Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel

Norfolk's only waterfront hotel, the 468-room Sheraton Norfolk Waterside, is putting the finishing touches on a multi-million-dollar renovation that draws inspiration from its Elizabeth River setting and the region's naval heritage.

The fresh new design, which introduces a nautical palette of calming blues and metallic-accented grays, spans the hotel's lobby, guest rooms, meeting space and fitness center. A brand-new restaurant, Waterside Seafood Company, caps off the new look to offer dining with a view.

"Recent business growth and new entertainment attractions like the Waterside District, located right next door, have heightened Norfolk's profile as a destination both for leisure travelers and the meetings market," said Brendan England, the hotel's general manager. "With our ideal location and thoughtful renovation, Sheraton Norfolk Waterside is perfectly positioned to accommodate the growing number of visitors, ensuring an authentic Norfolk experience and a comfortable, stylish stay. We also welcome our local neighbors and residents to see how this landmark property has evolved to reflect the best of what Norfolk has to offer."

The renovated property, at 777 Waterside Drive, is an ideal setting for summertime visitors enjoying the Waterside District, annual festivals, nearby USS Wisconsin and Nauticus museum and the new 12-story seasonal Skystar Observation Wheel.

The hotel lobby, with its soaring windows and open view to the river, capitalizes on natural light. Its floor-to-ceiling fireplace is fashioned from Italian marble. Crisp white walls and blue textured carpeting give a nod to the maritime setting and are punctuated by pops of gold in accent pillows and ottomans. New to the lobby is The Market, a 24-hour source for snacks and sundries.

With its fresh take on classic southern seafood, Waterside Seafood Company restaurant is open 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. to accommodate everyone from early risers to late-night arrivals. Warm wood floors, upholstered club chairs in a neutral tone and floor-to-ceiling windows let the harbor views take center stage. Menu signatures like she crab soup are complemented by hand-crafted cocktails and local craft beers on tap.

Newly refreshed guest rooms, with views of the harbor and city skylines, have been given a nautical theme in a palette of blues, white and silver. All accommodations feature the Sheraton Signature Sleep Experience, LCD HD flat panel televisions, wireless and hard-wired internet, complimentary In-room safes, mini-refrigerators, and coffee and tea makers. Step-out balconies are featured in 116 of the guest rooms.

Club-level Concierge Suites feature access to the renovated Club Lounge. Warm woods, tranquil blues, nautical striped drapes and soft neutral walls create a calm, elegant environment for Club level guests to gather for an informal meeting or family breakfast with river views.

Also fully renovated is the 1,100-square-foot Presidential Suite, one of the most sought-after luxury suites in downtown Norfolk, with 180-degree harbor and city views. The suite features a dining table for eight; wet bar, microwave and refrigerator; balcony; separate bedrooms and living areas; expansive bathroom with large vanity, luxurious garden tub, separate walk-in shower, and walk-in closet; and separate guest bathroom. The suite has hosted four sitting presidents and a number of presidential candidates as well as musicians, actors and celebrities.

The Norfolk Sheraton Waterside's 46,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space also boasts a fresh new look. This includes the 12,265-square-foot International Ballroom and the light-filled Riverwalk Ballroom, which has been renovated with blue glass lighting fixtures and geometric-patterned blue carpeting that reflect the harbor scene just beyond the floor-to-ceiling window wall. Riverwalk Ballroom's veranda can serve as an al fresco extension or a separate function space. The ballroom accommodates 150 on two levels.

The 24-hour fitness center is being doubled in size to 1,400 square feet, with a new keyed access entrance for enhanced security, glass wall overlooking the outdoor pool, CrossFit station, five new treadmills with TVs and Bluetooth connecting guests to online fitness programs, a new sound system and new ventilation system. The state-of-the-art center also includes ellipticals, recumbent and upright bicycles, and weight stations. Work on the fitness center is expected to be completed by the end of June.

The hotel was one of the first catalysts that sparked the revival of Norfolk's waterfront in 1976.

Hotel website