Nestled between the scenic charm of Goochland and the vibrant urban allure of Richmond, Virginia, The Estate at River Run is perfectly positioned for those seeking a memorable mix of local culture, history, and adventure. The area brims with activities that cater to a variety of interests, from foodies and nature lovers to history buffs and art aficionados. Guests can savor local cuisine at a range of exceptional restaurants, from fine dining establishments offering farm-to-table dishes to cozy cafes and rustic bistros featuring regional specialties. For those eager to immerse themselves in Virginia’s rich heritage, nearby historic sites and museums offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, including numerous landmarks, colonial sites, and renowned art galleries in downtown Richmond.

Nature enthusiasts and active travelers can enjoy the area’s beautiful parks, such as Powhatan State Park, where hiking, fishing, and paddling create perfect outdoor experiences. With its stunning river views, Richmond also boasts the scenic James River Park System, ideal for kayaking, biking, and picnicking. The area is known for its wineries, breweries, and local markets, including the popular Goochland Farmers Market, where guests can experience the best of Virginia’s artisanal products and fresh produce. Whether you’re seeking a weekend of quiet exploration or an itinerary packed with local flavor and adventure, the communities surrounding The Estate at River Run offer a rich tapestry of experiences sure to captivate and delight you and your guests.

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In Goochland [less than 25 minutes from The Estate at River Run]

Restaurants

Eccoti Restaurant

Eccoti Restaurant, established in February 2016, offers a unique blend of Southern and European cuisine in Goochland, Virginia. Known for dishes that combine Southern staples like crab dip and pork chops with European-inspired plates like Caprese Bruschetta and Chicken Francaise, Eccoti aims to provide guests with a warm, inviting experience where “here you are, enjoy” resonates. Their menu, made-to-order with care in a small kitchen, is served during lunch and dinner, with happy hour specials available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. The restaurant invites patrons to relax and savor their fusion of flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.

Industrial Taphouse West

Industrial Taphouse West, located in Henrico, Virginia, offers a lively dining experience with a focus on classic American eats and a rotating selection of craft beers. Open daily for lunch and dinner, and featuring brunch on weekends from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., this spot is ideal for both casual dining and gathering with friends. The venue includes indoor and outdoor seating options, creating a comfortable atmosphere for enjoying live music and community events. While they don’t take reservations, guests can join the waitlist online to secure a table.

Lola’s Farmhouse Bistro

Lola’s Farmhouse Bistro, set in a charming 1865 farmhouse in Manakin Sabot, Virginia, provides a cozy and elegant dining experience. Known for its seasonal and locally inspired dishes, Lola’s offers brunch, lunch, and dinner menus featuring items like sea scallops, Asian sea bass, and center-cut pork chops. The bistro’s inviting atmosphere extends to a romantic porch area, making it a favorite for intimate gatherings. Guests can reserve tables via OpenTable, ensuring a spot at this scenic and welcoming venue dedicated to fresh, flavorful cuisine.

Portico Restaurant + Bar

Portico Restaurant & Bar, located on River Road in Richmond, Virginia, offers an enchanting dining experience reminiscent of Napa Valley or Italy’s Portofino. Nestled in a cozy cottage, Portico boasts a stone terrace surrounded by lush herb and flower gardens. Guests can enjoy the warmth of a large stone fireplace and candle-lit tables under the stars, creating an ideal setting for outdoor dining. Specializing in casual Italian-inspired cuisine, Portico serves a thoughtfully curated menu and wine selection. Open daily for lunch and dinner, with Sunday brunch, it’s a scenic retreat for a memorable meal.

Sunset Grill

Sunset Grill, located in Manakin Sabot, Virginia, offers a welcoming atmosphere with a diverse menu. Known for its “Pittsburgh Style” steak, the restaurant serves both lunch and dinner, featuring dishes like the Sailor sandwich—stuffed with pastrami, knockwurst, and baby Swiss on rye—and the Cuban sandwich, which includes slow-roasted pulled pork, Virginia pit ham, smoked provolone, dill pickles, and dijonnaise.

