10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving to Richmond, Virginia

[@LaurenZRay]

How long has everyone lived in Richmond, VA? 😍👇

[@musicbyLUKAS]

A little over a year now! ☺️

[@LaurenZRay]

@@musicbyLUKAS 😜

[@LaurenZRay]

@@musicbyLUKAS great year!!

[@madelynbva]

2 years! Went to VCU ions ago, recently moved back from LA. Still getting used to the pace of things, but can’t deny that the city has really everything you need. Really enjoying your content. Recently made the switch to vegan and your guide was a lifesaver! Keep up the good work ❤

[@daniellemaxwell6149]

I’ve been here since the beginning of June. I moved here from the Burlington, VT area. This summer has been a tough adjustment, as Vermont’s summers are absolutely magical and being outdoors is the main attraction. Thank you so much for this video about the pros and cons. Lots of things that I’ve not been able to get out and try yet. I totally agree with people being really nice and friendly, but making friends hasn’t been easy yet. I also struggle with putting myself out there. I just joined a Discord channel call Let’s Hang RVA - I think you’d be a great addition to that channel. Thanks again for the awesome video!

[@WaffleFaceRVA]

Lifetime Richmonder here, surrounding areas and within the city. Two things, Godfreys Drag Brunch is the MOST FUN you can have in Richmond. And the burlesque/ vaudeville/ dance/ performing arts scene is a blast for adults moving here who want to have fun and experience a little pocket of Richmond's secret awesomeness. Families too, there are so many family friendly events in the city EVERY weekend it's just too much to name. This city is culturally diverse and we celebrate that diversity all year round. I used to be surprised that people on the West coast wanted to come here and now I get it. Our city is a real beauty. Taking the dog for a walk through the Fan around the holidays is such a magical experience, I highly recommend it! I had to add this, going to VCU was an incredible experience. It was hard for me because I was BROKE. But I will be delighted if one of my kids chooses VCU in a few years.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@WaffleFaceRVA this is a great review of the city with tons of tips! Thank you for this!!💚

[@frogs9468]

It's so crazy to see a KZbinr venture around who lives in the same city I do. Everyone else lives on the West Coast or in the Northeast, I love to see it! I'm RVA born & raised, there's a lot of sight seeing in RVA; like literally you will not get bored at all!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@frogs9468 it really is amazing!! You’re right, so much to do & see 😍😍

[@hooforce]

Discovered your videos several months ago and I love how much you love Richmond. It’s my hometown and have always love it myself. I currently live in Northern Virginia (and have lived all over the country), but looking to retire soon…guess where I’m headed? That’s right - back home to RVA! Can’t wait. You are one of THE BEST things that has happened to Richmond! Thank you for your amazing social media advocacy! I know people who follow you or just stumble upon your videos have to be amazed by what Richmond has to offer. Heck, even I’ve learned a ton! Keep it up! You’re making a difference!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@hooforce thank you so much for the kind words!! 🥹🥹 I really do appreciate it and I really love it here. I’m excited for your return! Can’t wait to keep making videos. Thank you!!💚💚

[@amac0190]

I grew up in Chesterfield and never really went into Richmond as a kid in the 90s. My mom avoided it like the plague and I haven't been as an adult. I should make it a trip! Thanks for the video. I love how much you love Richmond ❤

[@LaurenZRay]

@@amac0190 yes! Come visit!!

[@frogs9468]

You definitely should! I feel like I live in RVA sometimes instead of Chesterfield 😂😂😂

[@Just_being_honestt]

I've lived in RVA my whole life. Every time I've thought about leaving, I get home sick so fast, haha. There's nothing to add to your video, so thank you for explaining my beautiful city, and Im glad it feels like home to you here!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@Just_being_honestt thank you for saying that! I love it here so much 💚💚

[@LoveStallion]

Richmond is an unsung gem, but I think it's mostly fun if you are a young urbanite. It's not as great of a city for families with kids that care about school quality (and in some areas, safety). I deplore the suburbs, but it's hard to argue with the schools in Short Pump or even out by Moseley. RVA school district struggles. A lot.

