Photo courtesy Maymont
Multicategory Winner
1700 Hampton St.
Celebrating 100 years as a public space, Maymont has even more to offer after recent renovations. The historic Maymont Mansion sports a new red slate roof, among additional preservation projects. The building serves as an atmospheric backdrop for a picnic; tour the interior for $10 (self-guided) or $15 (guided). The refurbished Virginia Wildlife Trail gets visitors up close to native animals. President and CEO Parke Richeson notes that many families use Maymont as a scenic setting for pictures. “Some people come back every year to take their photo at Maymont, and they have years and years of [images from] each stage of their kids growing up,” she says. The park is free to tour, but donations are welcome.
Best Free Fun
2. James River, Belle Isle
3. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Best Place to Picnic
2. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
3. Libby Hill Park
Photo courtesy Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Multicategory Winner
200 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd.
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts offers several date-worthy spaces to connect, whether it’s a coffee meetup at Best Cafe, a romantic rendezvous at Amuse restaurant or a picnic in the sculpture garden. Spokesperson Amy Peck says the VMFA will break ground this fall on the McGlothlin Wing II — its largest development to date — but that the museum will remain open 365 days a year during the construction. Currently, patrons can explore objects of wealth and might as part of “India’s Great Mughals: Art, Power, and Opulence” on display through Aug. 23. Later this fall, keep an eye out for “The Impressionist Revolution: Monet to Matisse from the Dallas Museum of Art,” on view Nov. 14 to April 4, 2027.
Best Place for a First Date
2. Maymont
3. Hotel Greene
Best Rainy Day Activity
2. Science Museum of Virginia
3. Hotel Greene
Best Gallery or Museum (Nonprofit)
2. The Valentine
3. Virginia Museum of History & Culture
Photo by Bill Draper
Best Place to Take a First-Time Visitor
300 Tredegar St.
A site for year-round views and summertime sunbathing and swimming, Belle Isle also recently unveiled its Nature Exploration Area. James River Park Superintendent Andrew Alli describes it as “a nature-based play space for kids” offering logs, boulders and driftwood as interactive elements rather than traditional playground equipment. Located just off the scenic suspension bridge entrance that traverses over the James River, the play area serves as a gateway to the island.
2. Maymont
3. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Most Underrated Attraction or Hidden Gem
412 S. Cherry St.
Locals and tourists alike are drawn to the Hollywood Cemetery gravesite of President James Monroe, the cast-iron dog statue and the stained glass in the Palmer Chapel Mausoleum. Assistant General Manager William Oakes also highlights the site’s “very, very large, old and unique trees” which are best viewed during the arborist’s semiannual tours. The cemetery is even recognized as an accredited arboretum.
2. James River Park System
3. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Best Attraction for Kids
2500 W. Broad St.
Chief Wonder Officer Richard Conti says the Science Museum of Virginia doesn’t specifically cater to kids — but children sure love it. Through labs, demos and hands-on challenges rooted in science and creativity, visitors participate rather than observe. “We want to take science and connect it to people’s lives,” Conti says. In June, the museum opened a new cafe, and it is planning to unveil a permanent astronomy exhibition this summer.
2. Children’s Museum of Richmond
3. Maymont
Best Community Playground
3600 Saunders Ave.
“All ages, all abilities — that’s the center of everything we do,” says a spokesperson for SOAR365, the nonprofit that manages PARK365. Opened in 2015, the inclusive community playground features a wheelchair-accessible treehouse, sensory wall, various musical instruments and more. “We’re going to continue to work hard to keep the park as great and as beloved as it is,” the spokesperson adds.
2. Taylor Farm Park
3. Tie: Deep Run Park & Recreation Center; Mary Munford Elementary School
Best Public Pool or Splash Pad
Photo courtesy Taylor Farm Park
200 Whiteside Road, Sandston
Opened in 2024, Taylor Farm Park was made for the community, by the community, with residents having a say in the design. “Working with all our partners, we were able to put together a really unique park,” says Henrico County Recreation & Parks spokesperson Pam Kempf. She says the splash area presents a “heavy focus on nature-based play and exploration” and features fountains, a mist mound and an interactive stream.
