Celebrating Five Years in Richmond, VA: Your Ultimate Insider’s Guide to RVA’s Best

Today marks a truly special milestone for us: our 5th anniversary of making Richmond, Virginia our beloved home. It feels like just yesterday when Sherry and I embarked on this incredible journey, trading the bustling energy of New York City for the charming embrace of the River City.

Rewind to this very day in 2006. We awoke on an air mattress in our Upper West Side apartment – Sherry having already meticulously packed and moved out of her Soho studio. My dad, our unwitting moving hero, arrived in a mini-van, ready to transport us and all our worldly possessions (hence the air mattress, as our conventional mattresses had already been sold) to a new chapter. Seven hours, one strategic stop at IKEA, and a mix of anticipation and excitement later, we pulled up to our new apartment in Richmond. Unemployed, unwed, but undeniably thrilled about the future unfolding before us, we were ready to embrace everything this vibrant city had to offer.

While our personal journey to RVA is a story for another time (you can delve deeper into our relationship timeline here), today, we want to shine the spotlight on Richmond itself. Over these past five years, we’ve had countless friends, family, and even blog readers ask for our top recommendations on what to see, where to shop, and, most importantly, what to eat when visiting Richmond. So, to commemorate our half-decade in this fantastic city, we’ve curated five definitive “Top 5” lists, highlighting some of our absolute favorite experiences and destinations across RVA. Are you sensing a “five” theme here? Let’s dive into our ultimate guide:

• 5 Favorite Places to Chow Down in Richmond
• 5 Favorite Tourist-y Things To Do in Richmond
• 5 Favorite Ways to Enjoy a Gorgeous Day in RVA
• 5 Favorite Places to Score Home Deals in Richmond
• 5 Favorite Swanky & Inspiring Home Stores in RVA

5 Favorite Places to Chow Down in Richmond, VA

While we might not claim the title of “foodies” in the strictest sense, Sherry and I certainly appreciate a fantastic meal, especially for those special occasions or when we simply need a delicious escape. Richmond’s culinary scene is surprisingly diverse and always evolving, offering everything from cozy neighborhood gems to upscale dining experiences. After five years of delightful exploration, here are a handful of quintessential Richmond restaurants where we consistently love to dine and create lasting memories:

1. Kuba Kuba: Nestled in the heart of The Fan, Kuba Kuba offers a vibrant, casual, and incredibly colorful atmosphere that perfectly complements its authentic Cuban cuisine. To truly sound like a local, remember to pronounce it “Coo-ba Coo-ba” rather than “Kyoo-bah Kyoo-bah.” Their Cuban sandwiches are legendary, the Ropa Vieja is a must-try, and the energetic ambiance always makes for a memorable meal. Explore their menu and plan your visit on the Kuba Kuba website.
2. Bottom’s Up Pizza: For a classic Richmond pizza experience, Bottom’s Up in historic Shockoe Bottom is an absolute go-to. We even brought our friends, the Bowers, here during their visit last year, and it was a hit! Beyond the delicious pizzas with their famously thick crusts and generous toppings, take a moment to notice the unique 6-foot-high water marks from Hurricane Gaston’s flood in 2004, a testament to the area’s history. Find out more about their offerings on the Bottom’s Up website.
3. The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing: This newer riverfront restaurant holds a special place in our hearts – it’s where we celebrated the exciting news of Sherry’s pregnancy! While the food is consistently excellent, featuring fresh seafood and modern American cuisine, the undisputed highlight is the breathtaking panoramic views of the James River and the expansive Richmond city skyline. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a celebratory gathering, as evidenced by our recent visit with Sherry’s mom and stepdad. Discover their menu and stunning views on The Boathouse website.
4. Crab Louie’s Tavern: Though technically located in Midlothian, just a short drive from central Richmond, Crab Louie’s Tavern offers a charming escape. This seafood restaurant is housed within a historic building that predates the USA itself, providing a unique dining backdrop. We particularly adore the incredible variety of fresh bread options served before your meal arrives – a carb-lover’s dream! Their fresh seafood dishes are a local favorite, making it well worth the short trip. Learn more about their historic location and menu on Crab Louie’s website.
5. Sticky Rice: Our love for sushi runs deep (you can read about our sushi tradition here), and Sticky Rice offers a wonderfully fun and somewhat American hipster twist on this Japanese classic. It’s a lively spot in The Fan, known for its creative rolls, delicious bowls, and eclectic vibe. Plus, where else can you confidently order “Sticky Balls” without getting a strange look? It’s a quirky and enjoyable dining experience every time. Check out their unique menu on the Sticky Rice website.

