What to Do, Eat & Explore This Week in the Greater Richmond Metro

The beloved outdoor concert series is in full swing for the summer. This Friday, head down to the James River riverfront for live music, food trucks, and that unbeatable skyline-and-riverside backdrop. It is one of those Richmond traditions that makes you proud to live here — bring a blanket, grab something from a food truck, and enjoy the kind of evening that reminds you why the River City is special.

One of the largest farmers markets in Virginia, and for good reason. Dozens of vendors fill Bryan Park with fresh produce, artisan breads, local honey, flowers, and prepared foods. Go early for the best selection — the good stuff goes fast. It is also a wonderful way to meet neighbors and get a real feel for Richmond's community spirit.

Richmond's only Sunday market, and it makes the most of it. City Stadium transforms into a colorful open-air marketplace with local produce, live music, and a dog-friendly vibe. Pair it with brunch at one of the Carytown restaurants nearby and you've got the perfect Sunday morning.

A beloved early-summer tradition just north of Richmond. The Strawberry Faire fills Ashland's charming walkable downtown with artisan vendors, strawberry treats, live entertainment, a kids' area, and a car show. It benefits Hanover County school scholarships, so you are supporting a great cause while having a blast. Ashland's main-street railroad-town character makes this more than a festival — it is a full small-town Virginia experience.

A standout addition to the Richmond dining scene, offering creative New American dishes in a stunning setting along the James River at Historic Tredegar. The riverside views alone are worth the trip, but the food — seasonal, locally sourced, and beautifully plated — keeps people coming back.

Modern dim sum in a sleek, welcoming setting. From hand-folded dumplings to crispy scallion pancakes, this spot has quickly become a go-to for Richmond food lovers. It is perfect for a family dinner or a weekend lunch with friends — the menu is meant for sharing, and everything arrives beautifully presented.

A thoughtful dining experience spotlighting indigenous ingredients and culinary traditions. Locally sourced, seasonally driven, and entirely unique to Richmond. This is the kind of restaurant that reminds you how exciting Virginia's food scene has become — each dish tells a story.

A James Beard-nominated, family-owned soul food institution in Richmond's historic Jackson Ward neighborhood. The fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens are legendary. This is comfort food done right, with decades of love in every plate. It has been a Richmond staple for years, and it is one of those places that makes you feel like family the moment you walk in.

The crown jewel of Richmond's outdoor scene. Over 550 acres of trails, rapids, and shoreline along the James River — right in the city. Summer is peak season for kayaking, tubing, and paddleboarding through the rapids. If you have not floated the James yet, this is the week to try it.

A 540-acre island in the James River accessible by footbridge. Explore historic ruins, boulder fields, river views, and miles of trails. It is one of the most unique urban parks in the country, and in June the tree canopy is at its lushest. Bring water and sunscreen — you will want to stay a while.

One of Virginia's largest state parks with over 8,000 acres of forests, lakes, and trails. Popular for camping, kayaking, swimming, and mountain biking. The Aquatic Center is a big hit with families in the summer months. It is about 20 minutes south of downtown Richmond and feels like a world away.

A peaceful 30-acre park with creekside trails, a playground, and paddle access along Tuckahoe Creek. Perfect for a morning walk or an afternoon with the kids when you want nature without the drive. It is a hidden gem that most Richmond residents do not even know about.

Fort Gregg-Adams (formerly Fort Lee) in Prince George County runs a full calendar of summer MWR events for military families — from outdoor movie nights and pool parties to family fun days and skills workshops. Check the Fort Gregg-Adams MWR website or ACS office for this week's schedule. If you just PCS'd to the area, MWR events are one of the easiest ways to meet other families and start building your community.

The USO of Hampton Roads offers ongoing programs for military families including care packages, transition assistance, family events, and connection resources. Whether you are new to the area or have been here a while, their events are a wonderful way to connect with other military families across the region.

The Virginia Warship Museum in Newport News (on the Peninsula) hosts military appreciation events throughout the summer, with free or discounted admission for active duty and veterans. It is a great family outing that also honors the service of our military community. Worth the drive across the bridge for a Saturday afternoon.

The Richmond area has several active veteran meetup groups that gather regularly for coffee, networking, and community service. Check with Fort Gregg-Adams ACS, the local VFW posts, or the Richmond chapter of Team Red White & Blue for this week's gatherings. As a Navy veteran's wife, I know how important it is to stay connected to the military community — these groups make it easy.