About this venue
Harrison Opera House is one of Norfolk's best-known performing arts venues and the home of Virginia Opera. Originally used for USO shows during World War II, the building was extensively renovated and reopened in 1993 as an opera house with 1,632 seats. Distinctive towers frame the exterior, while the three-story lobby features large windows, grand chandeliers and sweeping staircases that give the venue an elegant theatrical character.
Despite its substantial capacity, the auditorium maintains an intimate atmosphere. Acoustics designed for the performing arts, box seating on the mezzanine and balcony levels, and a well-organized interior contribute to a comfortable experience for opera, concerts and other stage productions. Elevators serve the seating levels, while the spacious lobby provides room to gather before performances and during intermissions.
The theatre is located at 160 W Virginia Beach Blvd, Norfolk, United States. Parking areas are available at the Harrison Opera House itself, with additional street parking across Virginia Beach Boulevard subject to local restrictions and availability. For a broader overview of travelling to the area and getting around Norfolk, see the city transport information further down the page.
About the city: Norfolk
Norfolk, a coastal city in the state of Virginia, has established itself as an attractive destination for concerts, sporting events, and a wide range of major gatherings. The combination of urban energy, maritime atmosphere, and a developed event scene makes it an excellent choice for visitors who want more than simply entering a stadium or arena. The city gives an impression of accessibility and ease, while at the same time offering enough content to turn the entire trip into a pleasant experience. That is exactly why Norfolk appeals to visitors who want to combine entertainment, practicality, and a stay in a lively urban setting.
One of the city’s great advantages is its transport connectivity and the ease of getting around. Visitors can rely on Hampton Roads Transit bus routes and The Tide light rail, which connects key parts of the city and makes it easier to reach downtown, arenas, and stadium areas. For arrivals from other cities, Norfolk Station served by Amtrak is an important hub, while Norfolk International Airport is the main air gateway for travelers arriving by plane. Thanks to this combination of air, rail, and local transit networks, reaching the main event venues in Norfolk is generally simple and convenient.
Before or after an event, it is worth setting aside time for a walk along the Elizabeth River and for relaxing at Town Point Park, one of the city’s most recognizable waterfront gathering places. Visitors who enjoy an urban atmosphere also often choose Waterside District, known for its dining and entertainment offer and its lively setting in the heart of downtown. Places such as Nauticus and the wider downtown area add further value to any visit, as sightseeing, gastronomy, and an evening out come together with ease. In this way, Norfolk offers a complete city experience in which going to a concert or a game can become part of a much broader and more enjoyable trip.
Note: This content was prepared with the assistance of artificial intelligence tools. The content was editorially reviewed before publication.