Church Hill is one of Richmond's most historic neighborhoods. It figures pretty prominently in Fire, Flour and Fork this weekend and it will be one of the best spots to catch cycling action next year at Richmond 2015.
Here's a quick walking tour of the neighborhood starting in Shockoe Bottom and walking east along Main Street. This is in no way a comprehensive list, as there is plenty more in Church Hill to explore.
Let's get moving!
1. Poe's Pub
Poe's isn't technically in Church Hill, but if it's open we recommend stopping in for an adult beverage or three to steel yourself for the climb up Libby Hill. If you're heading out at a more brunch friendly hour, pop into Millie's across the street for food (and adult beverages.)
2. Libby Hill Park
Once you make it up the hill, take a minute to snap the above photo. Then go check out the Confederate Sailors and Soldiers Monument and snap another photo. Look at the decorative grill work on the patios of the houses lining the park.
3. Autumn
If it's Autumn, stop anywhere and take a photo like the above.
4. Sub Rosa Bakery
Mmmmm, Sub Rosa Bakery. Check out our previous blog post about them for all the reasons you should stop here.
5. the Roosevelt
If it's after 5 p.m., head across the street for contemporary southern food reinterpreted by Lee Gregory's masterful hand. They also have great cocktails. If it's before 5, head to the next step and circle back. It'll be worth it.
6. Union Market
Lunch time? Good, you've got options in Church Hill and our next two things fit that bill admirably. Pop into Union Market for a sandwich, salad or handmade soup. Take your food, and a local beer, out onto their patio and watch the neighborhood walk by for a while.
7. Alamo Barbecue
A real eating champion will hit Union Market and Alamo in one Church Hill walking trip. Alamo is Texas-style barbecue in a southwestern building in Church Hill with one of the coziest patios in all of Richmond. The world-class brisket and ribs at Alamo have won national acclaim, with good reason.
8. St. John's Church
Circle around to St. Johns's for history. This is the church where Patrick Henry gave his "Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death" speech. See if you can spot the gravestone for the former church cat out front. It's morbidly adorable.
9. Proper Pie Company
Pie! Seriously, it's delicious pie. You deserve it after all the walking and history.
10. Patrick Henry Pub
A placid outside garden, small rooms that make you feel like you're drinking your craft beer before the red coats come in and raid the joint and conveniently located near the end of our walking tour. Get ye to Patrick Henry's Pub and have a few more adult beverages. You're almost done.
11. Metzger Bar and Butchery
You're backtracking a bit here, but Metzger is worth it.
12. Dutch and Co.
Ok, you don't want to backtrack. Go to Dutch and Co. If it's a Saturday, get a hot dog from the backdoor like a local.
Phew, that's a lot of walking, eating and drinking. You probably need an Uber, taxi or a nap after all that.
UPDATE: Get the inside scoop for additional Church Hill sights from LOCALS on Church Hill People's New's here. Check the comments for even more Church Hill fun.
Previously in Walking Tours
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