Neighborhoods of RVA: Lakeside

While officially part of Henrico County, the Lakeside area is commonly considered a Northside neighborhood by most Richmonders. It’s situated within the boundaries of Bryan Park to the south, Hermitage Road to the north, Galaxie Road to the west, and Lakeside Avenue to the east. Thanks to its central location, offering easy access to interstates, Bryan Park’s natural beauty, and a diverse range of retailers, buyer interest in this neighborhood has steadily increased in recent years.

Interestingly, the name “Lakeside” isn’t derived from the lakes at Bryan Park, as many might assume. Instead, it originates from the lake at Jefferson Lakeside Country Club on the northern edge of the area. Nevertheless, Bryan Park plays a crucial role in the community, spanning 262 acres and being originally gifted to the City of Richmond in 1909 in memory of the esteemed businessman, Joseph Bryan. The city ingeniously utilized the park’s rolling terrain, streams, and ponds to create a unique urban park. Over time, it has evolved to include a renowned azalea garden, jogging and mountain biking trails, soccer fields, tennis courts, a playground, a frisbee golf course, and numerous picturesque spots for picnicking.

From an architectural perspective, Lakeside presents a diverse mix of styles and eras. There are various types of bungalows, cape cods, and colonials from the 1930s, alongside an assortment of brick and transitional styles from the 1950s, and a few more recent structures. Along Lakeside Avenue, you’ll also find commercial buildings dating back to the 1940s, 50s, and 60s, with a fascinating nod to the past in the form of Art Deco-style old service stations.

Now, when it comes to retail, many business owners along Lakeside Avenue have been investing in expansions, renovations, and enhancements in recent years. This investment has started to pay off, benefiting both businesses and homeowners who are showing renewed interest in the area. A prime example of this revitalization is the Lakeside Farmer’s Market, which not only serves Lakeside residents but also attracts visitors from other parts of the city. Several new restaurants and retailers have also set up shop in previously overlooked spaces along the main thoroughfare. In fact, with a cluster of consignment shops within a few blocks of each other, some have dubbed it “consignment row.”

So, if you’re wondering what to explore the next time you’re in the area, there are always new options cropping up. Here are a few current highlights to check out:

Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens – Though you must pre-purchase tickets and capacities are limited, the Gardens are still open.  Take care of yourself.  Get out there and get some fresh air!

Bryan Park – Having a park like this in the neighborhood when we need to get out of the house but need to maintain social distance is perfect. The Northern edge of the park looks a little rough right now as infrastructure improvements are made but that won’t keep you from enjoying the trails and open spaces.

Arianna’s Grill – Good. Pizza. You might not be able to eat it there but you can certainly have it delivered nearby.

Roy’s Big Burger – Maybe Roy’s saw this coming… The walk-up window and outdoor seating is looking pretty genius in this COVID world of ours.  

Lakeside Farmers Market – Still finding safe ways to go on and support local growers. How nice is it to have an open air market right here in the neighborhood?

Original Gravity – Stuck at home more than you’d like?  Why not take up home brewing?  Original Gravity has just about everything you need AND packages your orders for pickup. Virginia Barbeque – North Carolina style barbecue… delivered.

Lakeside Homes for Sale

Want to see the other Northside resources we’ve made available? Check it out, here.