[@TeacherTrainerMadrid]

Another great video. I am from Richmond and l am excited about the changes. I go back home every summer and there is always something new to see. The last part of the video was great. Your “rant,” as you called it, was spot on. Richmond is not for everyone and encouraging people to find a place that is right for them is wonderful advice. I look forward to your future videos. Greetings from Madrid, Spain.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@TeacherTrainerMadrid thank you so much! So kind as always. 💚

[@TeacherTrainerMadrid]

@@LaurenZRay just spreading the light to banish the darkness.

[@densitydad]

Native here, and just wanted to say I love how you love Richmond. Great video Lauren.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@densitydad thanks Barry!! 💚💚

[@musicbyLUKAS]

Rafting on the James gave me an even bigger appreciation for this city. Seeing it from the water was so cool. 💦

[@LaurenZRay]

@@musicbyLUKAS highly recommend! That was seriously SO fun!!

[@SeaBassTian]

You're such a great advocate for RVA, I love watching these clips, I recognized almost all of the backdrops of your scenes. I've only been here for 4 years (Covid transplant) but it already feels like home. Love all of the food shots especially Proper Pie Co!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@SeaBassTian thank you so much for the kind words! Also proper pie is Lukas’ fav spot! I’m glad you enjoyed the video. RVA rocks 😍

[@kitcat627]

Making the move in October! We’re coming from Bend, OR and super excited. You vlogs are making me even more excited for the move. We won’t know anyone in town either. Here’s hoping we can link with some cool folks when we land!!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@kitcat627 hey! That’s awesome. Definitely come to one of my @veganclubrva meet ups! We have one on October 10! Also my friend Elaine runs @letshangrva which has meetups every week! Tons of people come to both all looking for friends. 💚

[@richardgrobertson5293]

Went to college in Richmond in the 1980's to 1990 at VCU. Lived in the Fan and loved it! Moved to NYC and left after years. I have watched the development of Richmond and VCU through the years and have decided that as a middle aged person now that I like the vibe of Richmond and am planning on moving back to experience the NEW Richmond. I find it to be an improvement of many former negative things.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@richardgrobertson5293 I would love to hear about the comparison between then and now. Let me know how you like it!

[@terilynn9]

I appreciate every video that you do, you put a bit of historical context. That’s truly valuable and amazing. ❤

[@LaurenZRay]

@@terilynn9 thank you so much for the kind words. Really means a lot!! 💚💚

[@edwardsizzahands2.0]

Im so happy for you!! I started crying at 18:01. 😅. Originally from rva but have lived in Fl the last 12 years. Been watch your videos to get updated because im relocating back in a few weeks Super excited thanks for sharing ❣️

[@LaurenZRay]

@@edwardsizzahands2.0 sameeee. 🥹 The amount of times I’ve cried with tears of joy. So happy to be here. Happy you’re coming back soon!!

[@BarryPlott]

I've been a Richmonder for 52 years, with only a brief stint in Texas and Las Vegas for a combined three years when I was a young boy. My single mother moved us for career opportunities, but we eventually found our way back to Richmond, and I couldn’t be more grateful for that. I’m absolutely in love with this city. I often refer to it as the "Little East Coast Austin." Richmond has come a long way, and while it hasn’t always been as great as it is now, I’m proud to see how we’re finally starting to handle the more difficult aspects of our history with the care and attention they deserve. Growing up and living here as an adult has been an incredible experience. I’m really inspired by what you and Lukas are bringing to Richmond. Your love and passion for this city are truly amazing, and you both shine a great light on all the incredible things Richmond has to offer. Thank you for always sharing, and please keep up the great work. It’s truly appreciated!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@BarryPlott I agree! I’m really happy about it too. Also thank you so much for the kind words Barry. It means a lot. I can’t wait to see what this year brings & can’t wait to bring you along with us!!💚

[@parkerhaley4071]

This city has a charm that cannot be matched. We really do have it all here.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@parkerhaley4071 😍💚💚

[@ChaseGunn]

I moved to Richmond back in 2016 and fell in love with this city. 8 years later and I now work for Richmond's tourism industry and try to get other people to love it too. Glad to see people like you who move here and fall in love with the city the same way I did.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@ChaseGunn that’s so awesome!! What all do you do in tourism? Sounds like a fun job 😍

[@ChaseGunn]

@@LaurenZRay It is a very fun job! I am the graphic designer at Richmond Region Tourism, so my job is basically to make RVA and its surrounding jurisdictions look gorgeous, which isn't too hard lol!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@ChaseGunn yes love that!! I know that account for sure 😍 I follow them on IG. That has to be so fun! If you have any tips for me, let me know!!

