The Heirloom Guide to
Richmond & Hampton Roads
Luxury
Luxury
River Road Corridor
River Road runs along—surprise—the James River and leads to some of the more secluded neighborhoods of the greater Richmond area. Near to the University of Richmond, the communities in this area have access to great educational options (both public and private), all in a safe and secure environment. As one of the oldest and arguably one of the most scenic drives in the city, homes in River Road Corridor are all unique and one-of-a-kind.
Highlights
Did you know?
Just off River Road, the University of Richmond was voted by the Princeton Review as the most beautiful campus in the United States in 2000—this honor can also speak to the beautiful shaded streets that make up the River Road Corridor.
Luxury
Neat West End
While the West End continues to extend its reach further out west, Richmonders have lovingly bestowed the name “Near West End” upon the neighborhoods that are west of the Fan, but still in the Richmond city limits (as opposed to crossing into Henrico). This includes neighborhoods like Willow Lawn, Westhampton, and other communities that have thrived for decades and continue to hold onto their old-school charm.
Highlights
Did you know?
Originally conceived as an outdoor mall in the 1950s, the Willow Lawn Shopping Center was the first stand-alone shopping center in the Richmond area. However, it wasn’t until it was renovated in 2005 that it became the Willow Lawn that we all know and love today.
Luxury
Goochland
Located just west of Short Pump, Goochland is such a beautiful area that it was once home to Thomas Jefferson. Today, its rural scenery and small-town warmth make Goochland the ideal destination for those who want land and don’t mind driving a little out of the way to get there. Still, Goochland has plenty to offer in the way of liveliness, with breweries, wineries, cideries, and a drive-in movie theater to boot.
Highlights
Did you know?
At the time Goochland was founded in 1728, it covered not only land around Tuckahoe and the James River, but even extended all the way to the Blue Ridge Mountains on the western edge of Virginia.
Luxury
Cary Street Road
After passing through Carytown, the lively and busy Cary Street transforms into its quieter and more residential cousin, Cary Street Road. Shrouded by shady trees and stately houses, Cary Street Road runs through the high end neighborhoods of Mary Munford, Windsor Farms, and Westhampton. While still being nearby Carytown, Main Street, and downtown Richmond, the Cary Street Road neighborhood is close enough for a fun night on the town, while still being removed enough for quiet evenings in and early morning runs.
Highlights
Did you know?
Windsor Farms off Cary Street Road was one of the very first planned neighborhoods in the Richmond area. Designed in the 1920s, it was actually built with cars in mind despite the fact that automobiles were not popular yet.
First Time Buyers
First Time Buyers
Lakeside
Located in Northside, Lakeside offers a charming small-town feel for young families and older generations alike. Technically a part of Henrico, Lakeside is convenient to downtown Richmond with access to all major highways in the area. While Lakeside isn’t home to many fine dining or upscale accommodations, its appeal is found in the local shops and bakeries where everyone knows everyone.
Highlights
Did you know?
Despite no lakes in the area, Lakeside got its name from Major Lewis Ginter in the 1800s when he named his bicycle club Lakeside Wheel Club. He then built Lakeside Park, which is now the Jefferson Lakeside Country Club.
First Time Buyers
Mechanicsville
Just east of the City, Mechanicsville is close enough to enjoy all that Richmond has to offer while still far enough to feel like a rural haven for those seeking a small-town life. Home to many historic places that hearken back to the area’s Civil War background, Mechanicsville is ideal for first-time home buyers who are ready to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Highlights
Did you know?
Known as “America’s premier short track,” Mechanicsville’s Richmond Raceway has hosted the final race before the start of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs each year since the concept was introduced in 2004. Starting in 2018, Richmond Raceway will host playoff NASCAR races.
First Time Buyers
Church Hill
Church Hill is the first and oldest neighborhood in Richmond and a walk through the quaint brick and cobblestone streets certainly won’t disappoint. Near to Shockoe Bottom and the vibrant downtown area, Church Hill maintains its quiet and charming community on the hill while still being close enough to enjoy all that city life has to offer. Not to mention, it houses some great nationally-ranked restaurants as well.
