Richmond has no shortage of outdoor offerings. Belle Isle, Pony Pasture and Libby Hill Park are often at the top of the list when it comes to RVA’s best outdoor spaces; however, over the last few years, my family and I have discovered several, lesser known, yet outstanding parks in Richmond and just beyond.
Five Hidden Gems Around RVA
City Point Park & Hopewell Riverwalk:
Be sure to check out the Riverwalk at Hopewell’s City Point Park. (Photo credit: Lindsay Garrison)
About 30 minutes south of Richmond, this stunning park boasts a nature themed playground, sandy beach and the gorgeous Hopewell Riverwalk, a 1700 foot long boardwalk offering views of the Appomattox River. It is rare to find so much variety in one place, making this park one of our all time favorites.
Jefferson Hill Park:
Jefferson Hill Park offers views of RVA’s skyline. (Photo credit: Lindsay Garrison)
Offering one of the best views of Richmond’s skyline, we often visit this park after walking The T. Tyler Potterfield Bridge.
Jefferson Hill Park has exercise equipment for adults as well as a train themed playground. Walking the steps up to the playground guarantees a nap for even the most active little ones!
Mid-Lothian Mines Park:
Midlothian Mines has paved trails. (Photo Credit: Lindsay Garrison)
Located in Chesterfield County, Mid-Lothian Mines Park has a unique coal mining and train history told through five exhibits throughout the park.
In addition to the historical significance of the park, our family loves walking through the park; climbing the off-chutes, rolling down hills, wading in the creeks and feeding the ducks.
Powhatan Hill Park:
Another venue for a spectacular view of the city can be found here at Powhatan Hill Park.
Powhatan Hill Park boasts beautiful views of Richmond’s skyline. (Photo credit: Lindsay Garrison)
This playground has a feature we had never seen: a seated zipline! The park also includes hopscotch on the blacktop, tennis and basketball courts.
Poor Farm Park:
Located in Hanover County, Poor Farm Park is a favorite for creek play!
Poor Farm Park in Hanover has a playground, trails and creeks! (Photo Credit: Lindsay Garrison)
My kids love not only splashing in the creek, but the inclusive playgrounds, bike and hiking trails and overall cleanliness of the park.
As summer approaches, be sure to take advantage of these five parks! Between the views and varied offerings, each one has something unique to offer!
–By Lindsay Garrison
Lindsay Garrison, your RVA on the Cheap editor
Lindsay Garrison loves Richmond and is proud to raise her own family here. As a teacher for 12 years, she learned how to save, budget and stretch every penny. Additionally, she led groups of students to Europe annually, and took great pride in planning affordable, fun-filled trips. She transferred those skills to her daily life and shares them with readers of RVA on the Cheap. Lindsay utilizes RVA on the Cheap to make enriching life experiences accessible to all. Check her instagram: rva.familyfun for more affordable family adventures!
Be sure to subscribe to email updates, follow @rvacheap on Twitter or like RVA (Richmond) on the Cheap on Facebook to stay in the know about the latest freebies & deals.
RVA on the Cheap is a member of