The Tide Monticello Station

If the Tide, Norfolk’s light rail transportation system, had a heart then it would probably be this station at Monticello. It doesn’t get much more urban than this, ladies and gentlemen. Nestled in the median of Monticello Avenue, near the Freemason Street intersection, this station serves the central area of the downtown Norfolk urban core. The MacArthur station, serves more of the lower downtown/​waterside areas, the Civic Plaza station serves the eastern side while the York/​Freemason station serves the northwestern portion of downtown.
Monticello station is not a park and ride location and accessing the station can be dangerous due to the busy traffic and moving trains. Do NOT access the station from its north side. This places you directly in the tracks which is not only a safety issue but also can land you a summons to appear in court. Enter the station from the south side where you’ll be greeted by a ramp that has tiled artwork. Also, for you smokers, beware, The platform areas are no smoking zones. Getting caught smoking will also land you a summons that will lead to a fine.
Once in the platform area, the station is well laid out where you can purchase your ticket and benches to sit down while you wait for the train. This is one of the busier stations on the entire line so keep your head on a swivel.
There are a lot of nearby attractions within walking distance headlined by the mammoth-​like MacArthur Center Mall. The Tidewater Community College Norfolk campus, the Scope, and the Norva are also nearby. Granby St, Norfolk’s version of Broadway (lol), is one block over. You’ll find plenty of shopping and places to hang out over there.
Monticello station is easily one of my favorite stations on the Tide. I’m looking forward to when I’ll be able to ride the system up to ODU and eventually the Naval Base. It’s amazing how this train has given Norfolk an entirely upgraded urban feel by connecting various parts of downtown together.

This is a great spot to get on or off the Tide. Located close to Scope or Chrysler Hall, and to MacArthur Mall, and to the TCC-​Norfolk campus. Not to mention all the great places to eat in downtown Norfolk. Neat decorations at the station, too.