Richmond is a modern city with new job growth and a healthy economy. That's a big reason why people of all ages are moving here. At Napier ERA, we are thrilled when new residents contact our office. We not only love to show them Richmond homes for sale, but we also like to tell them about Richmond and our surrounding communities of Midlothian, Colonial Heights, Powhatan, Glen Allen--just to name a few.

Our real estate agents live and work in this community.  While we could talk endlessly about our favorite things to do in Richmond, one thing we all agree upon is the Riverfront Canal Walk is a don't miss experience.  Here's why.

The Riverfront Canal Walk

The Riverfront Canal Walk is a 1.25-mile path located between 5th and 17th Streets along the James River. It is wide enough for bicycles, pedestrians, and even Segways!  Along this walk, you can experience Richmond in a way that is unique to our city.

Whether you are looking for historic monuments, museums, nature, or even pizza, you can find it on the Riverfront Canal Walk.

You can also swim or float the river, either in a tube or in an actual river raft. There are even some rapids roaring through the downtown area, so you can have an adventure right in the middle of the city. Not too many cities can claim that! There are river rafting outfitters right downtown, so your adventure awaits.

Riverfront Canal Cruises

The canal system in Richmond dates back to the days when George Washington roamed our streets. It is said he was the brainchild behind the canal system, with his visionary goal of connecting the harbors on the east with the trade opportunities on the west. Today there are canal cruises and even private charters available on both the James River and Kanawha Canal. The cruises are seasonal (from April to November), but it's an activity everyone who comes to Richmond should absolutely do.

Monuments and Statues

If you're considering relocating to Richmond, you'll want to spend some time getting to know more about our city's famous history. Monument Avenue in Richmond is just off the Canal Walk, and the entire street is a historic landmark.

There are lots of beautiful statues in this area (and throughout the rest of Richmond), and one of our favorites is the touching statue of Abraham Lincoln and his son, Tad, which sits on the hill behind the Richmond National Battlefield Park Visitors Center. The story goes that the President and his son visited Richmond in 1865, shortly after the Capital of the Confederacy had been burned. You can almost hear President Lincoln explaining about the perils of war as you look at this beautiful bronze statue.

Fun on the Canal

Back on the Riverfront, you're bound to find a festival, concert or other activity going on, and the old buildings and warehouses around this part of the city are becoming extremely popular places to live and work. There are lofts and coffee shops, galleries, shopping and more than 160 restaurants to choose from. And because Richmond is a walkable city, you'll want to get out and explore as much as you can. The weather will likely cooperate, with moderate temperatures nearly all year long, and far more days of sunshine than rain.

Richmond is a vibrant and fun city -- one that honors its past but isn't stuck in it. If you are considering moving to Richmond, we hope you'll let us share our enthusiasm for our city and provide our expertise in helping you find a new home. Contact Napier ERA to make an appointment to see both beautiful homes and tour our wonderful city with us.