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City Guide
Meeting the warm weather halfway
Rainy and cloudy days don’t have to stop you from getting some fresh air. | Photo via Henrico County
This winter hasn’t been the easiest, so we’re leaning into the promise of warmer weather and sunnier days. In fact, we might see some warmer temperatures over the next couple of days. Now we just need the rain to give us a break.
To play it safe, we spotlighted some parks with picnic shelters and indoor facilities, along with plenty more to peruse.
Byrd Park, Richmond City
Bring your lunch and enjoy a waterfront view, but watch for the geese.
Cheswick Park, West End
Henrico’s oldest neighborhood park welcomes you to walk the trails, watch for wildlife, and explore multiple playgrounds and a fitness area.
Three Lakes Park, Northside
A newly renovated Nature Center features live exhibits, dioramas, and interactive displays about native plants and animals.
Deep Run Park, West End
Centered around a lake, this sprawling nature hub has forested trails, playgrounds, and picnic shelters throughout.
Fable is setting up shop. Not long ago, we learned a new coffee shop and florist hybrid would be opening in Church Hill (just around the corner from neighborhood newbie Brian’s Books). We stopped by to chat with the co-owners, and a March opening is on the vision board. Stay tuned.
Development
The City of Richmond seeks to reclaim a ~50,000-sqft plot in Southside and convert it into a mixed-use residential and business development. However, the city’s reclamation hinges on a former lease deal with Richmond Public Schools — one that “left scars on both sides.” (The Richmonder)
Announced
Hanover is scheduled to conduct a “balloon test” at a proposed data center site at Mountain Road Technology Park in Ashland. Three (literal) red and yellow balloons will be flown on-site to evaluate the potential visual impact of the development. (WRIC)
History
Do you know Richmond’s “Duchess of the Blues”? Singer Ethel Barnett-Johnson, or “Lady E,” began enchanting Richmond’s jazz scene in 1960. Read her story, and find out where you can see her perform today. (WRIC)
Civic
Virginia lawmakers have advanced two bills supporting a retail marijuana market in Virginia. Similar proposals have been vetoed in years past, but Governor Abigail Spanberger vows to sign off on the legislation. If she does, legalized marijuana sales could begin as early as November. (Virginia Mercury)
Outdoors
Got a green thumb? This one’s for you. The Old Farmer’s Almanac released its 2026 Last Frost Date Map, and it suggests Richmond gardeners should be set to plant around the usual time this year. Pro tip: Look for native greenery at these local plant shops.
Wellness
You don’t need to hit a breaking point to start therapy. If you’re replaying conversations or overthinking decisions, Octave Therapy can match you with a vetted, fully licensed therapist. Octave is in-network with many major plans + the average session cost is $28 out of pocket. Find your in-network therapist today.*
The Buy
Level up at-home workouts with five products that are actually worth the money:
To celebrate my anniversary week of writing for RICtoday, I’ve been dropping some of my local favorites. Here are a few more, with spring and warmer weather in mind:
Fave spring stroll: Hollywood Cemetery (in every season, but the magnolias in spring are unmatched)
Fave restaurant patio: Blue Atlas
Fave weekend activity: A river day with friends (Texas Beach, we need you now more than ever.)
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