Fort Norfolk

Fort Norfolk is a military fort in Norfolk with brick walls, earthworks, and bastions positioned along the Elizabeth River. The structure forms a complete defensive system with multiple fortified points arranged to protect the waterfront.

The fort began operations in 1775 during the American Revolutionary War and served as a crucial defense point through multiple conflicts. It remained in use until the early 1900s when its strategic importance diminished.

The fort displays architectural features from multiple military periods, showing how people adapted their defense strategies over time. You can see these changes reflected in the walls and bastions that visitors encounter today.

The site is open for guided tours from Tuesday through Sunday, with special arrangements available for educational groups. Comfortable shoes are helpful since walking the bastions and viewing the walls involves moving across open grounds.

The fort preserves its original powder magazine and officer quarters with period furniture and military equipment from different eras. These spaces offer a direct look at how soldiers and officers actually lived and worked on site.