5 Hidden Gems To Scope Out In Richmond, Pt 1
All too often we hear about popular hot spots — the raving reviews uplifting this place or that. And while the better-known restaurants and parks have earned their reputation, lesser-known spots deserve the spotlight, too.
Richmond is indeed a small city, but we’ve still got hidden gems tucked away here and there. Read on for some of our favorites, which are sure to bring you joy once you check ‘em out in person.
— by Alie McArdle, Contributing Writer (and the brains behind Ink & Influence. Follow her biz @_inkandinfluence!)
Paradise Park
This little-known stop is a crowd-pleaser — especially when you’re taking the kids out for free play. There’s a colorful structure, complete with tunnels, triangles, and squares to climb and spark imagination, and there’s a sand pit and collection of donated toys to enjoy, too. It’s not a large park, but its vibrancy is particularly awesome amidst of the concrete jungle of city livin’.
Location: 1700 Grove Ave (The Fan)
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Balkan Restaurant
Tucked away in a strip mall next to a Papa John’s lies unassuming Balkan Restaurant — a spot with a nearly perfect rating on Google, particularly for its attentive, friendly service. Its simple menu offers fresh dishes with authentic European flair. Try the popular Paprikash, featuring chicken breast cooked with various vegetables and potatoes in a clay pot for hours.
Location: 8905 Patterson Ave (Tuckahoe)
Hours: Found here
Lewis G. Larus Park
Often overlooked, Larus Park offers 106 acres of nature to play in and explore. You’ll find it situated in the middle of Stony Point Pkwy, Chippenham Pkwy S, and W Huguenot Rd, but despite being in close proximity to major roads with the likelihood of considerable noise from passing cars and trucks, the park is quiet, inviting families and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy it. If you’re looking for a new place to roam in the (semi-)wilderness, Larus Park is a must-do.
Location: 300 Hayden Hill Ln (Bon Air)
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Athens Tavern
Too often overlooked, Athens Tavern quietly but confidently holds its own. Unassuming in its exterior, this spot pays homage to Greece through its authentic flavor combinations and dishes. The menu showcases traditional Greek cuisine, like its Mousaka (baked eggplant, zucchini, potato slices layered with seasoned ground beef and bechamel, topped with marinara) and Baklava (phyllo, walnuts, cinnamon, Greek honey), which transports you straight to the charming streets of Athens.
Location: 401 N Robinson St (The Fan)
Hours: Found here
North Bank Trail
Okay, this isn’t so much an “unknown” spot, but this is a gem most people don’t take advantage of. You don’t need to drive to Shenandoah National Park or Nelson County to get your hike on — you can stay right here in Richmond! The James River North Bank merges with the Buttermilk Trail to form a six(ish)-mile loop, which takes about 2.5 hours to complete. It’s perfect for hiking, running, mountain biking, birding, walking your (leashed!) dog, or taking the kids to burn off some energy. Bask in nature as you explore the trail at your leisure.
Location: 4190 Riverside Dr (Forest Hill)
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
More to-dos to do:
