Scenic paved trail through lush Virginia countryside on the Virginia Capital Trail near Varina

Local Guide

Things To Do Nearby

Restaurants, trails, parks, and local favorites in Varina and the greater Richmond area

Welcome to Varina

Your Neighborhood, Your Adventure

Living at 1343 Bartlett Rd means you're nestled in one of eastern Henrico's most established and welcoming communities — with an impressive amount to do right outside your door. Whether you're grabbing a craft beer at a nearby tap room, hitting the Virginia Capital Trail for a morning ride, or exploring Church Hill's restaurants and coffee shops, Varina puts you close to it all without the traffic and crowds of a more urban setting.

This guide covers the best local spots within easy reach of the property — from family-owned eateries and specialty coffee to parks, museums, and community events. It's the kind of list you'd send a friend who's considering a move to the area.

Events & Activities

What's Happening Nearby

From weekly farmers markets and kids' movie mornings to live music and community festivals, the Varina and eastern Henrico area stays busy all season. Here is what is happening this week and beyond. Last updated July 27, 2026.

Happening Now

Seasonal

Dorey Park Farmers Market

Saturdays · 9 AM – 12 PM · Through Oct 31

Local produce, baked goods, crafts, and the kids' POP Club — where children earn tokens to "shop" for fresh fruits and veggies. A Saturday morning tradition in Varina.

2999 Darbytown Rd, Henrico, VA 23231

Visit site
Ongoing

Cap Trail Summer Challenge

May 22 – Sep 7, 2026

Log your miles on the Virginia Capital Trail — walking, running, biking, or skating. A free, self-paced challenge to keep you moving all summer long.

Sign up
Arts & History

"We The People" Traveling Exhibition

July 6 – Aug 18, 2026

A traveling exhibition exploring immigrant narratives and the diverse stories that shape American identity. Part of the VA250 commemoration with stops across Henrico County libraries.

Learn more
$1 Admission

Kids Summer Movie Series

Wednesdays · 10 AM · Through Aug 19

Dollar movies every Wednesday morning at the Henrico Theatre. Upcoming titles include Lego Batman (Aug 5), The Super Mario Bros. Movie (Aug 12), and more.

Henrico Theatre, 305 E. Nine Mile Rd

Upcoming Events

29

Jul

Jesse Welles at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

An evening concert in the beautiful setting of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. Folksy, acoustic storytelling from one of the most compelling singer-songwriters on the road today.

"> Evening · Ticketed

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, 1800 Lakeside Ave, Richmond

Get tickets

30

Jul

Henrico Community Band Summer Concert

Free outdoor concert by the Henrico Community Band. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket and enjoy live music under the summer sky.

7:00 PM – 8:30 PM · Free

Walkerton Tavern, 2892 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen

31

Jul

Senior Summer Mixer at Belmont

An afternoon of music, refreshments, and socializing for seniors at the Belmont Recreation Center. A wonderful community gathering for older adults in eastern Henrico.

Afternoon · Free

Belmont Recreation Center, 1600 Hilliard Rd, Henrico

1

Aug

JamPacked: Craft Beer & Music Festival

A day-long festival at Kanawha Plaza featuring Oteil & Friends, Big Something, Neighbor, and more on two stages. Dozens of craft breweries, cideries, and distilleries pouring samples.

Afternoon · Ticketed

Kanawha Plaza, 8th & E Canal St, Richmond

Get tickets

1

Aug

Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival

An exciting day of dragon boat racing on the James River at Robious Landing Park. Teams compete in traditional 40-foot boats with drummers and paddlers. Free to spectate, with food vendors and family activities onshore.

All day · Free to spectate

Robious Landing Park, 3800 James River Rd, Midlothian

Learn more

2

Aug

Carytown Watermelon Festival

Virginia's largest single-day festival! Enjoy free watermelon slices, a watermelon-eating contest, live music on multiple stages, sidewalk sales, and food from dozens of Carytown restaurants and vendors.

10:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Free admission

Carytown, 3200 W Cary St, Richmond

Learn more

2

Aug

Guts, Gravel, Glory Bike Race

A challenging gravel bike race through the trails of Pocahontas State Park. Multiple distance options for different skill levels. Spectators welcome along the course.

Morning start · Registration required

Pocahontas State Park, 10301 State Park Rd, Chesterfield

Register

2

Aug

Churn It Up: Ice Cream & Butter Workshop

A hands-on family workshop where you'll learn how our ancestors made ice cream and butter — then create your own versions to sample using modern methods. A fun, educational outing for all ages.

