Poquoson, Virginia, is a coastal city of roughly 12,000 residents and is recognized as the oldest continuously named city in the Commonwealth. The word “poquoson” originally described a natural boundary formed by marshland and water lying between higher ground, a term that appeared frequently in early land deeds along the eastern seaboard. Over time, it became the proper name for the land situated between what are now known as the Old Poquoson River and the New Poquoson River. The first recorded mention dates to April 26, 1631, in a land grant issued to Captain Christopher Calthrope, anchoring the city’s identity firmly in its waterways and tidal landscape.
That coastal setting continues to influence daily life. Surf Rider is a longtime local staple known for its seafood-forward menu, serving dishes like fried oysters, crab cakes, shrimp platters, and seasonal catches that reflect the working waterfront nearby. 185 offers a more contemporary dining experience, with a menu that leans into carefully prepared entrées, fresh ingredients, and thoughtful presentation.
Community events reflect the city’s strong connection to water and tradition. The Seafood Festival draws large crowds each year with fresh seafood, live music, vendors, and activities that celebrate the area’s fishing heritage and coastal economy. It’s one of the most anticipated gatherings on the local calendar, bringing together residents and visitors for a full day centered on food and shared history. The Annual Gingerbread House Making Contest offers a very different kind of tradition, with families and local groups creating elaborate edible displays during the holiday season, turning a creative activity into a long-standing community event.
Small businesses play an important role. Poquoson Gifts offers a selection of locally themed items, home décor, and specialty goods that often reflect the area’s maritime identity. It’s a place where people stop when looking for something personal. Integrity Coin Store serves collectors and history enthusiasts, dealing in coins, precious metals, and related items, and attracting customers who appreciate both the investment and historical sides of numismatics.
Outdoor spaces provide places to slow down and spend time together. Kids Island Park is designed with families in mind, featuring playground equipment, open areas, and spaces that encourage unstructured play. South Lawson Park offers a quieter setting, with walking paths and open green space that reflect the city’s flatter, water-adjacent landscape and provide a place for everyday outdoor routines.
Cultural institutions help preserve and interpret local history and creativity. The Poquoson Museum houses artifacts, documents, and exhibits that trace the area’s development from its earliest references through modern incorporation, offering context for how deeply land and water shaped the community. The Art League supports local artists through exhibitions, classes, and events, keeping visual arts visible and accessible within the city.
For activities beyond city limits, Yorktown Ghost Walks provides guided evening tours that explore regional history through stories tied to colonial-era sites and long-standing legends. Chilled Ponds Ice Complex offers year-round skating, hockey programs, and public ice time, drawing both casual skaters and organized teams for recreation that contrasts sharply with the coastal environment just a short drive away.
Spending time outdoors is a reminder of how seasonal changes shape routines throughout the year. At Two Guys Wildlife, we help property owners in Poquoson manage wildlife issues that increase as conditions shift and animals move closer to structures. Our services focus on proper removal and exclusion when wildlife enters homes or outbuildings. Contact us today for an estimate.