Kings Dominion & Busch Gardens

These two amusement parks are staples of the summer here in Virginia. They are great spots to go with a group of friends and enjoy the rides. 

COST: Busch Gardens-90 dollars (daily passes), Kings Dominion- 40 dollars (daily passes)

New attractions: Busch Gardens Pantheon and Kings Dominion Tumbili roller coaster

Time (when open): Busch Gardens- 10 am, Kings Dominion 9 am\

First Friday

First Friday is an event that takes place every first friday of the month on Broad Street. It’s by the VCU Honors College. All of the private art galleries are open for one night for everyone. 

COST: Free 

Amenities: Restaurants offer food and drinks. There are street musicians who perform all night as well. 

Time: 6-9 pm

Goochland Drive-in

The Goochland Drive-in is a great place to go with friends or a date. They show all sorts of movies, old and new. 

COST: 25 dollars

Amenities: They sell food, but you can just bring your own.

Time: Opens at 5 pm 

Maymont

Maymont is a park with many different attractions. On nice days it’s great to walk around and take in the sights of the park and look at different animals. With many unique structures and layouts, the park is unlike any others in the area. 

COST: Free, extra add-ons vary in price

Amenities: Historic estate, gardens, animals

Time: 10 am to 7 pm 

Carytown

Carytown is an obvious choice for summer spots. There are many stores and restaurants to choose from. There are places like Byrd Theater, Citizen Burger Bar, and many different stores.

COST: Varies depending on where you are going.

Amenities: Stores, Restaurants, and other attractions

Time: Varies on the place you go

Belle Isle

Belle Isle is a great place to go on a sunny day. It is a beautiful place to be. You can walk around the area or go swimming in the James River.

Cost: Free

Amenities: None

Time: There is no open or close time

Short Pump Mall

Short Pump Mall is a very popular place to go. During the summer it’s a fun place to walk around and shop with friends. There are also plenty of restaurants to go to, whether that is in the mall or the surrounding area.

Cost:  Varies on the store and restaurants

Amenities: Stores and restaurants

Time: 11am to 9 pm

Shyndigz

Shyndigz is a fun destination to go with a group of friends. Shyndigz makes ice cream alongside many other desserts. It’s one of the top dessert places to go to and during the hot summer months it’s very satisfying. 

Cost: depends on what you want, bring around 25 dollars

Amenities: 

Time: 9 am to 9:30 pm