Visit Norfolk’s Perk Up Pass

Exploring Norfolk’s Coffee Culture with the Perk Up Pass

If you’re heading to Norfolk and love starting your day with a good cup of coffee—and maybe a little more—then the Visit Norfolk’s Perk Up Pass might just be worth a look. It’s a budget-friendly way to sample some of the city’s best cafes, breweries, and waterfront spots, all while enjoying discounts and perks that add value to your visit.

What I like about this experience is its variety—from cozy neighborhood cafes to waterfront roasteries—and its flexibility since the duration can be as short as an hour or stretch out over a year. The $17 price point makes it accessible, especially considering the multiple stops you get to enjoy. However, keep in mind, the tour is self-guided and involves visiting seven different places, so some planning is needed to maximize your time.

This tour is ideal for coffee lovers who appreciate exploring local spots, and it’s also suited for those who enjoy discovering Norfolk’s waterfront vibe and community spaces. If you’re traveling solo or with friends who like a good caffeine fix and a little adventure, this pass could be a great fit. Just note that it’s not a guided tour with a set schedule—more of a curated experience you can tailor to your pace.

Key Points

• Affordable Access: At $17 per person, this pass offers a lot of value, especially with included vouchers.
• Flexible Duration: You can use it anytime within a year, making it adaptable to your schedule.
• Diverse Spots: From coffeehouses to waterfront cafes and breweries, it showcases Norfolk’s local coffee scene and community spaces.
• Discounts & Rewards: Each stop includes vouchers or discounts, which can add up to savings on drinks, food, and merchandise.
• Self-Guided and Relaxed: No strict schedule, letting you explore at your own pace.
• Great for Casual Explorers: Perfect if you enjoy discovering local flavors and scenic views without a rigid itinerary.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Visit Norfolk’s Perk Up Pass is more than just a collection of coffee stops—it’s a curated experience that highlights the city’s vibrant local scene and community spirit. The tour is composed of seven stops, each offering a unique vibe and specialty.

The Stops in Detail

Stop 1: Borjo Coffeehouse
Your journey begins here, where the focus is on serious coffee and good mood food. Borjo is known for its quality brews and welcoming environment. Their voucher gets you a $5 discount, which is a decent saving considering their prices generally align with a good mid-range coffee spot. The shop is a cozy place to kick things off, and with a free hour ticket, you have some flexibility to linger or move on.

Stop 2: Coaster Coffee
Next, you’ll visit a community-focused spot that emphasizes connection. Coaster Coffee isn’t just about great drinks; it’s a neutral meeting place where locals and visitors alike can slow down and enjoy conversations. Their non-profit status adds a community-oriented feel. You get another $5 voucher here, and you can expect a warm, welcoming environment with pastries and music. It’s a good reminder of Norfolk’s friendly, inclusive vibe.

Stop 3: COVA Brewing Company
Mixing craft beer with great coffee, COVA Brewing stands out as a multi-purpose community space. This spot is especially lively—offering self-serve tastings, which can be fun if you like trying a few different brews. The outdoor seating and friendly atmosphere make it an ideal place to relax. Again, a $5 voucher is included, and if you’re into craft beverages, this stop adds a bit of variety to your coffee-centric day.

Stop 4: Mudita Cafe & Bar
Moving into a place that combines craft coffee and cocktails, Mudita presents a unique blend of morning and evening allure. Located next to Ocean View Beach Park, it offers a $5 voucher, plus discounts on merchandise and a 15-20% off on your order. It’s a spot that caters to both coffee lovers and those who might want a cocktail later in the day, all in a relaxed setting with views of the neighborhood.

Stop 5: Neptune’s Fury Cafe & Roastery
For a waterfront view, Neptune’s Fury delivers with its beautiful riverside setting. As Norfolk’s only waterfront cafe and roastery, it offers freshly roasted coffee, house-baked pastries, and a snapshot of the city’s maritime vibe. With validated parking and views of the Elizabeth River, this stop feels especially special. The $5 voucher helps make this experience even sweeter, especially if you enjoy scenic spots.