Highlights
Did you know?
Church Hill is home to both Chimborazo Park, once home to the largest American Civil War hospital, and St. John’s Episcopal Church, where Patrick Henry gave his famed “Give me liberty or give me death” speech.
First Time Buyers
Northside
There’s a little bit of something for everyone in Northside. Diverse neighborhoods, distinct styles of architecture, and restaurants to meet every palate—what more could you ask for? Northside’s abundance of parks and family-friendly neighborhoods make it an ideal place for all generations.
Highlights
Did you know?
Northside is home to many streetcar suburbs, which are communities that developed due to the use of streetcar lines in and out of the nearby city. The Richmond Union Passenger Railway was the first reliable electric streetcar system ever and served as the model for the rest of the world.
Kid Approved
Kid Approved
Short Pump
West of Richmond, Short Pump has become known for its grand outdoor mall, Short Pump Town Center, as well as its abundance of upscale dining options. This area is often seen as the “last frontier” of Richmond, as going further west quickly reveals the beautiful rural landscapes of central and western Virginia. In Short Pump, you’ll never have to worry about long commutes to the grocery store or the mall—it’s all just around the corner.
Highlights
Did you know?
Short Pump’s namesake derives from a short handled pump under the porch of a tavern often visited by Thomas Jefferson on his route between his home in Monticello and the Capitol in Richmond in the early 1800s. Visitors would often refer to meeting at the short pump.
Kid Approved
Moseley
Nestled between Powhatan and Chesterfield, Moseley is full of new developments and state-of-the-art homes. The well-defined communities are modern and safe, making this area a great choice for families with children and pets.
Highlights
Did you know?
Hallsley, a community in Moseley, is one of the top-selling neighborhoods in the Richmond area and was hand-selected by Southern Living as a Southern Living Inspired Community. In 2017, Hallsley was named the Best Master Planned Community in America for communities with 100+ houses by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
Kid Approved
Tuckahoe
West of the City and bordering the James River to the north, Tuckahoe is an affluent neighborhood with great schools and easy access to outdoor activities along the river. Perfect for families and empty nesters, Tuckahoe is a safe community with schools, parks, shops, and restaurants all in a convenient radius.
Highlights
Did you know?
Tuckahoe gets its namesake from its Tuckahoe Plantation, a colonial plantation house built in the early 1700s where Thomas Jefferson lived for a portion of his childhood years.
Kid Approved
North Chesterfield
Perfect for those who want a taste of both urban and rural life, North Chesterfield offers the best of both worlds. It’s close enough to the City of Richmond for evenings out, but far enough that you can forget how close you are to the state capital. North Chesterfield runs the gamut of housing options and offers easy access to countless malls, shopping centers, restaurants, and bars.
Highlights
Did you know?
Matoaca in Chesterfield is thought to be Pocahontas’ native village in North America and, as a result, has formed a relationship with a sister community in Kent, England—where Pocahontas was buried.
Empty Nesters
Empty Nesters
Museum District
The Museum District is known for—you got it: museums. West of Boulevard, the Museum District is home to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Virginia Historical Society. You’ll also find nearby Carytown in the Museum District, filled with boutique shops and trendy coffeehouses. Tree-lined sidewalks will take you by historic brick row houses, small restaurants and stores, making for a pleasant stroll whether it’s a Saturday afternoon or a Wednesday evening.
Highlights
Did you know?
The Museum District includes 22 properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places and became the state’s third largest historic district in 1993. In 1994, it was added in to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994.
Empty Nesters
Shockoe Bottom
Nestled in the heart of the city, Shockoe Bottom is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Richmond and is home to riverfront views, a lively nightlife, and centuries of Virginia history. Perfect for working professionals, Shockoe Bottom is notably bike- and pedestrian-friendly, allowing residents to leave their cars at home in favor of a ride or walk through the lively downtown neighborhood.
Highlights
Did you know?
Shockoe Bottom is the site of Tobacco Row, where Virginia’s tobacco industry flourished. Look out for Lucky Strike, the tobacco company best known for its role as a major Mad Men client!
