Things to Do
Carytown
Pull out your beard conditioner, artisanal coffee, and love of "craft"--Carytown is Richmond's Portland. Full of farm-to-table eateries, coffee houses, vinyl record shops (which Dan recommends), dive bars, and vintage stores intermixed with other shopping venues, it has something for everyone.
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
For those into museums (like us), this is a good one to visit if you have a few hours. The impressive collection is highlighted by works from Matisse and Picasso.
American Civil War Museum- Historic Tredegar
Located on the site of the Tredegar Iron Works, the factory that produced much of the arsenal of the Confederacy, the recently reopened and renovated museum has a focus on recounting the story of the Civil War from a variety of historical perspectives and highlighting contemporary accounts of living in a fractured country. Reviews for the museum have been glowing from both historians and the public.
Maymont
For those interested in tasting a little slice of the Gilded Age, check out this mansion built by Richmond's robber baron, surrounded by gardens and close to Byrd Park.
The Jefferson Hotel
For fans of old-school luxury, the interior lobby of this hotel is a great place to take a break and grab a drink. Lemaire, the restaurant in the hotel, is a widely-praised fine dining establishment.
The Edgar Allan Poe Museum
Once upon a midnight dreary, Edgar made his residence in Richmond. This odd little museum contains some appropriately strange memorabilia from the master of gothic horror, including a pair of his socks. No word on the presence of the Tell-Tale Heart, but the museum does have a resident cat (appropriately) named Edgar.
Spoonbread Bistro
French bistro meets southern comfort food. There is a location in Short Pump near the hotels as well.
L'opossum
This place is just the right kind of over-the-top. Another take on classic French cuisine that would have Escoffier fainting, the dishes and drinks feature absurd names with decadent preparation.
Buz and Ned’s - Boulevard
Buzz and Ned's slayed Bobby Flay in a barbecue battle. Check them out if you are craving a pulled pork fix.
Sub Rosa Bakery
For those seeking to carb load before the reception, Sub Rosa produces a variety of delicious breads and pastries.