Things To Do

Belle Isle

We love walking around this island in the middle of the James River. Parking at Belle Isle might be difficult, but there are many options if the Tredegar Street lot is full. Try the Oregon Hill overlook, parking up the hill on 5th Street or on the Southside in the area around 22nd Street. If parking on the north side of the island, walk across the suspension bridge to get to Belle Isle.

Maymont

One of our favorite parks along the river to walk around and have a picnic. This park is huge, and has everything from animals to Japanese Gardens, to a historic mansion on site.

Carytown

Stretching along nine blocks of West Cary Street from Thompson Street to Boulevard, Carytown bustles with mostly locally owned restaurants, spas and shops selling jewelry, antiques, toys, clothing and furniture. Claire and Erik's Favorites Food: The Daily Kitchen, Can Can Brasserie, and Home Sweet Home Coffee: Sugar & Twine Shopping: Mongrel (gifts), Clementine (consignment), Need Supply Co. (modern fashion), and Plan 9 Records Entertainment: See select feature films for $4 at The Byrd Theater

Libby Hill Park

This is a fabulous place to catch a sunset and view of the city that we have frequented almost every trip we make to RVA.

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

Science Museum of Virginia

Check out this Virginia gem to learn about science in all kinds of ways, featuring a Foucault pendulum!

Millie's Diner

This is a Porté family classic. A smaller, hole-in-the-wall vibe where you can see the kitchen right in front of you, this place is good for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Warning to all the picky eaters out there, there are no modifications to what is on the menu (i.e., forcing Claire to work around the onions on her plate - but it's worth it!)

Lunch & Supper

Contrary to its name, Lunch & Supper also is home to one of our favorite brunch spots in town.

Kuba Kuba

Cozy spot for great Cuban food - this was our first double-date with Caroline and Collin!

Union Market

We really enjoyed lunch here at this neighborhood market/café, where you can sit indoors or outside. Afterwards we recommend taking a stroll down to Jefferson Hill Park for a great view of Richmond.

Home Sweet Home

The best grilled cheese sandwiches ever. Claire & Erik shared an amazing "Mac and Me" sandwich made with pork barbecue and mac and cheese.

Ironclad Coffee Roasters

Claire once got a shoe shine + coffee for $8! Good coffee and nice high ceilings since it's in an old firehouse.

Lamplighter Coffee Roasters

Located in the up-and-coming Scott's Addition neighborhood, this is where Claire and Erik had their first wedding planning session.

Canon & Draw Brewing Company

We love this place that just opened in 2018! Good beer, friendly staff, and plenty of space to hang out, play darts, board games, and even Mario Kart (The current record is Claire: 3, Erik: 4)

Hardywood Park Craft Brewery - Richmond

A local favorite, we love their beer and atmosphere.

Triple Crossing Brewing Company - Downtown

We especially enjoyed their selection of 10 IPAs on draft!