Outside the Track- Richmond
As a resident of Virginia, I am super excited for the month of April. I call it race month because we have 2 race weekends in our state in April! With so many local dirt and pavement tracks across the state and also having 2 tracks on the national NASCAR circuit, Virginia is definitely for racing lovers.
First up in April is personally 1 of my favorite tracks- Richmond Raceway. Hear me out people, I know the racing there the past few years hasn’t been spectacular for the most part, but I believe the track has potential to put on great races again with some changes to the short track package. Being under a mile and with some banking, it can have the perfect mix of high speed close quarters racing.
If you find yourself with a little downtime this weekend, I have some suggestions for places to check out and restaurants in the area.
ATTRACTIONS
- Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Located less than 5 miles from the racetrack, VMFA is a comprehensive US art museum with more than 5,000 years of art from around the world. Their collection is not limited to paintings; they have sculptures, jewelry, pottery and life size art pieces. Open everyday, general admission is free but you do pay to park your vehicle. More info can be found here: https://vmfa.museum
- Maymont
A 100 acre American historic estate and park located along the James River near downtown Richmond that is open to the public. The grounds, gardens and outdoor wildlife are free to visit and you can bring your own food and drink on premises. There is a small fee to tour the Gilded Age Mansion or go into the Nature Center. If you go, make sure to let the kids check out the petting zoo!
- Topgolf
Located less than 4 miles from the track, this is the perfect activity after the Xfinity race Saturday afternoon. (I don’t claim to be a golfer- unless putt-putt counts, and even then my swing is terrible!) Topgolf is super fun and they have pretty good food so it’s a 2-for-1 here! Open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, play under the lights for a super cool experience. If it’s chilly- they will heat your bay for you! Make sure to order the Injectable Donut Holes, they are delicious.
RESTAURANTS
- PERLY’S
A Jewish restaurant and delicatessen located in downtown Richmond that serves breakfast and lunch. You might encounter a line out the door. Only open 9-3 Wednesday- Sunday
- The Continental
With 2 locations in Richmond, you can’t go wrong here. The menu has a variety of items to please any taste buds. They serve lunch and dinner during the week and open early on the weekends for brunch.
- Country Style Donuts
This is my post race snack location! They have 2 locations, but I always go to the location on Williamsburg Road near the airport. (It looks like a hole in the wall places, but you won’t be disappointed) They are closed on Mondays but are open every other day from early in the morning until midnight unless they sellout. They have apple fritters and cinnamon rolls the size of a plate! My personal favorites are their eclairs and cinnamon donuts.
If you are coming to the races this weekend, I hope you have a wonderful time. Right now the weather report is looking great! I’ll be at the track representing PPN as a media member. Looking forward to bringing you all great content on our social media platforms!
