Neighborhoods of RVA: Northside’s Brookland Park and Battery Park

Some might describe it as a “rediscovered” gem. After nearly six decades of receiving little attention from investors, homebuyers, and retailers, the Brookland Park Historic District is now finally garnering the considerable recognition it deserves.

Much like Ginter Park and Bellevue, Brookland Park and Battery Park were originally envisioned as streetcar neighborhoods. The majority of the residences in these neighborhoods were constructed between 1910 and the early 1940s, and they showcase architectural styles such as the American Foursquare, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman. However, you can also find a sprinkling of Italianate, Queen Anne, Late Victorian, and even Greek Revival designs. Stucco, brick, and wood are the primary building materials employed in these historic homes.

The Brookland Park Historic District and Battery Park neighborhoods offer ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Several parks are scattered throughout the area, including the Battery Park Community Center, which features tennis courts and a pool. Hotchkiss Park is another great outdoor space, and the recent addition of the Cannon Creek Greenway provides a scenic route for pedestrians and bicyclists, offering a convenient connection to the Virginia Capital Trail from Northside. Additionally, residents can enjoy the First Tee of Greater Richmond driving range and the downtown riverfront, both just a short bike ride or quick drive away. Whether it’s parks, greenways, or recreational facilities, there are plenty of options for those who appreciate the outdoors.

In recent years, residential investors and first-time homebuyers have recognized the potential in these neighborhoods. A brief drive through the area immediately showcases the surge of interest in these homes. It seems as though there is a construction dumpster and renovation crew at work every couple of blocks—sometimes even multiple projects on a single block! The revitalization of these neighborhoods is palpable, with many individuals and investors eager to restore and rejuvenate the historic properties.

Over the past year and a half, there has been a notable increase in investment in the commercial corridor along Brookland Park Boulevard and North Avenue. Retailers, restaurateurs, and other business operators have started to recognize the potential of this area and are actively participating in the transformation of this commercial district. The revival of this commercial corridor is well underway, and it promises to bring new life and vibrancy to the neighborhood.

Here are a few of places to visit next time you are there:

Brookland Park Market – A gourmet market in Brookland Park for prepared meals, meats, cheeses, unique grocery items, sandwiches, hot dinners, plant-based & vegetarian foods, desserts, beer & wine.

The Smoky Mug – Amazing neighborhood spot for upscale coffee, BBQ and delicious accompaniments

Michaela’s Quality Bake Shop – Fancy a bit of nostalgia? Try the Thalhimer’s Six Layer Cake

Almas – Art Gallery and boutique local artisan shop

Fuzzy Cactus – A Rock and Roll restaurant and bar focusing on building Richmond’s music community and supporting touring musicians.

Savage Apparel Company – Custom apparel

Nomad Deli & Catering – Quick quality grub

Ninja Kombucha – Providing the Richmond community with high quality, delicious kombucha.

Scrap RVA – Promoting sustainability, creativity, and community engagement by redistributing discarded material to the community for creative and educational projects

Brookland Park Homes for Sale

Homes For Sale

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