5 Favorite Tourist-y Things To Do in Richmond, VA

Richmond might not boast a Statue of Liberty or an Eiffel Tower, but our city is rich with history, culture, and unique landmarks that offer a truly authentic and memorable experience. From world-class museums to historic cemeteries that are surprisingly beautiful, these Richmond “landmarks” should absolutely be on your itinerary when you’re in town. They offer a fantastic blend of education, relaxation, and local flavor, showcasing the distinct character of RVA.

1. Browse the VMFA (Virginia Museum of Fine Arts): Recently undergoing a magnificent renovation, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is an absolute treasure. Both the architectural grandeur of the building itself and the diverse art collections housed within are pure eye candy. With the exception of special, limited-time exhibits (which have previously featured giants like Picasso), general admission to this incredible institution is entirely free. Spend hours wandering through ancient art, modern masterpieces, and captivating temporary installations. Plan your free visit at the VMFA website.
2. See a movie at The Byrd Theatre: Step back in time with a visit to The Byrd Theatre, a truly gorgeous movie palace originally built in 1928. This historic gem continues to show second-run movies for an incredibly affordable price, usually just $2. It’s a delightful experience to grab some popcorn, settle into the charmingly old-school seats, and enjoy the magic of cinema in a setting that exudes classic elegance. The ornate architecture and grand atmosphere make it more than just a movie – it’s an event. Check showtimes and learn more at the Byrd Theatre website.
3. Stroll around Hollywood Cemetery: While visiting a cemetery might sound unconventional for a tourist activity, Hollywood Cemetery offers a uniquely beautiful and serene experience, perfect for an afternoon walk. Perched atop a hill overlooking the James River, it provides stunning views and is home to the graves of famous figures, including two U.S. Presidents. The serene beauty, especially in the fall with its vibrant foliage (as pictured below), completely negates any potential “creepy” factor, making it a peaceful and historically rich destination. Find visitor information on the Hollywood Cemetery website.
4. Shop Carytown: Known as Richmond’s iconic and colorful mile-long shopping district, Carytown is a vibrant stretch of Cary Street lined with an eclectic mix of local boutiques, independent shops, and diverse restaurants. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts, discover local fashion, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll. You’ll even find opportunities to check off a few other items on these very lists while exploring Carytown’s charming streetscape. Discover all the shops and eateries at the Carytown website.
5. Walk (or run!) to and around “The Fan”: Richmond’s historic Fan District is characterized by its stunning tree-lined streets and beautifully preserved historic row homes, offering endless architectural inspiration. It’s an ideal neighborhood for a leisurely walk or an invigorating run on a pleasant day, allowing you to soak in the charm and history. If you have time, consider stopping into one of the many delightful neighborhood restaurants or relaxing in a pocket park. It’s a true slice of Richmond’s architectural heritage. Learn more about this picturesque district on The Fan district association website.

5 Favorite Ways to Enjoy a Gorgeous Day in RVA

Richmond truly comes alive and shines brightest when the weather is beautiful, transforming into an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Our city is blessed with incredible green spaces, river access, and meticulously maintained gardens, offering countless opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy the sunshine. Here are some of our absolute favorite places to soak up a beautiful day in Richmond, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a scenic stroll:

