✨ The Essentials | richmond, va

These things are my essentials for the river city but I figured I'd give them to you for free cause we're friends. 😉 Richmond, VA is the first city I got to truly explore as an adult. I learned that I DO, in fact, like to be outside sometimes so I figured I'd share my favorite spots to do just that. I'm a creature of habit who believes in short stays vs vacations. 1-3 months vs 1-3 week and so these are the essentials for me (though these will work for everyone). Wherever I go these are the things I'm doing, the places I need to know immediately and the spots I'll return to time and time again.

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Updated ago

*RVA PRO TIP: Richmond still likes to run on European vibes (to the fault of Thomas Jefferson I'm convinced) so makes sure to check their socials or call ahead to make sure they are ACTUALLY open before heading there.

the coffee shop ☕️

TO CAFFINATE & WORK WHEN I NEED TO FOCUS

Ironclad Coffee Roasters & Baking Co., Shockoe Bottom

@lydiazipporah

In an old reclaimed firehouse you'll fond of the sweetest treats, staff and the most delicious coffee. My first apartment came with this gem of a local coffee shop and it was such a gift. HIGHLY recommend stopping by. If you are looking to sit for a while. I recommend avoiding weekend mornings as they are SUPER busy.

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Stir Crazy Cafe RVA

@lydiazipporah

I also had the pleasure of calling this my home coffee shop for a year. One of the only places where I'll forsake espresso, Stir Crazy has both delicious coffee and a nicely sized menu so you can hunker down for a while.

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Roastology

@lydiazipporah

Roastology has an exciting and interesting drink menu so unlike the others listed, I typically will stray away from a usual order to try something new. On a good day, There is also plenty of space to meet, work and hang.

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the park or high place 🏞

TO REMIND MYSELF IM SMALL

Libby Hill Park

@lydiazipporah

Libby Hill Park is the perfect addition to any day in Church Hill. Walking distance to quite a few cafes and shops it's perfect for a stroll after and bite, sip or activity.

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Chimborazo Park

@lydiazipporah

Not far from Libby Hill, the views from Chimborazo feel very much like you’re surveying the pride lands from pride rock. I could be projecting since this is also where Chief ______ (Pocahontas’ dad) viewed his lands but, ya know. With TONS of flat open space Chimborazo is also the perfect place to picnic alone or with friends.

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Jefferson Park

@lydiazipporah

Jefferson Park is special as it was the park closest to me. While it is much smaller that the other parks mentioned, it still has a spectacular corner view of Richmond.

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the museum or gallery 🖼

AN ENCLOSURE FOR ENRICHMENT

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

@lydiazipporah

The VMFA is the prestige hub of art in Richmond. There is TONS to see but also, there's often tons happening. From Jazz and dancing in the Summer, to Markets and gatherings so be sure to plan ahead and check out their events and happenings.

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the haven

A PLACE TO REST AND BE A HOMEBODY

Eileen RVA

@lydiazipporah

Even though I was living within walking distance I have been dying to snuggle down in the gorgeous little apartments at Eileen. This would be the perfect spot to calm home for a short while.

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the good fry 🍟

CAUSE FRIES.

Cobra Burger

@lydiazipporah

Their fries are pickle brined before they're fried. That's all I need to say but I'll add that the burgers are also 10/10.

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Secret Sandwich Society

@lydiazipporah

Sometimes you get a fry for the dip. Get the fries and a side of French Onion Dip... your life will be changed. Thank me later.

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the indian spot 🥘

FOR MY FOOD TO HURT ME

Lemon Cuisine of India

@lydiazipporah

An old faithful! I've been eating Lemon since I went to school in Richmond. If you are looking for QUALITY Indian, Lemon is tried and true.

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NAMA - Indian Cuisine

@lydiazipporah

Nama provides and modern take on traditional Indian cuisine. If you're looking for bold Indian flavors with a twist this is the spot. Try the scallops, They're fabulous.

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the asian grocery 🛒

FOR NOODS & CHEAP PRODUCE OF COURSE

in the states I typically just use Amazon to get my noodles since it's easier but internationally this is an essential for me. This one (and a few others) exist though. You're welcome.

Tokyo Market

@lydiazipporah

Pro Tip: Grab a snack next door at Chum Chum Onigiri to nibble or sip on while you shop around.

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the beauty supply 🎀

CAUSE I'M BLACK

similarly, in the states this isn't as necessary on the regs but in countries where the market doesn't serve textured hair this is a must and usually requires a bit of a hunt.

BeautiFull Beauty Supply Store

@lydiazipporah

You know what it is.

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the taco 🌮

... well when there's a good one

TBT El Gallo

@lydiazipporah

I'd make a recommendation but everything is good here. Whatever you do though, get a side of Mexican Street Corn.

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Tio Pablo

@lydiazipporah

Sometime I dream about a Cane Asada Taco with a side of Chiles Gallos.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lydia Zipporah

👋🏽 I'm Lydia and I sort of fell into full-time travel. After studying abroad in college the yearning to make the hop and skip back out of the states never left. Last year I left my apartment and the states with plans to be in London and found myself everywhere but. That said, I'm the girl people go to for information (often to my annoyance) BUT This seems like a fantastic way to share ALL of the data I've mined and experience I have gathered as I've been traveling. I'm a creature of habit who believes in short stays vs vacations. 1-3 months vs 1-3 week and so you'll find that a lot of my guides lean toward slow travel and remote workers. I hope that we all can find what we need here. Wether it exists or we work together to build it cause doing life alone can be daunting. If you have the most special and specific of needs feel free to email me at lydiazipporah@gmail.com or we can set up a Consultation Call. You can follow my shenanigans and travel tips and recs on IG : @lydiazipporah @outsidelyd OR TikTok @lydiazipporah Subscribe to my Thatch profile to stay updated on new itineraries, guide and helpful tips.

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Richmond, VA, USA