Saturday in the Neighborhood: Richmond

Known as the “River City,” Richmond is a vivid blend of colonial history and contemporary charm. Architecture here ranges from Greek revival to Italian Renaissance, all the way back to Colonial and Victorian style. Richmond was the site of Patrick Henry’s famous speech “Give me liberty, or give me death” that help set Virginia and the rest of the colonies on a course towards revolution and independence.

In the last 15 years, Richmond has evolved into a magnet for the arts, live music, and delicious cuisine that is as diverse as the city’s architecture. Throughout every evolution, the scenic James River, likened to the River Thames, has been a constant for residents and visitors alike to enjoy.

Seasons

Richmond is the place to experience the changing seasons. In the fall, enjoy watching as the leaves turn from deep shades of forest green to reds, yellows, and browns. Come springtime, see the state tree of Virginia, the Dogwood, come into bloom along with magnolias and other New England flowers.

Festivities

The city is home to a variety of festivals celebrating music, art, culture and cuisine. Feel the rhythm and blues at the Richmond Jazz Festival in August. Then, later in the year, have a pint (or two) at Oktoberfest, which celebrates 50 years of German culture, food, and, most importantly, beer in 2018.

Tastes

With new restaurants opening every year, Richmond is quickly being recognized as a “foodie” city. There’s a cuisine to satisfy any craving. Indulge in the tastes of the Mediterranean at Stella’s in Malvern Gardens, or take a bite of the croquet-monsieur at Can Can Brasserie (and feel like you’re being transported to a café in Paris). Looking for a little comfort? Feel right at home at Julep’s with their sausage biscuits and gravy.

Arts

After a huge renovation 10 years ago, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts sparked its renaissance and is now home to a diverse collection of Native American, European and Asian exhibits. The museum also has several restaurants and a large outdoor space which hosts fun events afterhours like happy hours that include free gallery tours.

Rest

Located down the street from the Museum of Fine Arts, the Quirk Hotel is set in a department store dating back to the early years of the 20th Century. Accommodations here range from rooms to two-level suites with a minimalistic and modern style. Designed in the Beaux-Arts style, the Jefferson Hotel offers guests an old-world luxurious experience. Rooms here feature marble bathrooms and soaking tubs.