Stop 6: Rich Port Coffee
This shop is all about storytelling—each cup rich with meaning, thanks to their Puerto Rican roasted beans. They serve high-quality coffee, including lattes, espressos, and cold brews. The $5 voucher here is a nice perk, and since the shop operates during weekday mornings, it’s perfect if you’re up early and want a local, high-quality brew.

Stop 7: Vessel Craft Coffee
Last but not least, Vessel Craft Coffee emphasizes ethically sourced beans, aligning with the trend toward sustainable, responsible coffee. Their focus on quality and ethical sourcing makes it a meaningful way to wrap up your tour.

The Overall Experience

The Perk Up Pass is less about structured tours and more about exploring and supporting local businesses. The stops are well-chosen to reflect Norfolk’s eclectic coffee and community scene, with several offering additional perks like discounts and free tastings.

Most reviews of the individual spots highlight stunning views, delicious drinks, and a friendly atmosphere—which is exactly what you’re after if you enjoy laid-back, local experiences. The fact that each place offers a free hour admission ticket or voucher means you’re getting tangible value, whether that’s a coffee, pastry, or merchandise discount.

The self-guided nature is both a pro and a con. It’s perfect if you like to set your own pace and explore without a strict schedule. But it also means you’ll need to plan your route and timing, especially if you want to hit all seven stops in one day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a coffee enthusiast eager to taste a variety of Norfolk’s local flavors, this pass is a no-brainer. It’s also a good choice if you want to combine your caffeine journey with scenic views, especially at Neptune’s Fury or COVA Brewing, which have outdoor or waterfront seating.

It’s suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed, low-pressure day of exploring. Larger groups might find it less practical unless everyone is on the same page about their pace.

While the tour isn’t explicitly designed for children, the casual environment at most stops makes it family-friendly for those traveling with kids who enjoy a good coffee or a quick snack.

The Sum Up

The Visit Norfolk’s Perk Up Pass is a simple, affordable way to uncover some of the city’s best coffee spots and local community spaces. It’s especially appealing for those who love discovering unique cafes, waterfront views, and supporting local businesses. The inclusion of vouchers and discounts adds real value, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to get a taste of Norfolk’s social scene.

Whether you’re a dedicated coffee drinker, a curious explorer, or someone wanting to experience Norfolk’s friendly neighborhood vibe, this pass offers a blend of flavor, scenery, and community connection. It’s best suited for flexible, laid-back days and travelers who enjoy making their own schedule.

Overall, if you’re in Norfolk and want a relaxed, coffee-focused adventure, this tour can serve as a delightful introduction—one sip at a time.

FAQ

Is the Perk Up Pass a guided tour?
No, it’s a self-guided experience. You choose when and how to visit each of the seven stops, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace.

How long can I use the pass?
It’s valid for up to a year after purchase, so you can plan your visits around your trip schedule or extend your exploration over multiple days.

What is included with the pass?
Each stop offers a voucher or discount, typically a $5 voucher. Some include additional perks like a 15-20% discount on merchandise.

Are the stops family-friendly?
Most stops are casual community spaces that can accommodate families, especially if your kids enjoy coffee or snacks. No specific mention of child-specific activities, but the environment seems relaxed.

What’s the price of the tour?
The entire experience costs $17 per person, making it an inexpensive way to enjoy a variety of local spots.

Are reservations required?
Booking is recommended, with most travelers booking about 10 days in advance. Since it’s a flexible, self-guided experience, no strict reservations are needed for the stops themselves.

Is parking easy at these locations?
Most stops seem accessible, and Neptune’s Fury includes parking validation. For other locations, check local parking options.

Can I extend my experience beyond coffee?
Yes, several stops, like COVA Brewing and Mudita Cafe, offer more than just coffee—like craft beer, cocktails, and food—so you can turn your visit into a full day.

What if I need to cancel?
The pass offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before your scheduled visit, giving some peace of mind if your plans change.

If you’re curious to explore Norfolk’s coffee scene without breaking the bank and crave a bit of waterfront scenery or community vibe, the Perk Up Pass is definitely worth considering. Just plan your stops, enjoy your coffee, and soak in the local charm—one sip at a time.