Midlothian-South Richmond - Richmond, VA Area Guide

Midlothian holds a unique place in national and local history as both a battleground during the Civil War and a forward thinking, development-minded area. Historic markers along the major roadways mark important battlefields and provide visitors a glimpse into the local history. The development can be seen historically with Midlothian being home to the first documented coal mine in the United States as well as the starting spot of the first railroad in Virginia. The area balances growth with a mindfulness to protect the historic significance of the area.

Visitors to Richmond have access to the American Civil War Center at Tredegar Iron Works which lies less than 8 miles to the east of the Midlothian-South Richmond area. Across the James River, you'll find the Virginia Holocaust Museum and the Edgar Allen Poe Museum. Annually, Richmond hosts several beer and wine festivals, and the Midlothian Day Festival occurs each fall.

Visitors to the Midlothian-South Richmond neighborhood have a bevy of dining options. Along Midlothian Turnpike, residents can access numerous eateries among both national chains and local establishments. The bars and restaurants often serve as both dining options and night time entertainment. Locals can travel outside of the area toward downtown Richmond to enjoy a night out with friends and explore the Richmond bar scene which is made up of eclectic local bars and pubs as well as multistory nightclubs.

Locals know the place to go for the best sub in town is Sub Central. The fresh sub rolls and wallet-friendly pricing make Sub Central a go-to lunch spot. Try the turkey steak sub: a unique twist on the Philly cheese steak.

Restaurant Taqueria Panchito provides guests with an authentic Mexican experience through both decor and food reminiscent of a trip south of the border. Pick from an assortment of meats and toppings to create your own taco meal. Be sure to visit on Wednesdays for $1 taco night.

Chicken Fiesta has been serving up Tex-Mex meals to locals looking for a break from the typical chain menus for years. At Chicken Fiesta the ingredients come fresh, and the chicken is slow-rotisserie cooked for optimal taste. Stick to the basics here, and try the rotisserie chicken with yucca and fried plantains to round out the meal.

Nightlife requires some planning in Mildlothian-South Richmond. Restaurants serve drinks and some have nightly specials, but to get a real feel for the area, try Breakers Sports Grill. Situated west of the neighborhood, this bar provides good beer, pool and the occasional karaoke night.

The Greater Richmond Transit Company services Midlothian-South Richmond, and residents have several local bus transit stops, allowing access to downtown Richmond. Taxi service along Midlothian Turnpike provides transportation to major areas of interest, and both UberX and Taxi service can be obtained in the area by request.

Free parking is accessible at all shopping plazas. The Chippenham Parkway connects travelers to the south and eastern suburbs of Richmond. Midlothian Turnpike grants access to downtown Richmond and also suburban neighborhoods to the west of the area.

The densely wooded areas with light traffic allow for biking, but there are not designated biking lanes on the main or side roads until you reach the denser residential areas off of Midlothian Turnpike. Typically residents use personal transportation to reach stores and restaurants along the main roads. Most recreational biking, jogging, and walking takes place away from major roads.

Though the area does have dense woods, residents must travel out of the area to visit one of Midlothian's formal parks. Both Powhite Park and Forest Hill Park offer outdoor recreation and natural beauty to visitors. The parks welcome guests and residents for free and host a number of events throughout the year such as mountain biking competitions and fun runs.

Powhite Park contains several mountain biking trails and a famous course consisting of a dried-out creek bed which acts as a fast paced half pipe for experienced riders.

Forest Hill Park contains both walking and jogging paths and nature trails, making it a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts. The park extends to and along the James River for a serene and peaceful contrast to the busy city which lies just across the water.

The cost of living in Midlothian-South Richmond is 6 percent above the Richmond average. The lack of development in the immediate area means an affordable cost of living but still in close proximity to more highly developed areas.

It costs $1.50 via public bus to reach downtown Richmond. Taxi service costs $15 dependent upon the route taken and the traffic. Renting a one bedroom apartment costs $579 on average with residences located away from the major roadways. Uber also serves the area with ride-sharing convenience.

Gas prices sit 7 percent below the national average with personal vehicles making up a majority of the traffic in the area. Grabbing a pint of beer costs $4, and nightly specials can further reduce these costs at a number of local bars and restaurants.

Several shopping destinations lie in close proximity to Midlothian-South Richmond. The Beaufont Mall Shopping Center and Chippenham Square shopping center house national clothing and retail chains, and a Kmart Supercenter sits on Midlothian Turnpike to the west.

For shoppers searching for a more unique experience, you can stop by the Love of Jesus Thrift Store which contains apparel and collectibles donated by local residents. The staff here offer friendly service and a welcoming smile.

Foodies looking to increase their Latino cuisine acumen shop at Arco Iris Latino Market which carries numerous ingredients and Latin food staples that national chain grocery stores do not sell. Kroger and Kmart provide residents access to weekly grocery staples with several convenience stores and smaller local markets, such as Bay Seafood, letting residents find specialty items.

The South of the James Market, located several miles east of Midlothian-South Richmond in Forest Hill Park, gives residents a farm-to-table choice. The food is locally grown from farms located just outside of Richmond city limits, and the market also features fresh seafood delivered straight up the James River when in season.