Date Archives: August 2017

Summer's Not Over Yet - Plenty of Fun Left in Goochland

No matter what, there are certain places that take you back to your youth and a time you'll never forget. For many living in the Richmond area, it's a summer evening at the Goochland Drive-in Theater. The Goochland Drive-In Theater is a community-oriented, family establishment that offers new/current release movies and plenty of fun for the entire family.

The Goochland Drive-In Theater

A much-loved staple of the community in Goochland, the drive-in's focus is on family entertainment, and provides a safe, wholesome atmosphere for people of all ages. No alcohol is permitted. It features a playground for kids under 12, and you can bring games, Frisbees, or footballs for pre-show fun (arrive early to get a good spot). Quiet, well-behaved pets are also welcome. No outside food or drink is allowed, but the Goochland Drive-In offers affordable, classic-American food and concessions, a gluten-free menu, and admission is just $4 for kids and $8.50 for adults.

In the late 1950s to early 1960s, more than 4,000 drive-ins captivated American moviegoers. While drive-ins have slowly disappeared around the US, they have seen a revival in recent years. The beloved Goochland Drive-In Theater has been bringing movie lovers and people of all ages together since 2009, creating and nurturing a sense of community and human connection. Just a 30-minute drive from Richmond and Charlottesville, the Goochland Drive-In attracts people from miles around.

Reminiscent of the classic drive-ins of yesteryear, the Goochland Drive-In is an ideal night out for families. A fun and unique way to catch a movie and connect with members of the community, come and enjoy some nostalgia laugh and hang out with friends and neighbors.

Can't get a babysitter for date night? Bring the kids and let them enjoy the playground while you chat with new friends or neighbors; then hunker down and enjoy a movie from the comfort of your car (you can bring chairs and enjoy a movie under the stars, too!). The Goochland Drive-In also provides a safe and wholesome environment for teens, so you can rest easy knowing that your teenagers have a positive and entertaining place to go on dates or out with friends.

Call Goochland Home

If you are interested in buying a home in Goochland, our real estate agents can help you find a home you'll love. From new construction to classic historical houses, we have a variety of available homes for sale Contact Napier ERA to get started.

Take a Step Back in Time at the Hanover Tavern

Large or small, Virginia's communities have so much to offer that it's hard to choose one to settle in. One of the most attractive things about the state is how history seems to come alive in so many ways. Every chapter in the nation's history has played out in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

There's perhaps no better example of this than Hanover Tavern in Hanover County, VA.

Hanover Tavern is a Unique Glimpse Into Colonial America

Located right in Hanover Courthouse, Hanover Tavern is the direct descendant of the original tavern that was licensed to stand on the spot all the way back in 1733 – more than 40 years before the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As taverns go, it's one of the oldest in the United States.

It's not surprising, then, that Hanover County locals throughout the centuries have worked hard to maintain and protect it. Not only has so much of its history been preserved, but it has actually continued to function as a tavern for much of the time it has stood.

The story of Hanover Tavern started through necessity.

One of the Epicenters of Virginia Community Since the Start

In the country's early history, the vast majority of people lived in rural areas. The population was so sparse that it was only necessary to hold court once a month in most places.

The judge and those with legal complaints would typically travel from very far away. With that in mind, a tavern was a crucial part of giving them all good food and a warm bed. Stables and other amenities were needed for the large stagecoach teams.

The Hanover Tavern was the solution and has been a fixture of the community ever since.

Since opening its doors 284 years ago, this unique landmark has had many famous guests.

During the Revolutionary War, the Marquis de Lafayette and several of his comrades stayed at the Hanover Tavern. Likewise, George Washington wrote diary entries about it. We know that he stayed at the Hanover Courthouse complex at least twice. Patrick Henry once lived there, and the Patrick Henry Tour – known as Road to Revolution – is a popular attraction even today.

Throughout the Civil War, the Hanover Tavern gained even more importance. It entered the National Registry of Historic Places and became one of the keystone sights on the various Civil War tours and trails. As time went on, more and more notable people passed through.

Some of these include literary giants Edgar Allen Poe and Charles Dickens.

The Hanover Tavern Today: A "Must See" For History Lovers

Today, Hanover Tavern – and Hanover County in general – is still welcoming guests.

The Tavern offers seasonal menus showcasing local favorites like the lunch brisket sandwich, duroc pork, and shrimp and grits. All year around, you can get tavern fare with a distinctive local flourish that's helped the Tavern command rave reviews online.

No matter when you visit, you'll also find a full calendar of events at the Tavern. Businesses and community groups alike use it. Adult education in things like painting and handicrafts are held frequently.

Want more? The Tavern can be rented for other special occasions, or you can simply visit as part of your grand evening at the Virginia Repertory Theater. The Theater is just steps from the Tavern and is the oldest continually-operating dinner theater in America.

There's never been a better time to explore great Hanover homes. Contact Napier ERA to find out more. Our real estate agents are glad to assist you with expert help and advice.

Big City Versus Suburban Living

Lately, there has been a great deal of attention placed on living in downtown areas.  Some love the idea of living in a large metro area with all the lights, sounds, and smells that come with it. 