Tanglewood Ordinary Country Restaurant

Tanglewood Ordinary Country Restaurant is renowned for its family-style dining experience, serving classic Southern comfort food in a historic log cabin setting. Established in the late 1920s, the restaurant occupies one of the largest commercially used log cabins in America, listed on both the Virginia and National Registers of Historic Places. The menu features all-you-can-eat offerings, including fried chicken, pot roast, and a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and mac and cheese. Meals are served in a communal dining atmosphere reminiscent of traditional Sunday dinners. Tanglewood Ordinary operates on a limited schedule. Given its popularity and unique dining style, reservations are recommended.

Wineries, Breweries, and Distilleries

Byrd Cellars

Byrd Cellars is a family-owned vineyard and winery established in 2004. Spanning 72 acres, with 7.5 acres dedicated to vines, the winery cultivates nine varieties of American, European, and hybrid grapes. Their diverse portfolio includes 21 wines, ranging from dry to sweet. The tasting room offers a relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating, including a large party tent. Byrd Cellars emphasizes sustainability, utilizing organic fertilizers and encouraging bottle recycling. In 2024, the winery was honored as the Goochland Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year.

Courthouse Creek Cider

Courthouse Creek Cider is a family-owned orchard and cidery dedicated to producing natural, handcrafted ciders. Emphasizing sustainable and low-impact practices, they cultivate a variety of American, English, and French cider apple trees across their 4.5-acre orchard. Their ciders are crafted using traditional methods, including barrel fermentation and aging, without the addition of sulfites, filtering, or fining, resulting in complex and nuanced flavors. Visitors can enjoy tastings in a relaxed farm setting, with options to sit inside the tasting room, on the covered deck, or among the orchard trees. The cidery also offers a selection of wines, sake cocktails, and both traditional and gluten-free beers, along with small bites.

Elk Island Winery

Elk Island Winery, established in 2012, is a family-owned vineyard and winery. Situated on a farm overlooking the James River Valley, the winery is named after the nearby 1,300-acre Elk Island, once part of Thomas Jefferson’s Elk Hill farm. The vineyard spans five acres, cultivating a variety of grapes including Norton, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Albariño, and small plantings of other varietals. Elk Island Winery specializes in Norton and vinifera varietals, offering a broad range of wines to suit diverse tastes. In addition to their own labels, Elk Island Winery produces three exclusive labels for The Estate at River Run, crafted to complement the estate’s elegant offerings. The winery’s tasting room is open every weekend providing a welcoming space for visitors to enjoy wine flights, glass, and bottle sales. Guests are encouraged to bring their own picnics or purchase available snacks to enjoy on the large deck and screened porch overlooking the vineyard.

Grayhaven Winery

Grayhaven Winery, established in 1978, is one of Virginia’s oldest independent commercial vineyards. Located in Gum Spring, Virginia, the winery is family-owned and operated, now spanning three generations. The winery produces handcrafted wines from both vinifera and French hybrid grapes, including unique varietals like Pinotage, Marechal Foch, and Traminette. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, artisan cheese and charcuterie boards, and explore the scenic grounds featuring indoor and outdoor seating, sprawling lawns, and nature trails. Grayhaven Winery is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing cultural diversity and providing a space for friends, families, and even pets to relax and connect.

Hardywood West Creek

Hardywood West Creek offers a premier brewery experience for craft beer enthusiasts. Situated on 24 scenic acres overlooking Tuckahoe Creek, this destination brewery features a public taproom with a built-in stage, a mezzanine-level private event space, an outdoor patio and beer garden, gazebos, fire pits, and a large outdoor tent. The taproom provides views of the brewing process, including the brewhouse, fermentation hall, quality assurance lab, ingredient processing area, and packaging hall. Guests can enjoy a variety of Hardywood’s flagship and seasonal beers, brewed with local ingredients and renewable energy. The brewery’s expansive grounds and diverse amenities make it an ideal destination for both casual visits and special occasions.

