Historic Downtown Suffolk’s rich heritage dates back to the early 17th century, when Captain John Smith first encountered the Nansemond Indians on the Nansemond River. Even now, you can trace Suffolk’s legacy through our historic homes, neighborhoods and churches. Yesterday’s structures are today’s shoppes, restaurants and arts venues. One of Suffolk’s most recognizable citizens, Mr. Peanut™, keeps a careful “monocled eye” over downtown Suffolk from his perch at Character Corner.
Suffolk Division of Tourism
757-514-4132
VisitSuffolkVa.com
TOUR
Be enchanted by Riddick’s Folly House Museum (1837), a beautifully appointed home that boasts four floors, 21 rooms and 16 fireplaces. The building features elegant furnished double parlors, a gentlemen’s library, and adult and children’s bedchambers. Also open are the laundry and dining rooms, plus the kitchen. During the American Civil War, Riddick’s Folly served as headquarters for the Union Army. The graffiti of Civil War soldiers preserved inside the house is still visible today.
VISIT
Be transported back in time with a visit to the Seaboard Station Railroad Museum. The restored Main Street station was built in 1885 and much as remain unchanged. The Queen Anne-style building is reminiscent of the Victorian era, boasting a tower with a beautiful walnut spiral staircase. Many original features were saved and restored such as the doors, windows, coffered ceiling, fireplace and porch. A prominent feature of the museum is the two-room HO-scale model depicting Suffolk circa 1907.
SIP
Sample the original flavors of Suffolk’s first brewery. Nansemond Brewing Station is situated inside a nearly 4,700-square-foot historic building in Downtown Suffolk that dates back to 1914. The brewery features multiple unique brews, a tasting room with impressive 20-foot ceilings, a window to observe the brewing process, a private party/meeting space and outdoor seating.
SAVOR
Savor the award-winning, superior sushi at Sushi AKA. Using a one-acre plot and in-ground farming with no hydroponics, 98% of all vegetables served at sushi aka are true in-ground, farm-to-table freshness. The other 2% come from the controlled greenhouse that is located on the farm. Imagine the crispness and freshness of only hand-pulled, natural ingredients accompanying your freshest sashimi and sushi. All of the fish is prepared in-house (including descaling and filleting), and every dish is made to order.