2. Tie: Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden Waterway; Twin Hickory Park & Recreation Center
3. Randolph Community Center
Best Family Entertainment
508 E. Franklin St.
Jim Gottier and Andrea Ball, co-founders of Hotel Greene, say the atmosphere of the venue is subversive. “It’s naughty. You’re not supposed to play mini golf in a hotel,” Gottier says. The site offers indoor putting fields, cocktails and even ghost actors during Richmond’s First Fridays. All ages love the intrigue and mystery of the unique course, but admission is 21-and-up after 5 p.m.
2. Uptown Alley
3. River City Roll
Best Volunteer Opportunity for Families or Groups
8020 Villa Park Drive
More than 3,000 individuals and 500 groups volunteered with Feed More in 2025 to provide food for Richmonders in need. In addition to the nonprofit’s available volunteer spots, support for the Help Line and Meals on Wheels program is also always welcome. According to Chief Administrative Officer Patricia Perry, the organization is particularly in need of Meals on Wheels deliverers in the Highland Springs area.
2. Richmond SPCA
3. SOAR365
Photo courtesy SoulShine Studios
Multicategory Winner
9200 Stony Point Parkway, Suite 111
Owner Marybeth Grinnan says what makes classes at SoulShine Studios unique is that “there is a freedom to move the way your body moves,” and the offerings are “suitable for anybody.” The mix of yoga, dance, Qi Gong and strength training classes provides options for all ages and fitness levels, and Grinnan notes witnessing intergenerational friendships blossom. SoulShine also hosts special events, such as a combined sound bath and Reiki experience, and members can sign up for guided trips to locations such as Peru, Costa Rica and Marrakesh, which combine opportunities for daily movement and sightseeing.
Best Boutique Fitness Center
2. Burn Boot Camp
3. BFT (Body Fit Training)
Best Adult Dance Classes
2. The Dance Space
Best Local Sports Team
2929 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd.
The Richmond Flying Squirrels kicked off their 2026 season at CarMax Park stadium, and General Manager Anthony Oppermann says the fan response has been positive. “Guests enjoy that they can walk the 360-degree concourse and see the game from different vantage points,” he says. Beyond baseball, the venue hosts events including festivals and concerts. “We’re just getting started,” Oppermann says. “The best is yet to come.”
2. Virginia Commonwealth University men’s basketball
3. Richmond Kickers
Local Sports Team You Wish We Had
Ice Hockey
Longtime locals may remember the Richmond Renegades, the minor league ice hockey team that played at the Richmond Coliseum from 1990 to 2009. While there’s not currently a professional team to watch, there has been a resurgence of interest in the sport bolstered by new groups and facility improvements. Richmond Ice Zone, SkateNation Plus and Powhatan Ice Den host youth and recreational leagues, and University of Richmond has a men’s club team.
2. Football
3. Basketball
Best Hiking or Biking Trail Within 30 Miles of Richmond
Buttermilk Trail, James River Park System trails
4101 Hillcrest Road
The Buttermilk Trail is an atmospheric natural surface single track that traverses through the woods from the T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge to the Nickel Bridge. James River Park Superintendent Andrew Alli says the pathway was named after its “natural cooling spring that was used to keep milk cool back in the day.”
2. Virginia Capital Trail
3. Pocahontas State Park
Best Local Walk or Run
This year’s Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10K offered “entertainment on every single corner,” says Nan Callahan, a spokesperson for the race organizer, Sports Backers. She credits the lively atmosphere to the many spirit groups and fans that cheered on the runners. New in 2026 was The People’s Finisher award, a leopard print belt given to the 10,000th person to cross the finish line (the April event had nearly 27,000 participants).
2. Tie: Richmond Marathon; Richmond SPCA Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party
3. Richmond Half Marathon
Best Public Golf Course
600 Founders Bridge Blvd., Midlothian
Independence Golf Club co-owner Giff Breed says he’s looking forward to what’s ahead after Heritage Golf Group purchased the site (as of press time, Breed is still managing the club as the sale closes). He notes the venue is an entertainment hub beyond its award-winning golf course. “We’re trying to create a unique experience with great food, great beer, great events, great weddings,” he says.
