Spring has sprung and it’s that time of year again! With gorgeous, warm, sunny days, now is the time to get excited for summer and start soaking up as many rays as possible! If you’re a collegiette with goals for summer consisting of tanning, shopping, and getting that swimsuit body in time to hit the beach following finals, Her Campus VCU has composed a list of the best places to satisfy all of your Spring needs!
Best Outdoors Spot to Work on Your Tan/Work Out:
Belle Isle– Hands down the best spot in Richmond to work on your tan! Belle Isle is an island on the James River full of rocks and beaches that you can spread your towel out while reading the latest Cosmo or chatting with your friends (it’s also an excellent spot to guy watch). Since this island is full of trails, it is also a great spot to walk, run, and ride your bike so you can get in shape without being stuck on a treadmill or elliptical at the gym.
2. Best Spot to Shop:
Short Pump– This outdoor mall is full of all the stores you know and love: Macy’s, Nordstrom, Delias, Victoria Secret, American Eagle, Hollister, H & M, and many more. Since Short Pump is an outdoors mall, you can search for the perfect summer staples for your wardrobe, and enjoy the warm sunshine!
For those of you with a more expensive taste, there is also Stony Point. This outdoor mall has stores such as Saks, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Anthropologie, Coach, and more.
3. Best Spot to get a Smoothie:
Tropical Smoothie– With nearly every flavor combination for a smoothie you can think of, why go anywhere else? They have smoothies for those watching their weight, need a quick energy boost, or simply want to indulge (my current favorite is the Pomegranate Plunge!).
Interesting in trying something a little different from your average smoothie? Then our campus’s bubble tea shop, T.T. Lounge, is your spot! If you’re unaware of the greatnest known as bubble tea, it is similar to a smoothie, but it has tapioca pearls at the bottom that adds for a fun, unique texture to your drink.
5. Best Spot to get Fresh Produce:
17th Street Farmer’s Market- If you are into eating healthy, locally grown foods, or just want to experience something different, head on down to this farmer’s market where you can buy fruits and vegetables from local farmers. For you health nuts out there, there is also Ellwood Thompson and Whole Foods.
6. Best Spot to Let Loose:
The Hat Factory– One of the most popular 18+ clubs in the Richmond area, every night there is something going on whether that be Country Night, College Night, or Ladies Night; if you want to dance away your stress or just have a fun night out, this is the place to be! Plus, this is where VCU’s To The Bottom And Back bus goes so you know you’ll have a safe ride back.