The Boulevard Inn is just steps away from the VMFA and VMHC. | Photo by RICtoday
We all need a staycation or a trip to a different city from time to time. Whether you’re a Richmonder feeling a little cooped up or a visitor looking for a special River City experience, here are 12 inns, hotels, and rentals that will set the stage for an unforgettable time.
The Boulevard Inn | The Fan This bed and breakfast can be found right on Arthur Ashe Boulevard. Enjoy the stylings of the colonial revival townhouse, plus easy access to the offerings of the Fan and the Museum District.
Sharp’s Island | James River Rent a canoe or take your boat to this private camping experience within city limits.
The Black Pine | Oregon Hill This eclectic home features Spanish tile, tons of artwork, and unique curiosities. We’re particularly entranced by the opulent living room and spacious outdoor area.
Camper Glamping | Byrd Park Enjoy a stay in a retro-themed Shasta camper blocks from the Fan.
Holiday Movie Night | Wednesday, Nov. 20-Wednesday, Dec. 18 | 7 p.m. | Starr Hill Beer Hall | Free entry | Sample the latest beer release and enjoy a screening of “Elf” at the brewery.
Thursday, Nov. 21
Christmas with C.S. Lewis | Thursday, Nov. 21-Sunday, Nov. 24 | 7:30 p.m. | Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center | $35+ | Gregory Williams Welsch stars in this holiday play about the author and theologian.
Friday, Nov. 22
Pocahontas Reframed Film Festival | Friday, Nov. 22-Sunday, Nov. 24 | 9 a.m.-9 p.m. | VMFA and VMHC | $25+ | Get tickets online to see a selection of films by and about Native people.
Made in RVA Holiday Shop | Friday, Nov. 22-Sunday, Dec. 29 | 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | Art Works | Free entry | Find the perfect gift for everyone on your list at this local artisan pop-up.
Tim Barry November Fest: Day 1 | 7 p.m. | The Camel | $20+ | The singer-songwriter will be joined by Roger Harvey and Lela Jane Barry on the first day of this three-day fest.
Saturday, Nov. 23
The Great RVA Bake Off | 12-2:30 p.m. | Tablespoons Bakery | $35 | Your favorite local celebs will team up with the bakery’s Cookie Crew to compete for the top prize.
Holiday Handbell Concert | 3:30-4:30 p.m. | Bon Air Presbyterian Church | Free | The James River Ringers will perform a program of holiday classics and carols.
Rosetta Stone’s lessons focus on real-world images and scenarios to help users learn faster + retain more. |Photo provided by Rosetta Stone
Whether you’re a travel bug planning your next trip, wanting to connect with another culture, or looking to learn something new, the holidays arethe perfect time to dive into a new language — or 25.
Gift yourself (or a friend) lifetime access to all of Rosetta Stone’s languages with their Lifetime Unlimited plan at Black Friday pricing. With one low payment, you can immerse yourself in engaging language lessons whenever you want, forever.
City leaders are calling for a third-party mediator to settle its dispute with VCU Health. The rift comes from a failed real estate deal to redevelop the former Public Safety Building. Council President Kristen Nye and Mayor Levar Stoney asked the health system to reply by Friday, Dec. 6. (Richmond Times-Dispatch)
Edu
Ground has been broken on a new elementary school in the western area of Chesterfield. The school doesn’t have a formal name yet, but is set to welcome 1,000 students in August 2026.
Civic
Henrico leaders delivered the 2024 State of the County address last week. The speeches addressed ongoing developments such as the replacement of Quioccasin Middle School, the construction of the Wilton Farm Living Building, and the redevelopment of Virginia Center Commons. Check out the highlights.
Development
Shamin Hotels has unveiled plans for the 12-story Hilton coming to Chesterfield’s ongoing Springline at District 60 development. The hotelier plans to break ground on the over $100 million project in mid-2025. (Richmond BizSense)
Theater
Virginia Opera’s production of “Carmen” comes to the Dominion Energy Center for two performances this weekend, Nov. 22 and 24. Get tickets for the Friday evening show or Sunday matinee. The opera will be sung in French with English surtitles.
Eat
Ugly Dumpling in Willow Lawn has pushed back its opening date. The New Jersey-based chain had planned to open today, but has since shifted to sometime in early 2025.
Number
43 million. That’s how many pounds Goodwill diverted from landfills in 2023 through its various recycling programs and sustainability efforts. Want to make a difference in your community this season? Donate at your local Goodwill.*
Travel
Experience family-friendly holiday fun at Kersey Valley Christmas in the Heart of NC. This affordable event series features light displays, Santa’s workshop and photos, a Grinch cave, reindeer games, jumping pillow, megaslide, and a roasty toasty village. See event FAQs + buy tickets.*
Home
Don’t risk a busted washer or drier in the middle of winter — get American Home Shield Home Warranty. For a limited time, they’re offering $150 off some of their most comprehensive plans.(Think: Peace of mind, for less.)Claim the discount. Read website disclaimer for important consumer information.*
Finance
When this card hit the market, it became the do-it-all card that took the top spot in thousands of peoples’ wallets. Perks include a significant first-year bonus, up to 5% cashback on everyday purchases, no annual fee, and 0% intro APR on purchases + balance transfers into 2026.*
Wellness
No more feeling wired and tired. Seven forms of magnesium in Magnesium Breakthrough help you unwind + sleep deeper. Get 25% off bundles — Black Friday sale ends today.*
Category
Seasonal
🎁 Holiday magic for two
Including comfy flannel and a book embosser. | Graphic by 6AM City
It’s always the ultimate question of the season — what are you going to gift your partner for the holidays? Shop great gift ideas, including local picks.
Local pick:Sunday Table Co. custom home illustration | $170+ | Pre-order a hand-drawn illustration of your first shared home. Bonus: If you don’t want to go custom, the shop has prints of iconic local spots — find your first date location for a similar vibe.
With friends and family visiting for the holidays, there’s no better time to break out the board + card games. Here are five for your next family game night:
🎲 Up to 20 players can participate in Herd Mentality for some udderly hilarious fun. 🎲 Ticket to Ride is a top-rated board game for 2-5 players ages 8+. 🎲 Everyone can put their poker face to the test in You Laugh You’re Out. 🎲 Ransom Notes is an easy-to-play game that will leave the entire family belly laughing. 🎲 Coup is a fast and fun bluffing game for 2-6 players ages 13+.
Don’t mind me, I’m just dreaming of staying at every unique spot on our guide. The treehouse is at the top of my bucket list.
Answered
Answered
We quizzed you on how many times you can recycle the same piece of cardboard.
Sorry, “Mean Girls” fans — the limit does exist. Around 17% of respondents were correct that the same piece of cardboard can be recycled up to seven times, according to CVWMA.