2. Belmont Golf Course
3. Providence Golf Club
Best Racquet/Paddle Sports Facility
1201 Haxall Point
After opening along the Canal Walk in 2025, Padel Plant has provided a “third space” beyond home and work where people can enjoy community, whether that’s on the pickleball courts, at the cafe, or in the pizzeria and bar. “Looking ahead, we are very excited for the fall league to start and to watch as the Padel Plant Club Championship shapes up in December,” says co-founder Alex Nordheimer.
2. Pouncey Tract Park pickleball courts
3. ACAC
Photo by Lily Calcote
Best Sports Activity Venue
1375 Overbrook Road; 11421 Polo Circle, Midlothian
Opening its Midlothian location in 1998, Peak Experiences is the longest operating rock-climbing gym in the region. Its two area venues offer climate-controlled environments for bouldering, roped climbing, auto belay, and even yoga and fitness programs. The Climbing Sampler is a great introduction for first-timers and includes guided instruction. The quarterly members-only climbing competitions are exciting displays of strength and agility, and are open for public viewing.
2. Triangle Rock Club
Photo by Bob Schnell
Best Membership Gym
2201 Old Brick Road, Glen Allen; 11621 Robious Road, Midlothian
ACAC offers more than just weights and treadmills — the fitness club also provides restorative amenities such as cold plunges and saunas. “Our Recovery Zone has seen a surge in popularity as more members prioritize recovery as part of their overall wellness routine,” says Marketing Director Wendy Greene. The gym is planning to open its third Richmond area location at Libbie Mill this winter.
2. YMCA
3. Weinstein JCC
Best Local Artist
Photo by Melanie Eaton Photography
Melissa Casanova blends abstract and representational elements in an appealing style, creating paintings that complement the walls on which they are hung. “My favorite part is seeing someone connect with a piece in a way I never could have planned,” Casanova says. “It’s always special when a collector finds a painting that suddenly feels like it was meant for their space.”
2. Ed Trask
3. Matt Lively
Best Historical or History-Related Attraction
Virginia Museum of History & Culture
428 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd.
This is the year that the 250,000-square-foot Virginia Museum of History & Culture has been building toward since rebranding from the Virginia Historical Society in 2018. “After nearly a decade of planning for America’s 250th, it has been a thrill to see the community engage with us at record-breaking levels, through exhibitions, events, and statewide programs,” says President and CEO Jamie Bosket.
2. The Valentine
3. The Poe Museum
Best Charity Fundraising Event or Gala
2519 Hermitage Road
The highlight of Richmond SPCA’s Fur Ball is the Parade of Pets, where guests’ furry plus-ones in black-tie attire descend the staircase of The Jefferson Hotel. Spokesperson Dori McGuire says, “We always have a special video to unveil,” but her lips are sealed on its theme until the event. For the upcoming 28th gala on Nov. 7, the nonprofit’s goal is to raise $1 million for medical care for animals in need.
2. SOAR365 Ladybug Fund Winetasting & Silent Auction
3. Children’s Museum of Richmond Pretend Again: A Grown-up Night at the Museum
Photo by Jean Haynes
Best Movie Theater
2908 W. Cary St.
The Byrd Theatre’s events and themed screenings — including October’s array of spooky films and The Big LeBYRDski Fest in November — make it a beloved part of the Richmond community. In July, the theater debuted a monthly series, Scene in Virginia: “movies that are based on or produced by Virginia filmmakers,” says Executive Director Ben Cronly. Patrons also enjoy an organ prelude in lieu of previews before most showings.
2. BTM Movieland at Boulevard Square
3. CMX CinéBistro
Best Local Comedy Show
11800 W. Broad, Suite 1090
What keeps regulars returning to the Richmond Funny Bone Comedy Club? “Honestly, it’s the service,” says general manager Jesse Moffat. “We take care of people. The two things that matter are the comic’s experience and the guest’s experience.” The club now seats 375 patrons comfortably and is planning for a blockbuster fall season, including Marlon Wayans in August and Chico Bean the week of Thanksgiving.
2. Coalition Theater
3. CSz Richmond Theater
Best Theater Event or Series
Altria Theater, 6 N. Laurel St.
