Richmond, VA, is the capital of Virginia and one of America's oldest cities. Sitting centrally among some of the area's most famous cities like Washington, D.C., Charlottesville, and Williamsburg, this city is a fantastic choice for your next home base. If you're thinking about moving to Richmond, you'll want to know what to expect so you can prepare. What kind of vibe does Richmond have? Are the schools good? What about the job market? What kind of activities and restaurants are there to enjoy? That's what we're going to discuss here.
Richmond offers gorgeous views and plenty of outdoor recreational activities along the James River. The various eclectic neighborhoods offer a hipster vibe, the excellent job market makes it easy to find work, it's ripe with local history, and the restaurant scene is a foodie's dream. These are only a few reasons that Richmond, VA, should be your next destination.
To give you the best insight into Richmond and all it offers, The Hogan Group has put together the top six reasons you should relocate to Richmond, VA.
Stellar neighborhoods
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One of the most excellent parts about Richmond is that it offers a varied selection of neighborhoods that offer a small-town feeling even though you're in the midst of a larger city. These vibrant neighborhoods each provide a unique feel and range from rural to downtown hipster atmospheres. Here are some of the more popular communities in the area, though whichever district you choose is sure to be incredible.
The Fan and Museum District is one of the most popular and highly photographed neighborhoods. This district is full of charming and historic homes that are picture-perfect, plus it's filled with pocket parks and quirky eateries to enjoy.
Church Hill is up next, home to Historic Saint John's Church, where the "Give me Liberty or Give me Death" speech was given by the now-famous Patrick Henry. This gorgeous neighborhood sits perched on a hill overlooking the James River and downtown.
Scott's Addition is an excellent choice for those looking to stay in the heart of the action. This neighborhood offers a hip vibe, loft apartments, an assortment of breweries, and loads of nightlife.
Richmond's Southside has various charming neighborhoods with beautiful views of the James River, offers access to outdoor recreation and excellent restaurants, and is home to the area's largest farmer's market.
Excellent schools
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Richmond offers a selection of excellent schools, all with high ratings and accolades. You'll find various public school options to choose from, but there are also plenty of private schools in the area.
Home to plenty of colleges and universities like the University of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University/Medical College of Virginia, and Randolph-Macon College, you'll find plenty of young adults in the area. Such an excellent assortment of schools is especially great for families with children.
Arts and culture
The vibrancy of Richmond comes alive under the art and culture scene. The Virginia Museum of Fine Art contains some of the world's finest Art Nouveau and South Asian art collections. It is also free, open year-long, and features a happy hour on Friday, so it's an excellent choice for a quick gathering any time of the year. The Carpenter Theater is home to the Richmond Ballet and the Virginia Opera and offers various other events. If your children are interested in dance lessons, the Richmond Ballet presents them, and they could end up performing with them on stage one day. Richmond also offers the Altria Theater, which brings in Broadway shows.
Richmond's Art District offers First Fridays, where various galleries in the area will open their doors and celebrate Richmond's artistic culture. This culture is on virtually every street corner, with an impressive assortment of murals and street art. Other activities include the Richmond Jazz Festival and the Richmond Folk Festival, both a nod to the fantastic music scene.
The restaurant and craft beer scene
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When it comes to excellent food and a hopping craft beer scene, Richmond has you covered. Home to James Beard Semifinalist chefs and bakers, you'll love immersing yourself in this city's delicious options.
The Roosevelt, in Church Hill, is situated in a turn-of-the-last-Century building and offers a uniquely Southern menu paired with an exceptional wine and beer menu. On the other hand, Proper Pie is an excellent choice if you're craving pumpkin pie. Stop for your morning coffee and homemade biscuits at Early Bird Biscuit Co, or visit More Than Greek for a delicious lunch.
With over 30 breweries in the area, it's no wonder Richmond is known as the number one beer destination in the country. Both Scott's Addition and downtown neighborhoods offer a few breweries within walking distance of restaurants and more.
Seasons
One beautiful thing about Richmond is the weather. Not just the weather, but the seasons! You'll find that Richmond offers all four seasons and the activities accompanying them. Spring is warm and sunny, with plenty of activities and outdoor fun. Summer can be hot and humid, but the James River offers plenty of water sports options to keep you cool. Fall is a beautiful time of year to watch the colors change and have humidity ease up, plus the area is full of seasonal activities for everyone. Winter is mild, but there is snow; it just doesn't stick around very long!
Family fun activities
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If there's one thing Richmond doesn't lack, it's an incredible selection of fun for families. There are plenty of Richmond activities to be part of, but these are some coveted favorites.
The Children's Museum of Richmond is a fan favorite with the younger children, while the Science Museum of Richmond tends to be more popular with the older crowd.
The Louis Ginter Botanical Garden is a fantastic choice for fun activities all year. They offer the Festival of Lights during the holidays. For another beautiful outdoor garden, try Maymont. This location has a nature center, petting zoo, plus beautiful gardens to wander.
In Addition to what is in the city, proximity to significant amusement parks like King's Dominion and Busch Gardens provides extra fun.
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When you're ready to take the leap, contact the experienced team at Hogan Luxury Real Estate. With a focus on outstanding client service and a deep knowledge of the Richmond real estate market, the Hogan Group will find you the perfect neighborhood. If you're ready to start your real estate journey, browse our featured homes for sale in Richmond.
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock
