Suffolk was founded by English colonists in 1742 as a port town on the Nansemond River in the Virginia Colony. Peanuts grown in the surrounding areas became a major industry for Suffolk. Notably, Planters’ Peanuts was established in Suffolk beginning in 1912. Suffolk was the ‘birthplace’ of Mr. Peanut, the mascot of Planters’ Peanuts. While Planters is still around, Suffolk is more than just peanuts! Today, the area has a bustling downtown with tons of restaurants, bars and shops. There is marina access at the Suffolk riverfront from Constants Wharf, tons of bike trails accessible from the Great Dismal Swamp Park, art exhibits and classes at the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, plus tons of historical sites. Suffolk is a great balance of city and country with something for everyone!