[@jangold6787]

I first lived in Richmond many years ago as a student at VCU. Have lived in New York (the city and the state) and NC. I've been back in the Richmond area for many years. My children grew up here. Currently I live in Midlothian (I can be in the city in 15 minutes if I take the toll roads) and love living here. You've opened my eyes to other things to see and do. I'm vegan too.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@jangold6787 hey Jan!! That’s awesome. What are some of you favorite vegan spots? I know you have cinnaholic in Midlo now!

[@jangold6787]

@@LaurenZRay Devil's Lettuce, YumVee, Harrison St cafe. Unfortunately very few of my friends are interested in not eating meat. Hope to join in on your group at sometime.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@jangold6787 yes please come hang with us! Also great choices 😍

[@lonelyzoom]

I think what you’re doing with your platform is amazing honestly I love all your content and makes me feel happy that I’ll be moving to Richmond soon

[@LaurenZRay]

@@lonelyzoom thank you so much for your kind words!!💚💚 I’m excited for you!

[@cyd369]

I’ve been here since 2007. It has changed a lot just in that time. It keeps getting better. Love your positive videos , and you vibe! lol 😊

[@LaurenZRay]

@@cyd369 oh wow I bet!! What’s been your favorite change to Richmond you’ve seen?

[@cyd369]

Seeing the Confederate monuments removed and meeting folks from other areas of the country move here. The food scene has been amazing here as well.

[@terrychancellor4593]

Welcome!! I've lived here since 1987 when I transferred to VCU!! I'm an artist and art instructor now living in western Hanover. I'm also my church's historian so I also know a lot about the Short Pumo area, too. It's a fun area to explore but then ALL of Virginia is!!! My family recently held a big national reunion in southwestern VA to mark the 250th Anniversary of the Sluss Family Massacre (my Dad's side of the family). So yep, we've been here for over 250 years!! Other than my first 6 months of life, I have always lived in VA. Enjoy, there's so much in store!!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@terrychancellor4593 wow!! That’s incredible!! What a family history! Woah

[@nickhumble9468]

I grew up in Richmond, I’m in Charlottesville now. I miss it a lot, I’m happy to see it’s been such a positive experience for you!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@nickhumble9468 thanks Nick! It’s probably nice to be so close to the mountains though 😍

[@sarasoutherland]

Great video, thank you!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@sarasoutherland of course! 💚💚

[@costasworldofmusicmemories5792]

As we mentioned in a previous comment. We moved from Boston , where we lived for many, many years. We moved to Richmond a little over 3 years ago and have not looked back. Lauren, we must say that you've seen so much of Richmond in a short period of time since you've been here. We are still catching up. Thank You for the wonderful tips. Looking forward to more great video. Sending you much love❤ from Glen Allen Jim and Harriet . P.S. One thing I wish we knew before moving to Richmond. Richmond drivers like to dart in and out of traffic and cut in front of you and they like to drive fast on the highways.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@costasworldofmusicmemories5792 oh yes! The driving here is very interesting! Thanks for mentioning it. Hope all is well with you guys!!

[@jgator6694]

You like Richmond better than Boston?!?

[@costasworldofmusicmemories5792]

@@jgator6694 We do at this moment in time.

[@jgator6694]

@@costasworldofmusicmemories5792 I live in Virginia but am from New England and think Boston is a beautiful city. I have not explored Richmond as much as I probably should. 😌

[@costasworldofmusicmemories5792]

@@jgator6694 Boston is a beautiful city but it's become unaffordable.

