-
What is the largest city in Virginia?
- Suffolk is the largest city in Virginia, with miles of coast on the Nansemond and James Rivers.
-
What is a major industry in Suffolk?
- Growing peanuts is a major industry for Suffolk.
-
When was Planters' Peanuts established in Suffolk?
- Planters' Peanuts was established in Suffolk in 1912.
-
What is the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge?
- The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1974 to help protect one of the last large wild areas left in the Eastern United States.
-
What is a notable natural feature in the Great Dismal Swamp?
- Lake Drummond is a natural lake in the heart of the Great Dismal Swamp.
-
What is Riddick’s Folly?
- Riddick’s Folly is a historic house museum built in 1837 in Greek Revival style.
Unique Attractions
⮕ Riddick's Folly House Museum
Tour elegant rooms and explore Civil War-era sights on an easy history trip.
A standout along Suffolk’s Main Street, the elegant Riddick’s Folly is a Greek Revival masterpiece built in 1837 by Mills Riddick. Locals once mocked him for the home’s extravagant design—hence the nickname “Folly”—but today, it’s one of the city’s most admired landmarks. With twenty-one rooms across four floors, including sixteen fireplaces, furnished parlors, a library, and even preserved slave quarters, the house tells a powerful story of Southern life in the 19th century.
Highlights:
- Greek Revival mansion built in 1837
- Open to the public with guided tours on all four floors
- Features include period parlors, bedrooms, a winter kitchen, and more
- Slave quarters and bathing/dressing rooms offer historical insight
- Charming gift shop located in the English basement
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss the English basement—the winter kitchen, laundry rooms, and gift shop give a great sense of daily life in the 1800s, and the shop has some lovely, locally made souvenirs.
510 N Main St, Suffolk, VA 23434
Phone: 757-934-0822
riddicksfolly.org
⮕ Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Hike peaceful trails and spot wildlife during a quiet, affordable nature escape.
If you're craving an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Great Dismal Swamp is a must. Spanning over 112,000 acres of forested wetlands between Virginia and North Carolina, this wild and scenic refuge is one of the last truly untamed areas on the East Coast. At its heart lies Lake Drummond, a 3,100-acre natural lake surrounded by towering bald cypress, black gum, and Atlantic white cedar.
Highlights:
- Vast wildlife refuge with over 112,000 acres of wetlands
- Home to Lake Drummond, one of only two natural lakes in Virginia
- Popular for birdwatching, hiking, biking, photography, and boating
- Diverse ecosystems bridging two eco-regions
- Accessible Dismal Town Boardwalk Trail winds through swamp habitat
Pro Tip:
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best chance to spot wildlife—especially birds—and don’t forget bug spray if you’re heading into the deeper trails!
3120 Desert Rd, Suffolk, VA 23434
Phone: 757-986-3705
dwr.virginia.gov
Restaurants
⮕ Harper's Table
Savor elevated Southern cuisine and enjoy a romantic evening with seasonal ingredients.
Right in the heart of downtown Suffolk, Harper’s Table is where Southern roots meet upscale, modern flair. Founded by Chef Harper Bradshaw, this industrial-chic spot blends rustic charm—think vintage pine from the old Suffolk Peanut Company—with exposed ceilings, cozy booths, and polished service. The menu highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with a focus on fresh Atlantic seafood and premium meats from nearby farms.
Highlights:
- Refined Southern cuisine with a cosmopolitan twist
- Chef-driven menu featuring fresh seafood and local meats
- Rustic-industrial décor with reclaimed wood and high booths
- Small but thoughtful wine list and full bar
- Don’t miss the signature Pork Belly Biscuit—it’s a local favorite!
Pro Tip:
Make a reservation if you’re going for dinner—it’s a popular spot, especially on weekends. And absolutely order the Pork Belly Biscuit—you won’t regret it.
122 N Main St, Suffolk, VA 23434
Phone: 757-539-2000
harperstable.com
⮕ River Stone Chophouse
Dine on premium steaks and relax during a special weekend night out.
Nestled in a stunning Arts and Crafts-style stone building in northern Suffolk’s Harbour View area, River Stone Chophouse is the go-to spot for special occasions—or just a relaxing glass of wine by the fireplace. Inside, the white tablecloth dining room and cozy lounge with plush banquettes set the mood for a refined yet comfortable evening. Whether you’re savoring a bone-in dry-aged ribeye or oysters from the raw bar, this place brings serious steakhouse energy with a coastal Virginia twist.
Highlights:
- Elegant dining room with views of the harbor
- Signature dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood
- Raw bar and popular bar menu with lighter bites
- Cigar patio and cozy fireplace lounge
- Legendary Sunday brunch with crowd-pleasing classics
Pro Tip:
Ask for a fireside seat in the lounge on cooler evenings—or book ahead for Sunday brunch, it’s one of the best in town and fills up fast.
8032 Harbour View Blvd, Suffolk, VA 23435
Phone: 757-638-7990
riverstonechophouse.com
Plan Your Trip