Go Shop View archives

• Vinyl Conflict

  Some people might think that vinyls are passé, but not so at this shop. An audiophile's dream, this place has a wide selection of records, ranging from old school hip-hop to metal. If you look closely, you'll spot a few cassette tapes too. (9/2011)

  324 S Pine St
  804-644-2555
  vinylconflict.com
  

• Fab'rik

  Flirty sleeveless print dresses, wedges and flowy tops are the highlights of this women's boutique, catering to the chic but frugal crowd. Apart from jeans, everything can be had for less than $100, making it all too easy to shop ’til you drop. (9/2011)

  3018 W Cary St
  804-254-2741
  shopfabrikboutique.com
  

• SHEPPARD STREET ANTIQUES

  This shop has been around almost as long as Sheppard Street itself. Stop in to peruse the beautiful tables, trunks and chandeliers, then get real and choose antique dinnerware or a necklace to pack safely away in your carry-on. (9/2011)

  103 S Sheppard St
  804-355-7454
  www.sheppar...ntiques.com
  

 

Go See View archives

• James River Park

  The premier spot for outdoor fun, this riverside park offers the perfect place for hiking, tubing, swimming, fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking and rock climbing. Call in advance to arrange a threehour guided tour that covers Richmond's natural history. (9/2011)

  4300 Riverside Dr
  804-644-3900
  jamesriverpark.org
  

• Virginia Capitol Building Tour

  See state government in action during a tour of the country's third-oldest capitol building (around since 1785). Containing works from the Virginia Convention of 1861 and the Civil War, the recently restored capitol is currently being considered for US World Heritage site status. (9/2011)

  910 Capitol St
  804-698-1788
  virginiacapitol.gov
  

• Groovin in the Gardens

  Unwind to some sweet tunes surrounded by a million blooming flowers when Richmond's only botanical garden kicks off its summer outdoor concert series. This month, catch Donna the Buffalo (May 12) and Nanci Griffith (May 26). Thursdays through the end of June. (9/2011)

  At Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens 1800 Lakeside Ave
  804-262-9887
  groovininthegarden.net
  

 

Go Eat View archives

• Mama J's

  It's not the fanciest joint in town, but it's the one where everyone probably knows your name. At this family-run meat and potatoes place, home cooked catfish, barbecue ribs and country fried steak steal the spotlight. $$ (9/2011)

  415 N First St
  804-225-7449
  mamajskitchen.com
  

• CAFÉ OLE

  Sure, there’s nothing fancy about this locally esteemed Mexican eatery—but the food is cheap, fast and made with super-fresh ingredients. What's not to love? $ (9/2011)

  2 N Sixth St
  804-225-8226

• Secco Wine Bar

  This spot attracts those who are equally discerning about their wine and their eats. If you're having trouble choosing from the tapasstyle menu, the ancho- and cinammon-cured duck confit and gorgonzola-stuffed fried olives are always winners. $$$ (9/2011)

  2933 W Cary St
  804-353-0670
  seccowinebar.com
  

 

Go Party View archives

• Hat Factory

  This former hat factory-turnednightclub switches between hosting concerts and themed dance nights for the 18 and over crowd. Fridays are country-western nights, so bring your cowboy boots and queue up for the mechanical bull. (9/2011)

  140 Virginia St
  804-788-4281
  hatfactoryva.com
  

• Commercial Taphouse

  This no-frills joint is known for two things: a great beer selection and knowledgeable staff. Craft, microbrews and cask ales abound as does a laidback atmosphere and patrons who can talk about beer for days. (9/2011)

  111 N Robinson St
  804-359-6544

• Xtra's Cafe

  Take a seat on the patio overlooking Richmond's premier shopping district and get lost in a tipple or two. Tuesdays welcome oenophiles with half-off wine night, and bottles of bubbly are a mere $10 on Wednesdays. (9/2011)

  3322-B W Cary St
  804-355-0446
  xtrascafe.com