Norfolk recognizes the value of strong recreation facilities to promote healthy living in its communities. There are many recreation centers in the city that facilitate activities for its neighborhood needs. The city envisions itself as city that focuses on and establishes principles recalling the Great Movement of the late 1890s and the early 1900’s where awareness and development of the city was at its highest. Norfolk has many neighborhood parks and school grounds within its park and parkway systems.

Since Norfolk values healthy living, its recreation centers are dedicated to enriching the quality if life for its residents by providing endless services that integral to the development of the neighborhoods. These services are delivered in a manner that ensures collaboration with residents and businesses, all of which meets the city’s goal of obtaining excellence in all fields.

The five core services that Norfolk offers is a variety of educational and recreation based activities. These include cultural enrichment, health and physical activities, social enhancement, personal development and life skills, and outdoor and environmental education. In addition, many facilities also provide licensed day care services that promote children’s daily creative and social development. These day care centers emphasizes on reinforcing positive self image and positive expression.

There are six major parks in Norfolk; Barraud Park, LaFayette Park, Lakewood Park, Northside Park, Ocean View Park and Tarrallton Park. These parks are committed to family orientated activities from picnics to sports facilities. An example of another facility is the Youth Development facility, a new addition to the Recreation Parks and Open Spaces in Norfolk. The program aims to help developing youths into engaging activities that will help with their future planning and as place for youth to output their overall energy during their free time.

Norfolk’s Recreation Centers are committed to enhancing the quality of life for all citizens. Our recreation centers offer numerous comprehensive programs developed for individuals requiring special physical attention. These recreation centers provide the environments necessary for “fair play”, equal performance recognition, and physical skills development.

All centers are open weekday afternoons, evenings and weekends during the school year, and weekdays only during the summer.