Richmond!  My favorite city in the Commonwealth.  I spend a considerable amount of time here for work, so I know the hotels and food scene pretty well by now.  Since I have so many places to tell you about, I will break it into 2 posts. I’ll start with the logistics- where you should stay!

WHERE TO STAY:

Airbnb:  Budget-friendly options, try staying in The Fan neighborhood.

The Graduate:  Budget-friendly hotel with a collegiate theme, pretty rooftop pool and bar, on-site restaurant and gym, plus it is within walking distance to good food.

Quirk Hotel:  Mid-range priced with rooftop bar, coffee shop, and restaurant.  There is a small gym on-site, and a YMCA around the corner.  Pink everything!  Cat artwork!  Cathedral ceilings in all the rooms!  On my first visit, I got upgraded to a suite that wasn’t booked.  Sadly, that hasn’t happened again.  Either way, it is still my favorite.  The cutest hotel ever.  They also allow dogs up to 70lbs.

Hampton Inn Downtown:  Mid-range priced with rooftop bar Kabana and on-site restaurant Belle.  It is relatively new and boasts a rooftop pool and gym for a scenic workout.  Free breakfast!

The Jefferson Hotel:   If you are feeling fancy, stay here!  I have only been to the restaurant for work, but it has the most beautiful lobby.

WHAT TO DO:

Disclaimer: I rarely have time for fun while in Richmond, so these are based on my limited personal experiences, and input from the locals I have worked with over the years (and love so much!).

Scott’s Addition:  Richmond’s fastest growing neighborhood.  Explore the breweries, restaurants, bowling alley, etc.

Monument Ave: Check out all the historic statues lining the center of Monument Avenue.

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts:  General admission is free!  I have been meaning to sneak some time in there during my work trips, but haven’t made it yet.

Richmond Street Art:  Wander the streets and find hidden murals throughout the city.

Edgar Allen Poe Museum:  Didn’t know this existed until now, but I must go to meet the museum’s black cats.  Sounds like a perfect Halloween-time activity.

James River:  Hike, bike, run, kayak, paddleboard, swim, tube, rock climb, picnic, fish.  Basically, all the outdoorsy things in one area.  Check out Belle Isle while you are there.

TRANSPORTATION:

Washingtonians can breathe easy driving around Richmond.  I have never encountered problematic traffic, and really appreciate all the free parking.  Of course, you have Uber/Lyft, bikeshare, and walking as options, too.

Stay tuned for part 2, all the food and drink!