School is out and summer is here! What better time for you, your family, or your fur babies to explore, have fun, and create lasting memories. Whether you are new to the area, thinking about moving here, or lived here your whole life, Richmond and its surrounding counties offer plenty of activities that cater to all ages and interests. Your Mike Chenault Group agents at Hometown Realty have put together a list of some of our favorite activities and events by county in the area. Check out our list and we hope to see you at one this summer.
Hanover County
Hanover Tomato Festival – Celebrating Hanover’s famous tomatoes, this festival features live music, food vendors, craft booths, and children’s activities. It’s a local favorite! Come join the fun – Friday, July 12th and Saturday July 13th at Pole Green Park! hanovertomatofestival.com
Kings Dominion – How can you go wrong at the area’s premier amusement park? Jump on a roller coaster or make a splash at the water park, Soak City. Open Daily. kingsdominion.com
Hanover Vegetable Farm – Looking for something a little more laid back? Hanover Vegetable Farm is a working farm that hosts seasonal events, including summer wine and music festivals, pick-your-own fresh produce, and special family-oriented activities, including the Sunflower Festival. There is also a children’s playground and petting zoo. hanovervegetablefarm.com
Henrico County
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden – One of the top botanical gardens in the country, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden offers beautiful themed gardens, a conservatory, and a children’s garden with a treehouse and water play area. Don’t leave without checking out the butterfly exhibit. Open Daily. lewisginter.org
Three Lakes Park and Nature Center – This park features three lakes, a nature center, and hiking trails. The nature center is currently closed but when it reopens, it will have fully renovated aquariums and interactive exhibits that showcase local wildlife. Spend the day hiking, fishing, picnicking, or attending an educational program for children. Open Daily. henrico.us/rec/places/three-lakes/
Henrico Summer Series – Check out the Henrico County Parks and Rec website for free outdoor concerts and movies held in various parks throughout the county. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an evening under the stars with live music and family-friendly films. henrico.us/rec
Chesterfield County
Pocahontas State Park – This state park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with over 64 miles of trails, swimming in the Aquatic Center, and boating on Swift Creek Lake. Rent a paddle boat or canoe and spend the day floating on the lake. dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/pocahontas
Metro Richmond Zoo – Located in Chesterfield, the Metro is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world, offering a Safari Sky Ride, giraffe feeding, and exploring the zoo’s various exhibits. Open Monday – Saturday. Checkout their website for special events. metrorichmondzoo.com
Chesterfield County Fair – Held annually in August, this fair features carnival rides, games, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, and delicious fair food. Perfect for a family day out. Grab a funnel cake August 23rd – August 31st! chesterfieldcountyfair.org
Goochland County
Tucker Park at Maidens Crossing – This riverside park offers scenic views, a playground, walking trails, dog park, and access to the James River for kayaking and fishing. goochlandva.us/Facilities/Facility/Details/Tucker-Park-at-Maidens-Crossing-8
Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery – All these activities make you thirst for an adult beverage? While primarily a brewery, Lickinghole Creek offers family-friendly events, wide-open spaces, and scenic farm views. Check out their website for the event schedule. lickingholecreek.com/home
Field Day of the Past – An annual festival that showcases antique farming equipment, craft demonstrations, live music, and historical reenactments. Fun for all ages! fielddayofthepast.net
Powhatan County
Powhatan State Park – Offering a serene natural setting with river access for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, hiking trails, and open spaces for picnicking. dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/powhatan
Fine Creek Brewing Company – Another family-friendly brewery that hosts tasting events, food pairings, and has open spaces for children to play. Open Thursdays – Sundays finecreekbrewing.com
Powhatan Music Festival – Enjoy live music from local and regional bands, food trucks, and craft vendors in a beautiful outdoor setting. Come enjoy a day of music – Saturday June 22nd powhatanmusicfestival.com
City of Richmond
Science Museum of Virginia – Cool off inside at this interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX Dome theater. Open Daily. science museum of virginia
Maymont – This historic estate with a beautifully preserved mansion offers and children’s farm, nature center, and extensive gardens. Make sure you check out the Japanese and Italian Gardens! Open Daily. maymont.org
Watermelon Festival in Carytown – A fun-filled day with watermelon-themed activities, live music, street performances, and plenty of food vendors. It’s a Richmond summer tradition. Come celebrate the festival’s 42nd year Sunday August 11th. carytownwatermelonfestival.com
Tips for a Memorable Summer
- Plan Ahead: Check the schedules for special events, workshops, and seasonal activities.
- Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, water, snacks, and other essentials for a full day of fun.
- Stay Flexible: Sometimes the best memories come from spontaneous adventures and discovering new places.
With so many fantastic activities and events spread across Richmond and the surrounding counties, your family is sure to have an unforgettable summer filled with adventure, learning, and joy. Whether you’re hiking in state parks, exploring botanical gardens, or enjoying thrilling amusement park rides, the Richmond area offers something for everyone. Get out there and make this summer your best yet! If you are thinking about buying or selling your home or relocating here, we know the area and can help you with all your real estate needs.