Empty Nesters
Glen Allen
Glen Allen is a quickly developing suburb of Richmond that has transformed from rural landscapes to a residential and commercial haven for families and young professionals alike. Offering both urban and suburban characteristics, Glen Allen is a comfortable and welcoming community that residents tend to stick around for years to come.
Highlights
Did you know?
Henrico, where Glen Allen is located, was the second English-speaking colony in the New World, founded in 1611, just four years after Jamestown.
Empty Nesters
Bon Air
Just eight miles west of downtown Richmond, Bon Air is far enough away from the City to feel like a getaway—and that’s exactly how the community started out: as a summer getaway. Bon Air also boasts prime access to the southern bank of the James River, perfect for adventurers and loungers alike.
Highlights
Did you know?
Bon Air, or “good air” in French, was originally developed as a resort location due to the belief that its elevation (200 feet above sea level) and distance from the urban center of Richmond made for a healthy environment, especially during hot summers.
Country Roads
Country Roads
Hanover
North of Richmond, Hanover is ideal for home buyers who prefer the road less traveled. This rural community is close enough to Richmond for an easy commute down the highway, while being remote enough to feel like it’s off the beaten path.
Highlights
Did you know?
Hanover is the site of the Hanover Tavern, later the Barksdale Theatre, which was the very first dinner theatre that was established in the 1950s.
Country Roads
Amelia
If you’re after some small-town vibes, Amelia is the spot for you. Once a popular destination for mineral-lovers, much of today’s Amelia County is made up of quiet, rural towns where everyone knows everyone. Equidistant from Richmond and Petersburg, Amelia really is a hidden gem of Virginia.
Highlights
Did you know?
Amelia is known for having the nation’s best supply of amazonite, with its mineral springs of notable recognition. In the 19th century, spas were built around the mineral springs and made Amelia a popular destination for travelers.
Country Roads
Powhatan
If you love being outdoors and are in search of #farmlife, look no further than Powhatan. Just 30 miles west of downtown Richmond, Powhatan has everything to offer in the way of outdoors activities. From horseback riding to kayaking to scenic breweries and wineries, there’s something for every member of the family.
Highlights
Did you know?
Settled by French Huguenots in the early 1700s, Powhatan’s namesake honors the father of Pocahontas, Chief Powhatan.
Country Roads
New Kent
New Kent is perfect for those who like to take the backroads and spend their time off the beaten path; however, its proximity to downtown Richmond makes it ideal for those who share their time between urban and rural landscapes. Just 15 minutes from Richmond International Airport, New Kent offers the best of both worlds.
Highlights
Did you know?
In addition to being the site where John Smith was captured in 1607 but saved by Pocahontas, New Kent is also home to St. Peter’s Church where George Washington and Martha Custis tied the knot just over 150 years later.
Hipster
Hipster
Jackson Ward
The Jackson Ward Historic District started out as a thriving business community for African-Americans after the end of the Civil War, so much so that it earned the title of “Black Wall Street of America.” Today, Jackson Ward retains much of its history through its architecture and historic monuments, but has since welcomed the influence of Richmond’s lively arts and culture scene. Street murals, small businesses, bars, and restaurants of many cuisines are aplenty.
Highlights
Did you know?
After the Civil War, Jackson Ward became known as the “Harlem of the South” due to frequent performances by African-American greats like Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald and other notable jazz artists.
Hipster
The Fan
Named for its streets that fan out to the west, The Fan is a neighborhood unlike any other. Sandwiched between the Virginia Commonwealth University campus and the museums of Boulevard, The Fan is the ideal neighborhood for young professionals and families who are interested in a lively dining and nightlife scene, as well as the ease of walking from place to place. The sense of community in The Fan lends to its safe and friendly surroundings.
Highlights
Did you know?
The Fan is said to be the largest Victorian neighborhood in the United States that is still intact with over 2,000 townhouses of various architectural styles that speak to another a time.
