Articles Tagged "Parks and Recreation"

There's nothing like warm weather and live music to bring people together. That's the ethos behind Richmond's annual Music in the Park concert series. Our real estate agents have attended several of these concerts, and we couldn't be more excited about this year's series! Keep reading to learn more about this exciting event and when you can stop by Forest Hill Park for a free live show. 

About the Concert Series

Music in the Park is an annual concert series hosted at Forest Hill Park. Its goal is to foster community togetherness and bring more attention to the area's local talent. 

On a Sunday evening each month from May to October, local musicians perform in a free two-hour concert in the park. Summer shows take place from 6 PM to 8 PM. Fall shows are held slightly earlier (4 PM to 6 PM) to ensure that they finish before the sun goes down. You can access the park from either of its two major entrances at New Kent Avenue at 42nd Street and Forest Hill Avenue at West 41st Street. Be sure to catch a show if you're in the area!

The 2022 Lineup

Each month of the Music in the Park series features a different local group. Here is the current schedule for 2022.

• The Boulevardiers – July 17th, 6 PM to 8 PM
  Love old Elvis tunes? You'll love The Boulevardiers. This group's fusion of rock n' roll and blues is very similar to the deep, sincere sounds that made The King so famous. At this event, they are scheduled to play a set of covers of some of the most soulful songs from the 60s and 70s. 
  
  
• Unity Sound Reggae Band – August 7, 6 PM to 8 PM
  Enjoy an evening of carefree Caribbean vibes with Unity Sound Reggae Band, Richmond's leading reggae group. With more than 15 years of shows under their belt, this batch of talented musicians has brought joy and peace to countless Virginia residents. Their August performance is sure to leave you and your neighbors in high spirits.
  
  
• Lighthouse Rodeo – September 11, 4 PM to 6 PM 
  Enjoy nearly all-original music from this RVA band. Known for music that incorporates country and singer/songwriter sounds, expect a fun evening when they take the stage in September.
  
  
• Afro-Zen – October 2, 4 PM to 6 PM
  Eclectic, soothing, and always unforgettable, Afro-Zen is unique among Richmond's musical acts. The group blends genres like world beat, jazz, and African sounds to create something entirely new. Stop by their October show to experience a distinctive style of music you won't hear anywhere else.

If any of these groups sound interesting to you, mark your calendar. Visitors are welcome to bring some blankets and folding chairs and set up next to your fellow Richmond residents. Take a cooler of cold drinks with you and spend an evening getting to know the people around you. You may just discover your new favorite band!

This concert series is just one of the many ways the city's residents make time to come together. Contact us today for more information on our available Richmond homes and put down roots in this close-knit community. 

So summer is almost here and you're already dreading the cries of, "There's nothing to do!" Our real estate agents have been there, and they recommend these wonderful summer programs near Richmond homes for sale to keep your kids engaged in productive and entertaining activities. 

• Steward School Summer Experience - The Steward School, 11600 Gayton Rd., Richmond, VA 23238
  With more than 80 programs for K-12 students, the Steward School Summer Experience offers something for everyone. Camp categories include Academics, Arts, Innovation, Sports, and Traditional. Choose from full-day, half-day, or single-session options, along with early drop-off and extended daycare for maximum flexibility. Share quality time with parents and kids workshops in activities such as painting, cooking, and yoga. Visit the website for full catalog, including schedule and pricing. 
  
  
• Twist Gymnastics - 2130 John Rolfe Pkwy., Richmond, VA 23233
  Whether your child dreams of the Olympics or just enjoys challenging themselves, Twist Gymnastics will help them accomplish their goals. Summer camps are available in half-day and full-day options, by the week or day. Full-day camps include afternoon sessions in Young Chef's Academy, with hands-on lessons in preparing healthy and delicious meals. Camps begin the week of June 20 - June 24, and discounted pricing is given for additional siblings. Learn more at the Twist Gymnastics website.
  