1. Pony Pasture: Don’t let the name fool you – this “horse-y” sounding spot is actually a fantastic section of the James River Park System, perfect for outdoor lovers. It boasts wonderful nature trails ideal for walking or light hiking, gentle currents inviting for a refreshing swim on a hot day, and expansive exposed rocks perfect for sunbathing. We often describe Richmond as a “beach town” without the actual beach, where locals gather at the river instead. It’s a vibrant hub for outdoor activity and relaxation. (Check out our dog, Burger, enjoying a hot rock and a long stick in the picture below!) For directions and more information, search for “Pony Pasture James River Park System.”
2. Maymont: Maymont is consistently one of our top recommendations for visitors, and for good reason. This sprawling 100-acre Victorian estate and park offers an incredible array of attractions, all wrapped in natural beauty. You’ll find tons of paved paths for easy strolling, breathtaking themed gardens, a delightful petting farm, historic buildings, a fascinating nature center, and even a “zoo” of sorts (featuring native Virginia wildlife like bears, foxes, buffaloes, and majestic bald eagles). Best of all, most of Maymont’s attractions, including the zoo and petting farm, are completely free to enjoy. Explore their diverse offerings on the Maymont website.
3. Belle Isle: Similar to Pony Pasture but with a more distinct island feel and closer proximity to downtown, Belle Isle is another gem for outdoor enjoyment. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature while simultaneously enjoying stunning views of the city skyline – a truly unique juxtaposition. The island also features fantastic trails perfect for walking, running, or exhilarating mountain biking. Belle Isle is where Sherry and I truly fell in love with Richmond when we first moved here five years ago, solidifying its place as a cherished spot. Learn more about this urban oasis on Belle Isle’s Wikipedia page.
4. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden: For those who appreciate nature in a more meticulously curated and breathtaking setting, the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is an absolute must-visit. While there is an admission price, the sheer beauty, diverse plant collections, and stunning landscapes make it undeniably worth every penny. It’s not just a feast for the eyes but also a fantastic source of landscaping and gardening ideas you can bring back home. We took Sherry’s mom and stepdad here on their first visit, and it proved to be a wonderful way to spend a day outdoors, strolling through scenic settings and enjoying horticultural artistry. Plan your visit at the Lewis Ginter website.
5. Stony Point Fashion Park or Short Pump Town Center: For a more traditional “mall” experience but with an inviting outdoor twist, head to Stony Point Fashion Park or Short Pump Town Center. These open-air shopping destinations allow you to indulge in retail therapy at stores like Anthropologie or Crate & Barrel while still enjoying the fresh air and sunshine as you stroll along charming cobblestone paths. Stony Point even boasts the unique perk of being dog-friendly (our dog, Burger, has happily explored nearly every shop from Sur La Table to Banana Republic!). Find store directories and event information at Stony Point’s website & Short Pump’s website.

5 Favorite Places to Score Home Deals in Richmond, VA

As DIY enthusiasts and home renovators, we simply couldn’t thrive in Richmond without knowing where to find fantastic deals for our house. The thrill of the hunt for unique, affordable pieces that add character and charm to our home is a constant motivator. Beyond the familiar national chain stores (yes, we love our “Tar-jay” too!), Richmond is brimming with incredible local haunts where we’ve consistently discovered awesome treasures. Here are some of our top picks for scoring budget-friendly home deals in RVA:

1. Diversity Thrift: Over our five years in Richmond, Diversity Thrift has been a goldmine for us, yielding countless great finds. This expansive thrift store offers everything from furniture to quirky decor, and it’s where we unearthed the perfect base for our pedestal table in the sunroom and our stylish glass coffee table that once graced our old living room. It’s a true community treasure with an ever-changing inventory. You can read more about why we love it in this dedicated post.
2. Love of Jesus Thrift: This is another one of our absolute go-to thrifting spots, especially when we’re on the serious hunt for furniture. The selection here can be quite remarkable. In fact, my sister scored an amazing console table here a couple of years ago that we still admire. It’s a fantastic place to find unique pieces with character that can be transformed with a little love and creativity. Discover more about our finds in an old post about this thrift store.
3. Lakeside Avenue Thrift Stores: A more recent but equally exciting discovery for us has been the cluster of thrift and consignment stores lining Lakeside Avenue. Shops like Consignment Connection and Pass It On offer a delightful variety of pre-loved items, perfect for adding vintage charm to any home. It was along this very avenue that we recently scored our beloved wooden goose, a testament to the unexpected treasures waiting to be found.
4. The Decorating Outlet: For those looking for discounted home goods from a reputable brand, The Decorating Outlet is a must-visit. This store serves as the outlet for items from local sponsor Shades of Light, meaning you can find high-quality lighting, rugs, and decor at significantly reduced prices. It’s where we’ve consistently gone to buy beautiful items like the rug and the stunning capiz light fixture in Clara’s room, all on the cheap. It’s a fantastic resource for stylish pieces without the premium price tag. Visit the Decorating Outlet website for current offerings.
5. U-fab: When it comes to textiles and patterns, U-fab is always at the top of our list. This discount fabric store offers an incredible selection that often surpasses the style and uniqueness found at larger chain stores, yet their prices remain far more accessible than those of fancy designer places. Whether you’re reupholstering furniture, making custom curtains, or embarking on a crafting project, U-fab provides endless inspiration and quality materials for any home textile need. Explore their vast inventory on the U-fab website.

