals
Share your itinerary with someone back home and check in regularly
Save emergency numbers in your phone before you need them
Trust your instincts - if a situation feels unsafe, remove yourself
Be aware that Norfolk has a significant military presence; don't photograph military installations or personnel without permission

Downtown and Waterfront

The Waterside District and Granby Street are generally safe during the day and early evening but use caution late at night
Stick to well-lit, populated streets after dark
Use the free Tide light rail for safe transportation between downtown attractions
Be aware of your surroundings when using ATMs, especially at night
During large events (Harborfest, Parade of Lights), keep valuables secured due to crowds

Transportation

Use ride-sharing apps (Uber/Lyft) for late-night transportation rather than walking
If renting a car, familiarize yourself with tunnel and bridge routes before driving
Don't leave GPS devices or rental car paperwork visible in your vehicle
Be cautious when using public transportation late at night; buses are generally safe during the day
Allow extra time for travel due to frequent tunnel backups and military traffic
Keep car doors locked while driving, especially at stop lights in unfamiliar areas

Beach and Water Safety

Ocean View Beach has no lifeguards; swim at your own risk and never swim alone
Check weather and water conditions before boating or water activities
Be aware of boat traffic in the Elizabeth River and Chesapeake Bay
Wear life jackets when boating regardless of swimming ability
Don't consume alcohol before or during water activities
Be cautious of jellyfish in summer months; most are not dangerous but can sting

Money and Valuables

Use ATMs inside banks or well-lit, secure locations rather than standalone machines
Credit cards are widely accepted; carry minimal cash
Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuable electronics
Be discreet with expensive jewelry, cameras, and electronics in public
Keep a separate credit card and some cash in a secure location as backup

Accommodation Safety

Choose hotels in safe areas: downtown waterfront, Ghent, or near military bases
Use deadbolts and security chains in hotel rooms
Don't open doors to unexpected visitors; verify through hotel front desk
Be aware of fire exits and emergency procedures
If using short-term rentals, research the specific neighborhood safety

Military Base Visits

Naval Station Norfolk offers tours but requires advance booking and ID verification
Bring valid government-issued photo ID (passport for international visitors)
Follow all security instructions precisely; photography restrictions are strictly enforced
Allow extra time for security screening
Don't attempt to enter military areas without proper authorization

Information for Specific Travelers

Safety considerations for different traveler groups.

Women Travelers

Women traveling alone to Norfolk will generally find it safe, particularly in tourist areas during the day. The city has a diverse population and women traveling solo are common. Standard urban precautions apply, especially regarding nighttime activities and alcohol consumption. The military presence means there are many bars and clubs that can become rowdy late at night.

Avoid walking alone late at night; use ride-sharing services or taxis instead
Be cautious in bars, particularly those near the naval base which can be heavily male-dominated; watch your drinks and don't accept drinks from strangers
Trust your instincts - if someone makes you uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation
Share your location with friends or family when going out, especially at night
Book accommodations in safe areas like downtown waterfront, Ghent, or well-reviewed chain hotels
Consider joining group tours for activities rather than exploring isolated areas alone
Dress comfortably; Norfolk is casual and there are no specific dress code restrictions
Be aware that catcalling can occur, particularly in certain areas; ignore and keep walking
Keep your phone charged and accessible
If jogging or exercising outdoors, stick to populated areas like the Elizabeth River Trail during daylight hours

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Same-sex marriage is legal throughout the United States. Virginia has anti-discrimination protections that include sexual orientation and gender identity. Norfolk is in a state that has become increasingly progressive on LGBTQ+ rights in recent years.

The Ghent neighborhood is particularly LGBTQ+-friendly with several welcoming bars and restaurants
Public displays of affection may attract attention in some areas but are generally tolerated in tourist zones and Ghent
Norfolk hosts an annual Pride festival (typically in June) with various events and celebrations
LGBTQ+-friendly establishments include Basilico's Restaurant, Cure Coffeehouse, and various bars in the Ghent area
Most major hotels and tourist attractions are welcoming and professional
While generally safe, use discretion in heavily military-frequented bars late at night
The Hampton Roads Pride organization provides resources and information about LGBTQ+-friendly venues
Virginia Beach (neighboring city) also has an active LGBTQ+ scene and may offer additional options
Healthcare providers in Norfolk are generally professional and non-discriminatory
If you experience discrimination, you can report it to local LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations or the Norfolk Human Rights Commission

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for Norfolk visitors, primarily due to the extremely high cost of healthcare in the United States. A single emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars, and serious medical issues can result in bills exceeding $100,000. Additionally, Norfolk's location makes it vulnerable to hurricanes and severe weather that could disrupt travel plans. Insurance can cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, medical evacuation, and lost belongings.

Emergency medical coverage with at least $100,000 minimum (preferably $250,000+) - medical costs in the U.S. are among the highest in the world Medical evacuation coverage ($100,000+) in case you need to be transported to specialized facilities or back home Trip cancellation and interruption coverage, especially if traveling during hurricane season (June-November) Baggage loss and delay coverage Emergency dental coverage 24/7 emergency assistance services with English-speaking operators Coverage for adventure activities if you plan to participate in water sports, boating, or other activities Rental car coverage if not already provided by your credit card Hurricane and weather-related cancellation coverage if traveling during hurricane season

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