Richmond, Virginia - A Vibrant Fusion of History, Culture, and LGBTQ Pride

By Joey Amato

Joey by Richmond VA Mural

Stepping into Richmond, Virginia, often called the "River City," feels like walking through a seamless blend of past and present. This captivating city, with its rich historical roots and dynamic modern culture, offers a unique experience for every traveler. But for the LGBTQ community, the Richmond Region is more than just a destinationit's a vibrant haven of inclusivity and pride.

Our journey began on a sunny Saturday morning. Richmond was alive with energy, the streets bustling with locals and visitors alike, eager to explore the city's offerings. First on our agenda was Godfrey's, an iconic restaurant and nightclub known for its lively weekend drag brunches. The place was packed, and the air buzzed with excitement. As we enjoyed a hearty Southern-inspired meal, we couldn't help but be captivated by the dazzling performances and witty humor of the queens. Initially, I had my doubts about the culinary aspect, as LGBTQ bars aren't typically known for gourmet cuisine. However, Godfrey's exceeded expectations, delivering both entertainment and delicious food- a combination that made for an unforgettable experience.

In the evening, we headed to L'Opossum, an award-winning, LGBTQ-owned restaurant tucked away in the Oregon Hill neighborhood. Stepping inside felt like entering a whimsical world where eclectic art and cozy elegance coexist. Chef David Shannon's creative flair shone through in every dish. We indulged in the Filet Mignon of Beef "Swellington," perfectly cooked and topped with a fascinator of truffled duxelles, all bathed in a pink peppercorn and port reduction. Another highlight was the Faberge egg, adorned with caviar, cured salmon, and lobster. Each bite was a testament to the chef's genius, making L'Opossum an experience in itself.

As night fell, we explored Richmond's thriving LGBTQ nightlife scene. Barcode, with its laid-back atmosphere, karaoke nights, and drag shows, offered a relaxed vibe. Babes of Carytown, one of the last lesbian-owned bars in the country, stood out with its welcoming ambiance and spacious outdoor patio. We also made stops at Papi's and Thirsty's RVA, each venue contributing to the city's vibrant nightlife and fostering a sense of community.

Our next stop was the Mimosa Trail, a delightful self-guided tour of over 40 establishments offering unique twists on the classic mimosa. We began at the historic Jefferson Hotel, an architectural masterpiece exuding Southern elegance. The grand staircase, famously inspiring the one in Gone with the Wind, made for a stunning photo backdrop. From there, we visited SB's Lakeside Love Shack, an LGBTQ-friendly eatery owned by Sarabeth "SB" Hagen. The rainbow-themed decor added a cheerful vibe, and the sweet potato hash was the perfect complement to our refreshing mimosas.

Though not officially part of the trail, we couldn't resist stopping by Gold Lion Community Cafe. Owned by LGBTQ couple Matt and Nafis, this cafe offers vegetarian cuisine with an Indian twist. Beyond its delectable menu, Gold Lion serves as a safe space for LGBTQ individuals and provides free meals to those in need. It's not just a cafeit's a community lifeline, embodying Richmond's spirit of generosity and inclusiveness.

Our trip wouldn't have been complete without a visit to the Richmond Triangle Players (RTP), one of the nation's longest-running LGBTQ theater companies. That evening, we attended a holiday double feature. The first play, "With Bells On," was a heartwarming comedy starring local drag performer Wette Midler and actor Doug Schneider. The second, "Who's Holiday," had us in stitches as Emily Dandridge brought an irreverent, adult version of Cindy Lou Who to life. The performances were bold, thought-provoking, and thoroughly entertaining, reflecting the high caliber of RTP's productions.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

On our final morning, we explored the Richmond Region's diverse neighborhoods. Carytown, known as the "Mile of Style," was perfect for boutique shopping and sampling eclectic cuisine. The Fan District charmed us with its historic row houses and vibrant eateries, while Scott's Addition dazzled with its array of craft breweries and distilleries.

As we packed up to leave, we reflected on the unique charm of Richmond. It's a city that seamlessly blends historic allure with a progressive, welcoming spirit. From drag brunches and fine dining to inclusive festivals and community-driven spaces, Richmond offers something for everyone. More importantly, it fosters a sense of belonging for all who visit.

About the Author

Joey Amato Joey Amato is the publisher of Pride Journeys, a syndicated LGBTQ travel column and website helping queer travelers discover inclusive, unforgettable destinations. With a background in media and PR, Joey launched Pride Journeys to highlight spots that celebrate-not just tolerate-LGBTQ visitors.