[@AnedraBourne]

The TPott actually doesn’t take you to Belle Isle. It’s located on Brown’s Island. The pedestrian footbridge on Tredegar St. takes you to Belle Isle.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@AnedraBourne yes! Thank you for clarifying that for everyone! 💚

[@Mia-Victoria-11238]

As someone who’s planning to move to Richmond in 2 years, I’d love to see a video on the different neighborhoods!

[@farleys6949]

I’ve lived in Richmond since 2008. One of my favorite books about Richmond history is The Devil’s Half Acre by Kristen Green. It’s such an important story that was totally unknown to me.

[@BilalKhan-rh1ei]

Very informative video. I have watched a lot of your videos ever since I though of moving to Richmond. Love you energy, positivity, enthusiasm and obsession with Richmond! Keep up the good work.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@BilalKhan-rh1ei thank you so much!! 💚 I’m glad the videos have been helpful ☺️

[@daphnejohnson2259]

9:57 cold days in the winter but little to no snow!

[@hectortwoonesix]

I go there for concerts. Been to The Fallout, Canal Club and The National. There is another venue that I have been to but forgot the name.

[@dgwaltney]

The Dream Is Lost: Voting Rights and the Politics of Race in Richmond, Virginia is another must read!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@dgwaltney thank you so much for this! Really appreciate it!💚

[@justinmclaughlin1953]

Richmond’s a really cool city. My friend went to vcu and I’d visit back in 2013. Everyone picks up on the vibe that city has. And it seems like it hasn’t changed much since. I might move there myself soon

[@LaurenZRay]

@@justinmclaughlin1953 that’s awesome you got to visit then! It is such a vibe!

[@cherylgoode8575]

I have always lived here, and I love how you love it here. It can be awesome! I can’t wait to join your group on one of your vegan adventures❣️

[@LaurenZRay]

@@cherylgoode8575 that would be so fun! On Wednesday I am dropping the tickets to the next vegan food tour in “The Fan”. Would love to have you come! 😊

[@DebraV711711]

I am in California and want to get back to the East coast. I am single and vegan- Richmond is on my list to visit. Great info.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@DebraV711711 if you come, you can also come to the vegan club hangouts too! ☺️

[@babysisdolls3336]

great video, i lived and worked in medical field in Richmond for 40 years.. i can say the rafting and tubing on the James is great! and all the museums..are wonderful...building art and all the Parks a really great.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@babysisdolls3336 just the best!!

[@OhNoItsReuben]

I'm a runner and the Richmond marathon is on my radar. Looks like there's a lot more sightseeing than I originally thought! Thanks for the video. I'm happy you like living there so much. Seems like a cool place.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@OhNoItsReuben I’ve heard the marathon is really cool too! Covers a lot of space, so you can sightsee while running! ☺️ Thank you for the kind words!

[@juliaeberle8576]

I’m enjoying your videos on the KZbins. Been here since 1996. It is challenging to make friends as an adult here or anywhere. One thing that I’ve noticed about your videos is that they are rather consumption oriented regarding food and experiences. That’s fine; that’s your mission. But I have made friends here through work, volunteering, church, and running and cycling groups. These things are not very photogenic, but they do lead to a rich and meaningful life here.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@juliaeberle8576 thank you so much for the tips! 💚💚

[@bzintner]

If you want some good vegan food, there is a place up closer to the west end called Devils Lettuce that is delicious, it's a all Vegan restaurant. I'm not vegan myself, but I'd go there for lunch.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@bzintner love Devil’s Lettuce!! Can’t wait for the new location to open up 😍😍

[@josephwc95]

Just moved to Richmond in June and recently discovered After 5 Fridays at the VMFA. It's soooo fun and free to get in!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@josephwc95 yes love that!! I need to go more often honestly. Thanks for remind me!

[@SergioIsrael14]

Hey, I just moved into the Richmond myself. What's a good way to keep track of different events happening in the city? I tend to spot flyers posted in Carytown, but besides that I'm pretty lost.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@SergioIsrael14 definitely follow me on Instagram (@laurenzray) and my friend Elaine (@miss_elaine_neous) she posts things daily!

