Richmond welcomes more than 16 million visitors each year, but the city's attractions aren't just for tourists. Summer is the perfect time to explore the fascinating historical districts that are only minutes from Richmond homes for sale.

• Manchester
  In the mid-19th century, local residents complained about the tolls charged to cross the James River via the 14th Street bridge. The subsequent opening of the Free Bridge in 1873 led to the development of Manchester as an independent city. Manchester and Richmond merged in 1910, and today the area is the fastest-growing neighborhood in RVA. Modern lofts and high-rise apartment buildings share space with cultural and historic attractions. The Richmond Railroad Museum showcases an important element of the city's past, while Art Works is a full-service studio and gallery that hosts 4th Friday shows and receptions.
  
  
• Shockoe Bottom
  Historical figures such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Abraham Lincoln have all trod the streets of Shockoe Bottom, one of Richmond's oldest neighborhoods. During the 1800s, Shockoe Valley anchored Richmond's bustling commercial activity as the James River port where trade ships docked. Many of the warehouses along Tobacco Row have been converted to upscale living spaces. The lively 17th Street Market, which has run for more than 275 years, is an entertaining bridge between past and present. Shockoe Bottom has also become something of a hub for RVA's craft beer community, with breweries such as Stone Brewing and Bryant's Cidery & Brewery.
  
  
• Old Towne Petersburg
  Sadly, the wooden buildings of the original Old Towne Petersburg were leveled by a devastating fire in 1815. But in a testament to the community's resiliency, new brick buildings soon replaced them. Within a couple of decades, Old Towne served as the driving force behind Petersburg's rise as a leading manufacturing and transportation hub. When Steven Spielberg wanted a historically authentic look for his biographical film Lincoln, he chose to film many scenes in Old Towne. The iconic City Market has made many appearances on the big and small screens, while the historic Oak building houses a popular two-story antique mall.
  
  
• Folly Castle
  Petersburg homes for sale are so beautifully designed that an entire historical district formed around them. Folly Castle takes its name from an elegant Georgian-style mansion built in 1763 by Peter Jones, a wealthy bachelor whose great-grandfather was the reputed namesake of Petersburg. The home was referred to as a "folly" because it was considered much too large for a single man. Spend a sunny summer day strolling the neighborhood, marveling at Folly Castle and other stunning homes in Federal, Greek Revival, Italianate, and Queen Anne architectural styles. 
  
  
• Monroe Ward
  With its prime location between the Arts District, Fan District, Financial District, and Downtown, Monroe Ward is literally in the center of Richmond's cultural, entertainment, and business scenes. The district is a favorite spot for young adults to live, thanks to its proximity to Virginia Commonwealth University. Established in 1895, the Jefferson Hotel is still regarded as one of the finest in the United States. 

Our real estate agents are proud of Richmond's rich historic and cultural heritage. Contact us at Napier Realtors ERA for friendly and knowledgeable help with all your real estate needs.