We love cozying up with a book at home, but sometimes you need a change of scenery. We asked our readers to share their favorite Richmond reading nooks, from rocky riverside spots to local cafés, libraries, and pools. Now, if everyone could please turn to page one:
Our readers’ picks
Outdoors
The Valentine, 1015 E. Clay St. | via Evelyn W.
Specifically, “the lovely walled garden behind the museum, in the shade of old magnolias.”
VMFA, 200 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd. | via Stacey E., Kate B. + Justin K.
Three readers suggested posting up with a read at the VMFA — all three recommended the gardens + one added in the café patio.
Hollywood Cemetery, 412 S. Cherry St. | via Vicki W.
“There is a bench under a shade tree at the far end of Hollywood Cemetery. Quiet.”
Lewis Ginter, 1800 Lakeside Ave | via Karen S.
Admission usually costs $20, and it’s well worth it for a lush, immersive reading day.
Maymont, 1700 Hampton St. | via Liz M.
This RIC reader specifically recommends scoping out a gazebo spot — and we’re in full support of the extra shade.
Pony Pasture, 7300 Riverside Dr. | via Anonymous
Bring a lawn chair and park yourself on the bank, or wear some shorts + sandals and wade our to a flat rock.
Bonus: Reader Luke L. opts to take his summer read to a local pool. Can’t go wrong. If you want to take it to the next level, consider renting a private pool for your next book club.
Indoors
Richmond Main Library, 101 E. Franklin St. | via McFleebus J.
The library feels so grand from the outside — and it is — but we can assure you that you can find a cozy reading nook inside.
Abi’s Books and Brews, 1212 1/2 W. Cary St. | via Heather E.
A bookstore is always an easy go-to, plus Abi’s sells coffee to fuel your page turns.
Glen Allen Branch Library, 10501 Staples Mill Rd. | via Liz M.
The great thing is, if you finish your book, there’s plenty of new reads to turn to.
Grit Coffee, 1621 Roseneath Rd.| via Justin K.
Most importantly, “especially when the barista is playing electronica.”
Jardin Wine Bar, 1520 W Main St. | via Terry C.
Find a seat on the patio, order yourself a glass of wine, and immerse yourself in a new story.
Editor Elise’s picks
Outdoors
Jefferson Park | E. Marshall St.
There’s plenty of tree shade, and since the park is positioned up on a hill, you can enjoy a generous breeze with a skyline view of the city.
Brown’s Island, Bottom of 12th St. (on the James River)
When I lived in Shockoe, I would always walk to Brown’s Island with a blanket and book in tow — just be sure to bring sunscreen in the summer.
Indoors
Varina Area Library, 1875 New Market Rd.
It’s quiet, woodsy, and intriguingly designed. Plus, this library is open until 9 p.m. (rather than 6 p.m.) Monday through Thursday.
Pro tip: I especially suggest visiting on a rainy day.
Lamplighter Coffee Roasters, 116 S. Addison St.
Not only do I love the coffee and food, but there are plenty of tables inside, outside, and on the screened-in patio.
Tarrant’s Downtown, 1 W. Broad St.
I highly suggest taking a moody detective story or a sullen romance to this bar and café, as long as you’re okay with a little dim lighting.
Share your spot
We’ve barely scratched the surface of Richmond’s little reading paradises. Are you frequenting a local bar to read The wise old tree in your neighborhood park? Share your RVA reading nook. Bonus points if you can include a photo.
