West End Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and explore in West End, Virginia with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to West End

Located in Richmond, Virginia, West End is a bustling area of Central Virginia. It boasts a rich history, scenic beauty, and a thriving food and drink scene, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this guide, we will share our top picks for the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat and drink, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in West End

Whether you’re a history buff or an adventurous backpacker, West End offers a range of activities and attractions that will keep you entertained throughout your stay. Here are some of the must-visit places in West End:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Agecroft Hall: This Tudor estate dates back to the 15th century and was transported from England to Virginia in the early 20th century. Visitors can take guided tours and learn about the mansion’s history and architecture.
  • Virginia Historical Society: This museum and research library celebrate Virginia’s past through a wide range of exhibits, collections, and educational programs.
  • Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden: Located in the heart of West End, this 50-acre garden features a beautiful collection of plant species from around the world.

Natural Attractions of West End: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pocahontas State Park: This stunning park offers more than 60 miles of hiking and biking trails, camping, fishing, and boating. Visitors can also enjoy a swim in the park’s two lakes.
  • James River Park System: Located just minutes from West End, this park boasts more than 600 acres of wilderness, including scenic trails, breathtaking overlooks, and world-class rapids for kayaking and canoeing.
  • Three Lakes Park and Nature Center: This beautiful park features three lakes, picnic areas, nature trails, wildlife exhibits, and a butterfly garden.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West End

West End is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of biking and hiking trails for all levels of experience. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Dorey Park Trail: This 4.5-mile paved trail is great for biking, running, and walking. It winds through scenic woods and fields and offers beautiful views of the park’s lake.
  • Deep Run Park Trails: These beautiful trails offer scenic views of Deep Run Park’s lake and woods.
  • Twin Hickory Lake Trails: This 2-mile paved trail is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. It meanders through the picturesque Twin Hickory Lake community.

Best Things to Do in West End: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family, there are plenty of fun and exciting things to do in West End. Here are our top picks:

  • Virginia Museum of Fine Arts: This world-class art museum features a diverse collection of more than 33,000 works of art from around the globe.
  • Escape Room RVA: Challenge yourself and your friends to an hour-long adventure where you must solve puzzles and clues to escape a locked room.
  • Richmond Food Tours: Take a guided walking tour of West End’s best eateries and taste the local flavors diverse cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for West End

If you have a week to spend in West End, here’s a possible itinerary:

Day 1 Visit Agecroft Hall and Virginia Historical Society
Day 2 Hike the Pocahontas State Park Trails
Day 3 Tour Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Day 4 Take a Food Tour of West End’s Best Eateries
Day 5 Explore James River Park
Day 6 Visit Three Lakes Park and Nature Center
Day 7 Enjoy a leisurely day biking the Dorey Park Trail

Food and Drink Scene of West End

West End has a fantastic food and drink scene that celebrates the region’s culinary traditions. Here are some of the best dishes, drinks, and places to eat and drink in West End:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Virginia Ham: Virginia is famous for its ham, which is often smoked and glazed with a delicious mixture of spices and honey.
  • Shad Roe: A delicacy in Virginia, shad roe is rich in flavor and is usually served with butter, lemon, and bacon.
  • Pimento Cheese: This Southern staple is made with cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos and is perfect for spreading on crackers or sandwiches.

Local Beverages

  • Virginia Wine: Virginia has a long history of winemaking, and is home to more than 250 wineries, producing a variety of high-quality wines.
  • Virginia Beer: Several breweries in and around West End offer a variety of craft beers, including ale, lager, and IPA.

Where to Stay in West End: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

West End offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in West End:

  • Hyatt House Richmond West: This modern hotel offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
  • The Westin Richmond: This high-end hotel features luxurious rooms, a fine-dining restaurant, and a spa.
  • HI Richmond Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel offers dorm-style and private rooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, and free Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in West End: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Want to take a piece of West End home with you? Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to buy:

  • Virginia Peanuts: These peanuts are roasted to perfection and are a delicious snack or gift.
  • Jam and Jelly: Virginia is famous for its homemade jam and jelly, made with a variety of fruit and spices.
  • Handmade Crafts: West End and the surrounding area are home to many talented artisans who create beautiful pottery, textiles, and other handmade crafts.

Local Culture and Customs of West End

West End is a culturally rich and diverse community, influenced by its African American, Native American, and European American heritage. The locals are known for their warmth and hospitality towards visitors, and they take great pride in their community’s history and traditions.

Best Time to Visit West End

The best time to visit West End is from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of West End

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and indulge in the flavors of the area.
  • Do take in the beauty of the outdoor scenery.
  • Do respect the locals and their customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave a mess behind.
  • Don’t be disrespectful of the area’s history or culture.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask locals for tips and recommendations.

Safety and Health

Safety in West End

West End is generally safe, but visitors should take normal precautions against theft and crime. Caution should be taken when on isolated trails and parks. Stay in well-lit areas at night and avoid walking alone in less populated areas.

Health in West End

There are no major health concerns in West End. Visitors should have health insurance, as medical care can be expensive in the United States.

Getting to West End: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near West End

The closest major airport to West End is Richmond International Airport, which is located just 25 miles away.

Bus Stations Near West End

The Greyhound bus terminal is located in downtown Richmond, about 12 miles from West End.

Other Options

Rental cars are the best option for getting around West End and the surrounding area. There are several car rental companies operating near the airport and downtown Richmond.

How to Get Around in West End

The best way to get around West End is by car. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available but may be more expensive.

Where to Go Next from West End: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

West End is conveniently located to make some interesting side trips:

  • Williamsburg: This historic city is just an hour’s drive from West End. It is known for its beautifully preserved colonial buildings, museums, and theme parks.
  • Virginia Beach: Located two hours east of West End, this popular resort town features miles of sandy beaches, parks, and a vibrant nightlife.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventure, or simply relaxing and enjoying the local culture and cuisine, West End has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip to this vibrant and exciting destination.