Looking for grown-up ways to de-stress, unwind, and recharge? Are you a fan of history and museums? Perhaps you fancy sipping a glass of great local wine while enjoying live entertainment. What about perfecting your swing at the driving range of a nearby sports park? Or maybe a board game and a beer with friends is more your speed. If any one of these endeavors sounds inviting, we’ve got you covered! Get ready to fill your summer calendar with fun!
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Magnolia Grange House Museum-10020 Bridge Road, Chesterfield, is one of the best-preserved buildings in the county–the architecture and furnishings are exquisite. Guided tours transport visitors back to 1800s Virginia to learn about the history of this rescued and restored 19th-century country estate home, which was almost demolished to make room for a shopping mall. Visiting the Grange House is a lovely way to drink in some local history this summer. (chesterfieldhsv.org/magnolia-grand)
Beautiful, calm, relaxing, and delicious…that sums up the exceptionally crafted wines and excellent farm-to-table food at Ashton Creek Vineyard-14501 Rte1, Chester. This family owned and operated vineyard rivals any you’ll find in Virginia and is a welcoming place to chill and connect with friends in a lovely setting. Enjoy indoor seating in their air-conditioned Tasting Room, partially covered tables on the wrap–around patio and veranda, or picnic-style lounging on their dog-friendly lawn. (ashtoncreekvineyard.com/)
Concertgoers really love the Summer Nights at the Perk series at The Perkinson Center for the Arts and Education-11810 Centre Street, Chester. This month, there are a couple of awesome opportunities to appreciate live music performances in air-conditioned comfort. Swing on over and enjoy the multi-genre sounds of Shades of Gray as they light up the auditorium Wednesday, July 15 from 6-8pm. More great entertainment at the Perk takes place the following week with the Slack Family Bluegrass Band! Catch them July 22, from 6-8pm. (tickets available at https://www.perkinsoncenter.org)
Sports minded guests can spend several hours and minimal money at Ironbridge Sports Park-11400 Iron Bridge Rd, Chester. Their 18-hole miniature golf course is truly unique and challenging, having been built around a large waterfall, multiple ponds, boulders and other obstacles. Ironbridge also has a two-tier, Toptracer driving range, making it one of Richmond’s top spots to practice your swing. The lower deck is equipped with fans to keep guests cool on those hot summer days. Grass tees are available if you prefer to practice on real turf. The park also features two state-of-the-art baseball fields. (ironbridgesportspark.com/)
Lastly, here’s a unique gathering destination for everyone who loves tabletop games! At Unplugged Games Cafe-1300 Sycamore Square in Midlothian, you pay a small play pass fee to access the Cafe’s impressive board game library. After that, stay as long as you like and play as many games as you want. Helpful employees are on hand to recommend, help set up, and teach you how to play any of your selections. Whether you’re into strategy games, party games, or even cards, there’s something here for everyone! Guests can even enjoy dinner and a drink while playing. The cafe’s menu includes appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and desserts, as well as a nice selection of beer and wine. This place has a loyal following, and their five-star reviews say it all. (unpluggedrva.com/)
Want to sharpen your cooking skills? Hobby Hill Farm Culinary Classes offers hands-on instruction in cheesemaking, breadmaking, canning, and pasta making at its Powhatan store, located at 2652 Anderson Highway. New class dates and times are added each month, so check the website calendar (hobbyhillfarm.com) and register for the sessions that interest you. Interested in a private or customized class? Hobby Hill offers pricing by flat rate or per person. Sound interesting? Then grab your apron and a friend or two—not only is this an enjoyable way to spend the day, you’ll also bring home something yummy, too!
Have a blast and try something old that’s new again! Stumpy’s Hatchet House-9200 Stony Point Pkwy, Store #189 in Richmond (in Stony Point Fashion Park) is an indoor hatchet-throwing venue wrapped up in a clean, fun and energetic environment that is sure to get your blood pumping while blowing off some steam. Their highly knowledgeable staff offer thorough safety instructions, and helpful one-on-one axe-throwing tips throughout your sessions. Food and craft brews complete the fun vibes in this hidden gem at the mall. Nothing beats it for date night and group outings. (stumpyshh.com/richmondva/)
If you love classic pinball, Richmond Pinball Collective-9550 Midlothian Turnpike, Suite 106, Richmond is a must-visit destination. Tucked inside the Midlothian Festival Shopping Center, this all-volunteer club may look modest from the outside, but step in and you’ll find a clean, welcoming space with an upscale feel. RPC features 40 well-maintained machines from nearly every era, all in excellent working order and set to free play—no quarters needed! Step back in time and enjoy classics from the 1960s through today for one flat price, or become a member, join a league, play in tournaments, and even book a private party. Beer, soda, and snacks are available. Check their website for hours and events and come meet your new pinball family! (richmondpinballcollective.com/)
Editorial by Kim Amboy; August 2026