City Guides

29 Flirty and Fun Date Ideas in Norfolk, VA in 2025

by: Madeline St. Clair

Last Updated on Jul 8th 2025

It's time to get serious about your date ideas in Norfolk. It doesn’t matter if you’re going on a first date, second date or 500th date, figuring out the best destination to take that someone special can be a nerve-wracking experience.

Date nights, according to For Your Marriage, are the antidote to the effects of routine. They oppose the tendency to take one's partner for granted by producing moments for fresh connections and shared experiences. The happiest relationships are those built on an understanding that "togetherness" requires active work from both sides.

So, whether you're feeding the flames or sparking something new, these date ideas have been selected to show how much you care. If you find yourself wondering, what are the most iconic first date ideas? This list of date ideas in Norfolk was made with you in mind.

Fun Date Ideas in Norfolk for Adults

1. Paint and Sip

paint and sip date idea in Norfolk — *Get creative together (via Classpop!)*

Enjoy a unique way to unwind, socialize and experience a world of creativity with someone you admire at this date idea in Norfolk. Paint and sips aid participants in de-stressing all while creating a tangible keepsake that you and your boo will hold on to forever.

Talented artists will guide you through this fun date idea in Norfolk, helping you to learn new painting techniques or hone in on skills you already have. Support local businesses, enjoy a combination of art and leisure and craft a memorable experience with a paint and sip in Norfolk.

2. Cooking Classes

Travel to the South of France or the North of Italy without actually getting on a plane. Cooking classes offer a variety of benefits from skill development to professional guidance.

World-class chefs will help you and your partner create culinary traditions from around the world, making this date idea in Norfolk not only tasty but romantic as well. Set the mood and sign up for an online course or find a local class near you, or in the comfort of your own home with an online cooking class. Learn to cook a range of cuisines that are sure to pique your interest and your taste buds.

3. Break the Ice by Breaking Glass

Let out a little steam together and visit a local rage room. Also known as a smash room, this date idea in Norfolk will have you and your partner releasing stress like never before. Channel all the pent-up energy that comes with trying to keep up the day-to-day grind in a safe, therapeutic and exhilarating environment.

Sharing in this high-energy experience will create a new sense of fellowship, helping you connect on a whole new level. Head to Wunderful Release Rage Room for a date your sweetheart will remember forever.

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4. Seas the Date

woman admiring fish at aquarium — *Dive into an underwater world (via Canva)*

There are few things more captivating than exploring the underwater world at the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. This date idea in Norfolk offers a backdrop like no other. Hold hands as you admire sharks, dolphins, jellyfish and so much more.

You and your date will gain a deeper understanding of the Great Deep surrounded by the serene colors and sounds of the ocean, allowing you to engage and learn more about each other. Plus, if there’s ever a lull in conversation, all you have to do is point to any tank and say, “Let’s take a look!”

5. The Hermitage Museum and Gardens

This 20th-century Tudor-style mansion offers a glimpse into the architectural history and natural beauty of Norfolk. From an impressive selection of decorative arts to 12 acres of handsomely cared-for gardens and waterfront views, this date idea in Norfolk has it all.

The Hermitage Museum and Gardens routinely hosts rotating exhibitions so no matter how often you visit, you’ll always have something new to check out. This rich cultural destination is a must-see for locals and visitors alike.

Unique Date Ideas in Norfolk for Couples

6. Circuit Social

Circuit Social date idea in Norfolk — *Let your inner kid out (via Canva)*

Located on the great Granby Street, this unique date idea in Norfolk is considered one of the area’s most spectacular social hubs. Circuit Social features a variety of both classic and modern arcade games in a venue that offers a rotating selection of beers, ciders and wines — all served self-tap, so drink, enjoy and play at your own pace!

For the parents out there, who might find it a bit more difficult to make time for dates, Circuit Social is a family-friendly space until 9 p.m., after which you must be 21 and over to enjoy this local favorite.

7. Family Fun Xperience

No matter your age, this interactive theater is one of the top date ideas in Virginia Beach that all will enjoy. Positioned close to the oceanfront, Family Fun Xperience offers a range of unique live shows that engage onlookers with games, challenges and other interactive experiences that will make you feel a part of the show. Be a part of the show at Family Fun Xperience.

8. LeMans Karting

Calling all thrill seekers! Throw on a helmet and book it down the MegaTrack at this date idea in Norfolk. LeMans Karting is located right outside of Norfolk where you and your date will find performance-tuned gas karts for high-speed racing.

There are even double-seater carts, meaning you can stay together while racing together — just make sure to keep both hands on the wheel.