HillTop Distillery

HillTop Distillery is a family-owned and operated craft distillery. Founded by the Brockenbrough family—mother Sherry, father John, and son John O.—they take pride in being the first and only mother-son distilling team in the United States. The distillery offers a diverse range of handcrafted spirits, including wheat vodka, bourbon, whiskey, single malt, and both traditional and flavored moonshines. Their award-winning Straight Bourbon Whiskey is noted for its complex citrus, cinnamon, and cocoa flavors, complemented by rich caramel and toasted pecan notes. Visitors can enjoy tastings and cocktails in the distillery’s inviting tasting room, which features both indoor and outdoor seating areas. The outdoor space includes picnic tables with umbrellas, providing a comfortable setting to savor their spirits amidst the scenic surroundings.

Kindred Spirit Brewing

Kindred Spirit Brewing, established in 2016, is a locally owned craft brewery dedicated to producing high-quality craft beers, offering a diverse selection that includes their flagship IPA, Headspace, known for its balance and aromatic profile, and Lucid, a New England IPA with intense pineapple and mango flavors. Their offerings cater to a wide range of palates, ensuring there’s something for every beer enthusiast. Featuring welcoming taprooms with indoor and outdoor seating, creating a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, patrons can enjoy live music performances and a variety of events, enhancing the communal experience.

Midnight Brewery

Midnight Brewery, established in 2011 by former IT professional Trae Cairns, is a family-owned microbrewery located in Rockville, Virginia. The brewery offers a variety of high-quality, approachable beers, including flagship brews like Rockville Red, New Beginning, Not My Job, and Midnight Granite. Visitors can enjoy these handcrafted ales and lagers in the welcoming tasting room or take them home in growlers and six-packs. The brewery also hosts events featuring live music and food trucks, providing a vibrant community atmosphere.

Rassawek Vineyard

Rassawek Vineyard is a multifaceted destination that seamlessly blends a working vineyard with event spaces, historic structures, and cultural festivities. Established in 2000, the property spans over 1,200 acres and is dedicated to preserving the region’s heritage by relocating and restoring historic buildings, including log cabins and a greenhouse from James Madison’s Montpelier. The vineyard produces a variety of wines, offering tastings in a replica general store that serves as the tasting room. Visitors can enjoy flights, glasses, or bottles of wine, accompanied by charcuterie boards, in a setting that reflects the area’s rich history. With its commitment to preserving history, producing quality wines, and fostering community engagement through diverse events, Rassawek Vineyard stands as a distinctive destination in Virginia’s wine country.

Shopping

The Goochland Farmers Market

The Goochland Farmers Market is a seasonal outdoor market operating from May through September, the market is open on Tuesdays from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM. In addition to its diverse vendor offerings, the market features live music, food trucks, and weekly children’s activities with food or agricultural themes. The Goochland Farmers Market serves as a vibrant community hub, connecting residents with local producers and fostering a sense of community through its engaging programs and events.

River Road Cottage

River Road Cottage is a unique shopping destination offering a diverse selection of furniture, home décor, artisan crafts, vintage items, and gifts. The store comprises two buildings with three floors, featuring over 50 local vendors and artisans. Situated in the historic Goochland Courthouse area, River Road Cottage provides a charming and inviting atmosphere for shoppers seeking distinctive and locally crafted items. The store regularly hosts events, pop-ups, and workshops, fostering a vibrant community space for both vendors and customers.

Simply Fetching: A Creative Boutique

Simply Fetching: A Creative Boutique offers a curated selection of home décor, gifts, furniture, handmade items, ornaments, apparel, and embroidery services. The boutique showcases products from local vendors, providing a unique shopping experience that supports the community. In addition to retail offerings, Simply Fetching hosts DIY classes and events, encouraging customers to engage in creative projects and learn new skills.