Still, many prefer the quiet, slower pace of living in the suburbs.  If you've been searching for a home in Richmond but living in an urban setting seems too overwhelming, then why not consider one of our stand-out, suburban areas:  Midlothian, VA.

Only a quick 25-minute commute from Richmond, Midlothian was voted by CNBC.com as one of Top 10 Perfect Suburbs in the U.S. and Money Magazine among their Best Places to Live rankings.  If you're looking to relocate to a community with good schools, low crime, quality living, and affordable housing, Midlothian is the right Chesterfield County community for you.

Buying in the 'Burbs

Typically, suburban home buyers get more square footage for their money than their counterparts buying a home in the city.  Midlothian has been described as Richmond's best suburb when you're ready to scale up with the highest median household income of $123,124 and median home value of $269,752.

In neighborhoods like Centre Point Crossing, Hallsey, Tarrington, and Queenspark, you'll find large estate homes starting at approximately $400,000.  

Entertainment and Recreation

While living in a smaller community may not have the "bright lights, big city" appeal of living in a downtown area, buying a home in the suburbs does offer its own array of entertainment and attractions. Being recognized nationally as a great place to live, Midlothian home buyers can attest to how much they love the convenience of outdoor and sporting attractions like Robius Landing Park, Mid-Lothian Mines Park, and Windy Hill Sports Complex located only minutes from home.

Nearby shopping and dining is plentiful in Midlothian.  Chesterfield Towne Center, Ivymont Square Shopping Center, and Westchester Commons draw Midlothian shoppers to their stores with national retail chains and locally owned stores that you can visit.  For local dining and eateries, try Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, Capital Ale House, Bell Greek Cuisine or Isabella's Bistro & Salumeria.

Top-Rated Schools

It's important to buy a home in a neighborhood with top-rated schools to increase the resale value of your home and its marketability as well as to ensure your child's education.  Midlothian's school-age children--from elementary to middle and high schools—attend the award-winning Chesterfield County School system. 

Napier ERA Can Help

For some choosing between living in an urban environment versus a suburban community is a hard decision to make.  When you're relocating to the Richmond area and can't decide between "city life" and a home in the suburbs, contact our team of REALTORS®.  Living and working in the local community gives us the ability to help you make the right choice for you and your family.  Contact Napier ERA today.

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The Richmond Jazz Festival is a World-Class Musical Destination.

Do you enjoy good wine, great jazz, and historic Richmond sites? The Richmond Jazz Festival, the East Coast's premier musical event, is definitely the event for you. The eighth annual installment of this multi-day jazz festival will take over the Richmond area from August 10 to 13 with performances throughout Carytown and the main acts taking the stage at Maymont. Whether you're new to Richmond or looking for new things to love about your hometown, this festival is quickly becoming a town tradition, and we encourage you to participate too.

So, what happens during the Jazz Festival? Here are some of the fun things you can do during our annual jazz celebration:

Catch Erykah Badu, Common, and Other Major Talents

Who needs Bonnaroo when you have Erykah Badu right here in Richmond? A festival that emphasizes "elevation music" over "elevator music", the Richmond Jazz Festival attracts world-famous talent and local legends alike. This year, the R&B queen Badu headlines an all-star lineup that also includes recent Oscar winner Common (performing alongside our very own Richmond Symphony), the Isley Brothers, Pat Metheny, Marcus Miller, David Benoit, The Manhattan Transfer, Robert Cray, Peabo Bryson, and many more.

Enjoy Free Jazz Performances

While the Jazz Festival is well worth the price of admission, you don't have to buy a pass to enjoy jazz this August in Richmond. Before the festival, CaRue takes over Carytown for six days of free, pre-festival jazz shows. Catch performances at the Hardywood Park Craft Brewery and the pop-up Jazz Café at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, all completely free, along with performances by local artists at smaller venues throughout the town. And the night before the festival, "Homegrown at the Hipp" takes over the Hippodrome Theater for a collaborative jazz show that features Nathan East and only costs $30.

Explore the Maymont Grounds

The Richmond Jazz Festival at Maymont is designed to be an immersive sensory experience, not just a place to hear good music. Maybe that's why the venue is one of Richmond's most beautiful and historic places to spend the day. Maymont is a 100-acre estate that includes one of the most historic homes in Richmond, Maymont Mansion. This Victorian home will be open during the festival to make sure you get the full Maymont experience. The estate also houses hundreds of native animals, including river otters, a bobcat, black bears, goats, and bald eagles. Conservation and education are important to the staff at Maymont, and if you make the festival a family affair, your kids will get to see some of Virginia's most awe-inspiring and threatened species.

Try Some of Virginia's Finest Wine, Food & Art

Of course, no festival can engage all the senses without gorgeous artwork to browse and delicious foods to taste (and wine to sip). During the Richmond Jazz Festival, some of the region's best chefs and artists will be putting their work on display. Catch chef demonstrations, shop for jewelry, art, and more from local merchandise vendors, and sample amazing local cuisine in between jazz performances. And don't miss the complimentary wine tasting from Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, whose products pair perfectly with jazz music whether you're in the bathtub or the middle of Maymont.

Looking for your next home in Richmond? Contact Napier ERA to find the perfect property. Our real estate agents are an all-star lineup of local pros, and they're always eager to help new families navigate our market and find their next homes.