  
• SPARC - 2106 N. Hamilton St., Richmond, VA 23230
  Kids can develop their creative and performing chops at summer camps offered by SPARC. K-Grade 4 students have fun with themed sessions like, "Super Pets and Super Friends," while Grades 5-12 take part in film and performing arts classes, including the chance to stage a production of Spamalot, SPARC's summer musical for 2022. Camps run for one to two weeks. Visit the website for more information.
  
  
• RoboKai - Village Marketplace Shopping Center, 13114 Midlothian Tpke., Midlothian, VA 23113
  Robots have gone from a fixture of sci-fi films to real-life applications in healthcare, manufacturing, and industry. Half-day summer camps at RoboKai, not far from Midlothian homes for sale, let kids explore this fascinating field through games and teamwork. Many activities are live-streamed for parents to follow, and each camp concludes with a lively tournament. Classes are open to kids from ages 7-12 with any level of experience. Monday through Friday sessions from 8 a.m. - noon or 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. begin the week of July 11 - July 15. Price is $289 per week. 
  
  
• Hanover County Summer Youth Programs - Various Locations
  Offering a variety of summer camps for kids of all ages and interests, Hanover County Summer Youth Programs are put on by the Parks and Recreation Department. The huge selection of camps allows you to pick the right one for your family's summer schedule. With EPIC Summer Camps and Theme-based camps, your kid will learn and have fun while doing so. Plus, these camps aren't far from Hanover homes for sale. 

Richmond offers family fun all year long. Are you buying or selling a home in the area? Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties for experienced real estate help. 

What could be better than spending some time outdoors, enjoying a healthy, fun activity, and supporting great causes in the process? Spring and summer are the busiest times of year for 5K events around Richmond, with plenty of races to train for in the upcoming months. Our real estate agents have the details on six 5Ks that you can start training for in the Richmond area.

• ASK 5K – April 30, 2022 – 3001 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd., Richmond, VA 23230
  Kick off the 5K season with the ASK 5K, which is held every year at the Diamond near Richmond homes for sale. The 17th annual ASK 5K Run & Fun Walk is held to benefit children with childhood cancer and their families, with flexible fundraising goals to help you raise money for a good cause while you run.
  
  
• Holton Hustle 5K – May 14, 2022 – 1600 W. Laburnum Ave., Richmond, VA 23227
  A community event held to promote health, wellness, and physical activity, the Holton Hustle 5K will take you on a scenic trip through Richmond's historic Bellevue neighborhood. The event regularly attracts more than 500 participants and benefits the students at Holton Elementary School.
  
  
• Belle Isle Blitz – May 20, 2022 – 4021 Forest Hill Ave., Richmond, VA 23225
  Looking for something a little different from your next 5K? The Belle Isle Blitz is a 5K trail run which some challenging climbs and fun downhill sections to keep you on your toes. Enjoy a run through Forest Hill Park, and consider bringing your four-legged friend for the Dog Wave of the race. Participants will receive a specially designed t-shirt and a chip-timed bib so that you can easily track your time.
  
  
• Summer Solstice 5K – June 21, 2022 – 4021 Forest Hills Ave., Richmond, VA 23225
  Celebrate the start of summer with a 5K run or walk on the longest day of the year. Held every year as spring turns to summer, the Summer Solstice 5K also takes place at Forest Hill Park. However, there's no trail running element, and this is a more traditional 5K run on flat, paved trails. A week after the main 5K, there will be another 5K race at the same location for youth participants under 18 years of age.
  
  
• Speak Up 5K – September 10, 2022 – 1001 Blanton Ave., Richmond, VA 23221
  If you're training for a 5K a bit further in the future, consider circling the Speak Up 5K on your calendar. This event was started by the CKG Foundation to raise awareness of teen mental illness in a positive, empowering way. In addition to the usual 5K festivities, this race features unique "fun zones" where you might run past a dance party or get squirted with a water gun along the way.
  
  
• Give a Dog a Job 5K – October 1, 2022 – 1603 Ownby Ln., Richmond, VA 23220
  The 4th annual Give a Dog a Job 5K is the continuation of a popular event held every year by the Canine Companions organization. It raises money that goes toward raising highly trained service dogs for adults, children, and veterans who need them. Of course, you're encouraged to bring your own pup along to add some extra fun to your run!