NORTH RIVER OUTDOORS

NORTH RIVER OUTDOORS is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a curated selection of high-quality knives, axes, and outdoor gear. Beyond retail, they provide specialized services, including knife and axe sharpening, cleaning, and re-handling, catering to the maintenance needs of their clientele. They also offer axe throwing lessons and host various training events, fostering a community of skilled and informed outdoor enthusiasts.

Southern Comforts Gifts & Antiques

Southern Comforts Gifts & Antiques is a charming boutique offering a curated selection of unique gifts, antiques, and home décor items, appealing to those seeking distinctive pieces with Southern charm. Southern Comforts operates Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, providing a welcoming atmosphere for shoppers to explore their diverse offerings.

Local Activities

Bogeys Sports Park

Bogeys Sports Park is a premier outdoor recreational facility offering a variety of activities for all ages. The park features a challenging 18-hole miniature golf course, a spacious driving range with 40 tee stations (including 10 covered), and seven batting cages accommodating both baseball and softball enthusiasts. Additionally, Bogeys offers “Little Links,” a unique 9-hole course designed for quick play using oversized clubs and balls, suitable for players of all skill levels.

Drive Shack Richmond

Drive Shack Richmond offers a premier entertainment experience combining golf, dining, and social activities. The facility features 62 all-weather, full-service driving bays equipped with TrackMan™ technology, providing interactive games and virtual golf courses suitable for all skill levels. Guests can enjoy a chef-inspired menu and craft cocktails in the on-site restaurant and bar, with options for indoor and outdoor seating, including a rooftop terrace and lounge. The venue also boasts over 300 TVs, making it an ideal spot for sports enthusiasts.

The Goochland Drive-In Theater

The Goochland Drive-In Theater offers a nostalgic movie-going experience under the stars. Since its opening in 2009, it has become a cherished destination for families and film enthusiasts. The theater features two screens: the Main Screen and The Grove. The Main Screen provides a traditional drive-in experience, allowing guests to enjoy movies from the comfort of their vehicles, with sound transmitted via FM radio. The Grove offers both vehicle and lawn seating options, with in-ground speakers providing audio for those seated on the lawn. Committed to affordability, the theater maintains low admission and concession prices, offering classic American fare, gluten-free, and vegetarian options.

Powhatan State Park

Powhatan State Park spans 1,565 acres along the historic James River. The park offers a diverse range of recreational activities amidst its varied landscapes, which include open fields, upland hardwood forests, and 2.5 miles of riverfront. The park features approximately 12 miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. These trails traverse diverse habitats, providing ample opportunities for wildlife observation. With three car-top boat launches, visitors can easily access the James River for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. While some riverbank areas have high bluffs, the park is working to improve access for anglers. A valid Virginia fishing license is required. Three large picnic shelters equipped with tables and charcoal grills are available for reservation. Two shelters include accessible playgrounds, and all have restroom facilities nearby. The park is open daily from dawn to dusk.

Rasawek Hunting Preserve

Rasawek Hunting Preserve offers an exceptional upland bird hunting experience. Specializing in quail hunting, the preserve provides guided hunts with experienced guides and well-trained dogs, ensuring a memorable outing for both novice and seasoned hunters. The picturesque landscape features diverse terrains, enhancing the hunting experience. Rasawek also offers amenities such as a clubhouse and opportunities for group outings.

Crane & Clover Retreat

Crane & Clover Retreat is a family-owned woodland retreat and flower farm designed for intimate meetings, workshops, and gatherings. Spanning 98 acres, the retreat offers a serene environment with a variety of amenities, including a barn studio for classes and workshops, a future art studio, dining pavilion, glamping yurts, miles of hiking trails, a 4-acre lake, and plans for a full-service spa with sauna. The retreat focuses on providing a private and exclusive experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature while engaging in creative and educational activities. Crane & Clover is committed to fostering meaningful connections and memorable experiences in a natural, artful, and joyful setting.

