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Community Corner

Shops, Restaurants and History Await in Occoquan

Discover old town charm and modern flare in Historic Occoquan.

For an April weekend escape, consider setting aside time to visit one of Northern Virginia’s hidden gems: historic Occoquan.  

This quaint riverfront town is located roughly 19 miles from Centreville near I-95 and offers a rich selection of boutiques, other small businesses, and specialty restaurants overlooking the water. 

A diverse blend of architectural styles contributes to Occoquan’s unique character. “Occoquan’s got an eclectic mix of the old and the new,” said Mayor Earnest Porta.  

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“We’re a traditional mid-eighteenth century colonial riverfront town in our founding and we have several buildings that date from that period,” Porta said, “But you’ll see architecture from many different time periods from colonial to victorian to modern.”  

Occoquan’s historic district covers six square blocks and over a dozen historic markers are in place. Free walking tours of this area are available; many are given by Mayor Porta himself. 

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Historic Occoquan has much to offer visitors of all ages. Here are just a few of the town’s most popular events and venues: 

Occoquan Farmers’ Market

This event features locally grown and produced baked goods, specialty items, and fresh produce. The will open for the 2011 season on April 23 and will be held on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. through October 29.  

The Coffee House of Occoquan

The Coffee House of Occoquan is the ideal place to enjoy freshly brewed coffee in a cozy setting. The Coffee House features birthday parties and etiquette teas for children, on Saturdays from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and rooms may be booked for private events.  

The Mill House Museum

The museum building, once used as a miller’s office, is all that remains of Merchant’s Mill, the nation’s first automated gristmill. The Mill House Museum is now home to exhibits and memorabilia highlighting the town’s beginnings. 

Spring and Fall Craft Shows

Twice a year Historic Occoquan hosts an arts and crafts show displaying the work of both contemporary and country artisans from Occoquan and throughout the United States. The next craft show will be Saturday June 4 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday June 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Ghost Tours

Guided tours of Historic Occoquan’s hauntings will be offered April 22 through October 31 on Friday and Saturday evenings beginning at 7 p.m. The cost is $5.00 for children 10 and under and $10.00 for adults. must be made and paid for in advance.  

Visit the Occoquan Merchants Association webpage for more information about Historic Occoquan’s shops and upcoming events. 

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