BROWN'S ISLAND IS CLOSED FOR RENOVATION UNTIL OCTOBER 2026.
Brown’s Island is an amazing, six-acre riverfront park located south of Tredegar Street between 5th Street and 12th Street on the James River. It was formed by the Haxall Canal and is part of the 1.25-mile riverfront Canal Walk. The Island connects to the James River Park System and is a very popular venue for outdoor concerts and festivals including the Friday Cheers concert series, Dominion Riverrock, and the Richmond Folk Festival. It is a favorite walking, running and biking area for locals and visitors alike. There are historical exhibits, public art and plenty of nature to explore. Discover the April 1865 exhibit that hangs over the James River and connects to the Potterfield Bridge, a popular biking and walking destination. Look for eagles, blue heron, osprey and more. Rent a mountain paddleboard during summer months from WaterfrontRVA!
Head east along the paths towards 10th, 12th and 14th streets and you'll find over 75 restaurants in the Shockoe area and some unique shopping. Riverside Outfitters is rents mountain bikes, kayaks and paddleboards from 14th Street at the Mayo Bridge. There are great mountain bike trails on Belle Isle and along both sides of the river, as well as a bike skills course on the isle. Hit the streets and explore downtown on a bike as well! Paddling on the river is a wonderful way to experience the natural environment and nature in the middle of RVA’s downtown. There are some beautiful flatwater areas of the James for paddlers to cruise.
