Richmond, Virginia, unfolds along the winding bends of the James River, a place where history hums in old brick streets and creative energy surges inside repurposed warehouses. Known these days for its arts scene, riverside trails, and lively food community, this city counts just under 250,000 people in its metro area, with the central town itself holding around 230,000 residents. It’s a locale cherished for its wealth of murals, for soulful barbecue, for gatherings that echo through centuries.

Walking across a bridge at sunset, you might hear tales of a ghostly ferryman who once guided boats by lantern light—some storytellers still claim to glimpse a spectral figure drifting along the river on foggy nights. Fabled legends like these ebb between reality and imagination, coloring local lore with a sense of age-old mystery. Another story floats through neighborhoods about a lost Revolutionary War canon, believed buried under a house that now stands on a quiet street. Even if the artifact never turns up, the tale keeps curiosity alive.

Dining in this place often becomes a conversation in itself. There’s Kuba Kuba, where Cuban‑inspired flavors—particularly their mojo‑marinated pork sandwich—have fans raving that the flavors “dance on the palate.” Millie’s Diner still draws in early birds with pancake stacks that feel like warm memories and a counter where friendly chatter carries you right in. And for something a touch refined, Lemaire, inside the Jefferson Hotel, offers elevated New American fare in an elegant beaux‑arts setting—its menu is inventive, modern, and feels artful without ever sounding pretentious

Local businesses here add a singular flavor beyond food. There’s Gallery5, a warehouse-turned-venue that pulses with art shows, live music, and film screenings. People appreciate it for being open-minded and something like a creative hub—whether you’re buying a print from a local artist or catching a folk-rock set, there’s a sense of community energy there. On the riverbanks, Can Can Brasserie has earned a following for bringing French flair to American ingredients; their escargot in garlic butter and duck confit tucked into tender pastry somehow feels familiar and surprisingly homey at the same time.

When it comes to things we can’t resist recommending, strolling along the Canal Walk soothes the spirit, while pedaling or kayaking down the river invigorates it. The ancient stone batteau boat at the James River offers a peek at transportation long before highways carved through the region. And many look forward to the annual Dominion Energy Riverrock festival, where lovers of mountain biking, climbing, and trail running gather to celebrate outdoor sport—it’s a huge draw every year, complete with live music and food trucks spilling onto the stone-paved plazas. Folk say you can still catch the echo of oars and horses from long-ago canal days if you stand by the water long enough; even if that’s more romantic than factual, it’s fun to imagine.

Each neighborhood seems to have its own rhythm. In one corner, local artisans gather for weekend markets, filling the air with the scent of fresh-baked bread and small-batch candles scented like wildflowers. In another, street poets recite verses in front of old storefronts repurposed into design studios. When festivals roll around—like an annual brew fest where regional breweries bring hopped concoctions to open-air tents—the warmth of gathering feels genuine, people lingering until dusk, bottles in hand, conversation trailing into evening.

We talk endlessly about craft coffee, too. You can duck into Lamplighter Coffee Roasters and sip an espresso that tastes like it’s been made by someone who took their time—they’ll tell you the beans were roasted that morning. Or into Palette, where you can sip a latte painted with latte art and chat about the latest gallery exhibit next door. These spots blend caffeine with conversation, a perfect match.

Of course, we’d be remiss not to mention that the backdrop of towering monuments and graceful riverfront adds a certain presence. Historic architecture rubs shoulders with modern murals, and along Monument Avenue, grand statues stand like silent observers of time’s passage—even as crowds snap selfies, joggers sweep by, and children chase pigeons.

Now, from our vantage as wildlife removal professionals at Two Guys Wildlife Removal, we’re aware that riverways and green spaces in Richmond invite more than just folks seeking afternoon strolls. Squirrels, raccoons, and occasionally birds find welcome shelter in corners of homes, attics, or eaves. That’s where we come in. We understand the patterns of critters who use these older, river-framed structures as cover. We’re here to help handle any problems you're having with problem critters swiftly, humanely, and respectfully, so you can keep enjoying your neighborhood without worrying about unwelcome house guests. Contact Two Guys Wildlife Removal today, and let’s tackle your wildlife problems together.