Carytown — sometimes referred to as “the mile of style” — takes its name from its location on Cary Street which was named after Colonel Archibald Cary in 1927. The district has become one of Richmond’s most popular destinations for locals and tourists alike. Dozens of local restaurants, boutiques, shops, bakeries and (more recently) a few national retailers fill out several blocks of mostly historic structures along Cary Street with a charm and appeal that just isn’t found in modern malls. Located between the southern side of the Museum District and the Downtown Expressway, 195 and The Boulevard form the western and eastern borders respectively.
The Byrd Theater — a State and National Historic Landmark — was actually built several years before “The Cary Street Park and Shop Center” that would become the original catalyst for the Carytown shopping district we know today. Opened in the late 1930s, the park and shop was Richmond’s first strip mall. The concept quickly became popular and drew many more locals to the area. Retailers and other businesses recognized the opportunity and expanded to many other blocks along Cary Street over the next 30 years.
Carytown also hosts several fashion, wine and film events throughout the year as well as The Watermelon Festival at the end of every summer. These events have become an important part of Carytown’s personality and typically draw large, diverse groups of both City residents and tourists.
Carytown also hosts several fashion, wine and film events throughout the year as well as The Watermelon Festival at the end of every summer. These events have become an important part of Carytown’s personality and typically draw large, diverse groups of both City residents and tourists.
Here are a few places to check out while you are there:
The Daily Kitchen & Bar – A meal without the guilt… the menu is built upon healthier organic, local ingredients and includes a little something for everyone. Check it out for brunch, happy hour and/or an outdoor meal when the weather’s right.
Can Can Brasserie – This French style brasserie is yet another popular Richmond hotspot for brunchers and people watchers. Pop in for a pastry and coffee if you’re not up for a full meal.
Burger Bach – Some of the best burgers you’ll find in Richmond.
The Byrd Theater – $4 movies in a historic venue without the half hour of previews on the front end. Need I say more?
Plan 9 Records – Part of a dying breed of old school record shops that is still going strong in Richmond.
Chop Suey Books – The polar opposite of Barnes & Noble… small, locally-owned and a personality all its own.
Mongrel – How to describe such an interesting gift shop? I’m not sure I can do it any justice if I try. Trust me… it’s worth a visit.
World of Mirth – A throwback to a time when people bought toys in toy stores rather than stopping in a “big box” for a gallon of milk, a chain saw, underwear and a set of legos.
