norfolk tour company

Norfolk Tour Company

Category: Tours

Norfolk, VA 23501 757-236-3439

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Looking for things to do in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, or anywhere in Coastal Virginia? Look no further! If you’re tired of paying for a full-service tour company, when all you want are a tour guide, then you’ve come to the right place. Norfolk Tour Company is always expanding its tour offerings. They currently provide tours of the NEON Arts District, the Elizabeth River Trail in Downtown Norfolk, a history of Norfolk theater tour, the Civil War in Norfolk, as well as tours of the Freemason and Ghent neighborhoods.

For tour times, call 757-236-3239 or email  [email protected]

Norfolk Tour Company

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Norfolk Tour Company specializes in step-on services and unique walking tour experiences that highlight the best of the area's art, food, history, and architecture. Our step-on services cater to large groups who have a nus, but need a guide! Our walking tours combine historical research and entertainment into fun explorations perfect for students, corporate events, visiting family, date nights, or large groups. …

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My husband and I had an great evening on the Norfolk Haunted Tour. Love how we learned about the city's history while also learning about its people of the past. Highly recommend this event. Definitely a few places I want to go back and checkout during the day.

Wells Theater

Joshua led us on a great haunted tour of Norfolk. He is a very knowledgeable and engaging guide. Highly recommend this company if you're looking to explore some of the hidden gems of Norfolk. Looking forward to going on more!

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NORFOLK TOUR COMPANY - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Norfolk Tour Company

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Norfolk Tour Company - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

Norfolk tour and event company rebrands to…

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Norfolk tour and event company rebrands to reflect broader scope.

Phillips Destination Management Company — which has been operating in Hampton Roads for more than four decades — recently changed its name to Discover Coastal VA, according to an October announcement.

“While the Phillips name has always been synonymous with our business and who we are, it doesn’t really represent what we do,” said company vice president Brooke Phillips Garrett. She said the new name both shows where the business operates and hints at how its scope has expanded over the years.

Marjorie Phillips Mace was 50 years old and a grandmother when she founded her tour company in 1978. World War II veterans looking to host reunions with their fellow service members were the first customers for the business. Mace would organize tours of locations like Naval Station Norfolk and Langley Air Force Base.

When daughter-in-law Anne Phillips became the new owner and president in 1998, those veteran tours were slowing down.

“We needed to focus on other areas of business, so that’s when we really tried to get more into the conventions and tour and travel market,” Phillips said.

Around the same time, more and more cruise ships began stopping in the area. The company began coordinating sightseeing tours with the ships, and also expanded into event production and organizing transportation.

For example, the Caribbean Princess cruise ship stopped in Norfolk a few days ago, and Garrett said her company set up 23 motor coach pickups in the span of about 30 minutes.

“We had to move 1,200 people from their ship to our motor coaches and out, and it was really cool to see it happen,” Garrett said. “It was a total logistical phenomenon, really.”

Garrett said the company includes five office staff and around 23 contracted tour guides.

Though the company still does healthy business from military reunion tours, Phillips said more and more clients now want experiential activities: bike tours, kayaking, sailing and other events that get them out on the water.

“Dolphin watching is hugely popular,” Garrett added. “People want to get out and they want to see a lot more eco-tourism as well.”

Tourism numbers in Hampton Roads and across Virginia jumped up in 2018 compared to the previous year. In Hampton Roads, domestic travel expenditures increased 4.6% to $5.1 billion. Visitors doled out $25.8 billion on domestic travel for the entire state — a 4.4% increase from 2017.

Trevor Metcalfe, 757-222-5345, [email protected].

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VisitNorfolk’s Champion of Hospitality Awards for National Travel and Tourism Week 2024

May 19-25, 2024 is National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), an annual tradition to celebrate the U.S. travel community and tourism’s essential role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, creating quality job opportunities, inspiring new businesses and elevating the quality of life for Americans every day. 

Tourism is essential to our region and plays an integral role in Norfolk’s economy. As the third largest economic driver for our city, the travel and tourism industry mobilized a $149.7 million impact in fiscal year 2023. With over 7,000 jobs in the tourism and hospitality sector , our industry attracts a multitude of talents and provides significant economic benefits to both local businesses and Norfolk residents. 