9. Adventure Park

adventure park date — *Test your limits together (via Canva)*

Sick of taking a walk in the park? Why not try ziplining at The Adventure Park? With 17 treetop trails, 258+ platforms and 33 ziplines, you’ll experience a side of Norfolk you’ve never seen before. This date idea in Norfolk is suitable for experienced and beginner climbers alike.

10. ParTees 3D Glow Golf

If you know your date has a sweet tooth and a sense of adventure, this first date idea in Norfolk is sure to land you a second. Located in the hustle and bustle of the Norfolk Premium Outlets, is a unique mini-golf experience called ParTees 3D Glow Golf.

This exciting spot features a Candy Land themed 18-hole course that provides glow-in-the-dark fun to all putt-putters.

11. VA Opera

Virginia Opera as date idea in Norfolk — *Dress for the occasion (via Virginia Opera)*

With a deep and rich history, the Virginia Opera hosts diverse and entertaining programming that you don’t have to be an opera buff to enjoy.

Founded in 1974, for 50 years this date idea in Norfolk has been a long-standing romantic affair known for its commitment to both classic and modern compositions. Showcasing a wide variety of operatic styles each season, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

12. Naro Expanded Cinema

Take a trip to the Ghent neighborhood for this date idea in Norfolk for couples. The Naro Expanded Cinema dates back to the 1930s when it was built as a suburban alternative to the downtown movie scene.

It was renamed in the 1960s after the then owner’s parents (Nathan and Rose), who kept all of the venue’s original Art Deco charm and it has stayed the same since.

While Naro has kept its original theme intact, it has certainly changed with the times, presenting high-quality movies with an emphasis on independent, foreign and art films.

Romantic Date Ideas in Norfolk

13. Pottery

couple sin pottery class as date idea — *Come home with objects you'll treasure (via Canva)*

Get a little handsy and sign up for a community-based pottery for beginners class where you and your partner will get some hands-on practice in pottery.

Pottery classes offer in-studio guidance for all levels, covering various techniques like hand-building and glazing. Keep busy and get flirty by signing up for a pottery class as a romantic date idea in Norfolk.

14. Keep It Light

For double date ideas in Norfolk, consider crafting something by hand to take home at a custom candle-making class. At this date idea in Norfolk, you will craft candles by hand while enjoying your favorite spirits with your favorite person, who lifts your own spirit.

These events are a great social outing to enjoy with your friends or on a more intimate occasion. At the end of the session, you’ll have your very own candle to take home and enjoy at another time… or later that night…

15. Mermaid Winery

This charming and cozy winery boasts an elegant yet relaxing atmosphere, making this date idea in Norfolk a prime location for any date. Select from an assortment of small-batch wines produced on-site at Mermaid Winery, meant to be enjoyed with an array of pairings from gourmet cheeses to more lavish small plates.

Enjoy a simple, intimate occasion for just the two of you or RSVP for an educational class and learn to love the process of making wine from scratch. Either way, this is a great date idea in Norfolk for the wine connoisseur at heart.

This delightful destination offers a blend of high-quality wines in a welcoming touch that you will want to visit time and time again. It's also great if you can't find any date ideas in Richmond.

Cheap Date Ideas in Norfolk

16. The Chrysler Museum

Chrysler Museum Art in Norfolk — *Explore the world-class collection (via Chrysler Museum of Art)*

Gawk at a Monet, appreciate a Warhol and ogle at a Tintoretto at the Chrysler Museum of Art. This expansive museum holds of 30,000 objects, leaving much to be explored, including one of the largest collections of American neoclassical marble sculptures.

You can even watch live as glassblowers make incredible works of art in front of your eyes. Entry is free, always. You'll be hard pressed to find a cheap date idea in Norfolk that can top that (but we'll try anyway).

17. Sun's Out

Norfolk happens to be situated close to Virginia Beach, which provides miles and miles of beautiful coastline to be explored on an outdoor date idea in Norfolk. Bring along a romantic picnic, sunbathe under a blue sky and bond as you bob in the water.

18. Norfolk Botanical Garden

This 175-acre sanctuary makes for a romantic yet cheap date idea in Norfolk, where love is sure to bud and blossom. The Norfolk Botanical Garden displays an impressive array of 60 themed gardens, from the formal and manicured gardens to wild and natural landscapes.

One garden includes over 3,000 rose plants and another provides sanctuary to hundreds of dazzling butterflies and moths.

Indoor Date Ideas in Norfolk

19. Reaver Beach Brewing Co.

brewery date idea in Norfolk — *Sample the best local brews (via Canva)*

If you’re tired of pale ales and stouts, try some sours and wild ales at Reaver Beach Brewing Co. The laid-back atmosphere of this date idea in Norfolk opens up a world of get-to-know-you opportunities as you sit back, relax and enjoy each other’s company while enjoying some innovatively brewed beer.