5 Favorite Swanky & Inspiring Home Stores in RVA

On the glorious opposite end of the spectrum from thrifting and discount hunting, Richmond also boasts some of the most gorgeous and incredibly inspiring home stores you’ll ever encounter. These establishments are veritable showcases of impeccable design, luxurious furnishings, and exquisite decor, offering a feast for the eyes and endless inspiration for your own living spaces. Even if your wallet isn’t quite ready for a major purchase, a visit to these stores is a sensory experience in itself. Be sure to bring a tissue – you might just need to wipe the drool from your chin!

1. Williams & Sherrill: This captivating store is a delightful hybrid – half high-end housewares, half designer fabric emporium. Williams & Sherrill consistently delivers more inspiration than we can typically handle in a single visit (just see our photo below for a glimpse!). Every corner is adorned with stunning vignettes, luxurious textiles, and timeless pieces that speak to sophisticated taste. Someday, we aspire to be fancy enough to actually make a purchase here! Until then, it remains a fantastic source of design ideas. Learn more about their exquisite collections on the Williams & Sherrill website.
2. Ruth & Ollie: Located in the charming Carytown district, Ruth & Ollie offers a slightly smaller but more contemporary take on home furnishings compared to Williams & Sherrill. We are particularly enamored with their exquisite selection of furniture and captivating art pieces that abound throughout the store. It’s a perfect spot to find modern, chic, and distinctive items that add a touch of elegance to any room. We’ve certainly gathered a few fantastic ideas from them over the years, as highlighted in this post. Discover their curated collection on the Ruth & Ollie website.
3. LaDifférence (LaDiff): Situated in the bustling Shockoe Bottom neighborhood, LaDiff is an absolutely massive store brimming with contemporary furniture, unique accessories, innovative lighting, and basically everything else you could imagine for modern living. It’s a true design destination, known for its bold pieces and cutting-edge aesthetics. You might even remember them from this oft-referenced wallflowers giveaway post. LaDiff is the place to go if you’re seeking statement pieces that blend functionality with artistic design. Explore their extensive catalog on the LaDiff website.
4. Shades of Light: Yes, they are a proud sponsor of our site, but we would wholeheartedly include Shades of Light on this list of essential Richmond home stores even without that connection. We’ve been obsessed with their incredible selection of gorgeous lighting fixtures since well before their sponsorship began! Their showroom is a dazzling display of every imaginable style, from classic chandeliers to modern pendants, and their expertise in illuminating a space is unmatched. When it comes to exceptional lighting, Shades of Light is our undisputed go-to. Brighten your home by visiting the Shades of Light website.
5. Caravati’s: Unlike the other polished establishments on this list, Caravati’s offers a completely different, yet equally inspiring, experience. This is Richmond’s premier architectural salvage warehouse, a treasure trove overflowing with once-loved items, reclaimed materials, and vintage architectural elements. You won’t find anything new or pristine here; instead, it’s loaded with unique pieces perfect for any remodel, restoration project, or craft endeavor seeking a historic and authentic twist. It’s a place where history finds a new home and creativity flourishes. See some more finds from this fascinating spot in an old post.

So there you have it – our comprehensive guide featuring five distinct “Top 5” lists, meticulously crafted to celebrate our wonderful 5th anniversary of moving to Richmond, VA. While five years has given us a deep appreciation for this city, we certainly don’t claim to be the ultimate Richmond experts. Our journey of discovery is ongoing, and we know there are countless other gems to uncover!

Therefore, we warmly invite everyone else who calls Richmond home (or has had the pleasure of visiting RVA) to chime in! Please share your personal favorites in these categories, or even introduce us to entirely new ones, in the comments below. We’re always eager to expand our list of beloved local spots. And while we’re encouraging sharing, those of you from other fantastic cities are more than welcome to comment with a “Top 5” list for your hometown too. Who knows, we might just end up visiting someday and needing your insider recommendations!

Boathouse photo by Beth Furgurson found via Richmond Magazine.com. All other images were personally captured by us.

Psst – We’ve just announced this week’s giveaway winners! Click here to see if you’re one of the lucky recipients.