Walkability: Walkability is key to living in the Central Richmond neighborhoods of the Fan, Museum District, and VCU areas. Restaurants are local, whether new or in the third generation of family ownership. The convergence of VCU students and local residents means that parking is at a premium, but you won't need your car to accomplish many of your errands.
This is the heart of Richmond, the urban center. If you love dining out at quintessential Richmond joints, enjoy having neighbors close by and access to activities, or want to be near the Central Business District or VCU, this is the place for you.
Key Features
VCU: Located in Central Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University is one of Virginia's largest public universities, with more than 31,000 students. VCU is the No. 1 public arts college in the country and also features an undergraduate engineering school and the internationally recognized Brand Center. VCU contributes to the vibrancy of Richmond and makes world-class art and theater easily available. Or, if sports are more your thing, cheer on the VCU Rams basketball team at the Siegel Center.
Nest Picks
Carytown
If you want to shop local in Central Richmond, Carytown is where you go. With a mile of wall-to-wall shops and boutiques, and host to numerous activities and festivals like the Watermelon Festival and the Annual Zombie Walk, this is the place to go on a nice weekend day.
Shockoe Espresso
Staying awake is always easier with a cup of fresh coffee from a Richmond mainstay. In the heart of Shockoe Slip, just off the beaten path, you'll find this coffee house, with a historic vibe and great aesthetics. Relax amidst the exposed brick walls and rich antique floors, or walk the cobblestone streets and peruse other local shops.
Carytown
No trip to Richmond would be considered complete without a walk through the bustling shopping and restaurant district of Carytown. Strung along several blocks of Cary Street, you can find everything from vintage shops to artisan clothing boutiques, and foods for every taste.