Beercation: A Taste of Richmond: Exploring Craft Breweries in Shockoe Bottom

Table Of Contents

Intro

Exploring The Craft Breweries

Map

Triple Crossing

Stone Brewing

Hardywood

Savor The Flavors

Cideries

What To Do In Shockoe Bottom

Walk The Canal Walk

Visit Edgar Allen Poe Museum

Explore The Farmers Market

Where To Stay

Plan NASCAR

Beercation Information Central, Tours and More

Summary

Shop The Blog

Intro

Richmond, Virginia, is not just steeped in history; it’s also brimming with a vibrant craft beer scene that beckons beer enthusiasts and casual tasters alike. Today, we’re diving into the heart of Shockoe Bottom to explore its array of craft breweries. Whether you’re a hop connoisseur or just looking to savor some local flavors, this guide will take you through the best spots to visit, the unique brews on offer, and the other delights that this historic area has to offer.

Beercation are all the hype now and A taste of Richmond Craft Breweries and Cideries in Shockoe Bottom is the perfect place to add on your list. There are 15 breweries within walking distance, each with their unique flare and brew. You’ll find cideries and most definitely will enjoy the esthetics of this charming part of the city.

Exploring The Craft Breweries

Shockoe Bottom is home to some of Richmond’s most innovative and delightful craft breweries and why it is a must for your Beercation. . Each brewery has its own unique appeal, offering a range of styles from robust stouts and IPAs to lighter lagers and sours. Here’s a look at a few must-visit spots:

– **Triple Crossing Beer:** Known for its finely crafted beers, Triple Crossing focuses on hop-forward beers. Don’t miss their Falcon Smash IPA, which is a local favorite. This brewery has multiple locations and is known not only for their beer, but their honey pepperoni pizza.

– **Stone Brewing Richmond:** This well-known brewery from California has a strong presence in Richmond, offering a spacious taproom and a selection of exclusive brews not available elsewhere.

– **Hardywood Park Craft Brewery:** A pioneer in Richmond’s craft beer expansion, Hardywood is renowned for its creative and seasonal brews. Make sure to try their Gingerbread Stout, a perfect treat if you’re visiting in the cooler months. This brewery has multiple locations as well offering space for bands and food trucks at all locations.

Scotts Addition Craft Brewery Map

Savor The Flavors

While Richmond’s craft breweries excel in their beer offerings, many also boast unique culinary experiences that complement their brews. From gourmet food trucks parked on-site to cozy brewpubs serving up hearty, locally-sourced dishes, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Here’s a taste of what you might find:

• Triple Crossing Beer often features rotating food trucks that bring a variety of flavors right to the brewery’s doorstep. From artisan pizzas to gourmet tacos, the food options are as carefully crafted as their beers.

• Stone Brewing Richmond hosts a bistro that offers an eclectic menu influenced by global cuisies, designed to pair perfectly with their extensive beer selection. The use of local, sustainable ingredients highlights the best of what Virginia has to offer.

• Hardywood Park Craft Brewery not only serves up innovative beers but also partners with local food vendors to provide a diverse culinary experience. Whether it’s a barbecue day or a vegan pop-up, Hardywood ensures there’s always something delicious to accompany your pint.

These culinary experiences make each brewery visit unique, allowing you to explore Richmond’s rich tapestry of flavors one sip—and bite—at a time. Truly a Taste Of Richmond extends beyond it’s craft breweries, but into every flavor of the unique offerings in this town and why it’s the perfect place for foodies.

Many of these breweries started with just their beer selections and cheese plates, but over the years they’ve expanded their culinary offerings both in house and supporting local food truck businesses.

Cideries

During your Beercation experiencing a taste of Richmond, you’ll find Shockoe Bottom is not only a haven for beer enthusiasts but also a delightful spot for cider lovers. Alongside its renowned breweries, the area boasts charming cideries that offer a refreshing twist to your taste testing journey. Here’s a deeper dive into both breweries and cideries you shouldn’t miss:

• Blue Bee Cider: Virginia’s first urban cidery, Blue Bee Cider, is located in the heart of Shockoe Bottom. They offer a range of ciders made from Virginia-grown apples. The rustic taproom and sunny patio provide the perfect setting to enjoy their artisanal ciders.

