My Richmond Summer

annestuartteter
Jul 4, 2016
2 min read

A Richmond summer is hot. It's humid. It requires lots of liquid, be it the pool, river or a refreshing beverage.

But it's fun. It's what we've been waiting for. Hours spent on the James. Hours spent sipping vodka limeades at Phil’s, excuse me, The Continental. This is Richmond’s summer.

After work happy hours are practically begging you to come out on their slightly shady patios with taco deals and cheap drinks. The weekend is about finding a spot on the water with your favorite local craft beer in a non glass bottle (be respectful y'all).

So what's my ideal summer day? I wake up around 8, make a cup of coffee and take Phoebe for a walk before the heat becomes unbearable. Then I decide which pool or area of river to go to. If I end up at a pool I either arrange with friends or fly solo at Westwood for a 10 am bloody and wait around until they serve lunch around noon. I lazily catch up on magazines and books I promised myself I'd read months ago.

If I end up at the river, it takes a bit more planning. You must find a canned beverage or wine in a plastic bottle (I have at Trader Joes). Then coordinate rides and locations. I love Texas beach and the river behind the Pump House. Belle Isle was a hit in my teens but it's too much now.

After hanging by the water, grabbing a drink at a brewery (we have a few in town in case you haven't heard) by bike is next on the list. Biking is my favorite form of transportation in the summer. After imbibing in a few I'll go home shower and spend some time in the AC with sweet phoebe who is desperate to see her mama.

After that oysters are my goal. Either Pearl, Rappahannock or wherever I can get my hands on them.

Richmond is the perfect summer spot with many places to cool off.

P.S. Vodka limeades are the best and I will sneak one in whenever I can!