Introduction to Norfolkby FROMMER'SNovember 20, 2006 Although it's still a major seaport and naval base, Norfolk has replaced its notorious sailor bars (they're in suburban strip malls now) with a vibrant, modern downtown of high-rise offices, condominiums, marinas, museums, shops, nightspots, and a 12,000-seat minor league baseball park. The MacArthur Center, a shopping mall just a few blocks from the riverfront, now dominates downtown. Interspersed are reminders of Norfolk's past, such as historic houses and the old City Hall, now a museum and memorial to World War II hero Gen. Douglas MacArthur. Here also is Virginia's finest art museum, the state's official zoo, and a beautiful botanical garden. And for foodies, hip restaurants have brought great tastes to downtown and the gentrified residential neighborhood known as Ghent. (read article)