Norfolk

West Ghent, Norfolk Neighborhood

West Ghent in Norfolk, Virginia, offers a pedestrian-friendly and car-friendly neighborhood with easy access to highways and public transportation. Residents can run errands on foot and find groceries and restaurants nearby. The relaxed atmosphere and quiet surroundings make it a perfect place to call home. With a mixture of single detached homes and apartment buildings, there are various housing options for potential residents. Additionally, the area is close to green spaces, providing a perfect spot for relaxation. This family-friendly neighborhood also offers easy access to schools, making it an ideal location for those seeking a convenient and peaceful place to live.

West Ghent is a reasonably good neighborhood to buy a home in for those who prefer a slower-paced environment. The noise levels in this part of the city are low, as the streets are usually tranquil. Lastly, public green spaces are especially well-situated and there are a few of them close by for residents to unwind in, making them easy to reach from the majority of locations in the neighborhood.

Highlights of West Ghent

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 Jefferson Park

Nestled in the heart of West Ghent, Jefferson Park provides a tranquil green oasis with mature shade trees, walking paths, playgrounds, benches, and open space, making it a favorite spot for community gatherings, morning jogs, and family picnics.

🏫 Maury High School

A historic cornerstone of the neighborhood, Maury High School serves local students and anchors community pride, boasting a stately building on Shirley Avenue and a legacy of academic and extracurricular excellence that links generations of West Ghent residents.

🍽️ Colley Avenue Restaurant Row

Running along the eastern edge of West Ghent, Colley Avenue features a vibrant strip of beloved local eateries, coffee shops, and pubs—such as No Frill Bar & Grill and Toast—making it the social heart of the community for both dining and nightlife.

🛒 Harris Teeter at 1320 Colonial Ave

Conveniently located on the edge of West Ghent, this modern Harris Teeter fulfills neighborhood shopping needs, offering residents a walkable grocery option that’s enhanced by its proximity to other local services and casual cafés.

🚴 Elizabeth River Trail Access

Residents enjoy direct access to the scenic Elizabeth River Trail, which runs through West Ghent along Harbor Park and Orapax Street, encouraging an active lifestyle with biking, walking, and waterfront views right at their doorstep.

West Ghent

This August in West Ghent

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

August 1, 2026

End of Summer Bash

Virginia Zoo • 12:00 PM–4:00 PM

A fun final celebration of summer right nearby, ideal for families in West Ghent seeking a relaxed outdoor outing at the zoo to wrap up summer.

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August 1 & 15, 2026 (1st & 3rd Fridays)

Ghent Farmers Market

Green Space at Blair Middle School (730 Spotswood Ave) • 4:00 PM–7:00 PM

A convenient local market right in West Ghent featuring live music and food trucks—great for picking up fresh local goods and connecting with neighbors.

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August 21–22, 2026

Norfolk Waterfront Jazz Festival

Town Point Park

A major annual jazz festival downtown, offering smooth jazz performances just a short ride from West Ghent—perfect for music lovers and families looking for vibrant waterfront entertainment.

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August 9, 2026

Pretlow Clothing Swap

Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch (Norfolk Public Library) • 10:00 AM–2:00 PM

A community-focused, eco‑friendly swap event offering neighbors in West Ghent a fun way to refresh wardrobes while supporting reuse and sustainability.

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August 3, 2026

First Monday Book Group: Passage

Norfolk Library • 6:00 PM–7:00 PM

A welcoming literary gathering just a short drive away; perfect for West Ghent residents interested in connecting over engaging discussion in a relaxed setting.

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From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in West Ghent

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for West Ghent

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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