Richmond International Raceway could not be in a better spot. Richmond, Virginia is rich in culture and brimming with Southern charm. It’s a smaller place with a big city feel, meaning you’re guaranteed to find good food and lots of fun for the whole family nearly anywhere you go.
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Buz and Ned’s Real Barbecue
Richmond, Virginia
For honest to goodness Southern barbecue, head to Buz and Ned’s. If you don’t order a slab of ribs, you’re missing out! You’ll also love any one of their fabulous appetizers (the Cajun fried pickles are a real standout, though.) If you’re getting takeout (which is a great plan if you’re heading back to your RV after the race), grab an order of the cinnamon bourbon apples for an irresistible sweet treat. If you can believe it, though, the best part about this place isn’t their delectable food (although it is pretty incredible!). Their dedication to the community, and their active participation to help causes they care about, makes Buz and Ned’s stand out from the crowd. So stop in and support their efforts while you fill up on good barbecue!
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Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
Richmond, Virginia
Nothing is better than a cold one on a hot Indian summer day. Make your way over to Hardywood for some buzz-worthy beers. These craft brews are truly inspired creations. Get in the spirit of the season with their limited release Hardywood Farmhouse Pumpkin, a pleasantly spiced ale-style beer. Or, if you’d like something a little more traditional, both of their Flagship series beers, the pilsner and blonde ale, are to die for. If you plan your visit right, you might even catch some live bands while you’re there!
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Strange Matter
Richmond, Virginia
Strange Matter is a wonderfully wacky hangout spot. This place is host to some of the best musical performances in town, but that’s not all there is to Strange Matter! Their menu is packed with offerings for meat eaters and vegans alike. But perhaps the best part of all are the beloved, nostalgia-inducing arcade machines. Among their offerings are Ms. Pac Man, Galaga, and Space Invaders. This place should not be overlooked!
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Poe Museum
Richmond, Virginia
Looking for something to occupy some time this race weekend? “Nevermore,” quoth the raven. All Poe puns aside, the Edgar Allan Poe Museum is wonderful for learning about this famous American author. The museum boasts many of Poe’s original “manuscripts, letters, first editions, memorabilia and personal belongings.” If you’re interested in Richmond’s history, this is a wonderful place to start.
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The Tobacco Company Restaurant
Richmond, Virginia
Paying a nod to one of Richmond’s booming industry of yesteryear, the Tobacco Company Restaurant is located in what was once a tobacco warehouse. Does this make you think of a dingy, smokey, claustrophobic building? Think again. This place is much more high brow. The building is a sweeping three-story atrium, with gorgeous antique Victorian furnishings. With its swanky decor, gourmet dishes, and top notch service, this place takes the gold. What’s more is you can also find an upscale nightclub and dance floor in the building, so wear your best and put on your dancing shoes for a fun night on the town.
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Metzger Bar and Butchery
Richmond, Virginia
Metzger Bar and Butchery is an upscale German-inspired restaurant. You can’t go wrong with any of their mouth watering, authentic German main dishes, but a side of their spätzle is an absolute must-try. If you’re in the over-21 crowd, do yourself a favor and order the Ramos Gin Fizz as well. It’s a creamy drink with gin and just the right amount of citrus. The locals love this place, and so will you. This is certainly a unique place to experience with friends during the race weekend, so put it right on your to-do list!
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WPA Bakery
Richmond, Virginia
Donut Sundays are a local tradition you should definitely take part in. But that’s not all there is to this awesome bakery. They’ve got cakes, breads, cookies, pies, and more galore! They even have vegan and gluten-free options for those with limited diets. If you try a dessert at a local restaurant, chances are it’s from WPA too. Get up early before you head home from the races, and grab yourself a freshly baked sweet treat for the road!
Come cheer on Blake in the Virginia529 College Savings 250 race at Richmond International Raceway, and don’t forget to check out these awesome local businesses while you’re in the area!
What are your favorite places to visit around Richmond International Raceway? Let us know in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you!
