The Fan Travel Guide

Discover the historic neighborhood of The Fan in Central Virginia through this detailed tour guide, featuring a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, local culture, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to The Fan

Located in the heart of Richmond, Virginia, The Fan is a historic neighborhood known for its Victorian-style homes, tree-lined streets, and vibrant cultural scene. Built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area takes its name from the fan-like shape created by its streets extending to the west from Monroe Park. It has been designated a National Historic District due to its stunning architectural range of styles including Italianate, Richardson Romanesque, Queen Anne, and Colonial Revival.

List of Places to Visit in The Fan

If you’re planning to visit The Fan, here are the top attractions that you shouldn’t miss.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Virginia Museum of Fine Arts: This museum has an impressive collection of more than 40,000 works of art that span over 5,000 years of world history. The museum also boasts an extensive collection of Fabergé eggs and other decorative arts.
  • Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site: The home and business of Maggie L. Walker, a civil rights activist and entrepreneur, who was the first female bank president in the United States.
  • Science Museum of Virginia: This science museum offers interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences, including an impressive three-story movie screen and the largest Foucault pendulum in the world.
  • American Civil War Museum- Historic Tredegar: The museum is located on the site of the Tredegar Iron Works and tells the story of the American Civil War through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Natural Attractions of The Fan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Monument Avenue: Take a stroll down Monument Avenue and enjoy the tree-lined street filled with historic monuments such as the Robert E. Lee Monument, J.E.B. Stuart monument, and Arthur Ashe monument.
  • Maymont Park & Gardens: This 100-acre park and gardens feature a Japanese garden, Italian garden, wildlife exhibits, and a breathtaking waterfall.
  • Belle Isle: Belle Isle is a 54-acre island park located just south of downtown Richmond that offers outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and white water rafting.

Hiking/Biking Routes of The Fan

In addition to outdoor attractions, The Fan also offers a variety of hiking and biking routes for visitors to explore.

  • The Virginia Capital Trail: This 51.7-mile trail takes you on a scenic route through Central Virginia, connecting the State Capitol in Richmond to the Capitol in Williamsburg.
  • T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge and Canal Walk: The walk includes a 1.25-mile brick path that connects the riverfront with Brown’s Island, providing cyclists and walkers with scenic views of downtown Richmond.

Best Things to Do in The Fan: Activities and Tours

  • Food Tour: Take a walking food tour of Richmond and discover the city’s unique cuisine and beverage scene.
  • Segway Tour of Richmond: Join a guided Segway tour of Richmond and explore the city’s best attractions and historic sites.
  • Ghost Tour of Richmond: Take a spooky night-time tour of Richmond’s haunted streets and hear tales of ghostly encounters.

Week-Long Itinerary for The Fan

If you have a week to spend in The Fan, here’s an itinerary that you can follow.

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, followed by lunch at one of the Fan’s famous restaurants such as the Black Sheep or Kuba Kuba. Spend the afternoon exploring Monument Avenue and the historic homes.
Day 2 Take a hike or bike ride on the Virginia Capital Trail, and enjoy the scenic views of Central Virginia. Have a picnic lunch at Maymont Park, followed by a visit to Maymont Mansion for a guided tour.
Day 3 Start the day with a visit to the American Civil War Museum- Historic Tredegar, followed by a walking tour of the city’s historic sites such as St. John’s Church and the Capital.
Day 4 Enjoy a day at Belle Isle, with activities such as white water rafting, fishing, or hiking on one of the beautiful trails.
Day 5 Visit the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site and learn about one of the first female entrepreneurs in the United States. Spend the afternoon exploring the Science Museum of Virginia, followed by dinner at one of the restaurants in Carytown.
Day 6 Take a Segway tour of Richmond and discover the city’s hidden gems and historic sites. In the evening, join a ghost tour of Richmond and hear tales of haunted encounters.
Day 7 Visit the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden and enjoy a relaxing day exploring the beautiful gardens.

Food and Drink Scene of The Fan

Richmond is known for its vibrant food and drink scene, and The Fan is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Shrimp and Grits: A classic southern dish made with sautéed shrimp in garlic and butter served over creamy grits.
  • Burgers: The Fan is home to some of the best burgers in Richmond, including popular spots such as Citizen Burger Bar, Carytown Burgers & Fries, and Burger Bach.
  • Fried Chicken: Southern-style fried chicken is a must-try dish in Virginia, and The Fan has several restaurants that serve up this southern classic, such as Mama J’s Kitchen and The Roosevelt.