2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

Belmont Recreation Center, 1600 Hilliard Rd, Henrico

7

Aug

Screen on the Green

A family-friendly outdoor movie night at Belmont Recreation Center showing "The Greatest Game Ever Played" starting at 6:00 PM. Bring blankets and chairs for a free evening under the stars.

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM · Free

Belmont Recreation Center, 1600 Hilliard Rd, Henrico

4

Aug

National Night Out

An annual community-building event with inflatables, train rides, sports, line dancing, and more. A great chance to meet neighbors and local first responders.

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM · Free

Eastern Henrico Recreation Center, 1440 N. Laburnum Ave

8

Aug

Peach Festival at Market-Miller Orchards

Fresh-picked peaches, homemade peach ice cream, baked goods, and family farm fun at one of the region's oldest orchards. Pick your own or buy by the bushel.

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Free admission

Market-Miller Orchards, 14509 Market Miller Dr, Chesterfield

Visit site

8

Aug

Richmond Jazz and Music Festival

A two-day festival at Maymont Park headlined by Erykah Badu, with Lloyd, Leon Thomas, Johnny Gill, Samara Joy, Free Nationals, Lupe Fiasco, Talib Kweli, Doug E. Fresh, and more. Multiple stages, food vendors, and VIP options.

Gates 12:00 PM · Two-day pass available

Maymont Park, 1701 Hampton St, Richmond

Get tickets

8

Aug

Richmond Night Market

A vibrant outdoor night market in historic Shockoe Bottom featuring artisan vendors, international food stalls, live performances, and local crafts. The August edition of this monthly tradition. Free admission.

5:00 PM – 9:00 PM · Free

17th Street Market, 100 N 17th St, Richmond

Learn more

9

Aug

Back to School Bash at Belmont

A back-to-school celebration at Belmont Recreation Center with games, activities, music, and community fun. A great way to wind down the summer break and get the kids excited for the new school year.

4:00 PM – 6:00 PM · Free

Belmont Recreation Center, 1600 Hilliard Rd, Henrico

12

Aug

On the Air Radio Players Summer Show

Live old-time radio theatre performed on stage at the Henrico Theatre. Original comedy and drama pieces with vintage sound effects — entertaining for all ages.

Evening · Ticketed

Henrico Theatre, 305 E. Nine Mile Rd, Highland Springs

14

Aug

Neon Night Dance Party

Glow-in-the-dark fun with music, dancing, and activities. A family-friendly evening event at the Eastern Henrico Recreation Center.

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM · Free

Eastern Henrico Recreation Center, 1440 N. Laburnum Ave

15

Aug

Back-to-School Kickoff

A county-wide back-to-school event at the Henrico Sports & Events Center with school supply giveaways, health screenings, activity stations, and information booths. Get ready for the new school year with free resources for families.

10:00 AM – 2:00 PM · Free

Henrico Sports & Events Center, 11000 Telegraph Rd, Glen Allen

Learn more

20

Aug

Paws and Protectors

A family-friendly community event at Deep Run Park featuring local police and first responders, K-9 demonstrations, and opportunities to meet the people who keep eastern Henrico safe. Bring the whole family.

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM · Free

Deep Run Park, 9900 Ridgefield Pkwy, Henrico

Learn more

21

Aug

Henrico Live: Henry Harris Big Band

Classic big band jazz from one of Richmond's finest ensembles. The final show in the Henrico Live summer series.

Evening · $10 tickets

Henrico Theatre, 305 E. Nine Mile Rd, Highland Springs

22

Aug

Master Gardener Talk: Pollinators

Learn how to attract and support pollinator species in your yard. Free community talk by the Henrico Master Gardeners. Handouts and Q&A included.

11:00 AM · Free

Fairfield Library, 1401 N Laburnum Ave, Henrico

Learn more

22

Aug

Richmond Water Lantern Festival

Thousands of floating lanterns, food trucks, music, and activities at Dorey Park. Tickets start at ~$30 and include a lantern and festival kit.

Starts at 5:30 PM

Dorey Park, 2999 Darbytown Rd, Henrico

Get tickets

26

Aug

Master Gardener Talk: Iron Clad

A practical talk on growing iron-clad plants that thrive in central Virginia's climate. Free community program from the Henrico Master Gardeners.

2:00 PM · Free

Gayton Library, 10600 Gayton Rd, Henrico

Learn more

27

Aug

Henrico Community Band Summer Concert

The final summer concert of the series. Free outdoor performance — bring a blanket and enjoy the music.

7:00 PM – 8:30 PM · Free

Walkerton Tavern, 2892 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen

29

Aug

Collect-A-Con Richmond

Virginia's premier pop culture, trading card, and collectibles convention at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Browse thousands of vendors, meet artists, and find rare collectibles. A fun outing for collectors and families alike.

