If you’re looking for a warm, walkable neighborhood with tree-lined streets and an unmistakable sense of community in Norfolk, VA, Ghent Square is a standout choice. Nestled between the heart of historic Ghent and the Elizabeth River, this small but vibrant neighborhood combines traditional charm with modern convenience, making it one of the city’s most coveted places to live. Here’s an honest look at what it’s like to call Ghent Square home, from a local perspective.
Community Vibe: Friendly, Tight-Knit, and Involved
From the moment you step onto the brick sidewalks of Ghent Square, you’ll notice that neighbors know each other here. There’s a strong sense of camaraderie—a “small town in the city” kind of feel. Residents wave as they walk their dogs, chat as they garden, and gather for neighborhood events organized by the Ghent Square Association. Block parties, seasonal festivals, and summer cookouts in the community clubhouse courtyard are regular occurrences.
What sets Ghent Square apart is the engaged, diverse mix of people from young professionals and growing families to retirees. You’ll find many who have called Ghent Square home for decades, which keeps the community culture vibrant yet welcoming to newcomers.
Types of Housing: Traditional Charm Meets Modern Convenience
Ghent Square’s housing stock is unique, distinct from the grand Victorian homes found in the rest of Ghent. The neighborhood was largely developed between the 1970s and 1990s, so you’ll see:
- Colonial Revival-style townhomes along Mowbray Arch and Warren Crescent
- Brick single-family homes with private patios and gardens
- Attached and detached homes with low-maintenance yards
Most homes here offer two to four bedrooms, updated interiors, and coveted off-street parking—rare for an urban Norfolk neighborhood. Many houses are oriented around central courtyards or quiet side streets like Olney Road and Botetourt Gardens, creating semi-private enclaves ideal for socializing or letting kids play safely.
Walkability: Urban Living Without the Hassle
Ghent Square is often praised for its walkability. Sidewalks are wide, flat, and well-maintained—perfect for strollers, scooters, or morning jogs. Residents can easily stroll to:
- The Chrysler Museum of Art for culture and community events
- The popular Shops at Ghent for cafés, groceries, and boutiques on Colley Avenue
- Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and EVMS for those who work in healthcare
If you’re a cyclist, the neighborhood connects seamlessly to Norfolk’s bike lane network, making downtown, Chelsea, and the Old Dominion University area all accessible within minutes.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families are drawn to Ghent Square for its access to strong educational resources. The neighborhood is zoned for Maury High School, Blair Middle School, and Taylor Elementary—each with a reputation for academic rigor and diverse extracurricular offerings. Private schools such as The Williams School and Norfolk Collegiate are also just minutes away.
Besides schools, it’s the friendly faces, quiet streets, and central green spaces—like the Ghent Square Park and playground at 900 Mowbray Arch—that seal the deal for parents. There’s always a handful of kids out playing soccer or riding bikes after school, and parents can feel safe knowing they’re surrounded by fellow watchful neighbors.
Parks and Green Spaces: Room to Relax and Play
While Ghent Square is urban, it is certainly not lacking in parks or leafy retreats. The heartbeat of the neighborhood is the central community park—a grassy, landscaped gathering spot with benches, gardens, and a playground where children play and neighbors catch up.
A few steps away is the Hague—a picturesque inlet lined with walking paths and mature trees. It’s a wonderful spot for a morning walk, taking in views of the city skyline reflected on the water. The nearby Weyanoke Bird & Wildflower Sanctuary is a hidden gem for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Safety: A Secure and Peaceful Corner
One of the biggest reasons residents stay in Ghent Square is the overall feeling of safety. With minimal through-traffic and frequent neighborhood watch efforts, Ghent Square tends to have lower crime rates compared to other parts of Norfolk. Many streets, such as Warren Crescent, operate almost like cul-de-sacs, limiting non-resident vehicle activity and adding to the peace and privacy. Street lighting is ample, and friends and families regularly comment on the quiet, secure atmosphere—especially after dark.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Ghent Square is ideally located for those seeking a quick commute.
- Downtown Norfolk’s business district is less than a mile away—walkable or a short bike ride
- Eastern Virginia Medical School, Sentara Norfolk General, and CHKD are essentially next door, making the area a top pick for healthcare professionals and students
- Easy access to Hampton Boulevard and I-264 means you can reach major employers, the naval base, or the airport with relative ease
There’s no shortage of dining, arts, and nightlife either. Enjoy a morning coffee from a local café, catch a show at the NARO Expanded Cinema, or sample international cuisine—all within a few blocks.
What Residents Love Most
Ask people why they love living in Ghent Square and you’ll hear these themes again and again:
- “It’s walkable and safe—my kids can play outside, and I can walk to everything I need.”
- “There’s such a sense of community here, like you’re part of a big family.”
- “Having green space right outside your door but all the perks of city living nearby is the best of both worlds.”
- “It’s so close to everything—hospitals, schools, downtown—but feels peaceful and tucked away.”
Whether you’re searching for your forever home or simply want a place with energy, convenience, and historic heart, Ghent Square delivers on all fronts. Rich with tradition yet brimming with life, it's no wonder so many who move here quickly decide to stay.