Ready to buy or sell your next home in Richmond? Let our local real estate team help you accomplish your goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Richmond, VA, area.

Sports leagues offer a fun, social way to stay fit, enjoy all of your favorite games, and meet some new people in the process. Richmond homes for sale make it easy to join up with leagues for all of your favorite sports, at locations all around the city. Our real estate agents have the inside scoop on some of the local groups you can join when you move to the Richmond area.

Adult Soccer at the Sports Center of Richmond – 1385 Overbrook Rd., Richmond, VA 23220

If soccer is your favorite game, then you're sure to love one of the many adult soccer leagues held at the Sports Center of Richmond. Leagues here are all held in one convenient location and run all year long. There are men's, women's, and coed leagues available, with varying team sizes to accommodate your group.

Pick Your Game at River City Sports & Social Club

No matter how popular or how niche your favorite sport is, there's likely a league for it with the River City Sports & Social Club. These leagues are held at parks and athletic facilities all around the Richmond area.

• Basketball Leagues
  Whether you're looking for an intense season or a laid-back league, basketball leagues at River City Sports & Social Club are sure to have something for you. Join up for a men's, women's, or coed league, then stick around after the game for happy hour at the club.
  
  
• Men's and Women's Football
  Join up with a touch football league for a fun, accessible football experience that everyone can enjoy – no experience necessary. Football games are typically held at some of your favorite parks around Richmond.
  
  
• Bowling Leagues
  Bowling is the type of sport that looks easy, right up until you attempt to master it. Bowling leagues are a great way to embrace that challenge and have plenty of good times in the process. Many of these leagues are as big on the social aspect as they are on the results of the games.
  
  
• Everything from Axe Throwing to Wiffle Ball
  Interested in axe throwing? Or perhaps you're an expert at floorball, Wiffle ball, dodgeball, or even skeeball. There's a league for just about everything at the River City Sports & Social Club.

Sports Leagues with Hanover County Parks & Rec

The Hanover County Parks & Recreation Department also offers a wide variety of sports leagues for adults of all ages. Depending on the sport, you may be playing at a park, YMCA, school facility, or another destination near Hanover homes for sale.

• Men's, Women's, and Coed Softball
  What could be better than spending a pleasant spring day on the diamond, playing some softball with friends? Hanover County Parks & Rec offers great softball leagues held at Pole Green Park and Poor Farm Park.
  
  
• Pickleball and Tennis
  Pickleball is one sport that has surged in popularity in recent years, and you can play close to home in Richmond. Of course, there are also tennis leagues if you're in the mood for a different racket sport.
  
  
• Rugby, Soccer, Basketball, and More
  Hanover County Parks & Rec offers many of the sports that we have mentioned at the two other locations on our list, along with some extras like rugby and roller hockey.

Are you searching for a home that makes it easy to enjoy all of Richmond's fun sports leagues? Our local team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Richmond, VA area.

Once a month, Richmond's thriving arts community takes center stage in one of the city's most popular traditions. Our real estate agents love visiting Downtown Richmond for First Fridays from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. During these monthly events, make sure to stop by these wonderful galleries, shops, and restaurants that are right down the street from Richmond homes for sale.

• Big Secret - 120 W. Marshall St., Richmond, VA 23220
  Lasers may sound like the stuff of science fiction, but Big Secret uses them as a tool to create "future artifacts." The artists use the energy and precision of laser beams to turn wood, metal, glass, and fabric into toys, jewelry, home accessories, and other works of art. Even non-traditional materials such as shoes, leaves, and film stock can be a canvas for this creative form. Big Secret's studio is open by appointment and for special events such as First Fridays.
  