In Richmond [25 – 40 minutes from The Estate at River Run]

Classic Richmond Restaurants

New York Deli

Established in 1929, New York Deli is Richmond’s oldest restaurant and located in the Carytown neighborhood. Renowned for its gourmet sandwiches, the deli offers a diverse menu in a neighborhood bar setting. Notably, it is the birthplace of the Sailor Sandwich and is acclaimed for its Reuben. The establishment features a rotating selection of bottled beers and drafts.

Millie’s Diner

Millie’s Diner, a Richmond staple since 1989, is celebrated for its vibrant and inventive dishes that highlight fresh, quality ingredients. Known for its eclectic menu, the diner has become a favorite among locals and visitors seeking flavorful, unpretentious cuisine in a cozy, retro atmosphere. Millie’s expertly combines diner charm with a gourmet touch, making it a go-to spot for brunch, lunch, and special gatherings.

Lemaire

Lemaire is a New American restaurant located within The Jefferson Hotel in downtown Richmond, Virginia. The restaurant offers a modern culinary experience, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients to create contemporary Southern dishes. Guests can enjoy a refined dining atmosphere complemented by a curated wine list and handcrafted cocktails.

L’Opossum

L’Opossum is a chef-owned, award-winning restaurant in Richmond, Virginia, offering creative and seasonal cuisine in a cozy and elegant atmosphere. The menu features inventive dishes that blend global flavors with local ingredients, providing a unique dining experience.

Chez Max

Chez Max is a fine dining restaurant offering classical French cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The elegant interior features a large stone fireplace, creating a cozy ambiance for guests. The menu includes traditional French dishes, complemented by an extensive selection of fine wines and crafted cocktails. Chez Max provides dine-in and take-out options, as well as private dining for special occasions.

Penny’s Wine Shop

Penny’s Wine Shop is a Richmond-based establishment offering a curated selection of natural, organic, and biodynamic wines from around the world. The shop features a handpicked collection of clean-farmed wines, available by the glass or bottle, complemented by a menu of seasonal small plates crafted from local ingredients. The inviting atmosphere encourages community engagement and exploration of diverse wine profiles.

Perly’s Restaurant & Delicatessen

Perly’s Restaurant & Delicatessen, located in downtown Richmond, Virginia, offers traditional Jewish cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features classic dishes such as latkes, knishes, and matzoh ball soup, alongside inventive options like the “Jewish Sailor” sandwich and “Schlubby Fries.” Perly’s provides a nostalgic yet contemporary dining experience, celebrating Jewish culinary heritage in a vibrant atmosphere.

Sub Rosa Bakery

Sub Rosa Bakery, located in Richmond, Virginia’s historic Church Hill neighborhood, is a wood-fired bakery and stone-milling operation specializing in naturally leavened breads and pastries. They use organic, regional, and heirloom grains, milling their own flour to craft a variety of baked goods, including croissants, tarts, and quiches. The bakery emphasizes the use of Virginia-sourced ingredients and traditional baking methods, offering a selection of breads and pastries.

Stella’s

Stella’s is a renowned restaurant celebrated for its authentic Greek cuisine that blends rustic and modern flavors. The menu features a variety of meze, comfort dishes, and seafood, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The establishment offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking a genuine Mediterranean dining experience.

The Tobacco Company Restaurant

The Tobacco Company Restaurant, situated in Richmond’s historic Shockoe Slip district, offers a fine dining experience within a meticulously restored 19th-century tobacco warehouse. The menu features Southern-inspired cuisine, including steak, prime rib, and fresh seafood, complemented by an extensive wine list and handcrafted cocktails. Guests can enjoy live music and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking a taste of Richmond’s rich history and culinary excellence.

Wineries, Breweries, and Distilleries

Belle Isle Moonshine

Belle Isle Moonshine, established in 2013 in Richmond, Virginia, specializes in crafting premium moonshine using 100% organic corn, resulting in a naturally gluten-free spirit. Their product line includes a variety of unique infusions, such as Honey Habanero, Cold Brew Coffee, and seasonal offerings like Pumpkin Pie. Visitors can experience these offerings firsthand at their distillery store and tasting room, providing complimentary tastings of up to four ½ oz. samples of their premium moonshine and infusions.

