Discover Richmond, Virginia: A Neighborhood Guide
As the capital of Virginia, Richmond is steeped in significant history – and as the former capital of the Confederacy, some of it can be painful. However, this city by the James River is also overflowing with charm, a delightful food scene, impressive art, and an abundance of breweries.
Every neighborhood in Richmond has a distinctive feel. Consequently, you can easily spend hours or even a day exploring them, depending on your interests in shopping, dining, and learning about this fascinating river city. Here are the best neighborhoods in Richmond, Virginia.
Arts District
Best Neighborhood for Art
Most visitors, especially those just arriving in Richmond, find themselves in the Arts District at the start of their visit. This downtown area is rich with art, and Richmond boasts more than 150 murals. These vibrant backdrops not only serve as fantastic spots for photos but also often provide social commentary. Moreover, Hamilton Glass’ Mending Walls project brings artists together to create works that resonate with the current climate. Furthermore, if you find yourself in Richmond on the first Friday of the month, many Broad Street art galleries remain open late to welcome patrons.
The centrally located Arts District is home to many of the city’s hotels. Quirk, converted from a former department store, features stunning interiors and one of Richmond’s best rooftops. For those preferring luxury, The Jefferson offers grand architecture and ornate staircases. The Graduate celebrates Richmond native and Grand Slam champion Arthur Ashe with cozy rooms and an impressive rooftop at a reasonable price.
Jackson Ward
Best Neighborhood for Black Heritage
The Jackson Ward neighborhood was once dubbed the “Harlem of the South” due to the flourishing Black businesses in the early 20th century. A visit to this area should certainly include the monument on Broad Street dedicated to Maggie L. Walker, a significant civil rights activist and the first woman to own a bank. Additionally, Walker’s former home is now a National Historic Site.
The Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia shares stories of Virginia’s well-known and unsung heroes. The rich history of Jackson Ward can be tasted at soul-food establishments like Mama J’s and Southern Kitchen, or through the takeout options at Big Herm’s and One Way Market, which offers international snacks.
Scott’s Addition
Best Neighborhood for Drinking and Nightlife
Richmond has a strong beer culture, with over 30 breweries, cideries, and distilleries, many located in Scott’s Addition. It’s easy to spend hours hopping from one spot to another or to make it a full night out. Bingo Beer features an extensive selection of lagers and IPAs along with a full menu and arcade games. For a more relaxed atmosphere, explore Virago Spirits. This hidden gem offers cozy couches and colorful decor, serving some of the finest gin and rum-based drinks in the city. Virginia, being one of the top apple-producing states, makes a visit to Buskey Cider a must, where you can enjoy unique cider flavors including cucumber mint and Thai tom yum.
While Scott’s Addition has fewer food options, the available restaurants offer hearty selections. Relish Texas-style barbecue at ZZQ for lunch or dinner, or check out the newer Pinky’s, featuring a Mediterranean-inspired menu in an airy space.
Carytown
Best Neighborhood for Shopping
It’s easy to spend an entire day shopping through Carytown. Strolling along Cary Street caters to travelers eager for trendy finds. Ashby and Clementine boast racks of secondhand clothing, while Bygones offers curated vintage selections, having been a staple for over 40 years. When hunger strikes, the shops along Cary Street are ready to satisfy your appetite. The Beet Box serves refreshing green juices with fun names, and Zorch Pizza, originating as a food truck, now serves their signature cup-and-char pepperoni pizza from their brick-and-mortar location in Carytown.
Church Hill
Best Neighborhood for Parks
Church Hill is rich with history; it’s home to St. John’s Church, where Patrick Henry delivered his iconic “Give me liberty or give me death” speech in 1775. Surrounded by lush parks and locally owned shops, this neighborhood is an excellent spot to explore. While the parks may not be as expansive as Central Park, Chimborazo and Libby Hill parks offer stunning views of the city, making the trek to their summits worthwhile. Before ascending, be sure to grab a delectable croissant from Sub Rosa Bakery or a buttery burger from Cobra Burger.
Shockoe Slip and Shockoe Bottom
Best Neighborhood for Exploring on Foot
Shockoe Slip and Shockoe Bottom present numerous options, making exploration an adventure. This neighborhood features hotels like the Delta and the Courtyard Marriott, serving as an ideal starting point. The cobblestone streets are lined with diverse restaurants and nightlife venues. Additionally, you’ll encounter historic markers that highlight the city’s painful past, including the site of Lumpkin’s Slave Jail.
The 17th Street Market hosts various events and is one of the oldest public markets in the country. Delicious dining options include LuLu’s, known for its weekend brunch, Havana 59, famous for its happy hour mojitos, and Addis, offering savory Ethiopian dishes, ideal for lingering over outdoor dining.
Manchester
Best Neighborhood for Foodies and Fitness
Manchester combines industrial charm with quaint row homes and modern high-rises. Hull Street offers a few dining establishments, but foodies are particularly excited about the opening of Hatch, Richmond’s first food hall. For a refreshing drink, Legend Brewing provides a fantastic view of the river alongside its lagers and ales.
Despite its evolving landscape, the Manchester neighborhood offers a wealth of activities, from hiking the Buttermilk Trail to exploring the cultural significance of the three-mile Slave Trail. For those looking to work out, Hour Cycle provides spin classes with upbeat hip-hop and trap playlists that make exercising enjoyable.