  
• Quirk Gallery - 207 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220
  Art is meant to be shared. In addition to exhibits of innovative work from top and emerging artists, Quirk Gallery has a boutique of curated items that make wonderful gifts. The Quirk also hosts pop-up shops, one-day-only shows, and workshops that let you unlock your own creative spirit. Hours are 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 4 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Lift Coffee Shop & Cafe - 218 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220
  The creatively designed and decorated drinks at Lift Coffee Shop & Cafe are works of art in their own right. All coffee drinks, such as Mayan Mocha and Banana Bread Latte, are made with fair-trade organic beans that are roasted locally. If you're looking for a light breakfast or lunch, Lift offers a nice selection of sandwiches, paninis, and salads. Relax with friends over a beer, wine, or cocktail. Lift is open 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
  
  
• Blue Bones - 310 N. Laurel St., Richmond, VA 23220
  Lauren Healy-Flora worked for iconic designer Anna Sui, while Jeremy Flora has had a lifelong passion for vintage. Together, their fashion instincts and knowledge have turned Blue Bones into Richmond's hippest vintage and consignment shop. When you visit, chances are that Lauren herself will be helping you pick out the perfect outfit, accessories, or home decor items. Blue Bones is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon - 6 p.m.
  
  
• Vagabond - 700 E. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23219
  Vagabond serves a menu of upscale Southern favorites in a stylishly casual ambiance. Customers give high marks to the shrimp po'boy, fried catfish, collard greens, and mac 'n' cheese. On weekends, head downstairs to the Rabbit Hole, a speakeasy-style bar with live entertainment. Vagabond is open for dinner and drinks Thursday through Sunday, as well as Sunday through Wednesday on show nights at the National.

Be a part of the creative energy in Richmond. Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties for cheerful and dedicated help from our experienced agents. 

Officially opened in 2015, the Virginia Capital Trail unites the state's past and present. Pedestrians and bikers can travel just over 51 miles between Jamestown, Virginia's first capital, and Richmond. 

Our real estate agents enjoy visiting these exciting attractions along the trail, just minutes from Richmond homes for sale.

• Belle Isle - 300 Tredegar St., Richmond, VA 23219
  How many cities can boast a scenic island right in the heart of downtown? Just cross the Tredegar St. pedestrian bridge to reach Belle Isle, a natural oasis in the James River. Activities include hiking, biking, rock climbing, and fishing. Water is too rough for swimming, but the large, flat rocks found around the island are perfect for sunbathing. Belle Isle is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
  
  
• The Valentine - 1015 E. Clay St., Richmond, VA 23219
  Take a walk through years of Richmond history with a visit to the Valentine. For more than a century, the Valentine has served as a repository for collections and exhibits that bring Richmond's past to life for a current audience. One of the highlights is the Costume & Textiles Collection, featuring more than 30,000 pieces of clothing and accessories spanning the late 18th century to the present day. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $10 for adults and free for kids under age 18.
  
  
• Canal Walk - 139 Virginia St., Richmond, VA 23219
  Stretching 1.25 miles along the James River, the Canal Walk serves as an outdoor museum. A fascinating series of medallions, statues and exhibits depict major events and themes throughout 400 years of Richmond's history. George Washington, an early supporter of canal transportation, was instrumental in the passage of legislation authorizing the Kanawha Canal. The Canal Walk is open 24/7 to walkers, bikers, and leashed pets.
  
  
• Deep Bottom Park & Four Mile Creek - 9525 Deep Bottom Rd., Henrico, VA 23231
  The Virginia Capital Trail isn't just for landlubbers. Deep Bottom Park & Four Mile Creek, not far from Henrico homes for sale, has two boat ramps and a canoe launch providing access to the James River. Try your luck fishing or just enjoy a leisurely day on the water. Be sure to bring Fido along, as leashed dogs are welcome. Park hours are sunrise to sunset daily.
  
  
• Great Shiplock Park - 2803 Dock St., Richmond, VA 23223
  Located at mile marker 51.2, Great Shiplock Park is the western trailhead for the Virginia Capital Trail. The park is one of the quieter, less-visited parts of the trail, making it a nice place to get away with a good book or simply take in the scenic views of downtown Richmond and the James River. Cross the footbridge to Chapel Island and fish for shad, white perch, and smallmouth bass. Great Shiplock Park is open every day from sunrise to sunset.
  
