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Glass artisans at work at Chrysler Museum’s Perry Glass Studio.
There’s a cautionary adage about people in glass houses, but the Glass Art Society (GAS) pays it little mind. In fact, GAS chose Norfolk to host its upcoming 46th annual conference, June 1–3, 2017, in large part due to the city’s renowned glass house — Perry Glass Studio at the Chrysler Museum of Art.
During the conference, attendees will experience technical glass demonstrations on a variety of glass processes and topics, presentations on science and art, and enjoy special events, including the Studio’s groundbreaking theatrical glass performances.
Both the Museum and Glass Studio anchor Norfolk’s emerging Art + Design 
District, so GAS attendees will feel part of a larger artistic community when they venture beyond the conference venue. Called NEON (New Energy of Norfolk), the district is a welcoming public space and an artist’s wonderland, filled with street murals and galleries including Glass Wheel Studio, D’Art Center, Alchemy NFK, and WORK | RELEASE, as well as Harrison Opera House, a comedy theater, and more.
Norfolk mural
GAS artisans will find plenty of opportunities in Norfolk to feed their souls while inspiring their palates. In addition to new restaurants cropping up in the NEON District, Norfolk’s brand-new dining and entertainment scene — the Waterside District — debuts this season. National, regional, and local eateries, including Rappahannock Oyster Company, Guy Fieri’s Smokehouse, Star Hill Brewery, and Cogan’s Pizza will open their doors in the heart of Norfolk’s central business district, adjacent to its world-class waterfront. In addition to its wide variety of dining experiences and retail shops, the Waterfront District will be a hub of activity, where live music and festivals become a regular draw.
The Waterside District is a vibrant dining and entertainment area that’s ready to add a new dimension to the Norfolk scene.
Hilton Norfolk The Main Hotel
The NEON and Waterside Districts aren’t the only recent additions to Norfolk’s growing list of attractions for groups. The Main, a Hilton property opening next month, will epitomize contemporary urban luxury, complete with stunning rooms and suites, 50,000 square feet of elegant meeting space, three local dining options, and stunning river views.
Sponsored by Visit Norfolk, the Norfolk Convention & Visitors Bureau.