20. Norfolk Ice Hockey

Fast-paced and filled with excitement, this date idea in Norfolk makes for one lively romantic experience. Get lost in the energy of the crowd before getting lost in each other’s eyes at an ice hockey game.

2012 Calder Cup champions, the Norfolk Admirals, always bring their very best to any game. Enjoy classic stadium snacks and snuggle up to stay warm!

21. Pinboy's at the Beach

Can’t decide between bowling or billiards? Instead of choosing between indoor date ideas, why not combine a few at this date idea in Norfolk?

Pinboy’s at the Beach will bring out your inner child with modern bowling lanes, classic arcade games and state-of-the-art pool tables. And of course, it wouldn’t be considered a gaming center without a snack bar serving nachos, pizzas, fries and more.

22. Gershwin’s

Gershwin's restaurant as date idea in Norfolk Virginia — *(via Gershwin’s)*

If glazed short ribs and duck confit sound good to you, then you’re going to want to add Gershwin’s to your list of date night restaurants in Norfolk, VA. This piano bar takes the vintage ambiance to a whole new level, bringing Art Deco into the 21st century.

Inspired by classic American and French cuisine, Gershwin’s also serves award-winning cocktails that will leave you wanting more… so you’ll just have to come back for a second date.

23. Escape Room Virginia

Work together to solve some of Virginia’s toughest challenges in this date idea in Norfolk. Help your partner beat the clock and flee at Escape Room Virginia.

This team-based experience offers a selection of themed escape rooms like “The Lost Jewel of Zanzibar” and “Escape from Norfolk Tower.” It's never the wrong step to take a trip to Escape Room Virginia.

24. MacArthur Center

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Shop 'til you drop,” but have you ever heard of the saying, “Shop 'til you fall in love?”

As far as indoor date ideas in Norfolk go, a trip to the MacArthur Center is a must. At first, a shopping center might not seem like a particularly romantic setting, but the MacArthur Center isn’t like other shopping destinations.

With a varied selection of retail, dining and entertainment experiences, there are over 70 stores to explore, including an 18-screen Regal Cinema. Think of a date to the MacArthur Center like a choose-your-own-adventure.

Outdoor Date Ideas in Norfolk

25. Camping Trip at First Landing

camping date idea in Norfolk — *Take the oppurtunity to get away (via Canva)*

Sometimes the best thing we can do for our relationship is get out of the house, get away from the day-to-day and enjoy some quality time surrounded by the gentleness of the great outdoors.

Luckily, First Landing State Park in Norfolk guarantees a selection of prime camping options like tents and RV sites, cabins and yurts. You can get the best of both forestry and beachfront at First Landing State Park.

26. Elizabeth River Trail

This romantic date idea in Norfolk offers over 10 miles of pure bliss. Walk, bike, run or rollerblade along the Elizabeth River all while enjoying stunning views of the waterfront, historic neighborhoods and beautiful fauna along the way. Take a break to sit on a bench or set out a picnic and enjoy the picturesque route.

27. Virginia Zoo

Tigers, red pandas, orangutans, giraffes, lions, elephants, reptiles, the Virginia Zoo has it all. With over 50 acres and 700 animals, there are worlds to explore at this date idea in Norfolk.

With a strong emphasis on conservation and education, you can learn about wildlife while forming a deeper connection.

28. Sunset Kayaking

woman kayaking at sunset — *Make the most of Norfolk's natural surroundings (via Canva)*

The perfect blend of magic and romance, sunset kayaking is a must for those looking for active date ideas in Norfolk. As you paddle across the gentle waters, you’ll notice the vibrant colors of the natural world around you. This date idea in Norfolk provides a wonderful combination of adventure and romance. Organise your expedition with Norfolk Kayak Rentals.

29. Harbour Park

From baseball games to concerts to festivals and other community gatherings, this date idea in Norfolk always has something going on, making it a wonderful go-to spot where you know you’ll be comfortable.

The outdoor seating at Harbor Park overlooks the Elizabeth River, creating a stunning backdrop for a romantic occasion. No matter the event you attend, creating that shared experience will always leave you with something to talk about.

Now that you have so many options to choose from for first date ideas and second date ideas in Norfolk, the hardest part is going to be narrowing one down.

Regardless, no matter where you go as long as you’re spending time with someone who values your presence, you’re sure to have a wonderfully memorable time. So be yourself and fall in love in Norfolk.

For even more fun date ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!