Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Occoquan, VA

  • Published 2022/07/30

Virginia is known for plenty of things, including attractions and its history.

It is home to famous cities like Virginia Beach, along with more iconic spots for tourists to visit—but how about historic districts?

Occoquan is one of the best historic towns to visit in Virginia, filled with fascinating attractions and eye-pleasing sights.

This small town in Prince William County is a suburb of Washington, D.C.

Its streets are engulfed with architectural structures dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, and you can feel the historic atmosphere everywhere you go.

This town has more in store for you and your getaway—so check out this list of the best things to do in Occoquan, Virginia:

Take a Trip to Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge

A great heron at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Ricky Of The World / Shutterstock.com

When you’re in Occoquan, take time to make a trip to Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

Located on Dawson Beach Road, it’s a great place for nature viewing and experiencing its serenity.

You can walk through miles of breathtaking flat trails on the fresh grasslands or along the scenic waterside trails.

A trail at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Ricky Of The World / Shutterstock.com

This attraction is one of the best places to visit to escape the busy streets of Virginia—you’ll see various forms of wildlife, such as eagles, songbirds, turtles, and more.

Don’t forget to bring a camera with you if you wish to preserve memories while at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge!

A bird on a tree at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Ai Kondo / Shutterstock.com

Meander through River Mill Park

After traveling a distance, you might want a spot where you can relax for a while.

You can find one of Occoquan’s best resting spots at River Mill Park.

Located on Mill Street, this park is a perfect place for you to have picnics, watch concerts, and enjoy live theater.

If you’re not up to lively activities, you can just admire the greenery engulfing the park while walking along the scenic trails and enjoying the fresh air.

Moreover, the park is surrounded by plenty of restaurants, so you can grab a bite anytime.

Don’t forget to visit River Mill Park when you’re in Occoquan!

Have Fun at Local Colour Old Town

Located on Mill Street, Local Colour Old Town is a gallery and boutique full of treasures in different forms.

It offers its visitors arts, dolls, jewelry, and gems.

The walls are filled with spectacular arts made by local artists—you can even purchase handmade dolls.

If you wish to get someone special a gift, this store offers services of personalized gift ideas.

Have a good time at Local Colour Old Town while admiring its pleasing collections.

Find Refuge at The Secret Garden Cafe

Despite Occoquan being a historic town, it can be relatively bustling sometimes.

When the time comes, take refuge at The Secret Garden Cafe.

The establishment, located on Mill Street, was built in 1840 and was once a refuge for many families.

Encircled by a stunning and pleasing garden, this place is undoubtedly perfect for a cozy and romantic evening or simply relaxing.

You can enjoy the garden-inspired ambiance while eating The Secret Garden Cafe’s famous housemade French toast and other delicacies!

Please Your Eyes at the Artists’ Undertaking Gallery

Founded in April 1977, the marvelous Artists’ Undertaking Gallery boasts many art exhibits featuring paintings, drawings, photographs, and more by 18 local artists.

There are also ceramics, glass, fibers, jewelry, pottery, and other spectacular handmade crafts and arts.

What’s more, the gallery can hold receptions as well.

The Artists’ Undertaking Gallery is located along Mill Street.

Shop for Personalized Stationery at Hitchcock Paper Co.

Do you enjoy collecting stationery?

Visit Hitchcock Paper Co.

Located on Mill Street, this friendly boutique shop offers all kinds of stationery, including cards, impressive wrapping papers, journals, calligraphy supplies, planners, and more.

If you wish for personalized stationery, the staff there can create some for you.

There are also seasonal paper-based jewelry, candles, wreaths made from paper, and more aesthetic arts perfect for gifting.

If you’re looking for a place to shop for personalized gifts, head to Hitchcock Paper Co.

Satiate Your Sweet Cravings at Grind N Crepe

Situated along Commerce Street, Grind N Crepe serves the most delicious crepes available in different flavors.

Their crepes are perfect for pairing refreshing beverages.

Aside from crepes, Grind NCrepe also offers Swedish-style pancakes, matcha tea, and coffee.

Imagine sitting by the presentable tables on the patio while delighting in the delicacies offered by the shop!

Go for a Kayak Tour with Penguin Paddling

As the town is surrounded by the Occoquan River, visitors shouldn’t miss the chance to go on a kayak tour.

Penguin Paddling, situated on Mill Street, offers guided kayak tours and boat rentals.

You will surely enjoy the scenic views of nature along the trails beside the river, especially during sunset.

At the same time, you can relieve all your stress as you tour around the tranquil rivers and see incredible wildlife in the distance.

You can go with your family, friends, and other loved ones to share the joy.

Have a relaxing time out on the water while kayaking with Penguin Paddling!

Go Back in Time at the Mill House Museum

Exterior of Mill House Museum

JERRYE & ROY KLOTZ MD, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Learbout about the town’s history is a must-do when you’re in Occoquan.

Visitors can uncover more of Occoquan’s history at Mill House Museum, located along Mill Street.

It’s a small museum housed in a 1790s-era office, but the collection, exhibits, and other intriguing items hold great significance as they span through decades.

