Historic Fort Norfolk Logo
 Fort Norfolk, Norfolk VA - Photo by Steven Forrest

Fort Norfolk

Fort Norfolk one of the last remaining of 19 harbor-front forts authorized in 1794 by President George Washington. The fort's four-acre site overlooks the Elizabeth River and includes earthwork embankments, ramparts, a dungeon, officers' quarters, powder magazine, barracks, and guardhouse. Most structures in the fort date to 1810.

The fort was used during the War of 1812 and the Civil War. The fort supplied men and munitions to the CSS Virginia (Merrimack) during its battle with the USS Monitor. The fort was also used as a prison for blockade runners during the Civil War. The fort was used as an ordnance depot for the Navy. In 1923 the fort was occupied by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which still owns Fort Norfolk. The Norfolk Historical Society began making restorations and giving tours of the fort in 1991.

Visitor Information

Monday to Friday 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM For Self Guided Tour. The self guided tour is only the outside of the buildings inside the fort. Free parking is available behind the guard house at the Entrance. Must show picture ID to gate guard at entrance building.

YouTube Fort Norfolk Tour: Historic Forrest - Fort Norfolk Tour

The Norfolk Historic Society will open the fort and provide tours starting June 1 until the end of September on Sundays from Noon - 4:00 PM, and the first Sunday of each month from Noon to 4:00 PM.

Open other Weekends for special events only.

Admission Cost: Free

Address: 810 Front Street, Norfolk, VA 23510

Official Web site for more information: http://www.nao.usace.army.mil/About/Visit-Fort-Norfolk/