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On the Riverfront in Occoquan
 
Occoquan is aptly named the Dogue Indian word meaning “at the end of the water.” Today it has a “historic atmosphere,” said the Loft Gallery’s director Marcia Weidler. “It’s a small town, but a culturally interesting place to visit.” The shops on Mill Street overlook the Occoquan River.

By Samantha Cleaver



The Loft Gallery   Sincerely Yours Glass Studio   Madigan’s Waterfront   Jewelry Designs by Melisa Dent
see do dine shop
     
The Loft Gallery (313 Mill St.; 703-490-1117), founded in 1986, is one of the largest artists’ co-ops in Northern Virginia. Currently, 19 artists work in the loft and their art includes watercolors, pottery, photography, prints, fused glass and more. Seven artists have studio space where visitors can watch them at work. Make your own stained glass at Sincerely Yours Glass Studio (214A Commerce St.; 703-490-0827). “Many of the things we do here are original designs,” said owner Barbara Perry. If you’re not a do-it-yourselfer, you can always stop in the showroom instead. Though, warned Perry, “the idea of the showroom is to inspire people to want to do it themselves.” At Madigan’s Waterfront (201 Mill St.; 703-494-6373), the chicken Oscar, chicken stuffed with crab and asparagus, topped with cheese, is a favorite. Of course, there’s always seafood; oysters are served yearround. Their outdoor deck offers a view of the river. In summer, come by during happy hour to enjoy their outdoor Tiki bar. Among Occoquan’s Victorian-lined streets are antique shops, boutiques and specialty stores like Jewelry Designs by Melisa Dent (309 Mill St.; 703-492-5515), known for handcrafted jewelry with unique stones like red coral. Elements (313 Mill St.; 703-490-8697) is a contemporary store, said owner Pam Konwin, that sells everything from pottery to Himalayan lamps.

Courtesy of Marnie Maree (The Loft Gallery); Hana Jung (Sincerely Yours Glass Studio); Piers Freezer (necklace); StacyY Zarin (Madigan's)

(August 2007)

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