To celebrate tourism in our city and to shine a light on the individuals and teams who make Norfolk such a welcoming city to experience, VisitNorfolk established in 2002 the Champion of Hospitality Awards. In March and April, we invited anyone who has had a positive hospitality experience in Norfolk to nominate an individual or an entire team for the Champion of Hospitality Awards. We are excited to share the winners of this year’s awards and encourage you to visit these Champions of Hospitality in person during your next Norfolk experience. 

Peter G. Decker, Jr. Hospitality Associate of the Year

Mary Buting Laundry Attendant DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel Norfolk Airport

Since 1994, Mary Buting has remained a steadfast and loyal employee in the laundry department of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Norfolk Airport. She’s fluffed and folded laundry for guests, working extra hours and going above and beyond during Covid to clean rooms and spot check the lobby, something she said she’d never done before.

“That was a hard job,” she says. “I did a little bit of everything.”

This can-do attitude has led coworkers to say, “She is so well liked and kind to everyone that she exudes the spirit of hospitality all the way and never looks for recognition.”

“I try to give them everything they need,” she says about DoubleTree guests.

With this award, Mary is getting the recognition she deserves for three decades of service to Norfolk’s visitors.

– Nominated by Mary Elizabeth Collins, DoubleTree Norfolk

Champion of Hospitality Winners

Rob Asbury  Bartender Todd Jurich Bistro

Always friendly and providing top-notch service, Rob Asbury mans the bar at Todd Jurich Bistro with the air of a true professional. Whether he’s serving our city’s visitors, locals or the eatery’s celebrity clientele, Rob is ready to deliver excellent service every time.

– Nominated by Bruce Watts

Scott & Corrie Bateman Co-Founder/Co-owner COVA Brewing Company

COVA’s commitment to quality brews, community growth and sustainability is no accident. It’s a collective effort of the team led by Scott and Corie Bateman. These two work tirelessly, serving on community boards including the Ocean View Business Association, to make this city one that will be around for future generations to live and thrive in.

– Nominated by Scott Bateman, COVA Brewing Co.

John Carter Sales and Catering Coordinator HIlton the Main

As our first-ever Rookie of the Year, John already has the chops of a seasoned pro. He handles everything thrown his way while serving as a welcoming face for guests at the Main. His teammates say they’re very lucky to have him around and look forward to seeing what he does in the future.

– Nominated by Jessica Clingenpeel, The Main Norfolk

Drazey Carvajal Front Desk Supervisor DOubleTree Norfolk Airport

Despite having no prior hospitality experience, Drazey impressed the higher-ups at Doubletree enough to land a part-time position at the hotel. Over the past two years, he has gone above and beyond, becoming a supervisor and an indispensable member of his team. He’s called the “driving force” for the front desk team and someone who puts others before himself. He’s noted for being compassionate and helping out without batting an eye.

– Nominated by Crystal Dickey, DoubleTree Norfolk

Chrysler Museum Visitor Services Team

Walk into the Chrysler Museum and it’s likely the door will be opened for you by one of these friendly ambassadors for the arts. During the recent Paul McCartney photo exhibition, the team greeted more than 60,000 visitors with knowledge and friendliness while ensuring guest safety. They also work weddings, festivals and have been nationally recognized for the level of service they provide.

– Nominated by Ashley Grove Mars, Chrysler Museum

Hannah Coats General Manager and Brew Master Grain

For 10 years, Hannah has worked her way up through the Hilton ranks, now serving as GM and brewmaster at Grain. Her coworkers note that she makes every day look easy and fun, thanks to her positive attitude and friendly demeanor. She creates a positive atmosphere for both staff and guests – and it shows in her employee retention and guest satisfaction stats.

F.R.E.D. Best Tourist Shuttle

F.R.E.D. may not be a person, but this electric vehicle packs a lot of personality. Offering near-daily rides (for free!) throughout the Downtown Norfolk corridor, this battery-operated, eight-seat people mover is an extension of the Downtown Public Service Ambassador program and, well, it’s a certified hit with visitors.

– Nominated by Sam Black, Downtown Norfolk

Rebecca Kelley Pastry Chef The Stockpot Norfolk

The tasty treats on display at the Stockpot in Selden Market are carefully crafted by pastry chef Rebecca Kelley, who turns out custom cakes, themed deserts, cookies and house bread with ease every day. She pulls double duty as the Stockpot’s social media coordinator and is always happy to lend a helping hand by serving as the restaurant’s Manager On Duty multiple times a week. She’s a terrific asset for Downtown Norfolk.