[@Kindness808]

Would love to see a series on the neighborhoods! Thanks for all of the info!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@Kindness808 of course! Working on it now. Definitely after Vlogtober 💚

[@bubbles-o72]

I have lived in Richmond for over 15 years. Almost drowned in the James back in 2008. I don't swim in the James now because of the sewage issue. The food scene is awesome. The eclectic music scene is excellent too. Check it out too.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@bubbles-o72 oh yes! I forgot to mention the music. Good call! Sorry about you almost drowning. That sounds horrible!

[@bowlingorama1]

We are super glad you moved here 🥰

[@brianmartin3263]

40 years. City of Richmond very expensive. If you can you might want to live out in Amelia or Powhatan.😊

[@violetartichoke]

I lived in rva for a couple years, moved away for a decade, then I came back in 2021. Everyone who leaves Richmond comes back eventually 😊

[@raydragerns3657]

Lol yep just moved back after 4ish years away

[@cybercanal5319]

How much does Stoney pay you to make these?

[@sarcastickz6885]

Better than the bus drivers😂

[@Hotrodchef89]

Another great video. It gives me so many ideas of things to do :-)

[@LaurenZRay]

@@Hotrodchef89 yay!! This one is full of so many good ones too. Let me know what you end up trying! 😍

[@kimiknows]

I've lived in Richmond all of my life, but I hated living in the city itself. It was hearing constant gunfire that did it for me

[@matthewreynolds3500]

This was really cool! Love trying new food but haven't done so as much w/vegan. let's just say I learned today chickpeas and garbanzo beans are the same thing! I really like vegetarian Indian food- is that difficult to pull off 100% vegan? Also, what time of year do the squirrels fly?

[@LaurenZRay]

@@matthewreynolds3500 Indian food is one of the easiest cuisines to be vegan actually! So good too!

[@CalamityCannon]

15:04 being from NY, the only surprise about Richmond tolls was that they would be so cheap (a 70 cent toll? And that's me spoiling myself to a 5-min-faster drive?! The only exception is the comedy of the 895 one, which is the only silly-expensive one in/around RVA - mostly bc no one is on the road - but that's still relative) 😅

[@frogs9468]

895 is ridiculous price wise compared to the others we have around here. The price a few months ago was raised to $5.75 one way, it's crazy. Richmond definitely gets their money one way or the other. Property tax time absolutely sucks though.

[@babysisdolls3336]

your video is making me want to stay in Richmond! after I retire.

[@TonyThomas10000]

I have heard that Richmond is not that happy a place for people of color, like me! "Richmond's slave trade industry was second only in importance to New Orleans between 1830 and 1865. Slave-trade auction houses, offices, slave jails, and residences of the most prominent slave traders were scattered throughout Shockoe Bottom, a creek valley flowing into the James River."

[@TonyThomas10000]

@@reneecollin8825 It was based upon reflections from those I knew who lived, visited, and went to school in that area.

[@reneecollin8825]

@@TonyThomas10000 still (with anything in life) - you have to see / experience things for yourself*

[@richardgrobertson5293]

are you a slave now-NO- that is what matters and there are no limitations on experiencing life in Richmond so get over these excuses and negative vibes and enjoy life. If you live in a ghetto neighborhood then you might see and hear a lot of negative feedback but those who move forward will reap any rewards of effort put forth. It's a mindset please.

[@TonyThomas10000]

@@richardgrobertson5293 Just a comment and some history. No need to read more into it. YMMV.

[@TonyThomas10000]

@@reneecollin8825 True.

[@abbynormalistaken]

I'm curious if your astrocartography chart shows Richmond as a great place for you.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@abbynormalistaken good question! How can I tell?

[@dennistrepanier3836]

Please do a neighborhood stroll video, we want to move to Richmond but don't know much about the neighborhoods. 😊

[@LaurenZRay]

@@dennistrepanier3836 working on one now! ☺️ For sure!