• Buskey Cider on the Bay: Just a short drive from Shockoe Bottom, this spot offers a laid-back vibe with a variety of ciders that range from classic to innovative flavors, all crafted with 100% Virginia apples.

Include these stops in your Beercation tour to enjoy a comprehensive taste of Richmond’s local craft beverage scene. Whether you prefer the rich complexity of craft beer or the crisp sweetness of cider, Shockoe Bottom has something to excite your palate.

What To Do In Shockoe Bottom

Beyond beer tasting, Shockoe Bottom is a neighborhood rich with culture and history. Here are some activities to enrich your visit:

– **Walk the Canal Walk:** Stretch your legs and enjoy some scenic views along the James River and Kanawha Canal. It’s a great way to digest between brewery stops.

– **Visit the Edgar Allan Poe Museum:** Just a short walk from the heart of Shockoe Bottom, this museum offers a glimpse into the life of one of America’s most famous writers.

– **Explore the Farmers Market:** Check out the 17th Street Market. It’s one of the oldest public markets in America and offers a variety of local produce, crafts, and sometimes live music.

**Culinary Delights:**

Shockoe Bottom also offers a diverse culinary scene. Pair your brewery tour with stops at some of the best local eateries. Whether you crave southern comfort food or international cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate and why we’re known at the Best Foodie town.

Visit Jefferson Hotel.com Here

Visit Quirk Hotel Richmond Here

Visit Moxy Hotel.com Here

Where To Stay

After a day of exploring craft breweries and cideries, you’ll need a cozy place to rest. Richmond offers several unique accommodations that blend comfort with local charm. Consider these options for your stay:

• The Quirk Hotel: Known for its artistic flair, the Quirk Hotel embodies creativity and comfort. Located in a renovated department store, its boutique rooms feature original artwork and a modern aesthetic. The hotel’s rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city, making it a perfect spot to unwind.

• The Jefferson Hotel: Steeped in history, the Jefferson Hotel is a luxury option that promises an opulent stay. Famous for its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture, it has hosted many dignitaries and celebrities over the years. Don’t miss the chance to dine at Lemaire, the hotel’s restaurant known for its Southern cuisine and exceptional service.

• Moxy Richmond Downtown: For a more youthful and vibrant stay, the Moxy Richmond Downtown delivers a playful atmosphere geared towards the modern traveler. Located in the arts district, it offers chic, comfortable rooms and a lively communal space perfect for socializing with fellow travelers.

Each of these hotels offers a unique experience that can enhance your visit to Richmond, making your stay as memorable as the city itself.

Plan Your Visit With Local Events Like NASCAR

Richmond Raceway Link

For those planning a trip in June—or any summer month—consider aligning your visit with one of the exciting NASCAR events at Richmond Raceway. Known for its exhilarating races, the raceway offers a thrilling experience that can enhance your stay in Richmond. The NASCAR races, held several times over the summer, bring together fans from across the nation in a celebration of speed and competition.

Whether you’re a die-hard NASCAR fan or new to the sport, experiencing a race at Richmond Raceway is a unique way to enjoy local culture and excitement. Check the raceway’s schedule to plan your visit around these high-energy events, and enjoy a mix of craft beer tasting, historical exploration, and heart-pounding motorsport action.

Beercation Information Central-Tours, Trails and More

SUMMARY

A Beercation trip to Richmond, especially to the craft breweries of Shockoe Bottom, promises not just a taste of top-notch beers but also a full experience of the local culture and history. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a long exploration, Richmond’s warm hospitality and rich flavors are sure to make your visit memorable. Call it a Beercation, or A Taste of Richmond weekend get-a-way, either way you will be guaranteed a unique experience full of fun and history while savoring the exquisite blends of crafted beer, cider and food!

Richmond, Virginia, offers a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor activities that make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. From the lush, expansive trails of the James River Park System to the tranquil paths of Maymont’s Japanese and Italian gardens, visitors can immerse themselves in diverse landscapes. The city provides ample opportunities to explore by foot, bike, or kayak, allowing adventurers to discover hidden gems and scenic vistas along the historic riverbanks. Whether you’re a bird watcher, a hiker, or simply in need of some fresh air, Richmond’s nature tours promise an invigorating escape into the wild. Craft Breweries is just one of the hidden gems of this beautiful city and I wrote this blog to introduce you to Richmond in a fun and trendy way for such a historical city.

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