Richmond VA is home to a vibrant cultural scene featuring art galleries, co-working spaces and social clubs, and theaters. It’s also a beer and food mecca where you can get great coffee, barbershops, breweries and more. In the Arts District, along Broad Street and surrounding neighborhoods, you’ll find the best in local creativity and community.
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is a world-class art museum in downtown Richmond. Its acclaimed collections include American, British Sporting and Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. VMFA is one of the most comprehensive art museums in Richmond VA in the United States and is free for everyone to visit.
Founded in 1999, Page Bond Gallery is one of the most contemporary art galleries in Richmond. The gallery’s mission is to showcase a diverse range of contemporary artists and their varied media. Its artists have national and international reputations and status. The gallery’s 3600-square foot space features a variety of mediums including paintings, sculpture and ceramics.
The city’s many colleges and universities offer a wide range of education options. Major institutions include the University of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University and South University-Richmond. In addition, there are several community colleges, including J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College and Brightpoint Community College (Chesterfield). Several vocational colleges are also located in the area, such as ITT Technical Institute and ECPI College of Technology.
Richmond’s dining scene is growing, and it has something to offer for every taste. From well-established favorites to up-and-coming newcomers, the city has a plethora of restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for French, Asian or Italian cuisine, there’s sure to be a restaurant that fits your palate.
If you’re looking for something different, check out the new fusion taco joint Soul Taco in Jackson Ward or Shockoe Slip. The vegetarian-favorite sweet potato taco is a local favorite, but the cornmeal-crusted catfish is what really has diners talking. You can eat-in or takeout at this colorful establishment, which has two locations in the area and is always busy.
Another place to eat in Richmond is the Sub Rosa Bakery. The James Beard Award semi-finalist bakery offers delicious bread and pastries. Its croissants and pastries made with fig, Appalachian cheese, and chocolate are the perfect way to start your day in Richmond.
While you’re shopping in Richmond, make a stop at the Regency Square mall to stock up on your wardrobe needs. The mall has a great selection of stores like Foot Locker, Phoenix Boutique and Tee Zone (which sells custom-made tees, pullover hoodies and sweatshirts). It also houses a Regal Cinema and Gold’s Gym.
Richmond has a low crime rate and is safer than 8% of the US cities. The city has a high percentage of young residents and is considered a family-friendly place to live, work and play. There are plenty of parks, playgrounds and walking trails to enjoy. The city is also known for its rich history and is home to several historic buildings that have been restored to their original splendor.