The National in Richmond, VA

[MushyMushy]

I'm going to see a show at The National in Richmond and I've never been there before -- can anybody advise what to wear, how much drinks are, anything else to do in the area, etc? We'll be there for 2 days.

Looking forward to it!

 

[MushyMushy]

Anyone?

Bueller? Bueller?

 

[NeverlandClub23]

I go to Richmond often but couldn't tell you what the National even is so can't help you there. The Canal Walk is a beautiful walk if it's a nice day (and it's free). Lot's of good restaurants and shopping in Shockoe Bottom. There's a Civil War museum along the Canal Walk as well. There's a Farmer's/Flower Market on 17th Street:

Thursday Growers' Market 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Friday Red, White & Brew 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday Growers' Market 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Sunday Vintage & Growers' Market 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Come to the market for access to the freshest, best-tasting, and most nutritious produce, eggs, meats, cheeses, baked goods and other prepared foods as well as locally handmade crafts.

They have outdoor concerts along Canal Walk too as well as boat tours (but I think walking it is better). If you cross over the James River (there's a walking only bridge that does) to Brown Island you can walk around and watch people tube, swim, kayak, etc. Always packed during the warmer days.

 

[Promomx2]

You can call the hotel you're staying at and they should be able to answer any questions for you. I'm about 30 minuted outside richmond. There are plenty of hotels, restaurants and bars in that area. I don't go there but you should have no problem finding a place. One word to the wise, parking can be real tricking in that area so either google or double check with the hotel where parking is and the price for the National. Hope you enjoy your visit and ya'll come back now, you hear!

 

[kirstenb1]

I too, live outside the city. But the Virginia Museum is fabulous, Carytown is close by for shopping. There are also many quaint restaurants and bars in Carytown and the Fan. If you want to catch a ballgame, we have a double A team whose stadium is not far. We live way out in the country, so don't always get into town much!!

 

[MushyMushy]

Thanks guys! That Canal Walk sounds right up our alley, especially since it's my favorite 4-letter word -- FREE.

We ended up not being able to get a hotel right near the place because they're all sold out, so we're staying about 10 miles north of there along 95.

 

[OllieDannyandMe]

The Capital Ale House is nearby. Here is their website. It has a menu, so you can check out prices: http://capitalalehouse.com/

Also, if you are wanting something super casual, Buz and Ned's Real Barbecue is real good. It's been featured on the Food Network, where Buz slayed Bobby Flay. Here's the website: http://www.buzandneds.com/#/home/

If you are looking for quaint shops, a couple of great delis, and a beautiful old movie palace, check out Carytown: http://www.carytownrva.org/

Shockoe Bottom is another popular place: http://richmondonline.net/ShockoeBottomVirginia_dining.htm

Here's a good article on Richmond, in general. If you have any specific questions about anything from this article, just ask: http://www.seetheglobe.com/modules/news/article.php?storyid=1048

Welcome to Richmond!!!

 

[Joe in VA]

I go to the National fairly often. Beers are pretty cheap for a concert venue $4-5. They serve mixed drinks too for $6 or 7. They don't have typical concession stands. They have bartenders serving all the drinks.

Venue is an old movie theatre where the floor is standing room and there are seats in the balcony. It really is a great place to see a concert.

I'd recommend dinner at Gibson's Grill right beside the National if you can get there early enough. There is an awesome upscale country cuisine place near the National called Comfort. Amazing.

Which show are you going to see?

 

[MushyMushy]

Joe, we are going to see Elvis Costello. I looked at that Gibson's Grill and they have an early admittance to the show, so I think we'll go ahead there for dinner.

I'm seeing a lot of things we could do while we're there on Sunday -- it's enough that it's making me want to stay the whole week! I've been to other places in VA before, but never the Richmond area. It looks so nice. I'm really looking forward to going there now.