After moving to Richmond, Virginia in the middle of a pandemic it’s taken a bit of time to find my favorite local spots! I’ve had so much fun checking off my local bucket list with my significant other this year, and continue to be amazing by all Richmond has to offer! In honor of Valentines day, I’m so excited to share my dream week of Richmond date night ideas, filled with local restaurants, breweries, and inspiration for an adventure with your partner or night out with your besties!

For all of my wedding couples, just remember your engagement session is the perfect excuse to get dressed up and make it a date night! Getting your photos taken is likely a brand new experience! Having a special occasion to look forward to, such as drinks at your favorite brewery or a cozy dinner waiting, can take the pressure off of your first time in front of the camera!

Okay, now onto one full week of Richmond Date Night Ideas. Read though the best happy hours, dinner specials, and free activities around town!

Monday: Start the week slow with takeout favorites 

Grab a picnic lunch or dinner from Garnetts with their awesome specials which include: $3 glasses of wine or pints of beer from 4-6 PM. $33 Date Night Any 2 menu items & a bottle of wine or pitcher of beer any night after 6 PM.

If takeout is more your style, try any of these delicious favorites:

  • Chinese Flare from Fat Dragon, they’ve got an awesome extended happy hour on drinks and apps!
  • Cozy Italian from Angelas (Tuckahoe), Little Angelas (Staples Mill). Who doesn’t love large portions of pasta!
  • Pizza, drinks and game night from PBR.
  • BBQ from Oak and Apple, ZZQ, or Buzz & Neds

Tuesday: RVA’s most popular night for trivia

  • Test your trivia at Buddys Place! Fun fact this was one of my first dates with my boyfriend, and continues to be a tradition in our relationship! We love the local dive bar feeling, be sure to arrive early or call ahead for table reservation on trivia night as this spot tends to be POPULAR!
  • Perfect in person or to-go, grab Cabo Fish Taco, in Scotts Addition for their Tuesday signature taco specials. Oh my goodness you’ve gotta try the soy ginger shrimp tacos!
  • For a variety of drinks that suit everyones taste plus nostolgic 90’s games, be sure to check out The Answer Brewpub. Their selections of brews, wines, ciders, and meads are perfect for a sampling flight. Plus you can even order authentic Vietnamese cuisine brought to your table from Mekong next door!

 

Wednesday: Mid-week Unique experiences

  • Hotel green has a quirky and unique indoor bowling experience. Plus happy hour and dinner specials for couples throughout the week.
  • Get your adrenaline and competition flowing with go-cart racing at K-1 Speed. 
  • Looking for a free activity exploring the outdoors, check out Belle Island or Browns Island with suspended bridges, views of the city and the perfect sounds of nature
  • For a winter date night, view the twinkling lights at Lewis Ginter Botanical garden for their Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights from Late November-January.

Thursday: Historic staples in Shockoe Bottom  

  • Transport back to the 20’s at Grand Staff and Stein hidden speakeasy. Delicious happy hour from 5-7 nightly. We loved this as a double date options with friends!
  • Hop across the street to Bryant’s Cider & Brewery, they have tons of new and unique flavors brewing!
  • Grab a filling slice of pizza from Bottoms Up 

Friday: Activities with Friends

  • VMFA is always the perfect for a sunset picnic, glass of wine and live music during friday cheers. Explore the beautiful art gallery grounds with a group of friends or your partner!
  • End the week with a Show! Check out a comedy show at the Sandman or concert at The National, Camel Club, The Broadberry, or Altria theater

Saturday: Explore Shockoe Bottom by Bike for brewery hopping 

  • Cruise along the the canal walk with views of the river and photo ops of the colorful murals
  • Richbrau for local beer right along Main Street.
  • Stone Brewery, this east coast hub for the popular California beer is a hidden oasis in the city with rotating new selections and traditional favorites.
  • Triple Crossing, you’ve gotta try the hot honey pizza.
  • Belle Island Moonshine, with free tasting daily, I promise you’ll find your new favorite cocktail mixer.
  • Dinner at Shrimp island co overlooking the river sunset, with Hawaiian flavors and tropical aesthetic.

Sunday: Try a new hobby together!

  • Pickleball double date with friends. Try out Americans fastest growing sport at any of these free locations, Pole green, Pouncy tract, Bill Robinson Park, Rockwood park. There is even a new pickle ball and bar combo coming to Richmond this spring, Bangers and Dinks, and I personally can’t wait!

I love the diverse activities, restaurants, communities, and beautiful scenery that Richmond has to offer. I had the best time compiling this list, and can’t wait to revisit these favorites throughout the year. I’m sure I’ll be coming back for round two of Richmond date night recommendations. If you have any favorites that didnt make the cut, be sure to follow along on social media and send me a message for where I should try next! Let’s connect on Instagram HERE!

Richmond Date Night Ideas | Inspiration from a Virginia Wedding Photographer

Feb 14, 2023

hey friends!

I'm Heather, a Wedding & Brand Photographer serving Central Virginia & Beyond! I love sharing beautiful love stories, inspiring wedding details, and practical tips for a stress free wedding!

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