Although Richmond is one of my family’s favorite road trips to take from D.C., I was happy to partner with Visit Virginia on a Mom’s Getaway Weekend and to attend the Fire, Flour & Fork John Dabney Dinner. I went with my friend Patty Chism, a personal stylist and fellow blogger. It was a much needed retreat. The state capital of Virginia is well known for it’s American culture and history. While there are endless tourist attractions geared toward that aspect of the city, like taking a downtown walking tour and visiting The Edgar Allen Poe Museum, there’s so much more to see and do. Whether you’re an American history buff, a foodie, an art lover or simply looking to unwind and recover, Richmond has something to offer for everyone. I’ve created a guide with 15 Fun Things You Must Do In Richmond.
1. Brunch at Max’s On Broad
I had a wonderful time meeting an amazing and inspiring group of business women including: Kasey, co-founder of Native Collab, Monica of Virginia Tourism Corporation, Amy of American Evolution and Tashira of Politics and Fashion at Max’s On Broad for lunch. The restaurant is located in the heart of Broad Street where the Maggie Walker Historical Site is located. The menu offers an amazing array of brunch and lunch specials.
2. Explore the historic African American Neighborhood of Jackson Ward
In its heyday as an entertainment destination in the 1930s and 1940s, Richmond’s Jackson Ward district was known as “the Harlem of the South.” Legendary musicians such as Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Ella Fitzgerald drew crowds to the nightclubs and theaters along Second Street, which was the neighborhood’s main corridor. Back then, locals called Second Street “the Deuce.”
3. Take In The Maggie Walker National Historic Site
The Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site commemorates the life of a progressive and talented African American woman. Unveiled in July 2017, the 10-foot bronze statue of a 45-year-old Walker standing tall is surrounded by inscriptions tracing the life of the woman who early on helped her mother, a former slave, by delivering clothes as a laundress. She then became a newspaper publisher, teacher, bank founder, businesswoman, civil rights leader, entrepreneur and mother. Despite many adversities, Ms. Walker achieved success in the world of business and finance as the first woman in the United States to found and serve as president of a bank. Her statue is facing Broad Street where historically, African-American people weren’t always welcome, Lisa Mickens, Walkers great-great-granddaughter told the crowd at the unveiling. Her statue is also at the gateway to Jackson Ward, a historic African-American community that she helped inspire.
4. Tour the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia
The museum examines the city of Richmond’s past with a very keen eye on the future. The Leigh Street Armory is a new location for the museum. The Museum seeks to become a permanent repository for visual, oral and written records and artifacts commemorating the lives and accomplishments of Blacks in Virginia. Their goal is to become a statewide resource on the many facets of Black history through exhibitions, discussions and celebrations. The Museum collects documents, limited editions, prints, art and photographs for use in its Black History Archives program. This program will be of major significance because of the scarcity of written records on the “Black experience” in America.
5. Lunch or Dinner at Mama J’s
Mama J’s is Richmond’s premiere soul food dining experience. This family-owned and operated restaurant located in Historic Jackson Ward celebrates the family tradition of going to grandma’s house for Sunday dinner. With a vast array of mouth-watering favorites, Mama J’s combines great southern food with outstanding service in a relaxing atmosphere. Patrons enjoy the restaurant’s extensive menu of a la carte traditional dishes, like mouthwatering fried chicken, succulent fried catfish, savory blue crab cakes and a host of complementary sides dishes like macaroni & cheese, candied yams, and collard greens.
6. Immerse Yourself in Richmond Culture at The Valentine Museum
The Valentine has been collecting, preserving and interpreting Richmond’s 400-year history for over a century. Located in the heart of historic downtown, the Valentine is a place for residents and tourists to discover the diverse stories that tell the broader history of this important region. The Valentine has launched their new “Controversy/History” series which will explore contentious, present-day issues by comparing historic debates to modern data. With Controversy/History, the Valentine has re-envisioned their long-running Community Conversation series to continue encouraging sometimes uncomfortable but always relevant discussions that inspire action and promote progress.