Aug 29-30 · Ticketed

Greater Richmond Convention Center, 403 N 3rd St, Richmond

Get tickets

Looking Ahead: Fall 2026

19

Sep

Glen Allen Day 2026

The 30th Annual Glen Allen Day celebration at Meadow Farm at Crump Park. A parade kicks off at 9:30 AM along Mountain Road, followed by a festival with 100+ vendors, food trucks, live bands, stage entertainment, and family activities. A beloved Henrico tradition.

9:30 AM parade · Festival 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM · Free

Meadow Farm at Crump Park, 3400 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen

Learn more

23

Sep

Jonathan Turley Author Event

An evening with renowned legal scholar and author Jonathan Turley, presented by The Virginia Forum. A compelling discussion on constitutional law and American history at a Henrico County venue.

Evening · Ticketed

Henrico County, VA

Learn more

9

Oct

Richmond Folk Festival

One of the region's premier free events, bringing together traditional music, dance, and crafts from around the world. Multiple stages along the downtown Richmond riverfront, with food vendors, craft demonstrations, and activities for all ages. Runs Oct 9–11.

Oct 9–11 · Free admission

Downtown Richmond riverfront, Brown's Island & adjacent areas

Learn more

24

Oct

Plant Native! Festival

A celebration of native plants at Dorey Park hosted by Keep Henrico Beautiful and Plant RVA Natives. Browse native plant vendors, educational booths, kids' activities, and free plant vouchers. A great event for homeowners and gardeners right in Varina.

9:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Free

Dorey Park, 2999 Darbytown Rd, Henrico

Learn more

25

Oct

Dorey Park Farmers Market Fall Festival

The final market day of the season becomes a full fall celebration with pumpkin picking, hayrides, homemade goods, and seasonal treats from the market's 50+ vendors. A fun way to close out the 2026 market season right in Varina.

9:00 AM – 12:00 PM · Free admission

Dorey Park, 2999 Darbytown Rd, Henrico

Learn more

--

Oct/Nov

Maymont's Garden Glow

An enchanting evening experience as Maymont's formal gardens are illuminated with thousands of lights. A family-friendly seasonal tradition in Richmond with illuminated pathways, seasonal music, and warm refreshments.

Mid-October through early November · Ticketed

Maymont, 1701 Hampton St, Richmond

Get tickets

8
9
10

Dec

Henrico Holiday Express Tour

Santa Claus travels through Henrico neighborhoods aboard decorated Rec and Parks, Police, Fire, DPU, and Library vehicles. Three nights of holiday cheer as the Holiday Express visits different parts of the county – a magical experience for kids and families.

December 8, 9, and 10 · Free

Various Henrico County neighborhoods

Learn more

Event details sourced from henrico.gov, doreyparkfarmersmarket.org, virginiacapitaltrail.org, waterlanternfestival.com, the Richmond Folk Festival, henricomg.org, marketmillerorchard.com, richmondjazzandmusicfestival.com, jampackedrva.com, the Richmond Night Market, eventbrite.com, the National, lewisginter.org, glenallenruritan.com, maymont.org, and event organizers. Dates and times may change.

Outdoor Recreation

The Virginia Capital Trail

One of the best things about living in Varina is having direct access to the Virginia Capital Trail — a 52-mile paved, multi-use path connecting Richmond to Williamsburg. It's open to pedestrians, cyclists, runners, and inline skaters year-round, completely free. The Varina section is quieter and more scenic than the urban Richmond end, with wooded stretches, historic sites, and river views.

Four Mile Creek Trailhead

Mile ~40

A primary access point in Varina with parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. Connects directly to Four Mile Creek Park with a canoe launch on the creek.

Dorey Park Trailhead

Park Phase

Henrico's largest park (400+ acres) with the trail's Park Phase — a 3.5-mile horseshoe connecting disc golf, dog park, fishing lake, and sports fields.

New Market Heights

Near Mile 40

A Civil War battleground site along the trail between the two Varina-area trailheads, offering a glimpse into the area's deep history.

Deep Bottom Park

East End

A riverfront park with a boat ramp on the James River. A proposed 3.2-mile connector trail will link it to Four Mile Creek Park.

Good to know: The trail is dedicated exclusively to non-motorized use, with an 8–10 foot wide paved surface and a vegetation barrier from Route 5. The Varina section opened in 2015 and features the Park Phase — a 3.5-mile horseshoe connecting Dorey Park to the main trail. Start at Four Mile Creek or Dorey Park for the best Varina-area access.