Local Beverages

  • Breweries: Richmond is home to a thriving craft beer scene, boasting some of the best breweries in the country. Some of the popular breweries in The Fan include Hardywood Park Craft Brewery and Strangeways Brewing.
  • Cocktails: The Fan also has several bars and lounges that specialize in creative cocktails, such as the Blue Bee Cider, Pearl Raw Bar, and Heritage.

Where to Stay in The Fan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Fan offers a variety of accommodations for visitors, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are some of the popular options:

  • Linden Row Inn: This historic hotel is located in the heart of The Fan, and offers comfortable rooms and suites that reflect the historic charm of Richmond.
  • HI Richmond Hostel: If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation, HI Richmond Hostel offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms with shared bathrooms. It also has a communal kitchen and lounge area.
  • The Jefferson Hotel: This luxury hotel is located near The Fan and boasts elegant rooms, a spa, and fine dining options.

What to Buy in The Fan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting The Fan, you can bring back some unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the popular options:

  • Jewelry: The Fan has several jewelry stores that specialize in creating unique and handmade pieces, such as Beijo Brasil and Na Nin.
  • Antiques and Vintage Items: The area is home to several antique and vintage shops, such as Antiques and Beyond and Hardywood Vintage.
  • Local Gourmet Products: Richmond is known for its gourmet food scene, so make sure to pick up some local products such as Virginia peanuts, locally made chocolates, and artisanal cheeses.

Local Culture and Customs of The Fan

The people of Richmond are known for their welcoming nature and southern hospitality. Here are some cultural customs to keep in mind:

  • Saying “Please” and “Thank You”: In the south, manners and politeness go a long way. Make sure to say “please” and “thank you” when interacting with locals.
  • Greeting Others: It’s common to greet people with a smile and say hello when walking down the street. Don’t be surprised if strangers greet you with a friendly hello or wave.

Best Time to Visit The Fan

The best time to visit The Fan is during the fall, which runs from September to November. During this time, you can enjoy comfortable weather, beautiful fall foliage, and various festivals and events such as the Richmond Folk Festival and the Virginia Wine Festival.

Do’s and Don’ts of The Fan

Do:

  • Be respectful: Treat the local culture and history with respect.
  • Take a walking tour: The Fan is a walkable neighborhood, so take advantage of that and explore the area on foot.
  • Try the local cuisine: Richmond is known for its unique cuisine, so make sure to try some of the local dishes and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Keep the neighborhood clean by disposing of trash properly.
  • Be loud and disruptive: Respect the residential nature of the neighborhood and keep noise levels low.

Safety and Health

Safety in The Fan

The Fan is a relatively safe neighborhood to visit, but like any city, visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety. Some tips include:

  • Avoid walking alone at night: It’s always better to walk with a companion, especially at night.
  • Lock your doors: Whether you’re staying at a hotel or a hostel, make sure to lock your doors and windows for added security.

Health in The Fan

Richmond has a good healthcare system, and visitors can access medical care at several hospitals and clinics within the city. If you need medical assistance during your stay in The Fan, you can visit the VCU Medical Center or the Richmond Community Hospital.

Getting to The Fan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near The Fan

The closest airport to The Fan is Richmond International Airport, which is located about 15 miles southeast of the city center. You can take a taxi or an airport shuttle to get to The Fan.

Bus Stations Near The Fan

The Greyhound Bus Station is located in downtown Richmond and is a popular option for travelers coming from other parts of Virginia or neighboring states.

Other Options

If you’re driving, The Fan is easily accessible via major highways such as I-64, I-95, and I-295. If you’re coming by train, the Amtrak station is located in downtown Richmond.

How to Get Around in The Fan

The Fan is a walkable neighborhood, and visitors can explore the area on foot or by bike. If you want to get around faster, you can take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft.

Where to Go Next from The Fan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have additional time to explore Central Virginia, here are a few nearby destinations and excursions that are worth a visit:

  • Historic Jamestown and Yorktown: This living history museum features reenactments of America’s first settlement and the American Revolution.
  • Shenandoah National Park: Just a two-hour drive from Richmond, Shenandoah National Park offers beautiful hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking views.
  • Williamsburg: This historic city is home to Colonial Williamsburg, the Jamestown Settlement, and Busch Gardens, the theme park.

Conclusion

The Fan is a historic and culturally rich neighborhood that offers visitors a variety of attractions, culinary delights, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, there’s plenty to see and do in The Fan and the surrounding areas. This tour guide covered all the essential information to help you plan your trip, so start packing your bags and get ready for a memorable visit to The Fan.