The Arts District is the heart and home to RVA’s arts and culture bringing together the best elements of Richmond's creativity.
1
2
3
4
5
What is the Richmond Arts District?
Downtown Richmond’s Arts District was established by the City as an Arts and Cultural District Incentive Zone. Properties within this zone have access to special incentive programs, such as the Façade Improvement Program, in which the City offers grants to support façade improvements for commercial and mixed-use buildings in the zone. This overlay district connects several neighborhoods in Downtown Richmond, as seen in the map.
History of the Arts District
Sparked by a revitalization in the 2000's, the Arts District was created as a hub for creativity, commercial activity, and economic development. Downtown’s Arts District is centered around Broad Street as its core and connects neighborhoods and all the elements of a thriving downtown: cultural institutions, urban living, and amenities. With a wide range of shops and restaurants and a distinctive identity of eclectic expression, the Arts District is a destination for visitors and residents alike.
Living in the Arts District
Richmond’s Arts District offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern living, with beautifully restored apartments in converted buildings that place you right in the center of downtown’s vibrant energy. You’ll discover galleries, street art, small businesses, boutiques, and creative hubs, making the Arts District the true heart of RVA’s arts and culture.
Vintage Shops and Local Boutiques
From shopping vintage clothes and furniture to browsing handmade and curated home goods, the Arts District in downtown Richmond is full of unique finds. After exploring shops and galleries, you can make a day of it with lunch, happy hour, or dinner at one of the district’s many local restaurants. With monthly events like RVA First Fridays adding to the excitement, the Arts District is a dynamic destination to live, work, and play.
Broad Street: The Heart of the Arts District
Broad Street is the spine of Richmond's Arts District. It's home to many restored 1900s storefronts now home to galleries, independent shops, restaurants, and loft apartments. Walk Broad Street (between Belvidere Street and 1st Street), and you'll pass Verdalina, SUPPLY, Sweet P's RVA, and The Quirk Hotel, among others, all within a few blocks. It's also the route for RVA First Fridays, when the street fills with art lovers each month.
Arts District FAQ
What is the Arts and Cultural District Incentive Zone?
The City of Richmond designated the Arts District as an Arts and Cultural District Incentive Zone. Properties within the zone can access special incentive programs, such as the Façade Improvement Program, which offers grants for exterior improvements to commercial and mixed-use buildings.
How do I get to the Arts District, and where can I park?
The easiest way in is the GRTC Pulse: its Arts District station sits at Broad and Adams Streets, right in the middle of the district. If you're driving, you'll find metered street parking along Broad Street and nearby side streets, plus a parking deck at 5th, 6th, and 7th Street. There are also surface lots at Lot 225, Madison & Broad 225 West Broad Street and a lot at Broad Street 623 East Broad Street. Parking fills up quickly on First Fridays, so arrive early or take the Pulse. For maps and rates, see our Downtown Parking guide.
What is there to do in the Richmond Arts District?
The Arts District is home to galleries, murals, theaters, vintage and independent shops, and local restaurants and bars, all within a few walkable blocks of Broad Street. Visitors can browse exhibits, shop for vintage clothing and furniture, see a show, and catch the monthly First Fridays Art Walk.