[@Tzippi]

I have a question about the historic apartments. If you were on the bottom floor, can you hear the people walking around above your head? I have lived in buildings that were 135 years old and I couldn’t hear anything. However, I wanted to ask because property owners and landlords will tell you all sorts of crazy things. Also, can you suggest a reputable property management company or are most of those old houses Owned by private owners. But if you can hear everything, you don’t have to answer the latter questions. Thank you and I love your vlogs! I’m not too far, but the town I’m in is getting more unfordable by the minute. There’s no way this place is going to be the next Napa Valley! Time to move! I also dig the art scene! I guess I would be interested in the museum area or not necessarily right near VCU but places where I can walk to museums and see cool art. The fashion show that you went to that building blew me away! I’m working on my PhD and it could make a turn towards history and architecture and Richmond. There’s so much history there I could go in any direction I want. I also like the martial arts schools that are over there. There’s plenty to choose from! Thank you for your help. Sorry for the TED talk!

[@ianstewart8301]

Love that you have Rachel Beanland’s book on the great theater fire. I interviewed her when I was at VPM

[@LaurenZRay]

@@ianstewart8301 Such a good book! I also loved the non-fiction one by Meredith Henne Baker too. That’s so cool you interviewed her! I got her to sign my copy at a talk I went to! Haha

[@ianstewart8301]

@@LaurenZRay my interview should still be on the VPM site

[@michaelhannell4083]

Didnt mention the taky light tours for xmas, the farmers market at bryant park, dogwood dell events every summer

[@LaurenZRay]

@@michaelhannell4083 these are amazing! Thanks for adding them in. Also you’re so right, Xmas in Richmond is magical!!😍✨

[@leaminenna6313]

What about pet friendly neighborhoods for someone that would want to rent?

[@Belvidere_gc]

Our lovely little River City.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@Belvidere_gc 🥹🥹

[@Belvidere_gc]

@@LaurenZRay plenty of golf in the city and surrounding counties too! 😉

[@LaurenZRay]

@@Belvidere_gc need to step up my golf game!

[@aarona3111]

live an hour from RVA but love visiting there for the vegan options

[@LaurenZRay]

@@aarona3111 they’re so good! I’m very grateful! What are some of your fav spots?

[@aarona3111]

@@LaurenZRay I think you mentioned/showed most of the spots. i like the buffalo tofu sandwich and caesar salad at 821. my wife loves sticky rice (veganzilla + the spicy rolls), minglewood is great-only so many places to get a vegan milkshake.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@aarona3111 omg the veganzilla roll is the best!! Also 821 cafe is always a great choice! 😍

[@richardharrold8658]

The history has been removed. Almost all of the monuments on Monument ave and around the city are gone now.

[@JustAnotherHuman]

What's the gluten free scene in Richmond like?

[@LaurenZRay]

@@JustAnotherHuman both Minglewood & Tiny Vegan have tons of GF options. Most restaurants label too & the servers are knowledgeable.

[@JustAnotherHuman]

@@LaurenZRay Thank you!

[@micahdavenport5526]

If you love history and architecture you should check out the Quoit Club through Historic Richmond!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@micahdavenport5526 Oh yes, I’m a member! Just joined this season & I’ve been absolutely loving it! Thanks for mentioning that Micah. Have you been able to make it to any? There is one at Monumental Church in October

[@micahdavenport5526]

@@LaurenZRay haha! I am a member too and this is ALSO our first season! We have been slacking on some of the meet-ups but should be at the next ones! hopefully i'll see ya there!

[@LaurenZRay]

@@micahdavenport5526 yes!! If you see me - say hi. I usually go by myself & need friendship haha

[@micahdavenport5526]

@@LaurenZRay absolutely I will!!!

[@steph.no.stylist3863]

how are the car insurance rates? NY is astronomical.

[@Trblues22]

The dime bridge that's not a dime anymore but we still call it that.

[@LaurenZRay]

@@Trblues22 love that too much haha

[@richardgrobertson5293]

is that the old Nickel Bridge?

[@kelly_kpb]

@@richardgrobertson5293OP is either young or not native if they call it the dime bridge, everyone else remembers it as the nickel bridge still!

[@mtns340]

what about transit, you never mention it. does everyone just drive?

[@LaurenZRay]

Most people do but we do have a bus system in place.

[@bluebird8224]

watching