Craft Distilleries and Breweries in Scott's Addition
Step into the Scott's Addition Beverage District, located at the corner of Broad and Boulevard, to explore a dense concentration of craft alcohol producers. This neighborhood offers a curated stroll through various types of production; within walking distance, you can visit a variety of breweries, cideries, meaderies, and distilleries.
- Breweries: Visit Ardent Craft Ales, Bingo Beer Co., Isley Brewing Company, Strangeways Brewing RVA - Scott's Addition, Three Notch'd RVA Collab House, Vasen Brewing Company, or The Veil Brewing Company.
- Cideries: Explore options at Blue Bee Cider, Buskey Cider, or Courthouse Creek Cider.
- Meaderies and Distilleries: Visit Black Heath Meadery or Reservoir Distillery to experience different styles of craft production.
Vibrant Live Music Scenes
The local atmosphere is shaped by a thriving arts scene, particularly surrounding Virginia Commonwealth University. The city maintains a reputation for a diverse and independent music scene that hosts a wide range of genres.
- Diverse Genres: Local clubs feature everything from rock, indie, metal, punk, and hardcore to alternative, blues, jazz, jam, country, and bluegrass.
- Local Talent: The area supports a vibrant local music scene that has launched numerous acts onto the international stage.
River Days at Pony Pasture
For an outdoor excursion on the James River, head to the Pony Pasture section of the river park. This stretch is located above downtown and offers a wooded environment with trails on both sides of the water.
- Water Activities: The area provides a space for swimming between smooth rocks or navigating smaller rapids in an innertube or raft.
- Safety Note: While the section is known for its scenic beauty, always wear a life jacket and stick to areas confirmed as safe by locals due to unpredictable currents and hidden rocks.
Timing Your Visit
If you are planning your trip around specific dates or seasonal transitions, consider the local calendar. The city observes several notable holidays and shifts in time throughout the year.
- September: Experience Labor Day on September 7th and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th (dates applicable in 2026).
- October: Observe Halloween on October 31st.
- November: Note the end of Daylight Saving Time on November 1st (scheduled for 2026) and Remembrance Day on November 11th.
Start planning your itinerary by choosing between a craft tour in Scott's Addition or a day on the river to experience the local culture first-hand.