Norfolk’s Combo Tickets – Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin

Exploring Norfolk with the Norfolk’s Combo Tickets – Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin

If you’re planning a visit to Norfolk, Virginia, and want a way to see some of its most popular sights without the hassle of planning each visit separately, the Norfolk’s Combo Tickets might be just what you need. This package offers admission to four key attractions — Nauticus, the USS Wisconsin, the Virginia Zoo, plus discounts at local outlets — all bundled into one pass. While it’s not a guided tour and does require some planning on your part, it’s designed to give you a flexible way to explore the city’s maritime and wildlife highlights.

What we really like about this combo is the ease of access — tickets are picked up at the Norfolk Tourism Information Center, and the attractions are located close enough to each other for a manageable sightseeing day or two. Plus, the discount booklet adds some extra value for shopping and other entertainment. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that parking is off-site and not included, so you’ll want to factor in a bit of extra time and budget for that.

This experience would suit travelers who enjoy a mix of history, marine life, and outdoor activities, especially if you’re after a day or two of flexible exploring. Families with older children or groups interested in Virginia’s naval heritage and natural scenery should find this package particularly appealing. However, if you’re looking for guided tours or want to skip the logistics of ticket pickup, it’s good to be prepared for some self-guided adventure.

Key Points

• Flexible, self-guided experience with physical tickets picked up at the tourist info center.
• Includes admission to three major attractions: Nauticus, USS Wisconsin, and Virginia Zoo.
• Affordable price point at just over $40 per person, providing good value given the multi-attraction access.
• Discount booklet for shopping and extra entertainment enhances overall value.
• Off-site parking means planning for extra time and costs.
• Great for those interested in maritime history, wildlife, and Norfolk’s local culture—perfect for a relaxed, multi-day visit.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Attractions

The VisitNorfolk Tourist Information Center

Your first stop is the VisitNorfolk Tourist Information Center, located at 232 E Main St. This is where you’ll pick up your physical tickets and vouchers for the attractions. It’s a straightforward process, but it’s crucial to remember that admission is not granted without these tickets — you can’t just show up at the attractions without them. The center is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., so plan your arrival accordingly.

This initial step might seem like an extra step, but it’s designed to streamline your experience and give you access to discounts. Plus, it’s a good chance to explore the Mermaid Market for a little souvenir or gift for someone back home.

Nauticus: Maritime Adventures on the Waterfront

Once you’ve picked up your tickets, Nauticus is next. Located along Norfolk’s lively waterfront, Nauticus functions as a maritime-themed science center and museum. We like that it’s more than just static exhibits; it offers interactive displays that appeal to all ages, making it a lively and engaging experience.

Expect to learn about maritime industries, military history, and the environment through hands-on displays. Reviewers mention that “the exhibits are very educational,” and that it offers a unique experience for kids and adults alike. The only thing to keep in mind is that the museum’s schedule can vary, and some features may be more geared towards younger audiences. Still, most visitors find it worth the couple of hours spent here.

The USS Wisconsin Battleship

Berthed at Nauticus, the USS Wisconsin (BB-64) is a highlight of the tour. This massive battleship, which earned six battle stars during WWII and Korea, gives you a tangible glimpse into naval history. Walking its teakwood decks, you’ll get a sense of what life was like on a warship — and what it took to run a vessel of this size.

Many reviewers sing the praises of the experience, with one noting, “The battleship Wisconsin was very interesting,” especially because two crew members onboard were available to answer questions. This personal touch adds to the value, making it not just a self-guided walkthrough but an opportunity for some real insight.

That said, be prepared for steep stairs and some walking — the ship is large, and the stairs are notably steep, which could be a challenge for some. The experience typically lasts about three hours, so it’s a good idea to set aside ample time to explore thoroughly.

Virginia Zoo: Encounter with Over 700 Animals

Next, the Virginia Zoo offers a chance to see more than 150 species across 53 acres. From lions and tigers to bears and primates, it’s a compact but well-maintained zoo. The reviews highlight that “the zoo is small but very clean,” making it manageable even for a shorter visit.

