J Harrison Paving

Christmas will be here before you know it, and that holiday spirit is most definitely alive and well at the 25th Annual Court End Christmas held in early December. Several historic downtown sites host a free holiday open house that includes children's activities, reenactments, carriage rides and special appearances. So don't forget the eggnog and mistletoe!

When you walk through the doors of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, you'll be struck by the breathtaking collection of true masterpieces by Renoir, Picasso and Warhol, just to name a few. Enjoy a cup of coffee from the Best Cafe or a bite from the Amuse Restaurant while you browse through the impressive gift shop that carries an amazing selection of prints, books and children's items. This world-renowned museum and attraction boasts some of the best loved pieces that art lovers travel from everywhere to see. While these works may be considered Egyptian art, Chinese art, or medieval and renaissance art, the awe that it inspires in those who see it defies categorization.

The Stony Point Fashion Park's mission is to always deliver the finest shopping in Richmond to complement your style as well as your budget. This sophisticated group of shops and stores is impressive, with everything from favorites like Banana Republic and Bath & Body Works to Yankee Candle Company, Saks Fifth Avenue and Victoria's Secret, just to name a few. Classy and cultured, Stony Point Fashion Park offers an excellent day of shopping, and you can top off your day with a great meal at PF Chang's Bistro and brag to your friends about all the great purchases you made.

The family will love enjoying Richmond's natural amenities when visiting James River Park. The scenery at this riverside park is breathtaking. Some of the park's most popular sites include Belle Isle, Pony Pasture, Huguenot Woods and the main park area; all of these areas offer more than a few opportunities to get up close to Richmond's natural beauty. You can also enjoy tubing, fishing, kayaking and bird watching. Learn about this natural attraction on one of the walking tours or take a leisurely stroll down the newly added Canal Walk.