Exploring the NEON District in Norfolk, VA
This week, I had a realization. The longer quarantine goes on, the more I am discovering things to love close to home. It has pushed me to get creative and really dig into what Hampton Roads has to offer. Thankfully, that effort has paid off, and I am especially excited to share one of my favorite discoveries with you.
The NEON District in Norfolk, Virginia is a must-visit, whether you are a local or planning a future trip to the area.
The NEON District, short for New Energy of Norfolk, is the city’s first official art district. Located in downtown Norfolk, it is a relatively recent development that blends creativity with the neighborhood’s historic roots. The area embraces art, culture, and innovation, making it a vibrant place to explore.
What Makes the NEON District Special
The district offers a wide range of activities, from mural tours and comedy shows to art demonstrations and unique dining experiences.
While there is a lot to experience here, this post focuses on one of the most visually exciting aspects of the district, the mural tour.
There are around 50 murals scattered throughout the area, covering walls, alleyways, sidewalks, and even unexpected corners. Each piece adds personality and color to the neighborhood, making it feel like an open-air gallery.
Even with a map, it is easy to miss a few, so having a general route in mind can make your visit much smoother.
Highlights from the Mural Tour
Magazine Lane
Magazine Lane is packed with colorful murals from end to end. While not every piece here is part of the official tour, the combination of street art and large-scale murals creates an impressive visual experience.
Some standout works include:
Blue Skies
27 Bicycles
Three Muses
Jewel
When Chameleons Roller Skate
Kaiya with Finch
Happier Times
One of the most memorable pieces wraps around a building, transitioning from a vibrant underwater scene with bright fish into a neon-style cityscape as it turns the corner. It is a creative and playful piece that really captures the spirit of the district.
The Plot and Its Creative Space
The Plot is a small park and amphitheater that serves as a central gathering place within the district. It features rainbow-colored seating, a small stage, and several artistic elements throughout.
The main attraction here is the Cement scope, a unique installation that blends the mechanics of a cement mixer with the visuals of a kaleidoscope. It is both interactive and visually engaging.
Be sure to walk around the space to see painted benches and a vibrant fence that adds to the artistic atmosphere.
Murals Along Granby Street
Many of the district’s murals are located along Granby Street. This area rewards those who pay attention, as artwork can appear in unexpected places, including sidewalks and building corners.
Some notable pieces include:
Transparent Seas
NEON Cube
Norfolk Nautical
Razzle Dazzle
The Nature of Unity
Hidden Gems in Moseley Lane
Behind the shops along the northern end of Granby Street, Moseley Lane offers a more tucked-away collection of artwork.
Here, you will find murals decorating back entrances, smaller structures, and even sheds. Some highlights include:
Symbiotic Nuances
The Dance
Extravaganza
These pieces feel a bit more hidden, which makes discovering them even more fun.
Planning a Self-Guided Tour
If you prefer a structured experience, guided tours are available and provide additional insight into the artwork and artists.
However, a self-guided tour is easy to do and allows you to explore at your own pace. You can comfortably see most of the murals in under two hours.
Since much of the district is best explored on foot, it is a good idea to park near Granby Street or W Olney Road and continue walking from there. A few murals are more spread out, but they can easily be incorporated into your route.
A Complete Mural Route
If you want to see everything without missing a stop, following a planned route is the best approach. Below is a complete list of mural locations in an efficient order, including addresses and simple navigation tips.
Chrysler Museum of Art Neon Roof Gallery, 745 Duke Street
Lunar Bathing, 217 Grace Street
757 Energy and Vibe, 717 Bush Street
Bloom, 801 Bush Street
Seasons, 801 Bush Street
#ILYNFKVA, 117 W Virginia Beach Boulevard
The Plot, 776 Granby Street
Push It Real Good, near The Plot
Green Machine, 795 Monticello Avenue
Neighborhood Markers, 795 Monticello Avenue
Symbiotic Nuances, 806 Granby Street
Untitled, 804B Granby Street
The Dance, 814 Granby Street
A Bright Presence, 121 E Virginia Beach Boulevard
Extravaganza, 838 Granby Street
We Can Create What We Can Imagine, 814 Granby Street
OXOXO, 111 W Virginia Beach Boulevard
Space Explorations, 819 Granby Street
When Chameleons Roller Skate, 819 Granby Street
Kaiya with Finch, Magazine Lane
The Dream Machine, 112 W Wilson Avenue
Flo with the Go, Magazine Lane
All the Pieces Matter, Magazine Lane
Jewel, Magazine Lane
Seep NFK, 801 Granby Street
Happier Times, 801 Granby Street
Labor of Love, 128 W Olney Road
Ancient Freedom, 112 W Wilson Avenue
Daisies, 129 W Virginia Beach Boulevard
Solidarity, 141 W Virginia Beach Boulevard
Keep Glowing, 140 W Wilson Avenue
Upper Blush, 140 W Olney Road
My Standards, 125 W Olney Road
Great America XVII, 132 W Olney Road
Glass Wheel Mural, 128 W Olney Road
Blue Sky, Magazine Lane
Reach, 117 W Olney Road
Hats, Music, and Technology, Magazine Lane
27 Bicycles, 739 Granby Street
Three Muses, 735 Granby Street
New Energy of Norfolk, 114 W Brambleton Avenue
NFK-Arts, 711 Granby Street
Home, 600 Granby Street
Gateway Towers, 700 to 800 Granby Street
Neon Cube, 701 Monticello Avenue
Norfolk Nautical, 724 Granby Street
Glimpse, 724 Granby Street
Widow’s Walk, 724 Granby Street
The Nature of Unity, 731 Granby Street
Razzle Dazzle, 746 Granby Street
Xenon, 746 Granby Street
Transparent Seas, 745 Granby Street
Geometric Configuration series, 700 Monticello Avenue
Final Thoughts on the NEON District
The NEON District truly lives up to its name. It is full of energy, creativity, and color, making it a fun and inspiring way to spend an afternoon in Norfolk.
Exploring the murals not only gives you a chance to see incredible artwork but also helps you discover new parts of the city, including shops and restaurants to revisit later.
If you are planning a visit, saving this route can make your experience much easier and more enjoyable.
Thanks for following along, and as always, happy travels!
