The Ghent district is a historical suburban area in Norfolk, so similar to its European counterparts that walking down any of its streets makes you feel like you are in another continent. Ghent began its development in 1890 with most of its construction occurring between 1892 and 1907. The name Ghent was retained because of its historic and romantic European associations. Walking down Ghent feels like an electric and surreal combination of the new and the old. The old and new architecture in Ghent combines Old European style with a touch of Victorian dissent. Though no architecture control existed when Ghent district started developing, many builders picked designs thought to be suggestive of European architecture.

You can see Ghent’s Queen Anne house design as an inspiration from drawing by English Architect Richard Norman Shaw. He was the most influential British architect from the 1870s to the 1900s, known for his country houses and for commercial buildings. Further attempts to solidify ties between Ghent in Norfolk and its European namesake occurred in 1897 when the western arm of Smith's Creek was christened "The Hague." Ceremonies at the renaming celebrations paid honor to the Dutch roots of the Norfolk Company (i.e., Boissevain). Even as late as 1911, promoters sought parallels in architecture between Ghent and European prototypes.

Ghent district is one of the most economically diverse in Norfolk with large turn-of-the century apartment communities, next to rows of cozy bungalows, side by side with newly developed condominiums. In the past five years, many former apartment buildings have been redeveloped into condominium units at a rapid pace. East Ghent, what used to be a predominantly African-American area, was torn down and rebuilt, while little of the original buildings remain. The main exceptions are Maury High School and the Van Wyck branch of the Norfolk Public Library.

The Ghent District includes Ghent, West Ghent and East Ghent in Norfolk, VA. Ghent's commercial district is known for unique shops and restaurants. And if you are an indie movie buff, you can visit Naro Theater for screenings or if you are a food purist, you can go to Doumar's Ice Cream where the world’s first ice cream cone was invented.

During the 1980's, Ghent was the center of a strong and active artistic community that was characterized by esoteric alternative music and renovation of warehouses into art studios and lofts. Ghent continues to attract a bohemian influence, supporting local bands and alternative services, and bringing together elements of punk ‘n’ ska, beatnik, and dub communities.

Local historical attractions include the Chrysler Museum of Art, the Harrison Opera House, and the Freemason Abbey.