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.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
A classic Independence Day celebration right on the waterfront, with live patriotic music, food vendors, family-friendly activities, and one of the region’s most spectacular fireworks displays—ideal for West Ghent residents wanting festive community fun close by.
View event details →A friendly, active series of neighborhood races—starting with a fun relay at Norfolk Zoo—great for runners, families, and West Ghent locals looking for evening social fitness and community bonding.
View event details →An elegant, free orchestral concert outdoors at Town Point Park—perfect for West Ghent residents to enjoy summer evening music with views of the river and skyline in a relaxed community setting.
View event details →A hyper-local celebration: West Ghent neighbors gather for a festive bike parade and a community cleanup—with prizes and ice cream—making it a meaningful, family-friendly way to celebrate and care for your own neighborhood.
View event details →A vibrant weekend market offering local produce, crafts and community interaction—easily accessible for West Ghent residents looking for fresh local goods and a friendly Saturday morning outing.
Stories, updates, and things to know in West Ghent
Local characteristics and demographics for West Ghent
