Iconic Waterside District Opens in Virginia

The Cordish Cos. and Norfolk authorities recently reopened the Waterside District, following a $40 million overhaul and rebranding of Norfolk’s iconic Waterside Festival Marketplace. Anchored by The Market, Waterside District is a Norfolk landmark where the community and visitors come together for entertainment, dining, nightlife activities, festivals and other events. The venue was originally built in 1983.


Located along the Elizabeth River waterfront in downtown Norfolk, the Waterside District is anchored by The Market, a 30,000-square-foot food hall that includes Starr Hill, Rappahannock Oyster Co., Cogan’s Pizza and others. Designed by Jeffrey Beers International, The Market includes a stage for live music, festivals and family attractions as well as a LED screen. Regional and national venues such as Guy Fieri’s Smokehouse, Blue Moon TapHouse, PBR Norfolk, The Fudgery, Chipotle and Stripers Seafood can also be found at Waterside District, as well as the Harbor Club, an 8,000-square-foot mixed-use space overlooking the Elizabeth River for dining, cocktails and private events. Moreover, several outdoor patio and entertainment areas along Waterside Drive and the Elizabeth River allow guests to enjoy an indoor-outdoor experience.  

“Waterside District has created 1,000 new jobs and will generate millions of dollars of revenue for the City. It has been a major part of a substantial effort to revitalize both Downtown Norfolk and the Elizabeth River waterfront,” said Norfolk City Mayor Kenneth Cooper Alexander, in a prepared statement.

One month ago, Hilton Norfolk The Main opened its doors less than a quarter of a mile away from the Waterside District.

Article by Laura Calugar | Commerical Property Executive
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