Hipster
Manchester
The last several years have seen a renaissance for this south-of-the-James neighborhood. Located just across the 9th and 14th Street bridges, Manchester is home to warehouses-turned-apartments and trendy bakeries and bars that are popping up all across this burgeoning area. Grab a drink at Legend Brewing Company to enjoy the panoramic view of the City’s skyline, bring out your kayak for a sunset on the rapids, or spend an afternoon browsing the many galleries in the area.
Highlights
Did you know?
The Manchester neighborhood is sometimes called Dogtown, as it was labeled as such since before the first World War. Some say its namesake comes from the fact that everyone has a dog in the area, but the true meaning isn’t known for sure!
Hipster
Oregon Hill
Dating back to the 1700s, Oregon Hill is filled with monuments and buildings that hearken back to their Civil War roots. Nowadays, Oregon Hill’s proximity to Virginia Commonwealth University has transformed it into a trendy and vibrant neighborhood filled with renovated homes, restaurants, and bars. Its nearby access to the James River makes it a popular favorite for young professionals and students who prefer a taste of the outdoors.
Highlights
Did you know?
Oregon Hill’s Hollywood Cemetery is the resting place for a number of notable historical figures, including Presidents James Monroe and John Tyler, Confederate President Jefferson Davis, and Confederate generals George Pickett and J.E.B. Stuart.
Outdoorsy
Outdoorsy
Jackson Ward
Just south of the James River, Forest Hill is an up-and-coming neighborhood with lots to offer in the way of residential development. Home to the Forest Hill Park, this area is known to host all sorts of music and arts events outdoors. Spend your weekends fishing on the river or shopping the stands of the South of the James Farmers Market—there’s plenty to keep the family occupied!
Highlights
Did you know?
Forest Hill Park was once an amusement park in the early 1900s, complete with a carousel, roller coaster, golf course, arcade, and fun house. It was decommissioned and deeded to the City of Richmond during the Great Depression due to the cost of maintenance.
Outdoorsy
Rocketts Landing
Consistently recognized as one of the best communities in the Richmond area, Rocketts Landing is located on the north bank of the James River, just east of the Shockoe Bottom area. Home to local favorites like Conch Republic and The Boathouse, Rocketts Landing is one of the best spots in the city to enjoy an evening on the water. It’s the perfect locale for water adventurers and land dwellers alike, plus the onsite marina is a special bonus for any boat owner.
Highlights
Did you know?
Rocketts Landing is the site in Richmond where Christopher Newport stopped aboard the Susan Constant, Godspeed, and Discovery ships when exploring the New World for the first time in 1607. By the early 1700s, the port had carved out its role as the busiest inland port in the United States. Demolished in the 1970s, today’s Rocketts Landing was rebuilt as a residential and commercial hub in 2007.
Outdoorsy
Pony Pasture
Although Pony Pasture is just a part of the James River Park System, its neighboring neighborhoods—Stratford Hills, Oxford, and Southampton—get all the perks of being so close to such a popular destination for adventure lovers. From kayaking and hiking to fishing and tubing, the abundance of activities are sure to keep the family busy. While you’re at it, pack a lunch to picnic on the large river rocks.
Highlights
Did you know?
Although not always mentioned, Richmond is a great place to take on some rapids—Pony Pasture’s class II rapids are ideal for beginner rafters, but you don’t have to go far to find the class III and IV rapids that are suitable for more advanced rafters.
Outdoorsy
Byrd Park
Located just outside of the popular Maymont park, the historic Byrd Park neighborhood is a haven for anyone who loves to be outdoors. With three lakes—Shields, Swan, and Boat—and plenty of space for walking, running, and sunbathing, Byrd Park is a buzzing community full of young professionals, families, and dogs—lots of dogs! Byrd Park is also home to the Dogwood Dell Amphitheater and Ha’Penny Stage, two venues that host the popular summer-long Festival of the Arts among other events.
Highlights
Did you know?
The Carillon bell tower was created as a memorial to those who died in World War I; with a total of 56 bells, the 240-foot Carillon is also one of the tallest monuments in Richmond. Listen for it on Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Veterans Day.