The Ultimate Guide to Richmond's Parks, Playgrounds & Green Spaces
Thank you to Hilldrup for powering this City Guide!
Richmond offers the best of both worlds: the dining, culture, and attractions of a thriving city paired with the natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities that make it easy to get outside and explore.
It's no surprise, then, that Richmond ranked among the top 25 cities in the Trust for Public Land's 2026 ParkScore Index, which evaluates the nation's 100 largest cities based on park access, equity, investment, amenities, and acreage. Eighty-three percent of Richmonders live within a 10-minute walk of a park.
When the weather is beautiful, the last place you want to be is stuck indoors, surrounded by moving boxes. Rather than spending your weekends packing, lifting, and coordinating logistics, you could be discovering a new neighborhood trail, enjoying a playground with the kids, or relaxing in one of Richmond's many green spaces. That's where trusted local moving partners like Hilldrup come in, handling the heavy lifting so you can focus on settling in and enjoying your new community.
Whether you're new to the area or simply looking for your next favorite outdoor destination, here's a neighborhood-by-neighborhood guide to Richmond's best parks, playgrounds, and green spaces.
Northside
Richmond's Northside is known for its historic homes, tree-lined streets, and strong sense of community. The neighborhood's parks provide ample space for recreation while preserving the relaxed, residential atmosphere that makes Northside so appealing.
Battery Park
One of Northside's largest green spaces, Battery Park features athletic fields and courts (including the tennis courts where tennis legend Arthur Ashe learned to play), playgrounds, and a community center complete with a pool. It's a favorite gathering place for neighborhood events and weekend recreation.
Location: 2803 Dupont Cir
Hotchkiss Field Community Center
This all-in-one community destination features a newly renovated recreation center, pickleball and tennis courts, and Hotchkiss Green — a thoughtfully designed outdoor space with walking trails, trees, and a nature-inspired play area.
Location: 701 E Brookland Park Blvd
Scott's Addition
Known for its breweries, restaurants, and growing residential community, Scott's Addition has evolved into one of Richmond's liveliest neighborhoods. Alongside its industrial charm, you'll find several unique outdoor spaces designed for all ages.
Brambly Park
Part park, part gathering space, Brambly Park combines open lawns, outdoor seating, a restaurant and bar, and live entertainment. It's an ideal destination for relaxing with friends while enjoying Richmond's outdoor culture.
Location: 1708 Belleville St
Hours: Found here
Park365
Park365 is one of Richmond's most innovative parks, designed to be fully inclusive and accessible for children and adults of all abilities. Features include adaptive playground equipment, sensory-friendly experiences, wheelchair-accessible play structures, and beautiful walking paths.
Location: 3600 Saunders Ave
Hours: Found here
Ruff Canine Club
Say hello to Richmond’s first and only dog bar(k)! This members-only club provides ample opportunities for four-legged family members to burn off energy, while their owners can unwind at the bar and at special events. One-day passes are available for those looking to try it out.
Location: 1924 Ellen Rd
Hours: Found here
Museum District & Fan
Few Richmond neighborhoods are as walkable and park-filled as the Museum and Fan Districts. Beautiful architecture, mature trees, and pocket parks make this area perfect for outdoor exploration.
Humphrey Calder Community Center & Playground
This community center and recreation hub is renowned for its expansive, open field (ideal for a game of soccer), basketball courts, playground, and one of the city’s oldest and most vibrant community gardens.
Location: 414 N Thompson St
Lombardy & Park Avenue Playground
This charming, triangle-shaped neighborhood stop offers a playground, expansive sandbox, and shaded green space popular with local families.
Location: 347 N Lombardy St
Meadow Park
With its prime location next to Virginia Commonwealth University and free WiFi, Monroe Park is always bustling with energy. It’s also Richmond’s oldest official park (established in 1851!), and ongoing renovations keep the 7.5-acre park at the top of the list for community events.
Location: 401 N Meadow St
Scuffletown Park
Tucked into the heart of the Fan, Scuffletown Park is a beloved neighborhood oasis featuring gardens, a Little Free Library, and quiet places to relax. It’s also a favorite for enjoying takeout food from nearby mainstays.
Location: 418 Strawberry St
VMFA Sculpture Garden
Located behind the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Sculpture Garden combines public art and beautifully landscaped grounds ideal for a picnic. Don’t miss out on its “After 5 Fridays” series to enjoy special collection tours, drink specials, and live music.
Location: 200 N Arthur Ashe Blvd
Hours: Found here
Jackson Ward
Jackson Ward is a historical gold mine, where beautifully preserved architecture, public art, and cultural landmarks tell the story of a community that played a pivotal role in Black history.
Abner Clay Park
Located at the edge of Jackson Ward, Abner Clay Park offers a playground, open lawns, and a community-centered atmosphere. The park frequently hosts neighborhood events and provides plenty of room for children to play.
Location: 200 W Clay St
Carytown, Byrd Park, Maymont & Oregon Hill
This collection of neighborhoods combines some of Richmond's most iconic attractions with beautiful green spaces and family-friendly destinations.
Byrd Park
Home to three lakes, picnic shelters, walking trails, tennis courts, and expansive green space, Byrd Park is an idyllic, 287-acre destination for exercise and relaxation.
Location: 600 S Arthur Ashe Blvd
Hours: Found here
Carillon ‘Tot Lot’ Playground
Located near the historic Virginia World War Memorial Carillon in Byrd Park, this playground offers climbing equipment, swings, and plenty of room for children to explore.