  
• National Battlefield Park - 470 Tredegar St., Richmond, VA 23219
  Take the whole family for a living history lesson at National Battlefield Park, which encompasses 13 war-related sites around the city. Follow the self-guided driving tour or walk the pet-friendly trails at Gaines' Mill, Totopotomoy Creek, Cold Harbor, and Malvern Hill. Battlefield areas are open daily from sunrise to sunset and there is no charge for admission.

Blaze your own real estate trail in Richmond. Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties to learn more.

Moving to a new place is never easy. In addition to the chore of dragging your stuff from one house to another, you also have to readjust to a new area and find a way to incorporate all of your old routines into unfamiliar surroundings. For instance, walking and playing with your dog. There are plenty of Richmond homes for sale, where you and your family can move, but where are the dog-friendly hiking trails near those homes? We've got you covered. Here are a few of our favorite spaces in nature where you and your dog can walk, hike, and play.

• James River North Bank and Buttermilk Loop Trail - 4190 Riverside Drive, Richmond, VA 23225.
  This 6.9-mile loop near Richmond is rated of moderate difficulty. It's great for hiking and biking and has beautiful views of the river. It's accessible year-round, but can get fairly busy, particularly on weekends. Not only are dogs welcome on this trail, but horses are, too.
  
  
• Texas Beach Trail - 1907 Texas Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220.
  Located near James River Park, this 4.8-mile hiking trail isn't in the Lone Star State, but right here in Virginia. A simple hike with mostly dirt trails, it will take between 1 and 3 hours, and runs over bridges and alongside train tracks. There are plenty of beautiful sites to see along the way, from muraled walls to old stone structures to flowing water, and more. It's a great place to take your dog and explore.
  
  
• Powhite Park - 7200 Jahnke Road, Richmond, VA 23225.
  Tucked away behind a series of busy streets and a hospital complex, Powhite Park is a great place to leave behind the bustling city and commune with nature for a while. It's 100 acres of woods and wetlands, great for watching wildlife, such as deer, birds, beavers, and more. You can walk your dog or ride your bike here, among the twisting trails, in peace and serenity.
  
  
• Dutch Gap - 341 Henricus Park Road, Chester, VA 23836.
  Richmond isn't the only area with dog-friendly hiking trails. If you go a little bit south, you'll find great Chesterfield homes for sale, and plenty of hiking for you and your dog in that area too. The Dutch Gap Conservation Area has several easy hiking trails, without much elevation, making it great for families, as well as for pets. There are 5.8 total miles of hiking trails, along with campgrounds, picnic areas, and spots for fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. You and your dog will love it here.
  
  
• Cheswick Park - 1700 Forest Avenue, Henrico, VA 23229.
  There are any number of beautiful Henrico homes for sale as well, and hiking trails in this area surrounding Richmond for both you and your dog. Cheswick Park is open daily from dawn to dusk and features about a mile of trails where you can walk your furry friend. It also has a playground and a picnic area that takes reservations for parties and other gatherings. This beautiful, wooded area is a great place for you and your pet to get away for a few hours.

These are just a few of the amazing trails and parks in the Richmond area where you and your dog can have fun together. Our real estate agents can help you find all the best hiking spots near you. Contact us today.

Ready to hit the water? Central Virginia offers some truly amazing paddling opportunities, and our real estate agents are excited to share their favorite summer kayak spots. 

Nestled along the mighty James River, Richmond, in particular, is a great place to explore by kayak (there's a reason they call it the River City). Here's where to launch your kayak, join a guided trip, or gear up for your next kayak adventure in Richmond, VA!

• RVA Paddlesports - 1320 School St, Richmond, VA 23220
  One of the top destinations for rafting and paddling on the James River in Richmond, RVA Paddlesports provides outdoor adventure for all ages and experience levels. That includes guided whitewater kayaking and flatwater kayaking trips on the James River, as well as an intro to kayaking classes with expert teachers and guides. You can learn the ropes if you've never set foot in a kayak or challenge yourself if you're more experienced. Located just minutes from these Richmond homes for sale, RVA Paddlesports also offers boat and gear rentals and repairs. 
  
