Richmond is such a big city, it’s sometimes overwhelming to know where to go on a date. But don’t worry – I’ve compiled a list of 12 date locations you have to check out before you graduate. Whether you’re just now checking out these places, or revisiting a popular location, in Richmond there’s something new to discover every time.
Sophomore Rachel Balow recommends the Pipeline Rapids walkway in downtown for a summer date—or even a warm, sunny day. The pipeline stretches along the James River, narrowly framed by metal railing. This is a perfect walk for an outdoors-y couple. Parts of the walkway will force you into single file, and passing others coming from the opposite direction can take some maneuvering. However, it’s worth it because the pipeline is often less crowded and a little quieter than attractions like the Canal Walk. Don’t forget your camera to snap wildlife shots.
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is another natural attraction nestled in the hustle and bustle of the city. The garden charges admission, unlike other outdoor hotspots in Richmond, but this is money well spent. The many elegantly styled gardens are meticulously maintained. A date to Lewis Ginter could easily eat up an entire afternoon.
Maymont sprawls across 100 acres of history. Whether your interest is in the heritage of the estate, the collection of animals on-site or the themed gardens, you might want to take it in over the course of a few weekends. Admission is free, except for the Nature Center exhibits and some programs and tours. Bring a light picnic to enjoy in the garden – or get fancy and set up a carriage ride to impress your date.
You can’t go to school in Richmond and not check out the VMFA. That’s a little like going to the Ben & Jerry’s factory and not eating any ice cream. As long as you have to check it out just to say you did, why not bring your partner? Whether you spend your time absolutely enthralled by the collection, or doing your best imitations of snooty art critics, wandering around the inside of the museum is a calm, quiet way to overcome a rainy day – followed by warm, gooey pizza from Chanello’s.
Most people would raise an eyebrow about a date to a cemetery. But most people don’t have Hollywood Cemetery right up the street. This is an outing for history-lovers – two U.S. Presidents (James Monroe and John Tyler) as well as the only Confederate President (Jefferson Davis) are buried here. The cemetery overlooks the James River, and has an eerie charm.
This is one movie theatre you have to see to believe. The venue is almost more enchanting than any movie you could see there – not to mention the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, played by Bob Gulledge every Saturday night before the two evening shows. And, one more perk, tickets are only $2. That way, you can either go out for cheap, or use the money you save to splurge on dessert after the show.
Carytown is one of those adorable strips of small shops, boutiques and restaurants. It’s a perfect adventure for a breezy, sunny day. Whether you’re looking to relive your childhood at World of Mirth or die from chocolate decadence in For the Love of Chocolate, you can spend the day meandering between these lovely little stores and still miss some. Not to mention the huge number of dinner options available to end your evening.
As any literary buff can tell you, Edgar Allen Poe considered Richmond his home. A trip to the Poe Museum is a little like a history lesson – but a history lesson with fire, alcohol, death and illness. Take your date here for an edgy, spooky evening.
A popular concert venue right down the street from campus, the National attracts stars like Halestorm and Flogging Molly. Tickets are reasonable, the sound is great and the walk (or bus ride) is short. While there are plenty of places to catch a house show and small-scale cafes that host bands, hit the National when your favorite mainstream band (or your date’s favorite) is playing, and head downtown for restaurants like the Penny Lane Pub or La Grotta.
Probably one of the easiest and simplest dates to pull off, there’s nothing wrong with heading to Belle Isle. The spit of land in the middle of the James River is reached by a suspended footbridge, dangling over the rush of the water. A well-maintained path circles the island. You can swim, bike, hike, climb, picnic – really, fulfill many of your outdoor fantasies. Bring a swimsuit in summer or bundle up in winter, and Belle Isle still has the beautiful appeal of a green, leafy haven in the River City. It sounds counterintuitive, but I recommend bringing fruit salad and a thermos of hot tea, and walking the island on a cloudy (even rainy) day. Watch the river race in the sunset, then grab dinner and warm up at somewhere like the Urban Farmhouse Market & Café in Shockoe Slip.