– Nominated by Amber Kostka, The Stockpot Norfolk

Sydney Meers Syd’s Fish Pig Cafe

Chef Syd Meers personifies “above and beyond” with the service he provides at Syd’s Fish Pig Cafe. From staying open late to cook for late-night VIPs to entertaining guests with colorful chitchat, Syd has often opened his doors on days off to provide private dining for conference officials. An award-winning chef, Meers is also an artist in his own right.

– Nominated by Wayne Callis, VisitNorfolk

Chris Perry Assistant General Manager Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Norfolk

Noted for being the “epitome of hospitality,” Chris Perry serves as the heart of the downtown Marriott. He always has a smile on his face and “bends over backwards” to help guests feel welcome. Also nominated to be the moderator/group expert on the Marriott Employee Forum on Facebook, Chris does his best to greet every guest who steps into the Marriott.

– Nominated by Brent Cosgrove, Marriott Downtown Norfolk

Carla Plummer City of Norfolk Parking

Known for her charming personality and friendly demeanor, Plummer has helped keep city parking in check for years, going above and beyond during the recent MEAC Tournament. She bagged meters and spent three hours assisting by keeping spaces open during the opening night reception. Carla retires in October and is well deserving of this honor. – Nominated by Jennifer Lopez, Visit Norfolk

Mary Ryder Supervisor Allied Universal Security Services

At a recent show, Mary assisted a young man who was experiencing sensory/anxiety issues. She checked on him and offered to reseat him on a lower level where he could – and did – enjoy the rest of the show. Mary went out of her way to ensure the entire family had an enjoyable evening, going far above and beyond her job description. – Nominated by James Ball, VisitNorfolk

Lori Santiago Bell Person The Main

Walk in to the Main and it’s likely you’ll see the warm smile of Lori Santiago greeting you. She’s always dressed for the occasion, wearing themed outfits to welcome guests daily. It’s hard to beat the first impression Lori offers to guests walking into the Main, whether it’s for the first time or their hundredth time.

– Nominated by Stacy Lisborg, The Main Norfolk

Dave Walker Operations Supervisor Downtown Norfolk Council

For 25 years, Dave Walker has served as a dedicated member of the Ambassador team for the Downtown Norfolk Council. He’s always ready to lend a helping hand and direct visitors to where they want to go. He also keeps the streetscape clean and safe while dropping serious knowledge about Downtown for locals and visitors alike.  

Vinson M Wilson Supreme Allied Commander Transformation ACT/NATO

For 20 years, Vinson has served ACT/NATO in the Protocol Office. He supported all NATO Events for General Philippe Lavigne, SACT Commander and has been an inspiration to his colleagues and team. Vinson is a previous Hospitality Champion, having won in 2009.

– Nominated by NATO Protocol Staff

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Travel | Carnival says cruise ship will return to…

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Travel | time-lapse moving of the dali | video, things to do, travel | carnival says cruise ship will return to baltimore next sunday, two months after key bridge collapse.

A Carnival Cruise Line ship that rerouted its departure to Norfolk, Virginia, will return to Baltimore on Sunday as scheduled, the company said in a news release.

Last week, Royal Caribbean said a ship would be leaving Baltimore this coming Saturday “as planned.”

The Dali cargo ship was refloated Monday morning, and the Key Bridge Response Unified Command said Monday afternoon that a 50-feet deep, 400-feet wide channel will be open “soon.” The original 50-feet deep, 700-feet wide channel is expected to be fully restored by the end of the month.

While the ship was stuck in the Patapsco River following its March 26 crash into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, cruise ships have been rerouted through Norfolk.

“We are extremely grateful to the officials and incredible first responders in Baltimore, who’ve shown great leadership and resolve in this difficult time, as well as our supportive partners in Norfolk, whose rapid response allowed us to continue to deliver our scheduled sailings for our guests,” Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said in the release. “It’s been our goal to resume operations in Baltimore as soon as possible, and after working closely with local, state and federal agencies, we look forward to a successful return.”

In 2023, Maryland Port Administration spokesperson Richard Scher said, 444,000 passengers boarded cruises in the terminal, the highest total since 2012. Eight cruise ships are scheduled to depart in June. The cruise terminal primarily services ships from Carnival and Royal Caribbean cruise lines, and the Norwegian Cruise Line also occasionally uses it.

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