  
• Richmond Waterfront - 415 Tredegar St, Richmond, VA 23219
  The revitalized Richmond Waterfront offers a lovely stretch of green space along the James River shoreline, with a spectacular view of the city skyline. It's a popular place to launch kayaks, do a little fishing, or simply relax along the riverside. The waterfront overlooks a section of river that is typically calm and easy to navigate by kayak, especially during the summer months, though there are some more challenging waters not too far downstream. Hourly kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available onsite. 
  
  
• Riverside Outfitters -6836 Old Westham Rd, Richmond, VA 23225
  No matter what type of adventure you have in mind—kayaking, rafting, tubing, cycling, rock climbing—the folks at Riverside Outfitters have you covered. They provide several different guided kayaking trips for large and small groups, including a whitewater trip from Pony Pasture to Reedy Creek (ages 12 and up) and a flatwater kayak trip in the Huguenot Flatwater (ages 10 and up). Of course, you can always go off on your own adventure, too, with kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, flatwater canoes, and tandem kayaks available for rent. 
  
  
• James River Park - 1200 Brander St, Richmond, VA 23224
  James River Park consists of numerous launch areas throughout the Richmond metro area, all of which provide some of the city's best opportunities for paddling, fishing, hiking, and biking. For kayakers, the Ancarrow's Landing site is one of the best places to launch, with a newly-renovated stretch of riverbank and a brand new, well-lit parking area. Other James River Park units, including Pony Pasture Rapids and Huguenot Flatwater, are also great places to start a paddling trip. With several sites up and down the river, James River Parks provide numerous options for put-in and take-out. 
  
  
• Tandem Adventures - Pump House Dr, Richmond, VA 23221
  Specializing in calm, flatwater kayak trips on the James River's tranquil canals and backwaters, Tandem Adventures is the perfect option if you're new to kayaking. And since tandem kayaks are their thing, it's also an excellent choice for couples looking for a relaxing, romantic paddling excursion. Whether you choose to paddle through the historic Kanawha Canal or meander along the James River shoreline beneath the Richmond skyline, a memorable experience is all but guaranteed.

Contact us today to learn more about all the adventures that await in Richmond and the surrounding areas! Our team can't wait to help you find your dream home in Central Virginia. 

Each year, June 15 is designated National Nature Photography Day by the North American Nature Photography Association. It's a great opportunity to grab your camera and head into the great outdoors. 

We don't need any excuse to gush about our favorite parks and green spaces in the Richmond area. Even so, National Nature Photography Day offers a unique opportunity for our real estate agents to highlight these great wild places in and around Richmond.

1. Belle Isle Park - James R. at US 1/301, Richmond, Virginia
   One of the numerous sites around the city that are managed as part of the James River Park System, Belle Isle is one of Richmond's most uniquely beautiful spots. The park encompasses a 54-acre island in the middle of the James River and offers splendid views of the river, several miles of wooded trails, and great opportunities for photography as well as kayaking and mountain biking. It's just across the bridge from many Richmond homes for sale.
   
   
2. James Bryan Park - 4308 Hermitage Rd, Richmond, VA 23227
   A great off-the-beaten-path park in Richmond's Northside, James Bryan Park offers 262 acres of rolling hills, wooded areas, open meadows, streams, and ponds. Photographers have a lot of great scenery to capture here. But the greatest attraction is Bryan Park's azalea garden. The garden contains more than 450,000 azalea plants, which bloom most years in mid-April. 
   
   
3. Libby Hill Park - 2801 E Franklin St, Richmond, VA 23223
   Perched atop a hill offering an expansive view of the Richmond Skyline, Libby Hill Park is a relatively small green space at just 7 acres, but it packs in a lot of great scenery. This hilltop park includes meandering cobblestone paths, towering mature trees, and grassy lawns. It's also one of Richmond's oldest parks, dating all the way back to 1851.
   
