Neighborhoods of RVA: Byrd Park

Byrd Park, both the park itself and the neighborhood on its eastern side, has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s when the City of Richmond decided to construct a reservoir. The excavated area, which was created as workers gathered dirt to build the reservoir walls, eventually became what we now know as Fountain Lake. The neighborhood’s boundaries encompass approximately 195 to the north, Meadow Street to the east, the Maymont Estate to the south, and Boulevard/Park Drive to the west.

The park is a beloved destination for Richmonders, especially during the warmer months. Spanning over 200 acres of open, rolling hills, Byrd Park provides ample space for picnics, leisurely days in the sun, and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy walking paths, a 1-mile parcourse, a playground, baseball fields, tennis courts, and more. Additionally, the park is adjacent to the Dogwood Dell Amphitheater, which hosts the annual Festival of the Arts. This festival features concerts, dance performances, and theatrical productions, with Arts in the Park and the annual 4th of July events being two of the most popular attractions. The park’s natural beauty and role as a gathering place and arts venue are integral to the neighborhood’s identity.

Byrd Park and its surrounding neighborhood boast a diverse range of architectural styles in both residential and public buildings. One distinctive residential development within the neighborhood is Byrd Park Court, a National Historic District in its own right. Constructed in 1921, this architectural gem features three residences and a grand Beaux-Arts style gate that frames a central courtyard. Surrounding this courtyard are nine buildings, each showcasing various architectural styles such as Colonial Revival, Mediterranean Revival, Craftsman, Tudor Revival, and Beaux-Arts Classical.

Throughout the neighborhood, you’ll find an array of housing options, including larger multi-unit condominium buildings overlooking Fountain Lake, spacious detached single-family homes, and numerous row houses reminiscent of those found in The Fan and Museum District. These row houses were built primarily in the early 1920s, contributing to the neighborhood’s historical character.

One notable structure in the area is the pump house located at the southern end of the park, overlooking the James River. While originally constructed for the utilitarian purpose of pumping water to the reservoir, this stunning Gothic Revival building is currently undergoing restoration to serve as a public event space, blending functionality with architectural beauty.

Highlights:

Dogwood Dell – What’s better than an outdoor concert or play? Bring a blanket and a picnic.

Arts in the Park – A weekend long event with arts and crafts from all over the country.  The food’s usually not bad either.

Swan Lake – Kick back and relax. Let the kids run and maybe feed a duck or two.

Fountain Lake – Rent a pedal boat for a couple of laps around the lake then reward yourself with a couple of scoops of ice cream or whatever floats your boat.  Ha!

Park Yoga – Namaste. Do your mind and body good on Thursday mornings at 9:30am.

VITA Course – Pop in for a walk or run on an almost flat one-mile loop under the shade of century old trees in the park.

Byrd Park Homes for Sale