Brambly Park

Brambly Park is a multifaceted urban winery and restaurant situated on two acres in Richmond’s historic Scott’s Addition neighborhood. The venue features an on-site winery producing a variety of wines, a Southern Italian-inspired restaurant named Bari Trattoria, and expansive outdoor spaces ideal for dining and events. Guests can enjoy live music, participate in community events, and explore curated wine selections in a relaxed, park-like setting.

Local Guide

Buskey Cider

Buskey Cider, located in Richmond, Virginia’s Scott’s Addition neighborhood, is an urban cidery crafting innovative ciders from 100% Virginia apples. Their offerings range from flagship dry ciders to creative seasonal and limited releases, all produced without added sugars. Visitors can enjoy a variety of ciders on tap in their tasting room, which is situated adjacent to the production area, providing a unique glimpse into the cider-making process. Buskey Cider also offers options for home delivery and hosts private events, making it a versatile destination for cider enthusiasts.

Cirrus Vodka

Cirrus Vodka, based in Richmond, Virginia, is an award-winning craft distillery renowned for its premium, triple-distilled vodka made from non-GMO russet potatoes. This meticulous production process results in a smooth, full-bodied spirit ideal for sipping or mixing in cocktails. Visitors can experience Cirrus Vodka firsthand at their tasting room which offers handcrafted cocktails highlighting their signature vodka. Guests can enjoy the outdoor patio, which is pet-friendly, and live music and food trucks are available depending on the season and weather. Additionally, the tasting room provides bottle sales, cocktail kits, and local mixers for purchase.

Hardywood Park Craft Brewery’s Richmond

Hardywood Park Craft Brewery’s Richmond location is the original taproom nestled in the city’s Historic German Brewing District. The brewery offers an inviting atmosphere with an outdoor beer garden and a diverse selection of craft beers brewed on-site. Guests can enjoy handcrafted pizzas from the Hardywood Pizza Kitchen, which emphasizes locally sourced ingredients. The Richmond taproom also hosts an eclectic mix of live music and community events, providing a vibrant gathering space for both locals and visitors.

Reservoir Distillery

Reservoir Distillery, established in 2008 in Richmond, Virginia, is renowned for its handcrafted, small-batch whiskeys made from 100% locally sourced Virginia grains. Their product line includes bourbon, rye, and wheat whiskeys, each highlighting the unique flavors of the region. The distillery’s tasting room offers visitors an immersive experience into their whiskey-making process. Guests can sample a variety of spirits and learn about the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

The Veil Brewing Co.

The Veil Brewing Co., located in Richmond’s Scott’s Addition neighborhood, is renowned for its innovative craft beers, including hop-forward ales, barrel-aged stouts, and spontaneous fermentation styles. Their flagship taproom, opened in April 2023, features an 8,262-square-foot space with a modern industrial design, an expansive patio, and an in-house food concept, Nokoribi, offering Japanese-inspired dishes for lunch and dinner. The taproom is family-friendly and provides a selection of beers, wines, ciders, and spirits on tap, as well as cans and bottles for to-go purchases.

Trial & Error Distillery

Trial & Error Distillery is a small-batch distillery known for its innovative and meticulously crafted spirits. Their diverse selection includes American grappa, sloe and classic gins, limoncello, maple and hopped whiskeys, aquavit, and various rums such as golden, silver, spiced, and Pepo. Guests are invited to sample a variety of spirits and purchase bottles to enjoy at home.

Virago Spirits

Virago Spirits is a craft distillery specializing in classically inspired, creatively interpreted spirits, focusing on rum, gin, brandy, and herbal liqueurs. Their production philosophy blends traditional techniques with modern innovation, utilizing a vintage, direct-fire, 2,500-liter Charentais-style alembic still—one of only a few operating in the United States. The distillery’s tasting room offers a unique and immersive experience, providing a direct view of the alembic pot still. Guests can enjoy a curated selection of handcrafted spirits, including rum, gin, and unique seasonal releases.