Broadway in Richmond’s 2026-27 season launches in September with “Dirty Dancing,” kicking off a diverse lineup that includes classics and many RVA premieres. “We are ahead of pace with seasons subscriptions, with 90% of the last year’s total already sold,” says spokesperson Cindy Creasy. The city’s popularity with productions has it punching above its weight when it comes to access to top touring shows.
2. Virginia Repertory Theatre
3. The Richmond Forum
Best Dance Performance Event or Series
407 E. Canal St.
Richmond Ballet’s popular performances of “The Nutcracker” and its Moving Art Series continue in the 2026-27 season, which opens in September with “Moving Art One: Stars & Stripes.” “We honor the traditions of our art form while boldly embracing the future,” says Artistic Director Ma Cong. Programming includes 12 dances new to Richmond audiences and the East Coast premiere of Ma’s full-length ballet, “Tchaikovsky: The Man Behind the Music.”
Best Local Band or Musician
Crack Fox’s reaction to their Best & Worst win is dyspeptically on-brand. “This is extremely distasteful,” says lead singer Rasputina in a heavy fake German accent. “We try to be the worst, trash can kind of music, the kind you hear when you are waiting in line for the porta-potty. This will ruin our image.” Behind the joke is a band serious about embracing the transgressively liberating power of punk.
2. Pat O’Brien
3. Deau Eyes
Photo by Will Miller
Best Dance Club or Place to Dance
3166 W. Cary St.
Babe’s of Carytown has been instilling a sense of belonging on its dance floor for decades. The late owner, Vicky Hester, uplifted the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups by providing a fun, safe space for self-expression. “That impact lasts far beyond the building,” says general manager Chas Warren. Hester's legacy carries on via programs such as the Vicky Hester Food Pantry located at the Metropolitan Community Church of Richmond.
Best Live Music Venue in the City
708 E. Broad St.
The historic Renaissance Revival theater located along Broad Street is thriving as mid-sized concert venue The National. “We work to provide a safe space to enjoy diverse types of music,” says manager Zach Hanbury. The staff also serves the wider community, collecting over 1,000 pounds of food for hunger relief nonprofit Feed More. Upcoming shows include Dogstar, Robert Earl Keen and the legendary Buena Vista Orchestra.
2. Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront
3. Révéler
Best Live Music Venue in the Counties
8982 Quioccasin Road
Prime talent rather than a prime location is the magic for The Tin Pan, which continues to prosper in its West End strip mall location. “We focus on creating intimate, artist-driven experiences that meaningfully connect audiences with performers,” says co-owner Patrick Zampetti. Upcoming acts at the supper club venue include national artists Hot Tuna, Kathy Mattea and Rufus Wainwright.
2. After Hours Concerts at The Innsbrook Pavilion
3. Tie: The Beacon Theatre; Hanover Vegetable Farm
(Photo Courtesy Venture Richmond)
Best Concert Series
Brown’s Island
Despite being shut down for 2026 as Brown’s Island undergoes a massive makeover, Friday Cheers remains an audience favorite for its annual blend of visiting and area bands. “We are already booking shows for next year,” says Stephen Lecky, director of events for organizer Venture Richmond. “Friday Cheers will be the kickoff shows for the improved space, with permanent shade, splash pads for the kids and permanent bathrooms.”
2. Richmond Symphony
3. After Hours Concerts at The Innsbrook Pavilion
Best Music Festival
Downtown riverfront and Brown’s Island
Now in its 22nd year, the Richmond Folk Festival (coming Oct. 9-11) has become a city institution — a world-spanning event where bluegrass rubs shoulders with zydeco, Baltic dance, and Tuvan throat singers. The cultural celebration’s layout this year will be similar, if a bit compressed. “Brown’s Island won’t be finished,” says Venture Richmond’s Stephen Lecky, “but we’re really thrilled to give everyone a sneak peek.”
2. Iron Blossom Music Festival
3. Richmond Jazz and Music Festival
Best Nonmusic Festival or Event
The Carillon in Byrd Park
The long-running Arts in the Park festival, held annually in May, is an all-volunteer production of the Carillon Civic Association. “We upgraded the event this year,” says spokesperson Leora Copeland. “The signage and navigation are improved, and we set up two 30-by-30 tents where people can rest and regroup, conveniently distributed porta-potty placement, and added an online app.” The result: longer patron attendance and increased sales for the 350-plus exhibiting local artists.
