Sober Things to Do Around RVA
This Guide is brought to you by All-Star Orthodontics!
Bonus, no hangover included!
A list of activities that are not centered around drinking so whether you’re doing #soberoctober, #dryjanuary, you are #expecting, or you are just alcohol free then this list will you give you some ideas for fun and sober adventures!
Hit the farmers market
Nothing beats a stroll through a vibrant farmers market! Get some fresh air, shop for produce, buy locally made gifts and prepared foods, grab a cup of coffee or kombucha, have a famous doughnut, or grab breakfast or dinner. Here’s a list of our favorite farmers markets:
1. South of the James: Saturdays 8am-12pm (Summer hours) and 9am-12pm (Winter hours) at Forest Hill Park. Open year-round; don’t miss “The Original” breakfast sandwich served by Hog Haven Farm
2. Carytown Farmers Market: Sundays 11am-1pm at City Stadium. Runs May through November.
3. Birdhouse Farmers Market: Tuesdays 3pm-6:30pm at 1507 Grayland Ave. Runs May through November.
4. Lakeside Market: Wednesdays 9am-3pm and Saturday 9am-12pm at 6110 Lakeside Ave. Open year-round.
5. St. Stephen's Farmers Market: Saturdays 8am-12pm (Summer hours) and 9am-12pm (Winter hours) at 6000 Grove Ave. Open year-round.
6. Dorey Park Farmers Market: Saturdays 9am-1pm at Dorey Park. Runs May through September.
Image Credit: @visartsrva
2. Take an art class
Every Second Friday, VisArts offers first-come, first-served art classes in two seatings for just $15! Explore your creative side with classes such as wheel throwing, hand embroidering, drawing with pen and ink, and more.
Location: 1812 W Main St, The Fan
3. Hang at a dog-friendly patio
And you don’t need to have a pup to go. After all — every dog desperately needs pets because they never get any.
Check out 25+ dog friendly spots.
4. Explore a museum
There is, what seems like, an endless number of museums in Richmond! When was the last time you took the time to visit one? Many offer rotating exhibits in addition to their permanent offerings so there is always something to see. Here’s ten to get you started:
2. Institute for Contemporary Art
5. Walk the gardens
Is it a clear day? Head out, maybe bundle up, and walk some of the most beautiful gardens throughout the city.
Maymont – There is so much to see here! Explore the Japanese Garden, Italian Garden, waterfall, and the Fragrance Garden. Tour the Maymont Mansion which is especially beautiful around the holidays. Animal lover? Check out the Maymont Farm and Nature Center. (Note: The Nature Center is closed November 1 through Spring 2020 for renovations!)
Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens – No matter the season, there is always something to explore at Lewis Ginter. Take in the beautiful blooms in the warmer months and don’t miss their annual holiday light show each Fall and Winter.
6. Hike the trails
One of the best features of Richmond is its proximity to the James River and the James River Park System. With multiple trails for walking, hiking, and biking you can easily escape the hustle of the city and spend time with nature. Afterwards, stop by a local coffee or juice shop to refuel.
7. Pack a picnic
Richmond’s got some amazing views and thanks to our city’s Parks and Rec department there are some expansive parks that make for a perfect picnic setting! Shop your local market to pick up cheese, bread, olives, nuts, and whatever snacks you please then grab a blanket and head out to catch the sunrise, the sunset, or just lounge midday. Bring the pup, a frisbee, football, or lawn game if you want to get a little active while you dine al fresco. Here’s a few good ones:
Scuffletown Park
Libby Hill
Jefferson Park
Chimborazo Park
Forest Hill Park
VMFA Lawn
Maymont
Byrd Park/The Carillon
Meadow Park {insider tip: skip packing your own picnic and stop into Garnetts Cafe. They’ll hook you up with sandwiches, dessert, a picnic basket, and a blanket so you can walk across the street and dine al fresco with zero effort}
Image Credit: ninjakombucha.com
8. Hit the kombucha taproom
That’s right, you can head to a taproom and enjoy Ninja Kombucha! Sample their original flavors like lemon ginger and hibiscus or get adventure with their tumeric ginger cinnamon or other seasonal flavors. Plus check out their event calendar for special happenings at the taproom!
Thanks to All-Star Orthodontics for sponsoring this guide!