Richmond: Your Perfect Fall Destination

With perfect fall weather upon us, Richmond, VA is a city you need to add to your fall destination list. Served by three Amtrak routes –Northeast Regional, Carolinian, Silver Service/Palmetto—this Virginia city is ideal for outdoorsy fitness folk looking for a new adventure. We caught up with Liz Parent, a local Richmond blogger, to learn more about the healthier side of River City and fun things to do this fall in Richmond.

Amtrak: How long have you lived in Richmond and why do you love living there?
Liz: I’ve been here for about 4 1/2 years and I absolutely love it. It felt like home so quickly. The people are wonderful and there is so much to do here! Just this past weekend we went to the South of the James Farmers Market, a festival at the science museum, and Maymont, a huge park with plenty to see & do! I love that everything here is very affordable and easily accessible.

Richmond is an active city, what are some great outdoor or indoor things to do to stay fit?
I’d never been a runner but there is such an active running community here, I couldn’t help but start! I ran the Richmond half marathon here a couple years ago and loved it. There are also tons of great fitness studios here- everything from indoor cycling to outdoor bootcamps. I think I’ve tried them all!

What are some of your favorite healthy restaurants in Richmond?
The Daily Kitchen & Bar is definitely at the top of my list for a healthy restaurant. Between the quinoa salad and the cold-pressed juices, there are plenty of healthy options on the menu. Of course, I can’t resist the kombucha cocktails! There is also a great Cuban restaurant down the street, Kuba Kuba, that has an amazing avocado salad. I could eat that salad every single day and never get sick of it!

There are fun fall festivals in Richmond. Which do you recommend for an active visitor to the city?
The Richmond Folk Festival is a must! There are tons of great musical acts, delicious food trucks, and lots of great people watching. The weather here is great in the fall, so it’s the perfect excuse to spend the afternoon walking around. Of course, if you really want a workout, you could join one of the Sports Backers marathon training teams and get ready for the race in November! (It was even named America’s Friendliest Marathon!)

A healthy lifestyle is great, but we all indulge sometimes. Where is your favorite place to go on a cheat day? We’re talking dessert!
Bev’s ice cream is one of my favorite sweet spots. Their espresso Oreo ice cream is my favorite thing on the menu, but they also have great seasonal flavors. If it’s too early for ice cream (is it ever too early for ice cream?) then you could swing by Dixie Donuts which is just down the street. I  love Dixie Donuts so much, we had them instead of a traditional wedding cake at our wedding this past spring!

Did we miss any great spots or activities Richmond has to offer? Tell us about it the comment section.

 

 

Want to explore the beautiful River City? There is no better way than by train! Book two weeks in advance on Northeast Regional and save 25% off already low fares. All aboard!