Catherine & Juan Carlos
While in Richmond...
Carytown
If you're looking for afternoon activities that aren't too far from the venue and want to get a flavor of Richmond - or you love to shop - head to Carytown. It has everything from amazing restaurants (Can Can Brasserie is my favorite) to cute boutiques (Lou Lou) and a classic, Richmond movie theater - the Byrd Theatre. If you have any questions, just ask me! This was my go-to weekend activity in high school. Got some great deals at Clementine!
Short Pump Town Center
If you're on a shopping mission, head up 64-W to Short Pump Town Center - I can't tell you how many times this mall has saved me. You've got Macy's, Dillard's, J-Crew, Nordstrom, White House Black Market, and many other great stores. James dragged me there for Black Friday once (see photo) and it was actually pretty fun! In addition, this is the site of my favorite place to get pampered - the Red Door Spa. If you're looking for a relaxing activity on Saturday, definitely head to the Red Door. But make sure you make an appointment in advance! It gets booked up pretty quickly. If you're looking to get beautified, but missed the boat on the Red Door (or want a spot that's a bit closer to the venue), let me know!
Scott's Addition
So I haven't lived in Richmond in a while, so I relied on my bridesmaid Tay to tell me where the cool kids hang out. The short answer: Scott's Addition. It's a neighborhood that's recently become filled with cool breweries and restaurants. The Veil Brewing Company is Tay's favorite spot - and it was featured on the Bacherlorette. If you want to pop around and check out a few spots, she recommended a few other places that are also in the neighborhood: Ardent Craft Ales, Isley Brewing Company, Vasen Brewing Company, Three Notch'd RVA Collab, and Blue Bee Cidery. There's also the Circuit Arcade Bar, which she said is a hit! If you're looking for delicious cuisine, check out Lunch and Supper (unreal mac n cheese and fried chicken). Bottom Line: if you want to snag a good, local beer and good vibes, head over to Scott's Addition. P.S. If you're parents, the Children's Museum of Richmond and the Science Museum of Virginia are also in the neighborhood! There's an IMAX Dome...
Virginia State Capitol
If you love history, tour the Virginia Capitol building. It was designed by Thomas Jefferson - and most recently, it was featured in an episode of The Bachelorette. Juan Carlos' reaction: "Why haven't you taken me there?!" Another fun fact: Daniel Day Lewis and the cast and crew of Lincoln used this beautiful building to portray the White House in the 2012 film Lincoln. If interested in a tour, the building's open to visitors starting at 9am (but 1-5pm on Sundays). Some additional info from the website: Capitol Square is open to the public from 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. daily. Guided tours are available for walk in visitors as well as groups with tour appointments. All groups of ten or more are expected to make tour reservations in advance. Individuals, couples, families and small groups with fewer than ten people may take guided or self-guided tours during operating hours each day. Visitors enter the Capitol at the Main Entrance at 10th and Bank Streets.
The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing
If your priorities are good eats and relaxation, I'd recommend the Boathouse at Rocketts Landing. Beautiful views of the James Richmond and the City of Richmond.
Kuba Kuba
Seeking legit Cuban food and good vibes? Kuba Kuba is where you need to be. Nothing beats that Cuban sandwich. Other favorites: Cafe con Leche, Empanadas, Arroz con Pollo.. I mean I could go on, but I'd basically be listing the entire menu. Also, this restaurant is located in quite possibly the coolest Richmond neighborhood - The Fan. Note: This is a tiny restaurant, and they don't accept reservations. But it's worth the wait, I promise.