Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Short Pump

"The imposing white Capitol was built in 1785 to 1788 to the design of Thomas Jefferson, who modeled it after the Roman temple known as the Maison Carree in Nimes, France. Several major events in Confederate history took place here, including the ratification of Virginia's secession and Robert E. Lee's appointment as commander of the Southern army. The statue of George Washington in the lobby was the work of Jean-Antoine Houdon."

"Not many know this, but the Virginia State Capitol is the second oldest functioning capitol in the United States. Designed 1785 by Thomas Jefferson, he based the structure of the capitol on his inspiration, a Roman temple Maison Carree. The architecture of the capitol is indeed a thing of beauty and worth ogling at."

"Thomas Jefferson and French architect Charles-Louis Clérisseau designed it in the late 18th century. It became a focal point for historic moments following its completion in 1788. Notably, it served as the Capitol of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War."

"The Poe Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the life and works of a famous literary master, Edgar Allan Poe, and it is also home to the world’s finest collection of his works. Known as “America's Shakespeare,” Edgar Allan Poe was a master of a variety of literary genres, ranging from short stories and fiction to lyric poetry and horror stories. The museum’s collection includes first editions, manuscripts, letters, and memorabilia from his life and provides a closer look at his life in early nineteenth century, Richmond."

"At the base of Church Hill, Shockoe Bottom is the home of the Edgar Allan Poe Museum. The museum pays tribute to Poe’s time in Richmond and traces his eerie story through the rest of Virginia and beyond. Peek at original manuscripts, first edition novels, personal belongings, and portraits of the famously morose author, and take time to kiss the Poe bust in the museum’s courtyard, built to reflect the verses found in one of Poe’s inspired literary works."

"Contains the world's largest collection of manuscripts and memorabilia of poet and horror-writer Edgar Allan Poe, who lived and worked in Richmond. Exhibits include the first printing of 'The Raven,' Poe's vest,... Top ChoiceNotable Building in Richmond"

"The Virginia Museum of History & Culture is a private institution founded in 1831. It is home to the largest exhibit of Virginian artifacts and features galleries, displays, and interactive exhibits fit for all ages."

"Virginia's attic is looking pretty darn impressive after a multimillion-dollar renovation. With easy-to-digest changing and permanent exhibits tracing the story of the Commonwealth from its prehistoric beginnings..."

"Wilton House Museum serves as both an excellent example of Georgian architecture and as a representation of life in Virginia since the 18th century and the ways in which it continues to shape life in America today. Built in 1753 for the illustrious Randolph family, the house was the centerpiece of a 2,000-acre plantation with a rich history; it played host to the likes of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. The estate has since been immaculately restored and is now the headquarters of the Virginia Dames and the site for a variety of educational exhibits, community and public programs, and annual events."

"Start your brew tour at The Circuit Arcade Bar, a throwback gaming destination complete with classic console games like Mortal Kombat and PacMan, multi-player sports games such as skeeball and air hockey, and elaborate vintage pinball machines. Circuit Arcade also boasts an impressive array of craft beers, ciders, and wines on tap, with around 50 different selections available at any given time. Ask their in-house “draft master” for recommendations or sample as many as you like with your beer card, which charges for each drink by the ounce."

"The self-serve taps are unnecessarily complicated here, but the selection of arcade games is great. You’ll find classics like Pac-Man and pinball as well as more modern favorites."

"If you’ve never had The Answer’s fruited sours, you’re missing a taste and texture unlike anything else in the country. Somewhere between tart beer and fruit smoothie (pulp and all!), lies owner An Bui’s unique contribution to craft. Combined with killer IPAs, a Korean nightclub vibe, and one of the best Vietnamese restaurants on the East Coast right next door (also owned by the Bui family), The Answer alone is reason enough to make a trip to Richmond."

"The Answer’s 56 taps pour a mix of inventive sours, super fruity quads, and smooth stouts. Thanks to the influence of sister Vietnamese restaurant, Mekong, the brewpub has one of the best bar menus in town, with options like rocket shrimp, crispy spring rolls, and pan-fried pork dumplings. In 2018, the James Beard Foundation named founder An Bui a semifinalist for Outstanding Wine, Spirits, or Beer Producer."

"Owned by Mekong and located right next door to the world-famous beer bar, The Answer Brewpub, opened in 2014 as a way for Mekong founder, An Bui to take his passion for craft beer a step further. The Answer features over 56 taps and a wonderful stage area for live music. The taproom has an old-school retro video game vibe and includes a couple of old arcade games throughout."

"Description: Part of, yet separate from, the touristy Tobacco Company Restaurant, this 21-and-over dance club attracts a dressy crowd. Starting at 8 p.m., the house DJ will mix it up depending on what the crowd is in the mood for, so you could hear top 40 to house music to R & B—whatever it takes to get people moving. Open Thurs through Sat, the club has a $3 cover, and its entrance is on 12th Street."

"Since 1926, The Mixing Bowl has been serving the Richmond community with handcrafted cakes, cookies, pastries and more. Known for their delicious “small” delicacies, they have also earned quite a name for themselves as special event cake designers. And when it comes to birthday cakes, trust us when we say that The Mixing Bowl can bake up cakes with just about any design, shape or size that you might need."

"Satisfy your sweet tooth with a trip to Pearl’s Bake Shoppe. In addition to everyday flavors that include chocolate, vanilla, and carrot cake, Pearl’s offers unique specialty and seasonal flavors like beignet, mint julep, and Virginia’s President. And if you’re traveling with a food allergy or dietary restriction, you’ll be glad to know that Pearl’s also has a selection of delicious gluten-free and vegan cupcakes each day."

"If cupcakes were all that Pearl’s did, they would still be one of the top bakeries around – and with good reason. But fortunately for all of us, Pearl’s is much more than just cupcakes. Known as one of the premier bake shops in the region, Pearl’s also prides themselves on their original, handcrafted cake designs – which includes some of the best birthday cakes in the Richmond area."

"Worth the drive to the West End for their delicious vegan options. pearlsbakeshoppe.com. 5812 Grove Avenue in the far West End"