Chartway Arena — Attraction in Norfolk

I recently attended a Harlem Globetrotters game at Chartway Arena, located on the campus of Old Dominion University in Norfolk, and had a fantastic experience. This venue is a hidden gem when it comes to live events. From the moment you step inside, you can tell that it's a well-maintained and thoughtfully designed arena.

One of the standout aspects of Chartway Arena is that there truly isn’t a bad seat in the house. No matter where you are seated—whether you’re closer to the court or higher up—the sightlines are excellent, and you feel connected to the action. The layout is intimate enough to make you feel like part of the event, yet spacious enough to accommodate a good-sized crowd without feeling cramped.

The acoustics were great as well; the announcers, music, and crowd energy were clear and well-balanced without being overwhelming. The staff was helpful and courteous, making entry, seating, and exiting smooth and hassle-free. The concessions were what you’d expect at an arena—plenty of options and lines that moved at a reasonable pace.

Parking was relatively easy considering the arena is on a college campus, with plenty of signage to guide you. The surrounding area also has a fun, lively atmosphere, with plenty of places to grab a bite to eat before or after your event.

All in all, Chartway Arena is a fantastic venue, whether you’re going to see a sports game, concert, or special event like the Harlem Globetrotters. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a great place to catch a show in the...

Nice venue for a concert - which is where I was last night for the For King and Country concert! The arena is tucked away as part of the ODU campus along Hampton Blvd in Norfolk. There are parking garages with lots of space for venue goers. Organized traffic officers were there to direct you to the garage parking, and staff to let you through the entrance. There was quick check of bags then scan of tickets - all so fast and efficient. Staff was waiting to direct you to the right section. There’s a concession stand where you get drinks and pretzels. The venue has comfortable seats. Great views to the stage even from higher up. Large enough but not too large (like Madison Square Garden) where you need jumbo trons to watch from afar. Right sized to keep It intimate. Will definitely check out other performances. Oh and the biggest draw at least gif me is that right behind the arena are restaurants that you can grab ramen, Indian food, cookies, hotdogs, the list goes on! Then 2 blocks away are the other restaurants like Hair of the Dog and Del Vecchios… all good places to grab...

Why 3 stars? Definitely not because of the show, or even the actual venue itself, but for one reason-no ramps! The elevators are closed to anyone not on crutches or in a wheelchair when there is a show. I’m disabled, but don’t use crutches, walker or wheelchair, but I have severe back problems and other limitations due to illness and climbing stairs is extremely painful. However, due to the fact that I “look fine” on the outside, I wasn’t allowed to use the elevators. I recommend adding a ramp for this reason-not everyone with illness or physical limitations, looks the part and climbing stairs is very difficult and painful for those of us in this category. Other than this, the venue is great, food is great (pricey, but good), drinks are great and staff is kind (except for the two who said I couldn’t use the elevators...very rude when speaking to me) and the concert was beyond phenomenal (TOBYMac!)! I’ll go back, but certain things definitely need attention and...