Sip a Cup of Coffee at The Spot on Mill Street

Coffee is the best when you’re feeling down and tired.

If you need to take a break while walking the streets of Occoquan, this cafe has got you covered.

Voted the best coffeehouse in Northern Virginia from 2020 to 2022, The Spot on Mill Street offers some of the best house-blended coffees.

Relax amid the cafe’s soothing ambiance while sipping delicious, freshly prepared coffee paired with pastries and desserts.

The Spot on Mill Street also serves lunch and dinner, so you can have a fine meal and top it off with velvety wine.

Enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the best coffeehouses in Occoquan.

Drink a Fine Glass of Wine at Bottle Stop Wine Bar

Located on Mill Street, Bottle Stop Wine Bar serves fine wine and delicious food.

Wine Spectator, a leading wine authority, granted this bar an Award of Excellence for three years in a row; it is the sole Prince William County Establishment to have received this award.

This place also offers local craft beers and a list of extensive cocktails to match its contemporary American cuisine.

Reflect and Unwind by the Occoquan River Footbridge

The Occoquan River Footbridge is one of the spots you shouldn’t miss when you’re in town.

The Occoquan River is an exceptionally breathtaking view, and this bridge on the north end of Mill Street is the best place to admire it.

You can stand by the bridge and take pictures of the picturesque scene, watch people on boats and birds soaring in the clear blue sky, and listen to the still flowing movement of the water.

Moreover, there are picnic areas near the footbridge, so you can bond with your loved ones while delighting in the sights.

The Occoquan River Footbridge is unmistakably the best place to reflect, relax, and unwind while reminding yourself from time to time how majestic nature is and how peaceful life can be.

Visit the Famous Gazebo at Mamie Davis Park

If you want to take beautiful photos when visiting Occoquan, Washington Street’s Mamie Davis Park is the best place to do so.

The park’s appealing gazebo is one of the town’s most famous photo-taking spots.

You’ll often see people around the park enjoying its amenities and the well-kept surroundings.

The park also has picnic areas and benches, so you can settle and relax anytime.

Moreover, Mamie Davis Park is available for use as a venue for weddings, receptions, and other special events.

When you’re in Occoquan, make sure to visit this park.

Make a Stop at Mom’s Apple Pie Company

If you’re craving pies, head to Mom’s Apple Pie Company.

Located on Commerce Street, the 1981-established apple pie company serves the best preservative-free pies.

They use high-quality harvested fruits, such as raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries, to fill the soft and delicious crusty pies.

You can also have other pastries, cookies, ice cream, and bread—they serve local craft beers and wine, too.

Their baked goods are so delicious that the famous White House requests their specials.

When you’re in Occoquan, don’t forget to make a stop at Mom’s Apple Pie Company.

Treat Yourself to a Pamper Day at Dansk Day Spa

Sometimes, your body needs to loosen up to ease the tense and stiff muscles; otherwise, you’ll feel heavy and edgy.

One of the best ways to relieve your body is by going to a spa.

At Dansk Day Spa, situated on Commerce Street, you are guaranteed to have the most relaxing time.

The spa offers many services, including facial treatments, aroma therapy, and more.

After getting a spa treatment amid the relaxing ambiance, you’ll feel rejuvenated and refreshed.

Guests will surely receive excellent treatments, as the spa has licensed and expertly trained massage therapists, aestheticians, and high-quality products to treat your body.

So, melt into relaxation while inhaling the pleasing aroma of essential oils, and focus solely on loosening up your body to make the most out of the experience.

Treating yourself to a spa treatment at Dansk Day Spa is one of the most memorable things you can do in Occoquan.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Cool Off at Pirate’s Cove Waterpark

Whether you’re on your way in or out of Occoquan, why not make a stop at Pirate’s Cove Waterpark?

This famous, fun-filled attraction is located in Lorton, approximately 15 minutes from Occoquan.

Pirate’s Cove Waterpark offers many amenities, including the Buccaneer Beach, pools with thrilling slides, exciting games, food stands, restaurants, and more.

The attraction is perfect for visitors of all ages, so you can come with your friends or family to share the fun.

Enjoy a Challenge with Family and Friends at Escape Room Woodbridge

Prince William County’s original escape room, Escape Room Woodbridge is less than 15 minutes from Occoquan.

This award-winning attraction offers three themed rooms: Atlantis, High Roller’s Lounge, and Sweet Escape.

Approximately four to eight people can play in each room, so it’s ideal and fun to play in groups.

Book and enjoy a logical, immersive, and entertaining experience at Escape Room Woodbridge.

Final Thoughts

Occoquan is undoubtedly a hidden gem in the state of Virginia.

Even though it’s a small town, it presents tourists with plenty to do—a day or two wouldn’t be enough time to do all of it!

Visitors can admire scenic views of nature, go kayaking, experience fine dining, enjoy luxurious spa treatments, and more.

You can be assured that you’ll have a splendid experience while roaming the streets of Occoquan.

Pack your bags, embark on a fascinating adventure, and enjoy this list of the best things to do in Occoquan, Virginia!

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