Ghent Square, located in the vibrant Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News metropolitan area of Virginia, offers a convenient and lively neighborhood for potential homeowners. With easily accessible amenities and services such as supermarkets, restaurants, and clothing stores within walking distance, residents can meet all their daily needs with ease. The neighborhood also boasts close proximity to primary and high schools, making it a family-friendly option for homebuyers. Known for its relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, Ghent Square provides a tranquil environment with nearby green spaces for residents to enjoy. With a variety of housing options, including apartments and single detached homes, this neighborhood offers something for everyone.
The character of Ghent Square is exemplified by its calm environment. This area is very quiet, as there are usually low levels of noise from traffic. Finally, parks are especially well-spread out and there are a few of them close by for residents to explore, which makes it easy to reach them from a large number of locations within this neighborhood.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
The Ghent Square Community Association’s centerpiece—combining a half‑Olympic‑size outdoor pool with a wading pool, plus adjacent tennis and pickleball courts—offers residents excellent recreational opportunities just steps from their homes.
The Fred Heutte Center, located at the heart of Ghent Square, encompasses a peaceful public garden and event space in a historic relocated building, providing a green oasis and venue for classes or small gatherings.
Located on DeBree Avenue within walking distance, the Van Wyck Branch of the Norfolk Public Library serves the Ghent Square community with public computers, events, classes and book resources for all ages.
Ghent Square residents enjoy a vibrant local dining scene nearby, with popular spots like Café Stella, No Frill Bar & Grill and Catnip Cat Café—all offering cozy, eclectic fare within easy walking distance.
Bordering Ghent Square to the southeast, the NEON District brings arts venues—including murals, galleries, the Chrysler Museum of Art and Harrison Opera House—vibrant nightlife, and pedestrian‑friendly culture right at the neighborhood’s edge.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
This after-hours movie night is a short drive from Ghent Square and combines animal-trail exploration, themed activities, snacks, dinosaur photo opportunities, and a dusk screening of Jurassic Park. It is an easy fall outing for families, zoo members, and movie fans looking for something distinctive close to home.
View event details →Families from Ghent can make a convenient trip downtown for more than 100 hands-on activities, workshops, cultural experiences, storytelling, music, dancing, military demonstrations, and costumed characters. Designed especially for children ages 10 and younger, it offers an energetic, largely daytime festival experience along Norfolk’s waterfront.
View event details →This is one of the most convenient major events for Ghent Square residents, taking place within the neighborhood’s historic gardens. The free festival features a wide range of art, local food including Cogan’s Pizza, family-friendly browsing, and a welcoming atmosphere for strollers, children, and leashed dogs.
View event details →ZooBoo gives nearby residents a family-friendly Halloween celebration without requiring a long regional drive. Visitors can enjoy animal experiences, hands-on activities, and seasonal festivities at the Virginia Zoo, making it a strong choice for Ghent families seeking daytime autumn fun before Halloween weekend.
View event details →Ghent residents can walk, bike, or take a very short trip to this annual Halloween street party and costume contest. The evening includes live music by Wonderland, children’s activities, food, adult beverages, and costume categories for families, pets, children, teens, and adults.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Ghent Square
Local characteristics and demographics for Ghent Square