   
4. The Wetlands - 3395 Landria Dr, Richmond, VA 23225
   Part of the James River Park System, The Wetlands are a haven for wildlife photographers and anyone looking for an opportunity to reconnect with nature. It's a wooded, swampy parcel of land with elevated hiking trails (one follows the berm of an old railroad line) that traverse one of the city's wildest habitats. Wildlife watching blinds are located along some of the trails, and white-tailed deer are a common sight.
   
   
5. Maymont - 1700 Hampton St, Richmond, VA 23220
   A historic 100-acre estate turned public park, Maymont is one of the most beautiful and unique parks in Richmond. In addition to the stunning Maymont Mansion—sure to delight any photographer with an eye for architecture—the park includes an arboretum, formal gardens, and a nature center with native wildlife exhibits. There's a good reason why Maymont Park is one of the most popular spots in Richmond for bird watching and nature photography. 

Contact us today. If you have a love for the outdoors, it's a great place to call home, and our team can't wait to help you find your dream home in Richmond!

For centuries, butterflies have captured human imagination, serving as inspiration for art, poetry, and song. Explore the fascinating story of these stunning insects during National Learn about Butterflies Day on Sunday, March 14. Join our real estate agents by planning a visit to one of these wonderful gardens around Richmond.

1. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden - 1800 Lakeside Ave., Richmond, VA 23228
   With more than a dozen themed gardens across 82 acres, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden offers plentiful opportunities to spot butterflies in their natural habitat. In 1926, Grace Arents bequeathed her beautiful farm, along with the sum of $100,000, to Richmond. She asked that her gift be used to establish a garden honoring the memory of her uncle, local businessman and philanthropist Lewis Ginter. Today, Grace's dream has landed on several lists naming the top ten botanical gardens in North America. Tickets, which must be purchased in advance, are $14 for adults and $8 for kids up to age 12. The garden is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
   
   
2. Maymont - 1000 Westover Rd., Richmond, VA 23220
   Butterflies are just one of many reasons to visit Maymont, a picturesque estate on the banks of the James River. The one-time home of James and Sallie Dooley is now the site of an arboretum and several specialty gardens, including a wetland, grotto, and ornamental lawn. Marie's Butterfly Trail opened in 2009, features signage with helpful information about the life cycle of butterflies and why they're attracted to specific plants. While the grounds are open to the public with free admission, a $5 donation is suggested. Hours are 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily between April and September. Closing time is 5 p.m. during the offseason.
   
   
3. Bellemeade Park - 1800 Krouse St., Richmond, VA 23224
   Bellemeade Park is a labor of love for a dedicated group of volunteers working to develop and maintain the beautiful six-acre public facility. Their goal is to promote the park as a valuable environmental asset benefiting the community around Richmond homes for sale. Butterflies, turtles, hawks, and owls are just a few of the park "residents" that may be spotted during a walk along trails that pass through forests and gardens. The park is open to the public free of charge.
   
   
4. Bryan Park - 4308 Hermitage Rd., Richmond, VA 23227
   Butterflies add a colorful touch of the present to Richmond's past at Bryan Park, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. Named for the founder of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, the property on which the park resides was donated to the city in 1910 by Joseph Bryan's widow. See a wide variety of butterflies at the popular 17-acre Azalea Gardens and the pollinator garden in the Nature Preserve. Park hours are sunrise to dusk, seven days a week.
   
   
5. James River Park - 4001 Riverside Dr., Richmond, VA 23225
   Enjoy a refreshing getaway without leaving the city with a visit to James River Park. This spectacular location in the heart of Richmond draws nearly two million visitors each year. Don't miss Williams Island, a densely vegetated area that is home to butterflies along with other insects, birds, and wildlife. James River Park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. 

Whether you're a social butterfly or cocooning is more your thing, we can help you find a home in Richmond that suits your lifestyle. Contact us at Joyner Fine Properties to learn more.