Music + Performing Arts

The Altria Theater

The Altria Theater is a premier venue for live entertainment, hosting concerts, comedy shows, and Broadway productions. With a seating capacity of 3,565, it stands as one of the largest theaters in the region. Originally opened in 1927 as the Mosque Theater, the venue underwent significant renovations and was renamed the Altria Theater in 2014. Its Moorish Revival architecture and rich history contribute to its status as a cultural landmark in Richmond.

The Broadberry

The Broadberry is a premier concert and special events venue known for its diverse lineup of live music performances and community events. The venue features a spacious stage equipped with a state-of-the-art sound system, a large bar, and a kitchen that operates during all event hours, offering a variety of food options. The venue’s commitment to providing a dynamic entertainment experience has made it a staple in Richmond’s vibrant music scene.

The Byrd Theatre

The Byrd Theatre, located in Richmond, Virginia’s Carytown district, is a historic movie palace that has been in continuous operation since its opening on December 24, 1928. Named after the city’s founder, William Byrd II, the theater is renowned for its opulent French Empire-style architecture and original features, including a Wurlitzer pipe organ. As a nonprofit organization, the Byrd Theatre Foundation is dedicated to preserving this landmark while providing unique cinematic experiences to the community. The theater offers a diverse selection of films, from classic movies to contemporary releases, and hosts special events and festivals throughout the year.

Révéler Experiences

Révéler Experiences, located in the Carytown neighborhood of Richmond, Virginia, is an inclusive art space and music club. The venue offers a variety of events, including weekly concerts, jam sessions, cabaret performances, and puzzle adventures. With an intimate setting of 100 seats, guests can enjoy unique concerts and interactive performances. The establishment also features a selection of cocktails, wines, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages, along with dinners and snacks crafted with care.

The National

The National is a premier live music venue renowned for its state-of-the-art V-DOSC sound system and historic ambiance. The venue features a 42′ x 32′ stage and offers both general admission and reserved seating options, including 300 padded stadium seats in the balcony. With five full bars and a capacity to host a diverse range of artists and events, The National provides an exceptional concert experience for attendees.

Popular Shopping Areas

Carytown

Carytown is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood in Richmond, Virginia known for its unique mix of locally owned boutiques, diverse dining options, and lively atmosphere. Often called “The Mile of Style,” Carytown stretches along West Cary Street and offers everything from vintage shops and specialty stores to upscale fashion, gourmet eateries, and cozy cafes. A beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, the area is also home to the historic Byrd Theatre, an iconic landmark since 1928. Carytown’s walkable streets, colorful murals, and frequent community events create a charming and bustling destination that captures Richmond’s creative and independent spirit.

Short Pump

Short Pump, located in the western part of Richmond, Virginia, is a bustling suburban area known for its upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Anchored by the expansive Short Pump Town Center, an open-air shopping mall with major retailers, boutiques, and eateries, the area offers a mix of modern conveniences and community-focused amenities. Short Pump is also home to a range of restaurants, from casual to fine dining, as well as family-friendly activities, parks, and recreational facilities. With its vibrant commercial district and proximity to residential neighborhoods, Short Pump provides a lively and convenient destination for shopping, leisure, and social gatherings.

Museums

The Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia

The Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, located in Richmond’s historic Leigh Street Armory, celebrates African American history, culture, and achievements. Through engaging exhibits, artifacts, and programs, it highlights stories of resilience, from slavery and the Civil Rights Movement to modern contributions. A hub for education and dialogue, the museum inspires reflection and celebrates African American heritage as a vital part of America’s story.

Poe Museum

The Poe Museum, located in Richmond, Virginia, is dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of Edgar Allan Poe. Housed in a historic building with beautiful gardens, the museum features rare manuscripts, personal artifacts, and exhibits exploring Poe’s work and influence. It’s a must-visit destination for literature lovers and fans of the master of macabre.