2. Richmond Greek Festival
3. Dominion Energy Riverrock
(Photo Courtesy The Jefferson Hotel)
Best Hotel
101 W. Franklin St.
Since its opening in 1895, The Jefferson Hotel has offered guests — including 13 U.S. presidents, celebrities and, of course, the legendary lobby alligators — a unique slice of the Richmond experience. Jennifer Crisp, director of sales and communications, says the hotel’s “iconic public spaces, luxurious accommodations, memorable dining, and genuine, friendly service leave a lasting impression.”
2. Quirk Hotel
3. Graduate by Hilton Richmond
Best Travel Agent
4800 Cox Road, Suite 200, Glen Allen
With travel, one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why Covington Travel strives to bring excursion dreams to life through expertise and personal connections. Whether that means a sun-kissed vacation cruise or an international backpacking trip, Covington’s advisors work behind the scenes to elevate every experience. “Having a relationship with [clients] makes all the difference in being a trusted advisor,” says Director of Marketing Beverly McLean.
2. AAA
Photo courtesy Charlottesville Albemarle CVB
Best Day Trip Destination From Richmond
Charlottesville and Nearby Wineries
About an hour northwest of Richmond, Charlottesville blends leisure, recreation and natural scenery with easy accessibility. Visitors can explore the Monticello Wine Trail, featuring over 40 wineries, each demonstrating unique vinification styles amid beautiful vistas. Anna Whitlow, a spokesperson with the Charlottesville Albemarle Convention & Visitors Bureau, says additional opportunities abound as well, including dining downtown, shopping local, taking a hike and attending an outdoor concert.
2. Williamsburg
3. Washington, D.C.
(Photo Courtesy Visit Virginia Beach)
Best Summer Vacation Spot or Weekend Getaway Within Virginia
Virginia Beach
Boasting a lively oceanfront, miles of scenic nature trails and a bustling restaurant scene, Virginia Beach is a coastal hotspot. The area was named one of the “52 Places to Go in 2026” by The New York Times, citing attractions such as the inaugural Super Girl Surf Festival coming Sept. 5-7 and the recently opened, Pharrell Williams-backed Atlantic Park Surf wave pool venue.
2. Shenandoah Valley/ Blue Ridge Mountains
3. Cape Charles
Best Winter Vacation Spot or Weekend Getaway Within Virginia
39 Wintergreen Drive, Roseland
No ski experience? No problem. Wintergreen Resort has something for everybody — no skill or equipment required. Thrill seekers of all levels can hit the slopes or the tubing park, while those searching for a more relaxed pace can browse the mountain village’s shops, grab a bite, play year-round golf or hike to nearby waterfalls. “It truly speaks to all types,” says Director of Marketing Lori Zaloga.
2. Massanutten
3. The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa
EDITOR’S PICKS
Try Your Luck
The best places to find midway amusements
No carnival is complete without some fun and games, and there are several local sites where you can get your fill.
For a classic experience with rides, games of chance and shows, check out the Chesterfield County Fair, Aug. 28-Sept. 5, and the State Fair of Virginia at The Meadow Event Park in Doswell, Sept. 25-Oct. 4.
Basically an indoor amusement park minus the rides, The Park offers mini golf, duckpin bowling, virtual golf, pool tables and arcade games in the Diamond District. Speaking of arcade games, DraftCade at Short Pump Town Center features more than 75 cabinets including timeless titles such as Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, BurgerTime and Galaga. There’s also Skee-Ball, pinball, basketball hoops games and air hockey. BTM Movieland at Boulevard Square completed a massive renovation in 2025, adding the Playland Arcade inside the lobby with prize machines, video games and two lanes of duckpin bowling.
Part bowling alley, part entertainment venue, Uptown Alley in Midlothian has an arcade, billiards, virtual reality experience and live music. River City Roll near Scott’s Addition offers 20 bowling lanes and a regular concert lineup, and for an additional twist, players can try HyperBowling, which incorporates targets and bumpers to earn points. —Nicole Cohen
