Beyond Campus: A brief guide to exploring RVA

Molly Christianson, Contributing Writer

For many incoming freshmen, trying to figure out where to start in exploring outside of VCU’s campus can be a little daunting. Do not let the jitters of being somewhere new keep you hidden away in your dorm, though — there is so much more to Richmond than just campus!

With all the interesting places Richmond provides, it can be hard to find a starting point. Some places may seem too far away and not worth the extra long walk. However, some of the best coffee shops, bookstores and hangout places are tucked away. So let me help you out: here are four of my go-to places in RVA. 

Lamplighter Coffee is a cute cafe down West Cary Street. Lamplighter has moderately priced coffee and affordable bagels, so expect to spend around $10 for a meal. This is a go-to spot for freshmen, especially when you want to treat yourself to an experience outside the dining hall this semester. Anyone majoring in the arts will definitely fall in love with the atmosphere too, as they have gorgeous art on the walls that swap-out seasonally. There is also outdoor seating that makes for a perfect place to mingle, socialize and meet new people. 

Southern Rise Biscuits & Chicken is an amazing place to go for breakfast or a midday snack. Their pricing is pretty average, but the food is extraordinary. Southern Rise immediately comes to mind for breakfast when I have some extra time on my hands. The vibe inside is amazing — with a vibrantly decorated space and fun biscuit characters covering the walls. The staff is also kind and welcoming. This is a perfect option if you and your roommate are looking for somewhere new to go this fall!

When I want to escape the weather, Unplugged Games Cafe is one of my favorite hideaways. The cafe has over 1,400 board games and is only $8 per person, but can get pricey if you start ordering food. Unplugged is a little bit of a hike from campus but it is so worth it. Their games are easily explained and cleaned regularly. 

On nicer days, I love going to Pony Pastures, a nature site on a southern section of the James River. A lot of animals reside within the pasture grounds, making it an amazing escape from the bustle of the city. You can go kayaking, canoeing, hiking, running, biking, picnicking and even take a nap. It is the perfect place to let off steam or simply appreciate nature. 

I know the city can seem really overwhelming at first, however, there are many overlooked places where you can find a calmer space. Whether you end up going to one of the aforementioned locations or not, make sure to explore RVA while you can; there are so many hidden gems.