Restaurants

Where to Eat

The dining scene near Varina ranges from down-home BBQ and family-style Italian to creative farm-to-table and French bistro fare. These are local favorites worth knowing about.

Farm-to-Table · Restaurant & Market

Blue Atlas Restaurant and Market

A neighborhood favorite on Carlisle Avenue offering seasonal, locally sourced dishes alongside a curated market of specialty goods.

1000 Carlisle Ave, Richmond, VA 23231

BBQ

Backwoodz BBQ Restaurant

Smoky, slow-cooked barbecue in Sandston with generous portions and a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Try the brisket and hushpuppies.

400 W Williamsburg Rd, Sandston, VA 23150

German-Inspired American

Metzger Bar and Butchery

A Church Hill staple with house-cured meats, craft cocktails, and a warm bistro atmosphere. Popular for weekend brunch.

801 N 23rd St, Richmond, VA 23223

Burgers · Smash Burgers

Cobra Burger

Juicy smash burgers, crispy fries, and creative milkshakes in a laid-back setting. A go-to for a quick, satisfying meal.

400 N 27th St, Richmond, VA 23223

French Bistro

Grisette

An intimate French bistro on East Marshall Street serving classic bistro fare, natural wines, and weekend prix fixe menus.

3119 E Marshall St, Richmond, VA 23223

Italian

Carini Italian Restaurant

Family-style Italian dining on Williamsburg Road with hearty pastas, pizza, and a loyal local following. Great for weeknight dinners.

3718 Williamsburg Rd, Richmond, VA 23231

American · Pub

Patrick Henry's Pub & Grille

A friendly neighborhood pub on East Broad Street with burgers, wings, and a solid draft beer list. A good spot to catch a game.

2300 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23223

Pizza

Pie314 RVA

Handcrafted pizzas with creative toppings in Church Hill. Thin crust, fresh ingredients, and a fun local vibe.

423 N 18th St, Richmond, VA 23223

Waterfront · Seafood & Pizza

The Lilly Pad

Richmond's only waterfront bar and restaurant on the James River. Enjoy brick-oven pizzas, fresh seafood, burgers, and weekly specials like Taco Tuesday — all on a sunny outdoor patio with live music. A true local gem just minutes from Varina.

9680 Osborne Turnpike, Henrico, VA 23231

Attractions & Events

Explore the Area

From museums and riverfront dining to farmers markets and electric bike tours, there's always something happening in and around Varina.

Museum · History

American Civil War Museum – Historic Tredegar

Located along the James River at the historic Tredegar Ironworks, this museum explores the Civil War from Union, Confederate, and African American perspectives. A short drive from Varina.

480 Tredegar St, Richmond, VA 23219

Museum · Literary

The Poe Museum

Housed in the oldest standing building in Richmond's Shockoe Bottom, this museum celebrates the life and legacy of Edgar Allan Poe, who lived and worked in the area.

1914 E Main St, Richmond, VA 23223

Museum · History

Virginia Holocaust Museum

A powerful, moving museum in the historic tobacco district documenting the Holocaust through personal stories, artifacts, and survivor testimonies.

200 E Cary St, Richmond, VA 23219

Bike Rentals · Tours

Kul Wheels – Electric Bike Tours

Electric bike rentals and guided tours along the Virginia Capital Trail and through Varina. A fun way to explore the area on two wheels.

Varina Area, Henrico, VA

Farmers Market · Seasonal

Dorey Park Farmers Market

Saturday mornings from June through October, this community market features local produce, baked goods, and crafts. The POP Club lets kids "shop" with tokens for fresh fruits and veggies.

2999 Darbytown Rd, Henrico, VA 23231

Riverfront · Dining & Retail

Rocketts Landing

A riverfront mixed-use community along the James with restaurants like The Boathouse and Urban Farmhouse, plus kayak launches and scenic riverwalk access.

4708 E Main St, Richmond, VA 23231

Life in Varina

A Day in the Neighborhood

Morning

Start your day with a walk or bike ride on the Capital Trail from the Four Mile Creek trailhead, then grab a pour-over at Ironclad Coffee on the way back.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at Dorey Park — disc golf, fishing at the lake, or the kids' spray park. On Saturdays, browse the farmers market for local produce and baked goods.

Evening

Head to Stone Brewing's taproom for a flight on the patio, or drive 15 minutes to Church Hill for dinner at Metzger Bar and Butchery followed by dessert at Pie314.

Ready to Call Varina Home?

Shannon knows these neighborhoods inside and out. She's moved around the Richmond and Hampton Roads areas and can help you find the right home in the right spot.