While some mention that the zoo “did not have many animals to see,” others appreciate the cleanliness and layout, which feels natural and comfortable. It’s a good spot to relax outdoors and enjoy a variety of wildlife. If you have kids or are interested in seeing animals in a more natural setting, it’s likely to be a highlight.

Norfolk Premium Outlets: Shopping with a Save

The last stop on the pass is the Norfolk Premium Outlets. With over 65 brands, this shopping destination provides a chance to pick up some bargains and enjoy some downtime. The included VIP Saving Booklet offers discounts, making it a worthwhile addition if you’re interested in shopping.

It’s a shorter visit, around two hours, which works well if you’re ready to wind down your day or pick up souvenirs before heading home.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Ticket pickup is essential — don’t skip the initial stop at the Tourism Information Center, or you won’t be able to access the attractions.
• Parking is off-site with rates varying, so plan for that extra cost and travel time.
• This is a self-guided experience; transportation between attractions isn’t provided, so renting a car or using local transport makes sense.
• Weather matters — the tour operates in all conditions, but most outdoor attractions (like the zoo and ship decks) will be more enjoyable in good weather.
• No guided tours are included — if you want a more narrated experience, consider adding those separately.
• The pass is valid until the end of the year, offering flexibility if you’re planning a longer trip.
• Most attractions are open Monday through Saturday, with some varying schedules; check ahead if there’s a specific day you plan to visit.

Authentic Voices from Past Visitors

Many travelers comment on how manageable and worthwhile this package is. One reviewer appreciated that “the tickets last until the end of the year,” which is perfect if you’re unsure about your schedule. Another mentioned the knowledgeable guides onboard the Battleship Wisconsin, making the experience richer.

Some have noted that the Nauticus museum feels more geared toward younger children, so older teenagers or adults might find it less engaging. But overall, guests find the value for money quite good and the attractions well worth their time.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This combo ticket is a solid pick for those who want a relaxed, flexible way to explore Norfolk’s maritime history, wildlife, and local shopping. It’s especially good if you enjoy self-guided explorations and don’t mind a bit of extra planning — from ticket pickup to parking.

Families with children might find the Zoo and Battleship Wisconsin appealing, but remember that the attractions involve some walking and stairs. Those interested in history and nature will find plenty to enjoy here, especially if you prefer to customize your own pace rather than joining a guided tour.

If you’re visiting Norfolk for a few days and want to maximize your sightseeing options without breaking the bank, this pass offers a good balance of affordability and variety. Just be prepared to do some logistics planning ahead of time, and you’ll have a memorable, manageable trip.

FAQ

Do I need to pick up physical tickets before visiting the attractions?
Yes, tickets are only available for pickup at the Norfolk Tourism Information Center. You won’t be admitted without these physical tickets.

Are the attractions open in all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather, but outdoor parts like the ship decks and zoo may be less enjoyable in bad weather.

Is parking included in the ticket price?
No, parking at Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin is off-site and paid separately.

How long does each attraction take?
Expect around 3 hours for Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin, and about 2 hours at the Virginia Zoo and shopping.

Can I visit the attractions on different days?
Yes, the tickets last until the end of the year, so you can spread out your visits.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, especially older kids interested in history and animals, but keep in mind some areas involve stairs and walking.

Are guided tours included?
No, this is a self-guided experience. You explore at your own pace.

What’s the total cost of the package?
Approximately $40.48 per person, which includes admission to three attractions and discounts at outlets, making it a pretty good deal for multiple experiences.

If you’re after an easy way to hit Norfolk’s major sights and enjoy some downtime with flexibility, this combo ticket pack could be just right. It combines history, wildlife, and shopping for a balanced visit, without the stress of booking everything separately. Just remember to plan ahead for ticket pickup and parking, and you’ll be all set for a memorable trip.