Location: 1415 Pump House Dr #1799
Grayland Avenue ‘Tot Lot’ Playground
This fenced-in neighborhood playground offers swings, climbing structures, and open play areas for younger children.
Location: 3015 Grayland Ave
Hollywood Cemetery
More than a historic cemetery, Hollywood offers scenic walking routes, rolling hills, mature trees, and some of the best views of the James River.
Location: 412 S Cherry St
Hours: Found here
Holly Street Playground
Renovations are underway to revamp this quintessential Oregon Hill playground. Visitors can look forward to ADA improvements, more shaded play areas, and an updated basketball court, skate area, and splash pad.
Location: 819 Holly St
Maymont
One of Richmond's crown jewels, Maymont features 100 acres of gardens, wildlife exhibits, walking trails, historic architecture, and endless opportunities for exploration. There are also countless annual events and live entertainment to take advantage of.
Location: 1700 Hampton St
Hours: Found here
Oregon Hill Overlook
This small but scenic overlook provides some of Richmond's most spectacular views of the James River and downtown skyline.
Location: 752 Oregon Hill Pkwy
Shockoe & Church Hill
Richmond's historic East End blends centuries of history with some of the city's most stunning views and outdoor spaces.
Chimborazo Park
Perched atop one of Richmond's highest points, Chimborazo Park offers sweeping (180-degree) city views, walking paths, playgrounds (one block away), and historic significance. The adjoined Church Hill Dog Park (split for small and large dogs) is located on the eastern lower terrace of the park.
Location: 3215 E Broad St
Jefferson Park
Whether you’re looking for a place to exercise or sit down and relax, Jefferson Park has it all. Take the steep staircases to the top, find an exercise bike when you get there, or grab a spot on the grass — whatever you’re doing here includes a great view. There’s also a playground for the children.
Location: E Marshall St
Libby Hill Park
One of Richmond's three original parks and often credited as the inspiration for the city's name, Libby Hill Park offers some of Richmond's most iconic skyline and sunset views. Its picturesque setting has made it a popular backdrop for proposals, celebrations, and memorable moments.
Location: 2801 E Franklin St
Patrick Henry Park
Simply adorned with trees, benches, and a few picnic tables, the real highlight of this park is its historical importance. Just a stone’s throw away, see the church where Patrick Henry famously gave his “Give Me Liberty” speech.
Location: 2449 E Broad St
South of the James & Forest Hill
Known for its natural beauty and strong neighborhood character, South Richmond offers some of the city's most beloved parks and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Forest Hill Park
A local favorite featuring a stone house, “Boscobel,” walking trails, wooded areas, open fields, tennis courts, a playground, and a popular farmers market.
Location: 4021 Forest Hill Ave
Oak Grove Playground
This family-friendly playground offers modern equipment and plenty of room for active play.
Location: East 22nd St
Westover Hills ‘Tot Lot’ Playground
The playground utilized by Westover Hills Preschool offers recently upgraded amenities with open green space for the whole family. The nearby Community Center attached to Westover Hills Elementary adds recreational facilities.
Location: 4915 New Kent Ave
BONUS: James River Park Access Points
The James River is Richmond's greatest natural asset, and these access points connect residents to hiking, biking, paddling, and some of the best outdoor recreation in Virginia.
Ancarrow's Landing
A winding loop with features designed for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing along the James River.
Location: 1200 Brander St
Belle Isle (Suspension Bridge Entrance)
This “park island” is right in the middle of the James and is packed with opportunities for walking and rock hopping. A new nature exploration area designed for all ages and constructed out of driftwood, boulders, and other natural resources is kicking off a long-term revitalization.
Location: 300 Tredegar St
Brown's Island
Known for concerts and festivals, Brown's Island has been a lifeblood of the Richmond community for some time. Currently in the midst of its Improvement Project (slated to finish early 2027), the enhanced plaza will add seating, restrooms, and even more ways to enjoy the riverfront.
Location: 500 Tredegar St
Great Shiplock Park
This riverfront park connects visitors to Richmond's canal history (check out the restored shiplock and working canal lock), while offering access to trails and waterfront views.
Location: 2803 Dock St
Mayo Island
By fall 2026, the scenic 15-acre island will have abundant green space, gravel walking paths, and native plantings.
Location: 4501 S 14th St
Pony Pasture
One of Richmond's most popular river access points, Pony Pasture features trails, swimming areas, fishing spots, and easy river access.
Location: 7200 Riverside Dr
North Bank Trail & Buttermilk Trail
These interconnected trail systems offer miles of hiking, trail running, and mountain biking through the heart of the city.
Location: Multiple access points throughout Richmond
Reedy Creek Trail
This scenic trail connects visitors to the larger James River Park System while offering excellent opportunities for hiking and biking.
Location: 4190 Riverside Dr
Hours: Found here
Let Hilldrup Handle the Heavy Lifting
Whether you're moving across town or relocating to Richmond for the first time, Hilldrup can handle the heavy lifting, so you can focus on what matters most: spending time with family, meeting neighbors, discovering your new favorite park, and making memories outdoors.
Don't spend beautiful days buried in packing tape and cardboard boxes. Let Hilldrup take care of the move, so you can get back to living, exploring, and enjoying everything that makes Richmond one of America's best cities for outdoor recreation.
No one knows Richmond moving better than Hilldrup. Learn more about its customizable packing, storage, and moving services and get a free quote HERE.
Looking for more neighborhoods to explore?:
This guide is brought to you by Hilldrup.