Hollywood Cemetery

Hollywood Cemetery, located in Richmond, Virginia, is a historic and scenic final resting place overlooking the James River. Established in 1847, it is the burial site of U.S. Presidents James Monroe and John Tyler, Confederate President Jefferson Davis, and thousands of Civil War soldiers. Known for its stunning landscapes and Gothic architecture, it offers a tranquil space to explore history and pay respects.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond, Virginia, is a 50-acre oasis featuring stunning themed gardens, a domed conservatory, and seasonal displays. Open year-round, it offers beauty, education, and inspiration through diverse plant collections, special events, and programs for all ages. It’s a perfect destination for nature lovers and families alike.

Maymont

Maymont, located in Richmond, Virginia, is a historic estate and park spanning 100 acres of gardens, wildlife habitats, and a beautifully preserved Gilded Age mansion. Visitors can explore lush landscapes, interact with animals, and immerse themselves in history, making it a beloved destination for families and nature enthusiasts.

Science Museum of Virginia

The Science Museum of Virginia, located in Richmond, Virginia, is a dynamic center for exploration and learning. Featuring interactive exhibits, a state-of-the-art Dome theater, and engaging programs, it inspires curiosity in science, technology, and the natural world. It’s a must-visit destination for all ages.

Virginia Museum of History & Culture

The Virginia Museum of History & Culture, located in Richmond, Virginia, offers a comprehensive exploration of the state’s rich history. Through diverse exhibits, artifacts, and programs, it highlights Virginia’s pivotal role in shaping the nation, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA)

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA), located in Richmond, Virginia, is a world-class art museum featuring an extensive collection spanning 5,000 years of global history. Open 365 days a year with free general admission, it offers stunning exhibitions, diverse programs, and a vibrant cultural experience for all visitors.

Virginia State Capitol

The Virginia State Capitol, located in Richmond, is a historic landmark and the seat of Virginia’s government. Designed by Thomas Jefferson and completed in 1788, it is one of the oldest active statehouses in the U.S. Visitors can explore its rich history, elegant architecture, and exhibits that highlight Virginia’s pivotal role in American democracy.

Branch Museum of Architecture and Design

The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design, located in Richmond, Virginia, celebrates innovative design and its impact on our lives. Housed in a historic 1919 Tudor Revival mansion, it features exhibitions, programs, and events that explore architecture, design, and their role in shaping communities.

Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA) at VCU

The Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA) at VCU, located in Richmond, Virginia, showcases innovative and thought-provoking contemporary art from around the world. With rotating exhibitions, dynamic programs, and a focus on diverse perspectives, it serves as a cultural hub for creativity and dialogue. Admission is free for all visitors.

The Valentine

The Valentine, located in Richmond, Virginia, is a museum dedicated to preserving and interpreting the city’s rich history. Through engaging exhibitions, artifacts, and walking tours, it offers visitors a deeper understanding of Richmond’s past and its influence on the present.

RVA on Wheels

RVA on Wheels offers a variety of guided tours and rentals in Richmond, Virginia, utilizing Segways, trolleys, electric bikes, and GEM cars. Their tours cover historic landmarks, street art, and scenic views, providing both public and private options. Additionally, they offer services for weddings, private events, and team-building activities. For those interested in cycling, RVA on Wheels provides bike sales, rentals, and repair services.

Local Activities in Goochland + Richmond

Local Guide

Unveil your dream wedding or event at The Estate at River Run, perfectly situated between the enchanting cities of Charlottesville and Richmond. Our picturesque estate boasts unparalleled beauty and charm, offering a captivating backdrop for your special day, nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes and views of the James River. Our exquisite property offers a harmonious blend of modern elegance and natural serenity. From intimate ceremonies to luxurious celebrations, our meticulously curated spaces cater to every occasion with elegance and grace. Indulge in resort-style amenities, from our shimmering pool to lush landscape, spacious layouts, and meticulous attention to detail; every event promises luxury and ease. Experience the epitome of sophisticated events at The Estate at River Run - where every moment is a masterpiece.