The "T Pott" bridge tells the story of the burning of Richmond at the end of the Civil War and overlooks the ruins of the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad Bridge as well as the class III & IV whitewater rapids of the James River. The bridge connects Brown's Island to Belle Isle, a historic civil war prison camp. From the bridge you can also see Virginia's State Capitol Building. If you're looking for a longer hike, the "T Pott" bridge can connect you to the Buttermilk & North Bank Trails for a 6 mile loop passing by Maymont and the Hollywood Cemetery.
Maymont is a 100-acre Gilded Age estate originally owned by James Dooley. Today, the park offers Italian and Japanese gardens, a nature center, a petting zoo, and tours of the Dooley Mansion. Maymont offers something for everyone and admissions are free.
The American Civil War Museum is located at Tredegar Iron Works, the largest ironworks for the Confederacy, which supplied half the artillery for the Confederate Army during the Civil War. This museum is conveniently located across the street from the "T Pott" Bridge! Ticket prices range from $10-$19.
The VMFA is an art museum known for featuring the largest Fabergé collection outside of Russia. Other collections include the contemporary art exhibit with pieces by Andy Warhol, among others; the American art exhibit; European art exhibit; African art exhibit; and many more. The museum offers free admission to all permanent collections as well as free daily tours with no registration required (check website for tour times). The VMFA also features beautiful outdoor gardens and three restaurants: Amuse (sit-down restaurant), Floris (tea), and Best (quick service restaurant).
Hollywood cemetery is the burial place of United States Presidents, James Monroe and John Tyler. Other notable figures laid to rest at Hollywood Cemetery include two Supreme Court Justices, Jefferson Davis and other prominent Confederate army officers, and six Virginia governors. The cemetery is a registered arboretum and spans across 135 acres of land. Admissions are free, making this a great place to take a peaceful walk.
This diner, located in the heart of Virginia Commonwealth University, is one of Claire and Chase's favorite casual restaurants in Richmond. Stop by for a hearty breakfast or a late night bite and don’t forget to order a soda served to you in a pitcher! It was even featured on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-In's, and Dives. Claire and Chase’s Picks: French fries; sausage, egg, and cheese sandwich; buttermilk pancakes
Supper Club is a gourmet food market owned by Claire’s Uncle Carlisle. Claire’s mother, Melissa, also works at Supper Club (you may have seen her viral Instagram Reels advertising the store)! This is a great place to stop by for a quick lunch or to pick up some provisions for the weekend to keep in your hotel room. Claire and Chase’s Picks: Made-to-order fried chicken, chicken salad, Korean chicken lettuce wraps, or the Southwest salad
Secret Sandwich Society is another great option for a casual meal. As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in sandwiches, which are named after United States Presidents and First Ladies. Walk-ins are welcome and this restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. Claire and Chase’s Picks: Pimento fries, The Abigail, The Washington
Gersi is one of Claire and Chase’s favorite spots in Richmond! It is one of many classic Richmond Italian restaurants, offering an intimate feel and delicious food. The restaurant is open for dinner only and reservations can be made on Open Table or by phone call. Claire and Chase’s Picks: Spaghetti Al Limone, Roasted Chicken
Edo’s Squid is another classic Italian spot in Richmond. Some consider this restaurant a local secret, as you could easily walk right past and miss it! However, after eating here, you’ll be happy you didn’t miss it! This restaurant is only open for dinner. Call the restaurant to inquire about reservations. Claire and Chase’s Picks: Broccoletti di Rapa; squid, white bean, and arugula; sausage, broccoli rabe, and ricotta pasta; pork chop
This restaurant also offers an intimate feel and is a great place to get brunch, dinner, or drinks! Bar seating is available or reservations can be made on Open Table or by phone call. Claire and Chase’s Picks: Wagyu beef burger, beef short rib
Can Can is a fun French restaurant located in Carytown, a great place to walk around and shop! While you’re here, stop by the boutiques or catch a movie in the historic Byrd Theatre, all within walking distance. This restaurant is open for lunch and dinner or stop in for coffee and pastries from 7:00-11:00AM. Lunch and dinner reservations can be made on Open Table or by phone call. Please note, reservations are required for parties of 7 or more. Claire and Chase’s Picks: onion soup gratinée, cheese burger, steak frites, croque monsieur