7. Pamper Yourself at The Spa at The Jefferson Hotel
If you’re in need of some rest and relaxation (and who isn’t), you’ll melt into bliss at Salon Vivace. This is a full service salon that offers a full menu of services including: hair, make-up, nails, massage and facials.
8. Coffee at Lamplighter Coffee Roasters
I totally wish I had a Lamplighter Coffee Roasters in my neighborhood. I actually wish it was a chain in every neighborhood. It is totally my kind of place. This place has a modern hipster vibe attracting all walks of life. There’s just something so comfy and cozy about this shop that’s completely compelling. The type of music they played created such a positive nostalgic feeling and the volume level was perfect for meeting the beautiful, intelligent and bubbly Kelli Lemon, famously known for her podcast “Coffee With Strangers” and fellow Arlington based fashion and social justice issues blogger, Tashira of Politics and Fashion over…coffee.
9. Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch and Dinner at The Daily Kitchen & Bar
The Daily Kitchen & Bar serve foods that are not only delicious, but also health conscious, environmentally friendly and socially responsible. We use organic, all natural, local and sustainable ingredients as much as possible while still keeping our prices fair. In addition, we also offer an extensive selection of vegetarian, vegan, gluten free and paleo options.
10. Shop Til You Drop In Carytown
Carytown is nestled among over a dozen local boutiques, vintage boutiques and cool gift shops. It is one of the coolest neighborhoods with unique restaurants, coffee houses and even a cupcake bakery. It reminds me of a cross between the Haigh-Asbury neighborhood of San Francisco and Melrose Avenue in Beverly Hills. This area is great for people watching. I left feeling happy and inspired.
11. Stroll Through Richmond’s Art District on First Fridays
First Fridays in the Richmond region are a monthly celebration of arts, artists and RVA. Every first Friday of the month, Richmond, VA’s best art galleries open new shows and their doors to artists, fans and friends. The event takes place on Broad Street, in the Richmond Arts District. Galleries, restaurants and shops all take part in this signature event that often features live performances, always food and fun. Can’t make it for First Friday? Check out any of the participating galleries throughout the year.
12. Enjoy Drinks With A View at Quirk Hotel
Looking for a trendy place with great drinks and an equally great view? Check out the Rooftop at the newish Quirk Hotel. On your way to the rooftop, the bright, clean, white walls, modern pale pink furnishings and vibrant yet stylish decor will energize you. My friend Patty and I enjoyed pre-dinner drinks and we met the other gorgeous co-founder of Native Collab, Liz Stiff–which was a highlight of our night. This place is bustling with excitement, especially on weekends.
13. Visit Virginia.org & Find a Festival To Attend
Richmond is known for it’s festivals. There seems to be a festival almost every weekend. Check out the calendar and see if there’s an event you’d like to attend!
14. Celebrate The Holidays With These Great Events
- RVA Artisan Market
- Quirk Hotel Tree Trimming & Toy Drive
- Tapped & Wrapped Holiday Shopping
- The Broad Bazaar & Open House
- GardenFest of Lights at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
- Main Street Station Grand Illumination
15. Sleep at The Graduate Hotel
Whenever I think of anything with the word “Graduate” in it, I think of the classic Dustin Hoffman movie and the Simon & Garfunkle song “Mrs. Robinson”. Those references will probably date me, but I love staying at the Graduate for that reason too. The hotel is conveniently located near Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), a short jaunt from the airport and in the heart of the 400-year old history of American’s legends and lore. Situated in the middle of West Franklin Street, the hotel is a short walk from the bustling West Broad Street district. To read more about my stay, click HERE.
For more information and to plan your stay, visit www.virginia.org & www.americanevolution2019.com
{Thank-you to Virginia Tourism Corporation & their team for organizing this beautiful & memorable weekend.}
Have any favorites in Richmond? Share in the comments.
